Trade names and abbreviated symbols for timber species
2000 Edition

As per the Third Revision of IS 1150, abbreviated symbols have been fixed for 288 Indian timber species to ensure consistent identification. For instance, Agarwood is represented as AGA, Aini as AIN, Almondwood (Andaman Badam) as ALM, Amaltas as AMT, Anjan as ANJ, Arjun as ARJ, Babul as BAB, Blue Gum as BGU, Casuarina as CAS, Deodar as DEO, Fir as FIR, and Gamari as GAM. These abbreviations remain unchanged despite additions of new species, and complete listings are available in Annexures A and B of IS 1150. This system helps maintain uniformity in timber species identification and trade.

IS 1150 employs a systematic approach to prevent abbreviated symbol duplication for timber species with similar trade names. Initially, the abbreviation comprises the first two letters of the trade name. If duplicates arise, additional letters are incorporated until every symbol is unique. Once assigned, these symbols remain fixed to ensure consistency. This method guarantees that no two timber species share the same abbreviation, thereby avoiding confusion in classification and documentation.

Yes, the standard encompasses both indigenous and imported timber species. IS 1150 lists 288 native and 42 imported species, each with designated trade names, botanical names, and abbreviated symbols. Imported species are detailed in Table 2, while native species are in Table 1. Both sets of species have their botanical names indexed in Annex A (Indian) and Annex B (Imported). This comprehensive inclusion ensures a harmonized approach to timber identification in engineering and commercial documentation.

The formation of abbreviated symbols under IS 1150 follows a defined set of rules: start with the first two letters of the trade name; if conflicts occur, add subsequent letters to create distinction; if ambiguity persists, use letters from the first, third, fourth, or later positions of the name. Once an abbreviation is standardized, it is maintained without alteration unless the trade name itself changes. This ensures the symbols remain unique, concise, and stable for timber classification purposes.

The timber species list and their corresponding abbreviated symbols in IS 1150 are not updated on a regular or frequent basis. Initially standardized in 1957, the symbols were designed to remain stable so new species can be incorporated without altering existing abbreviations. Major revisions occurred in 1966 and 1976, reflecting botanical updates and additions. Since then, updates are carried out only as necessary, primarily when botanical or trade names change, ensuring long-term consistency and preventing confusion in timber identification.