Hi guys - have been researching a bit into some alternatives - been
chatting to some wood merchants as well about potential species to
consider - will post here for all once the short-list candidates are
inline (sounds like a beauty contest)

Ciao
Max



Mahogany is also a lot heavier than cedar and not as tolerant to bending.
Strip composite uses the strips as a core and its strength depends on the
core maintaining its shear strength. Cedar can absorb more deflection from
pounding.

In South Africa you will probably have more choices. The EC wood market is
a good bit different that here in the US.

You need a wood that is clear strait grained, light, reasonably rot
resistant, with good bending strength and crush resistance. The problem
with most tropical hardwoods is the weight. You really want to stay under
500kg/M3.

--
Glenn Ashmore

I'm building a 45' cutter in strip/composite. Watch my progress (or lack
there of) at: http://www.rutuonline.com
Shameless Commercial Division: http://www.spade-anchor-us.com

"Max Hazelhurst" wrote in message
...
Hi guys - have been researching a bit into some alternatives - been
chatting to some wood merchants as well about potential species to
consider - will post here for all once the short-list candidates are
inline (sounds like a beauty contest)

Glenn Ashmore wrote:
In South Africa you will probably have more choices. The EC wood market is
a good bit different that here in the US.

You need a wood that is clear strait grained, light, reasonably rot
resistant, with good bending strength and crush resistance. The problem
with most tropical hardwoods is the weight. You really want to stay under
500kg/M3.



Hi Glenn,

Yes, there are a number of good candidates here - your wise point re
weights is certainly true - lovely wood but really heavy! Some
interesting Cedar variants that are looking promising.

Thanks
M