American Alder
Scientific name:
Alnus rubra Bong
Geographic origin:
Canada and United States
- Sapwood and Heartwood: from yellowish white to yellowish brown
- Fiber: Straight
- Grain: Thin
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Capacity of being impregnated
- Capable of being impregnated to medium capacity of being impregnated
Mechanical properties
- Resistance to static flexion 680 kg/cm2
- Elasticity module 95,000 kg/cm2
- Resistance to compression 401 kg/cm2
Mechanization
- Sawing process: Easy and with no difficulties
- Drying process: Easy and Fast, with nearly no defects.
- Planing process: Easy
- Gluing process: Easy
- Nailing and screwing process: Easy
- Finish: Easy
Physical properties
- Apparent density at 12% humidity 0.45 kg/m3 light wood
- Dimensional stability
- - Volumetric contraction coefficient 0.41% stable wood
- - Relation between contractions 1.66% no tendency to deformity
- Hardness (Chaláis-Meudon) 1.8 Softwood
Observations
Red alder, also known as American alder, is a light wood that is easy to work with. With a pink to light brown color, it is prized for its water resistance and ability to resist decay. It is used in the manufacture of furniture, boats and musical instruments.
