Ekki wood
Ekki, also known as 'Azobé wood' or 'Bongossi wood', is a hardwood species, primarily sourced from the tropical rainforests of Western and Central Africa. Ekki owes its popularity to its exceptional service life, which can typically exceed 60 years dependent on its application, and prevailing environmental. This longevity is a significant advantage compared to other wood species.
Ekki wood
Ekki wood can be recognized by its red to purple-brown heartwood and by the white to yellow-colored mineral deposits. Between the heartwood and sapwood, there is an 8 to 12 cm wide ring of lighter transition wood. The sapwood is about 5 cm wide and noticeably lighter in color.
Ekki is typically supplied as sawn timber and can be re-sawn and machined for specific applications.
Do you want to know more about this wood species and its advantages? Contact us to see if this wood species suits the application you have in mind.
Applications of Ekki
Due to its durability and strength, Ekki is a primary species specified for use in heavy marine and civil engineering construction such as:
- Lock gates
- Fender systems
- Balconies
- Coastal Defence
- Piers and Jetties
- Bridges
- Cryogenic Tanks and Cold Stores
- Shipdecks and Shiplifts
- Heavy lift
Ekki is particularly suitable for outdoor use and heavy-duty applications. Examples include posts and planking for bridge decks, sheet piling, and noise barriers. Bridge decks and sheet piling must withstand significant loadings whether it be weight and/or traffic. Ekki is a natural choice for these applications, due to the superior properties of this species.
Moreover, the wood provides excellent support for heavy machinery as crane mats and jacking timbers. The strong and fire-resistant properties of this timber also make it very suitable for structural elements in galleries and parking decks in residential construction.
An example of one of our projects where Ekki has been extensively applied is in the port of Antwerp. Here, sturdy and reliable constructions are essential for daily ship traffic and safety.
Characteristics of Ekki wood
Name
Ekki; Botanical name: Lophira Alata
Alternative names
Azobé, Azobe, Bakundu, Bongossi, Bongasi, Bonkolé
Appearance
Reddish-brown hardwood with white-yellow mineral deposits
Quality requirements
Ekki is listed in NEN 5493 'Quality requirements for hardwood in civil engineering works and other structural applications'
Strength class
Ekki is classified as a D70 (NEN-EN1912) when graded according to NEN 5493
Density
Fresh 1100-1300 kg/m3
Durability classes
- Table 1 (Fungi): 1-2
- Table 2 (Wood boring beetles): D
- Table 3 (Termites): D
- Table 4 (Marine organisms): D / M
According to NEN-EN 350:2016
Detailed technical properties
Alternative timber species
Ekki wood: a very sustainable choice from Hupkes Wijma
Customized advice from Hupkes Wijma
If you would like to know more details about the technical properties and available specifications of Ekki timber for your project, please contact us today and we would be pleased to help.