Ipé
Continent
Amerika
Origin
Central and South America
Range
Ipé can be found all over the Central and South American continent as far as the Caribbean. Economically, mainly Ipé from Brazil is used, where the tree can reach a height of 65m with diameters of approx. 120 cm, depending on its habitat.
Properties
This wood species originating from Central and South America is traded with different types of the Tabebuia species, for example from Bolivia, Peru, Brazil, Guayana, Surinam, Venezuela and Colombia. Processing needs to be done carefully because the sawdust has biological effects. The colour of Ipe varies from reddish brown to greenish black with partly subtly distinctive stripes. It is very hard and durable and, therefore, has become known as “garden wood“ outside South America as well. Ipé is considered to be one of the hardest wood species world-wide. For this reason, it is also called iron wood.
Machining
Due to its hardness, machining of this wood species is difficult. Therefore, the use of carbide tipped tools is recommended, as these do not tend to become dull easily. In order to facilitate processing, tools should always be well-sharpened. For the final assembly, screw and nail joints always need to be pre-drilled.
Seasoning
It is important to dry Ipé slowly. Apart from that, kiln-drying can be carried out well and easily.
Finishing
Problem-free with all methods.
Jointing
Gluing presents problems because the wood doesn’t take glue well.
Similar woods
Pockwood (lignum vitae) Greenheart
Uses
In the past, the Puerto Ricans used Ipé as construction wood whereas today it is mainly used for stakes and masts there. Due to its high stability and potentialities as construction wood for highly stressed purposes in exterior (boat bridges, wooden terraces in gastronomy), it is very popular. Furthermore, it is used for furniture and boat building, for floorboards and panels, too handles and sports equipment. As veneer, Ipé is used for interior fittings and exclusive furniture.
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