Powder-driven-nail connections for round timber

Abstract

In an effort to encourage the development of value-added engineered applications for small diameter round timber, research is being conducted at the US Forest Products Laboratory to develop and verify design guidelines for connections with specific application to round timbers. The objective of this work is to provide potential users with a number of viable connection options applicable in the fabrication of engineered, round-wood structural components and systems. Target uses include trusses, built-up flange beams and space frames. This paper presents information on a mortised steel plate connection fabricated using powder driven nails in 6-inch diameter ponderosa pine. The paper discusses methods used to determine a per nail load capacity and to develop design procedures which incorporate that value in the determination of a multi-nail connection design value. This connection offers the advantage of low labor and material cost, ductile failure modes and strengths in the range of 1000 lbs (454 kg)/nail. It should be easily adapted for a range of structural applications involving prefabrication of structural elements that can be bolted or pinned together in the field.

Citation

Wolfe, Ronald W.; Shim, KugBo; Begel, Marshall. 2003. Powder-driven-nail connections for round timber. Proceedings of the IAWPS 2003 International Conference on Forest Products : Better Utilization of Wood for Human, Earth and Future : Daejeon, Korea, April 21-24, 2003. Volume 1. [S.l.] : The Korean Society of Wood Science and Technology, International Association of Wood Products Societies, [2003]: Pages 80-87