Okoumé plywood (waterproof)

Okoumé plywood is a structural sheet material composed of thin layers of Okoumé veneer. The material is sturdy and relatively dark in color. On the front side of the material, plugs and knots may occur, while on the back side, the transition between different veneer layers may be visible. We place the most attractive side facing up in the machine

Applications

Okoumé plywood is a good alternative to birch plywood because the material has waterproof properties without finishing. When the material is additionally protected with a paint or stain layer, it is suitable for permanent outdoor use. Therefore, the material is often found in moist or exterior applications such as (wall) signs, cladding, and furniture construction.

Design considerations

Pay attention to the thickness tolerance when designing finger and slot joints. Okoumé plywood has a grain direction, which is generally horizontal on a full sheet, but can also be vertical depending on how the sheet is cut. If the grain direction is important, it should be specified in advance.

Laser Cutting

The cut edges of Okoumé plywood turn brown/black. On the top and bottom sides of the material, there will be smoke residue around the cut, this can  largely be prevented by using protective film. Any remaining smoke residue on the material can be easily removed with sandpaper. 

Cutting Width	0.2mm (±0.05mm)
Smallest Included Shape	6x6mm
Smallest Detail (engraving)	1x1mm
Additional Options	Double-sided adhesive film, protective film front/back
Maximum Size	120x60cm (on request up to 122x244cm)

Post-processing

Post-processing of Okoumé plywood is not necessary, but recommended. The material can be sent with sandpaper grit 400 for a smooth finish. The material can be painted, glued, sawn, drilled, and sanded, either afterwards or beforehand. 

Appearance

Okoumé plywood is reddish-brown in color, cut edges and surface and line engravings are dark brown and (almost) do not rub off. The material is of a constructive nature and for this reason, the front side may have some knots and plugs, and on the back side, the transition between different sheets may be visible. Due to the production process, the density may vary slightly. 

Technical Information

Property	Value
Density	0.5 grams / cm3
Thickness Tolerance	<10%
Suitable for Outdoor Use	Yes, if treated afterwards

Delivery Time: Delivery possible from 1-2 working days