Ipe' is a very dense wood but not as abrasive as teak. You should use carbide blades but don't feed too slowly as you will burn it and destroy your blades.
Ipe' is also very durable. Use a deck finish rather than any kind of varnish. There is natural oil in the wood and film finishes may not adhere very well and may peel. Something like Watco teak oil would be a good choice. Just follow the instructions on the can and renew the surface periodically. Should last a hundred years, give or take.
Good luck.


Just another new hobby... but learning fast.