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Houtvademecum, Centrum Hout

Opepe wood

Opepe, also called Bilinga wood, is a tree species found mainly in West and Central Africa, in countries such as Ghana, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Gabon, and Congo. This tropical hardwood is known for its beautiful, striking color and exceptional durability. When fresh, Opepe has a yellow to orange color. Over time, the wood will darken as the timber seasons with exposure to sunlight and weather. 

Opepe Wood

Opepe is typically supplied as sawn timber and can be re-sawn and machined for specific applications. The wood has a fine grain with a moderately coarse texture, contributing to its aesthetic appeal. 

Applications of Opepe

Opepe exceptional strength and durability make it ideal for heavy-duty applications in both terrestrial and marine environments. With a strength class of D50, it outperforms many other hardwoods in load-bearing capacities. Additionally, its ability to be easily machined while producing a smooth finish makes it suitable for various constructions and products in marine and civil engineering, such as:

  • Bridges
  • Piers and Jetties
  • Longitudinal railway sleepers
  • Galleries
  • Garden Decking
  • Hand Railings

Characteristics of Opepe wood

Name

 Bilinga, scientific name: Nauclea diderrichii

Alternative names

Opepe, Bilinga, Badi

Appearance

The fresh heartwood is bright yellow to orange in color. It contrasts with the clearly distinguishable white to pale yellow sapwood.

Quality requirements

Opepe is listed in NEN 5493 'Quality requirements for hardwood in civil engineering works and other structural applications'

Strength class

Opepe is classified as a D50 (NEN-EN1912) when graded according to NEN 5493

Density

Fresh 1000-1150 kg/m3

Durability classes
  • Table 1 (Fungi): 1
  • Table 2 (Wood boring beetles): D
  • Table 3 (Termites): D
  • Table 4 (Marine organisms): D

According to NEN-EN 350:2016

Detailed technical properties

Alternative timber species

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Ekki

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Basralocus

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Ipe

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Bilinga_landscape (2)

Opepe: Versatile, Durable and Sustainable

Opepe / Bilinga is a tropical hardwood very well known for its durability, high resistance to fungi and insects and exceptional lifespan in many uses, such as in bridges, shipbuilding, and street furniture. This versatile timber is a top choice for demanding projects whilst being an environmentally friendly choice, as it’s long lifespan not only contributes to resource conversation, but is also sourced exclusively from sustainably managed forests by Hupkes Wijma.
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Customized advice from Hupkes Wijma

Are you curious about the versatile applications of Opepe or Bilinga timber for your project? Get in touch with us and receive expert advice for tailor-made solutions from our dedicated team. 

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