SAWNTIMBER AND UTILIZATION FROM SMALL LOGS OF AZADIRACHTA EXCELSA (JACK) JACOB

Abstract

The conversion of 15 logs of Azadirachta excelsa which have diameter around 12.2 - 17.6 centimeters (5 - 7 inches) showed that approximately 33 % sawn timber is obtained. Most of timbers are warp. Heartwood area is smaller than sapwood area. Final recovery is estimated to be only 20 - 25 %. Small logs of A. excelsa are not suitable for lumber production because of less recovery and low price (approximately 55,938 baht/ha; 1,125 stocks/ha). If the logs are sold for post and pole, price will be increased to 78,063 baht/ha. The physical properties of 6 years old A. excelsa wood are as follows: medium density 0.51 gm/cm³ (at 13.5 % M.C.), T-shrinkage 2.81 % and R-Shrinkage 0.99 % (green to airdry), and T-shrinkage 5.07 % and R-Shrinkage 2.74 % (green to ovendry). Generally, A. exceisa wood is suitable for furniture, frame, carving, turning and parts. In order to produce lumber, it is recommended that the diameter of the log should be greater than 10 inches and preferable to have wood preservation.