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Balsa wood (Ochroma lagopus). This cross section of balsa wood shows the large conductive elements that give balsa an outstanding strength-to-weight ratio. Balsa wood is lightweight, absorbs shock and vibration well, and can be easily cut, shaped, and glued. During the 1920's it was the perfect material for aerodynamic experimentation and design. The word balsa means raft in Spanish, and in Ecuador it is known as Boya, meaning buoy.
Image and text copyright © Dennis Kunkel. All rights reserved. |
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