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What is Okan?
Okan: the golden wonder from the forests of West Africa
Discover the strength, beauty, and durability of one of the most extraordinary types of wood in the world - a true treasure from the lush forests of West Africa.
Deep in the lush forests of West Africa stands a tree that has captured the hearts of wood lovers and builders worldwide. With its impressive height of up to 60 meters and a trunk diameter of up to 3 meters, the Okan tree (Cylicodiscus gabunensis) is a true giant among trees. But it is not only its imposing appearance that makes this tree so special - it is the wood it produces that makes it a true treasure.
Did you know?
- ★ Okan trees can grow up to 60 meters tall - that's taller than a 15-story building!
- ★ The heartwood of Okan changes color under the influence of light, from golden brown to reddish-brown.
- ★ Okan is so durable that it is even resistant to marine borers, a feared enemy of wood in seawater.
The golden glow of Okan
When you hold a piece of Okan wood in your hands, the first thing that stands out is its beautiful, warm glow. The heartwood ranges from yellow to golden brown, often with a subtle olive green tint. But the real spectacle begins when the wood is exposed to light. Like a living artwork, it slowly transforms into a rich reddish-brown hue, sometimes even with a copper sheen. This unique characteristic makes Okan not only functional but also a feast for the eyes in various applications.
Color palette of Okan
| Part | Color |
|---|---|
| Heartwood | Yellow to golden brown |
| After exposure to light | Reddish-brown to copper-colored |
| Sapwood | Light pink |
Unmatched durability
What truly sets Okan apart from other types of wood is its extraordinary durability. With a natural durability class of I for the heartwood, Okan ranks among the most resistant types of wood in the world. This makes it an ideal choice for demanding applications, especially in civil engineering and other projects where the wood is exposed to extreme conditions.
Applications of Okan
- Civil engineering constructions
- Bridge construction
- Industrial flooring
- Decking boards
- Posts and sleepers
- Outdoor furniture
Discover our collection of hardwood products for more inspiration!
The combination of durability and beauty makes Okan a beloved choice for both functional and aesthetic applications. Whether it's a robust bridge or an elegant terrace floor, Okan always delivers an impressive result.
The challenges of a champion
But like any champion, Okan also comes with its own set of challenges. The wood is known for its tendency to split and crack during drying. This requires patience and expertise - slow drying is essential to maintain the integrity of the wood. Additionally, working with Okan requires special attention and adapted tools due to its high density and varying grain direction.
Tips for working with Okan:
- Dry the wood slowly and evenly
- Protect the end grain from splitting
- Use sharp tools with a cutting angle of 10°
- Pre-drill when fastening to prevent splitting
A sustainable future with Okan
In a world where sustainability is becoming increasingly important, Okan offers a promising perspective. As an alternative to less sustainable materials, Okan can play a significant role in building a greener future. Its long lifespan and resistance to decay mean less frequent replacements and thus less strain on the environment.
Sustainability benefits of Okan:
- ✔ Long lifespan reduces the need for replacement
- ✔ High resistance to marine borers and other biological degradation
- ✔ Suitable for reuse in various applications
- ✔ Reduces the demand for less sustainable materials
The future of Okan
As we continue to appreciate and utilize the unique properties of Okan, it is crucial to also pay attention to sustainable forest management. The increasing demand for this precious wood must be balanced with responsible harvesting practices to preserve the Okan forests for future generations.
Conclusion: The golden standard in wood
Okan symbolizes what wood can be at its best - strong, durable, and beautiful. From the majestic forests of West Africa to the most demanding construction projects worldwide, Okan continues to inspire and amaze. If we continue to use this precious resource with respect and wisdom, Okan will undoubtedly face a golden future in the world of sustainable building and living.
For those inspired by the beauty and durability of hardwoods like Okan, our collection of hardwood products offers a wealth of possibilities to integrate this natural splendor into your own environment. Discover the warmth and character that only real wood can provide, and create a lasting connection with the natural world around us.