Evaluación de la trabajabilidad en la madera de las especies Gmelina arborea Roxb, Tectona grandis Linn f. y Cordia alliodora ruiz & Pav. Oken

Abstract

When processed, the easy handling of wood has been one of the determining factors that have allowed it to maintain its competitive position against other substitute materials. Machining quality is different in each species. Therefore, it is necessary to know the characteristics and properties that intervene in this process, such as the anatomical structure, moisture content, essential density, and grain direction. This study's objective was to evaluate the workability properties of wood from the species Gmelina arborea Roxb, Tectona grandis Linn F, and Cordia alliodora (Ruiz & Pav.) Oken. The machining tests, the evaluation of defects, and classification were carried out according to the ASTM-D 1666-87 standard, with some modifications made depending on the machinery and moisture content. In general, in T. grandis wood, higher humidity negatively affects the surface quality, as in C. alliodora, while in G. arborea, it does not significantly influence, making its control less crucial. Density did not show a direct impact, with moisture content management being key to good machining. T. grandis was the most efficient species, achieving high surface quality, low variability, and better performance in brushing, sanding, molding, drilling, and turning, especially when working with the grain and at a 30° angle. In contrast, G. arborea and C. alliodora showed more excellent resistance and lower quality surfaces when cutting against the grain or at sharp angles.