Common Name: Muniridan
Scientific Name: Siparuna spp.
Wood Description: Muniridan, presents a heartwood that is typically pink to reddish-brown, sometimes with an olive-brown cast. The sapwood is paler, ranging from pale yellow to light brown, and is not always clearly distinct from the heartwood. The wood generally has a medium to coarse texture, though fine texture is also reported. The grain is often slightly to moderately interlocked, or can be straight to interlocked.
Physical Properties: The physical properties of Muniridan show significant variability across different reports, which is common for species designated as “spp.” (indicating multiple species within a genus). Air-dry density (at 12% moisture content) is reported as 950 kg/m³, 650 kg/m³, and 890 kg/m³. The green density is cited as 1100 kg/m³. Shrinkage values include total tangential shrinkage of 11.2% and 9.8%, total radial shrinkage of 5.8% and 5.9%, and total volumetric shrinkage of 16.4%.33 This wide range in density and other physical properties suggests that different species within the Siparuna genus possess distinct characteristics, making precise species identification crucial for reliable application.
Mechanical Properties: Similar to its physical properties, the reported mechanical properties of Muniridan also vary considerably. Bending strength (Modulus of Rupture, MOR) is reported as 176 N/mm² at 12% MC, but also as 78 N/mm² at 12% MC. The modulus of elasticity (MOE) ranges from 21,910 N/mm² to 10,070 N/mm² at 12% MC. Crushing strength is reported as 94 N/mm² and 40 N/mm² at 12% MC. These wide discrepancies underscore the need for specific data for the particular Siparuna species being considered for use.
Uses: Muniridan is primarily used for general carpentry and fences. It is also suitable for interior and exterior joinery, moulding, boxes and crates, light carpentry, particleboards, furniture, cigar boxes, and coffins. Its diverse properties, depending on the specific Siparuna species, allow for a range of applications from light construction to furniture components.