Trade Names
Mapa Burl, Mapi Burl
Latin Names
Populus nigra
Origin
Central, Western and Eastern Europe.
Range
Mapa Burl are Poplar trees which develop abnormal trunk formations as a result of external influences, i.e. burl growth in the form of widely scattered, little spots in their trunks but not in their roots giving the veneer its burly appearance. The occurrence of Mapa Burl logs suitable for veneer extends from the meadowland along the German Rhine River across to Northern and Southern France. After the opening of the Eastern European markets, in the mid-nineties, the market was flooded with Mapa Burl logs, especially from former Yugoslavia and from Rumania. This resulted in a considerable price crash for veneers.
Uses
As rotary cut wood for high quality face veneer. The wood is not steamed, i.e. rotary cut cold.
Properties
The heartwood is light brown to brown. The burl occurs as reddish black spots. The veneer in which these dots are spread as evenly as possible over the surface is highly desired. The Populus nigra is the only species of Poplar which develops these burls.
Machining
The wood is easy to work with all mechanical tools. However, because of the burly growth very sharp tools are needed to prevent a rough surface. Slow feed speeds are to be recommended.
Seasoning
Even when dried very slowly and carefully it is not possible to fully prevent surface checking due to the different directions of shrinkage.
Finishing
The Mapa Burl can be treated with all the usual finishes. Filling smaller holes with wood paste can hardly ever be avoided before varnishing.
Jointing
Mapa Burl can be glued very well. Screw and nail joints hold firmly.