Simply speaking, reaction wood is abnormal wood formed in a leaning tree.
Reaction wood forms any time a part of a woody plant is put through mechanical tension. This tension could be the response to blowing wind exposure, overabundance of snow, soil motion, etc. Take note that reaction wood is just not outwardly noticeable, though asymmetric growth is often a trustworthy sign. The wood cambium in the afflicted section of the trunk area is a bit more active on one facet, resulting in thicker growth rings. Tree branches usually have got reaction wood, given that they require support to keep up their horizontal posture. In softwood trees, reaction wood forms below the bent part, pushing it up. It is known as compression wood. Compression wood is usually extremely thick, hard, fragile, and is rich in lignin. In hardwood trees, reaction wood forms above the affected part of the plant, pulling it up. It is referred to as tension wood. Tension wood is composed almost entirely of cellulose.
The main trouble comes in attempting to recognize reaction wood. Even a skilled woodworker might have difficulty recognizing reaction wood. There are a few clues that a plank might bear reaction wood. Crookedness in the log is an indication of reaction wood. Wood fibers which are abnormally thick and hard for the varieties are yet another indicator. Really small fuzzy fibers on surfaced hardwood could be a sign of reaction wood as well in addition to cracks and splits that pull away from the board. The good news is reaction wood is more of an exception than a rule.
Reaction wood is undesirable and ought to be avoided in any kind of commercial use, mainly as its mechanical properties vary: it destroys the actual uniformity of timber. In addition, it reacts differently to changes in moisture. The compressed hardwood is actually more unlikely to take an even stain in comparison with the rest of a woodworking project. Reaction wood is usually much more susceptible to breakdown under load and can bust and split easier whenever nailed or screwed.
Now, if you happen to run across an unaccommodating plank, you will understand the reason why your cuts are twisting and curling.
Tags: compression wood, Hardwood, reaction wood, recognize reaction wood, Softwood, tension wood