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Balsa core: Natural core material for lightweight, durable composites
Balsa core, made from the honeycomb-like structure of balsa wood, is a natural, eco-friendly solution for high-strength, lightweight composite applications. Sourced from renewable plantations in Ecuador, Cobalsa, a Sky-owned brand, delivers premium-grade balsa wood products trusted worldwide for over 50 years.
Why choose Balsa core from Sky?
Unmatched compressive strength
End Grain Balsa offers compressive strength higher than most other core materials of similar density.
Exceptional mechanical properties
Outstanding strength-to-weight and stiffness-to-weight ratios. Good thermal and sound insulation capabilities.
Eco-friendly
Fast-growing renewable resource with minimal environmental impact.
Proven expertise
Over 50 years of experience in balsa production, backed by GL certifications.
Premium balsa, engineered by experts in Ecuador
As a fully owned brand of Sky, Cobalsa has been a leader in the balsa wood industry for over 50 years. Based in Ecuador’s coastal plantations, Cobalsa ensures sustainable harvesting and processing to deliver consistently high-quality materials. With decades of expertise and state-of-the-art mechanical systems, Cobalsa offers GL-certified products that meet the needs of modern composite manufacturing.
Cobalsa EG150
A premium end-grain balsa wood core, engineered for high-performance composite applications.
It is ideal for high-performance applications requiring durability and reliability. Also has good thermal and acoustic insulation properties.
- Dimensions: 24″ (610 mm) x 48″ (1220 mm) sheets.
- Density: we can offer density 100 kg/m³, 150 kg/m³ and high density offering a balance of lightweight design and structural integrity.
- Compressive strength: Exceptional performance for demanding applications.
- Rigid and contourable: Adaptable to complex shapes and designs.
- Resin compatibility: Works seamlessly with nearly all resin systems.
Consistent, sustainable, scalable supply you can trust
At Sky Composites, we maintain a continuous global supply of sustainably sourced balsa wood, ensuring consistent availability for industrial customers worldwide. Our balsa wood is responsibly sourced, with complete traceability to mitigate the risk of using timber of questionable origin. Committed to zero deforestation and supporting a circular bio-based economy, we emphasize environmental stewardship in all aspects of our production.
Advanced production for superior quality
Our lean, automated production processes leverage state-of-the-art quality management systems, ensuring top-tier balsa wood products for diverse applications. Our balsa is expertly processed for use in vacuum infusion, hand lamination, spray lay-up, prepreg processing (up to 180°C), resin transfer molding (RTM), and adhesive bonding. The result is a reliable, high-performance material tailored to meet the stringent demands of various industries.
Certifications
Applications
FAQ
What is balsa wood, and why is it unique?
Balsa wood, scientifically known as Ochroma pyramidale, is a lightweight and soft wood that is unique due to its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. It is composed of large, thin-walled cells, resulting in a structure that is approximately 40% solid and 60% air. This unique cellular composition makes balsa one of the lightest woods available, weighing between 8 to 12 pounds per cubic foot, while still being strong enough for various applications, including wind turbines and boats.
Where is balsa wood grown?
Balsa wood is primarily grown in the coastal region of Ecuador. Our subsidiary company has been cultivating balsa trees sustainably for over 50 years, ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality wood without contributing to deforestation.
Is harvesting balsa wood environmentally harmful?
No, harvesting balsa wood is not detrimental to the environment. Balsa trees are fast-growing and can be harvested in just 3-4 years. Our balsa is sourced from sustainable farms, avoiding tropical rainforests and ensuring that the ecosystem remains intact. The more balsa trees are cut down, the more new ones grow, promoting a cycle of renewal.
Are there different grades pr types of balsa wood?
Yes, balsa wood comes in various grades depending on factors such as growth conditions and the number of knots present. We source only A-grade end grain balsa, which offers superior performance for manufacturing and construction.
How can I ensure I’m buying sustainably sourced balsa wood?
To ensure sustainable sourcing, look for certifications or labels indicating that the balsa wood is harvested from managed forests. Additionally, purchasing from reputable suppliers who prioritize sustainability practices can help ensure responsible sourcing.
Is balsa core more expensive than PVC?
Balsa core is slightly more expensive than PVC; however, it offers superior mechanical properties, making it a worthwhile investment for applications that require strength without adding significant weight.
Is balsa fire retardant?
Yes, balsa wood possesses fire retardant properties. It does not emit toxic fumes when burned, making it a safer option for various applications where fire resistance is important.
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Sustainable sourcing: How balsa wood supports eco-friendly practices
At Sky Composites, we prioritize eco-friendly practices through our subsidiary, Cobalsa, located in Ecuador. With over 50 years of experience, Cobalsa is dedicated to cultivating balsa trees sustainably, ensuring a continuous supply of A-grade end-grain balsa wood. Ecuador supplies more than 95% of the world's balsa wood, highlighting its significance in the global market.
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