Characterization of Physical, Machining and Finishing Properties of Oil Palm Lumber: An Emerging Non-Timber Forest Product in Sub-Saharan Africa
Characterization of Physical, Machining and Finishing Properties of Oil Palm Lumber: An Emerging Non-Timber Forest Product in Sub-Saharan Africa
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Date
2008
Authors
Okai, Reynolds
Mitchual, J Stephen
Mensah, Prosper
Dzakpasu, K Raphael
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
International Journal of Emerging Technology and Advanced Engineering
Abstract
Environmental problems associated with the
rapid depletion of the tropical forest have necessitated the
need to look for alternative sources of timber supply.
Compression parallel to grain tests, three-point static bending
tests, machining tests and finishing characteristics of oil palm
lumber, a non-timber forest product were conducted to
determine its suitability for furniture production. A
compression parallel to the grain of 13 N/mm2
, a modulus of
elasticity of 2924 N/mm2
, and a modulus of rupture of 25
N/mm2
at 12% moisture content were obtained.
The lower strength properties of oil palm lumber
compared to conventional lumber suggest that oil palm
lumber could be used for light load bearing products such as
coffee tables, center tables, ceilings and wall panels. Planing
and sanding operations produced rough surfaces with sharp
raised grains which had piercing effect on the fingers.
However, application of sanding sealer followed by sanding
operations removed all the sharp raised grains, thereby
resulting in production of smooth surfaces. Application of
synthetic clear vanish at the final phase of the finishing
process produced a very bright surface with a protective
plastic-like film. It could therefore be concluded that oil palm
lumber could be used for the production of light load bearing
furniture products.
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Citation
Okai, R., Mitchual, S. J., Mensah, P., & Dzakpasu, R. K. (2015). Characterization of Physical, Machining and Finishing Properties of Oil Palm Lumber: An Emerging Non-Timber Forest Product in Sub-Saharan Africa. International Journal of Emerging Technology and Advanced Engineering, 5(8), 289-296.