Marine Surveyors Lexicon

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Lignumvitae


(Also known as Ironwood)

Hardwood 76 lbs. per cubic foot, 6.33 lbs. per board foot
One of the hardest and heaviest woods known, it is found in Central America and the West Indies. The wood is naturally impregnated with oils which makes it suitable for propeller and rudder shaft bearings (its major function) as long as shaft RPM is not too high. Heartwood varies from olive brown or blue to dark brown or nearly black, while sapwood is cream colored. The heartwood is very resistant to decay and abrasion. The wood is often used for keel and worm shoes, rubbing strakes, etc. It is extremely strong with regard to crushing and hardness.