Book Description

Tests are described on bolted joints in five species of timber in the green condition and seven species in the seasoned condition, using single bolts in double shear joints. The strength of joints with steel members attached to a central timber member was no greater than that of joints with all timber members, but their stiffness was generally considerably greater. The maximum strength and the strength at the limit of proportionality were highly correlated with the maximum crushing strength of the timber and the stiffness of the joints was related to the modulus of elasticity. All properties of the joints were highly correlated with timber density, thus indicating the validity of basing a species grouping system on density for the determination of working loads for bolted joints. Recommended basic working loads for bolted joints for these species groups appear to be satisfactory in relation to the maximum strength of joints in the species tested. Several areas of further research are indicated.