KEKATONG

KEKATONG. The Standard Malaysian Name for the timber of Cynometra spp. (Leguminosae). Vernacular names applied include belangan (Peninsular Malaysia), belangkan (Peninsular Malaysia), katong-katong (Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah) and kekatong laut (Peninsular Malaysia). The sapwood is lighter in colour than the heartwood and not well defined from the heartwood, which is red-brown or claret-red with streaks of lighter colour.

Based on the standard graveyard test of untreated specimens of dimension 50 mm x 50 mm x 600 mm, the wood is classified as moderately durable under Malaysian climatic conditions. Texture is moderately fine and uneven, with straight to shallowly interlocked grain.

KEKATONG is suitable for heavy construction, telegraphic and power transmission posts and cross arms, beams, posts, joists, rafters, door and window frames, decking (heavy traffic), fender supports, railway sleepers when treated, cooling tower, staircase, vehicle bodies, pallets (heavy duty and permanent tyrpes), and benches.