Thread: Common Teak (tectona grandis)

I know that it has been done extensively for a couple of centuries, so at some point in that timeframe they would've only had tool steel and pit saws to work with, so it can definitely be done with simpler means. I'd assume that the blade will need to be sharpened frequently.

You could also try to source a carbide tipped blade. You'd probably pay a sum for it but it would likely pay for itself in time saved replacing cheaper blades.

Good luck. I'd be interested to see what it looks like when you saw into some.

Cheers,
Luke

Yah I've cut it, immature plantation stems around 350 diameter.

Bit of spring but managable , it cut easy enough. Didn't seem to have particularly much silica but presence of silica is always a soil type thing - if the silica isnt there it cant draw it up.

If there was some sivicultural management and they look like logs rather then shrubs they'd be worth milling.

Found some pictures of it. This was contact sawn and pretty much cut sap to sap except for either side the heart.

At that size if I was cutting them for me I'd be chasing 4 or 6 x 1 1/2" for window framing and shutters or 4x1 for decking feedstock... As far as rot resistant goes its as good as it gets.
IMG_20161120_165153.jpgIMG_20161120_163748.jpg

Note the colour change from streaky dark browns to honey yellow as it oxidises.

Saws as a good honest log. Silica is dependent on growing location. Long lengths are the go for boat building and attract a premium.