BS EN 408:2010

Timber structures - Structural

timber and glued laminated
timber - Determination of
some physical and mechanical
properties

NO COPYING WITHOUT BSI PERMISSION EXCEPT AS PERMITIED BY COPYRIGHT LAW

raising standards worldwide'· .. ~.

•
BS EN 408:2010 BRITISH STANDARD

National foreword
This British Standard is the UK implementation of EN 408:2010. It
supersedes BS EN 408:2003 which is withdrawn .
In BS EN 408:2010, Equation (2) accounts for the influence of the
shear deformation. The strength class allocation procedure in
Clause 5.3.2 of BS EN 384:2010 includes a normative transformation
equation accounting implicitly for the shear deformation. For that
case the shear influence as given in Equation (2) can be ignored by
taking G as infinitive .

However, Equation (2) offers the option to study and evaluate

the shear influence for other purposes when the shear modulus is
known. The mean shear modulus of coniferous wood species can be
taken as G = 650 N/mm2. It is advised to report both results with and
without the shear deformation correction.

In BS EN 384:2010, EN 408:2010 is listed as a normative reference

and is essential to the testing required within that standard .
The UK participation in its preparation was entrusted to Technical
Committee B/518, Structural timber.
A list of organizations represented on this committee can be
obtained on request to its secretary.
This publication does not purport to include all the necessary
provisions of a contract. Users are responsible for its correct
application.
©BS12011
ISBN 978 0 580 58147 2
ICS 79.040; 79.060.99; 91 .080.20
Compliance with a British Standard cannot confer immunity from
legal obligations.
This British Standard was published under the authority of the
Standards Policy and Strategy Committee on 31 May 2011 .
Amendments issued since publication
Date Text affected
 BS EN 408:2010

EUROPEAN STANDARD EN 408

NORME EUROPEENNE
EUROpAISCHE NORM August 2010

les 79.040; 79.060.99; 91.080.20 Supersedes EN 408:2003

English Version

Timber structures - Structural timber and glued laminated timber

- Determination of some physical and mechanical properties

Structures en bois - Bois de structure et bois lamelle-colle - Holzbauwerke - Bauholz fOr tragende Zwecke und
Determination de certaines proprletes physiques et Brettschichtholz - 8estimmung einiger physikalischer und
mecaniques mechanischer Eigenschaften

This European Standard was approved by CEN on 9 July 2010.

CEN members are bound to comply with the CENfCENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European
Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-la-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national
standards may be obtained on application to the CEN Management Centre or to any CEN member.

Thi s European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation
under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN Management Centre has the same status as the
official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia , Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland,
Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom .

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION

COMITE EUROPEEN DE NORMALISATION
EU RO p AISCHES KOMITEE FO R NORMUNG

Management Centre: Avenue Marnix 17, B-1000 Brussels

© 2010 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 408:2010: E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

Contents Page

Foreword .................................... ..................................................... ............................. ........................................ 4

Introduction ............................................................................................................ .............................................5
1 Scope ....................................... ...............................................................................................................6
2 Normative references .................... .......... .. ............... ............ .................................................................6
3 Terms and definitions ............ ............................................................................................................... 6
4 Symbols and abbreviations .................................................................................................................. 6
5 Determination of dimensions of test pieces .......................................................................................8
6 Determination of moisture content of test pieces ..............................................................................8
7 Determination of density of test pieces ...................................................... ........................................ 8
8 Conditioning of test pieces ......................... ................................................................... .. ..................... 8
9 Determination of local modulus of elasticity in bending ...................................................................9
9.1 Test piece ............................... ................................................................................. ............................... 9
9.2 Procedure ......................... ...................................................................................................................... 9
9.3 Expression of results .................................... ................................................................. .................... 10
10 Determination of global mod ulus of elasticity in bending ............................................................. 11
10.1 Test piece .................................. .......................................................................................................... 11
10.2 Proced ure .................................................... ........................................................................................ 11
10.3 Expression of results .............................................................. ........................................................... 12
11 Determination of the shear modulus ................................................................................................ 13
11.1 Torsion method ........................................................................... ........................................................ 13
11.1.1 Test piece ............................. ............................................................................................................... 13
11.1.2 Procedure ............................................................... ............................................... .............................. 13
11 .1.3 Expression of results ............ .................. ...... ..................................................................................... 15
11.2 Shear field test method ...................................................................................................................... 16
11.2.1 Test piece ............................... ............................................................ ......................... .. ...................... 16
11.2.2 Procedure ............................................................................................................................................ 16
11 .2.3 Expression of results ......................................................................................................................... 18
12 Determination of modulus of elasticity in tension parallel to the grain ........................................ 18
12.1 Test piece ............................... ...................... ............. ....... ................................................................... 18
12.2 Procedure ............................................................................................................................................ 18
12.3 Expression of results ............................................................................... .......................................... 19
13 Determination of tension strength parallel to the grain .................................................................. 19
13.1 Test piece .................................................................................. ......... ................................................. 19
13.2 Procedure ..... .. ............................................................................................................... ...................... 20
13.3 Expression of results ..................... .. ............................................................................ ...................... 20
14 Determination of modulus of elasticity in compression parallel to the grain .............................. 20
14.1 Test piece .............................. .................................. ................................. ............ ............................... 20
14.2 Procedure ............................................................................................................................................ 21
14.3 Expression of results ......................................................................................................................... 21
15 Determination of compress ion strength parallel to grain .............................................................. 21
15.1 Test piece ..................................................... ................. ...................................................................... 21
15.2 Procedure ............................. .................................................................................. ............................ . 21
15.3 Expression of results .................................................................................................... .... ................. 22
16 Determination of tension and compression strengths perpendicular to the grain ..................... 22
16.1 Requirements for test pieces ............................................................................................................ 22

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 BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

16.1 .1 Fabrication ....................................................... .................. .................................................................. 22

16.1.2 Surface preparation ........................................................................................................................... .. 22
16.2 Procedure ........................................................................................................................................... .. 23
16.3 Expression of results ............................................ ............... ............................................................... 25
16.3.1 Compression perpendicular to the grain .......................................................................................... 25
16.3.2 Tension perpendicular to the grain ......... ................................................................................... ....... 25
17 Determination of modulus of elasticity perpendicular to the grain ............................................... 25
17.1 Requirements for test pieces ............................................................................................................. 25
17.2 Procedure ....................................................................... ...................................................................... 25
17.3 Expression of results ..... ....... ............. ..................... ............................................................ ................ 26
17.3.1 Compression perpendicular to the grain .......................................................................................... 26
17.3.2 Tension perpendicular to the grain .... ..................................................................... .. ................... ..... 27
18 Determination of shear strength parallel to the grain ..................................................................... 27
18.1 Requirements for test pieces ..................................... ....................... ................................................. 27
18.1.1 Fabrication ........................................................................................................................................... 27
18.1.2 Surface preparation .................................................................................................................... ......... 27
18.2 Procedure ... ...................... ............................................................ ................................................... .... . 28
18.3 Expression of results ......................................................................... ............................................ ..... 29
19 Bending strength parallel to grain ................... .................................................................................. 30
19.1 Test piece ............................................................................................... ....................... .. ......... ... ......... 30
19.2 Procedure ............................................................................................................................ ....... .......... 30
19.3 Expression of results .......................................................................................................................... 31
20 Test report ........................................................................................................................................ .... 32
20.1 General ................................................................................................................................................. 32
20.2 Test piece ............................................................................................................................................. 32
20.3 Test method .............. ....................................................................... ................................... ................. 32
20 .4 Test results ......................... .. ............................................................................................................... 32
Annex A (informative) Example of compression perpendicular to grain test arrangement .................... 33
Annex B (informative) Example of tension perpend icular to grain test arrangement with rigid
fixings ......... ......................................................................................... ................................................. 35
Bibl iography .................................................................. ................................................ .. ........... ................ ....... 36

3
BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

Foreword

This document (EN 408:2010) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 124 "Timber structures",
the secretariat of which is held by AFNOR.

This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an identical
text or by endorsement, at the latest by February 2011, and conflicting national standards shall be withdrawn
at the latest by February 2011.

Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. CEN [and/or CENELEC] shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights .

This document supersedes EN 408:2003.

In this revised standard a new test is added for the determination of the shear modulus.

According to the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the following
countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech
Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland , Italy, Latvia,
Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland , Portugal, Romania , Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain,
Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

4
 BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (El

Introduction

This 2010 revision replaces the test for the determination of the shear strength parallel to grain .

The revised edition of 2003 added a global bending modulus of elasticity, whilst renaming the existing test as
the local modulus of elasticity. It also includes the methods for determination of shear strength and
mechanical properties perpendicular to the grain, previously given in EN 1193, which has now been withdrawn .

The values obtained in any determination of the properties of timber depend upon the test methods used . It is
therefore desirable that these methods be standardized so that results from different test centres can be
correlated. Moreover, with the adoption of limit state design and with the development of both visual and
machine stress grading , attention will be increasingly centred on the determination and monitoring of the
strength properties and variability of timber in structural sizes . Again, this can be more effectively undertaken if
the basic data are defined and obtained under the same conditions.

This European Standard , which is based originally on ISO 8375 , specifies laboratory methods for the
determination of some physical and mechanical properties of timber in structural sizes . The methods are not
intended for the grading of timber or for quality control.

For the determination of shear modulus, alternative methods have been specified. The choice of which to use
will depend upon the objective of the investigation and, to some extent, on the equipment available. Following
testing to this standard it is intended that the determination of characteristic values will normally be obtained
according to procedures specified in other European Standards.

Attention is drawn to the advantages that may be gained , often with little extra effort, in extending the
usefulness of test results by recording additional information on the growth characteristics of the pieces that
are tested, particularly at the fracture sections . Generally, such additional information should include grade-
determining features such as knots, slope of grain , rate of growth, wane, etc., on which visual grading rules
are based, and strength indicating parameters such as localized modulus of elasticity, on which some
machine stress grading is based.

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85 EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

1 Scope

This European Standard specifies test methods for determining the following properties of structural timber
and glued laminated timber: modulus of elasticity in bending; shear modulus; bending strength; modulus of
elasticity in tension parallel to the grain; tension strength parallel to the grain; modulus of elasticity in
compression parallel to the grain ; compression strength parallel to the grain; modulus of elasticity in tension
perpendicular to the grain ; tension strength perpendicular to the grain; modulus of elasticity in compression
perpendicular to the grain; compression strength perpendicular to the grain and shear strength .

In addition, the determination of dimensions , moisture content, and density of test pieces are specified .

The methods apply to rectangular and circular shapes (of substantially constant cross section) of solid
unjointed timber or finger-jointed timber and glued laminated timber unless stated otherwise.

2 Normative references

The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated
references , only the edition cited applies . For undated references , the latest edition of the referenced
document (including any amendments) applies.

EN 13183-1, Moisture content of a piece of sawn timber - Part 1: Determination by oven dry method

3 Terms and definitions

Not applicable.

4 Symbols and abbreviations

A cross-sectional area, in square millimetres ;

a distance between a loading position and the nearest support in a bending test, in millimetres;

b width of cross section in a bending test, or the smaller dimension of the cross section , in
millimetres;

E,.o modulus of elasticity in compression parallel to the grain, in newtons per square millimetre ;

E,.go modulus of elasticity in compression perpendicular to the grain , in newtons per square millimetre;

Em,g global modulus of elasticity in bending , in newtons per square millimetre;

Em.l local modulus of elasticity in bending, in newtons per square millimetre;

E•.o modulus of elasticity in tension parallel to the grain , in newtons per square millimetre;

E•.9<l modulus of elasticity in tension perpendicular to the grain , in newtons per square millimetre;

F load , in newtons;

F"go compressive load perpend icular to the grain, in newtons ;

F,.gom' maximum compressive load perpendicular to the grain , in newtons;

F"go.m".e.' estimated maximum compressive load perpendicular to the grain, in newtons;

Fm" maximum load , in newtons ;

6
 BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

F max,est estimated maximum load , in newtons;

FI,go tensile load perpendicular to the grain , in newtons;

Ft,90,max maximum tensile load perpendicular to the grain, in newtons;

G shear modulus , in newtons per square millimetre;

s first moment of area, in millimetres to the third power;

fc,o compressive strength parallel to the grain , in newtons per square millimetre;

fc ,9o compressive strength perpendicular to the grain, in newtons per square millimetre;

bending strength , in newtons per square millimetre;

f.,o tensile strength parallel to the grain, in newtons per square millimetre;

f.,90 tensile strength perpendicular to the grain, in newtons per square millimetre;

shear strength parallel to the grain, in newtons per square millimetre;

fll,k characteristic shear strength parallel to the grain , in newtons per square millimetre;

G shear modulus , in newtons per square millimetre;

G tor,t shear modulus in torsion , in newtons per square millimetre;

Gtor,s shear modulus in shear field, in newtons per square millimetre;

h depth of cross section in a bending test, or the larger dimension of the cross section, or the test
piece height in perpendicular to grain and shear tests, in millimetres;

ho gauge length , in millimetres;

second moment of area, in millimetres to the fourth power;

K, k coefficients;

kG coefficient for shear modulus;

klO' torque stiffness, in newton metres per radian;

k, shear stiffness;

e span in bending , or length of test piece between the testing machine grips in compression and
tension , in millimetres;

e 1 gauge length for the determination of modulus of elasticity or shear modulus , in millimetres;

e2 distance between the supports and gauge length in torsion, in millimetres ;

plate thickness, in millimetres;

torque, in newton millimetres;

v, shear force , in newtons ;

7
BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

W section modulus, in millimetres to the third power;

w deformation or displacement, in millimetres;

'P rotation, in radians;

X, 'I shape factors.

Suffixes

1, 2 refer to loads or deformations or pieces at particular points of a test and are referred to as
necessary in the text.

5 Determination of dimensions of test pieces

The dimensions of the test piece shall be measured to an accuracy of 1 %. All measurements shall be made
when the test pieces are conditioned as specified in Clause 8. If the width or thickness varies within a test
piece , these dimensions should be recorded as the average of three separate measurements taken at
different positions on the length of each piece .

The measurements shall not be taken closer than 150 mm to the ends .

Specimens for perpendicular to grain tests shall be planed .

6 Determination of moisture content of test pieces

The moisture content of the test piece shall be determined in accordance with EN 13183-1 on a section taken
from the test piece. For structural timber the section shall be of full cross section, free from knots and resin
pockets. For perpendicular to grain test specimens the moisture content shall be determined from the whole
specimen.

In strength tests for bending and tension parallel to grain and compression parallel to grain, the section shall
be cut as close as possible to the fracture .

7 Determination of density of test pieces

The density of the whole cross section of the test piece shall be determined on a section taken from the test
piece . For structural timber the section shall be of full cross section , free from knots and resin pockets .

In strength tests, the section shall be cut as close as possible to the fracture.

For perpendicular to grain test specimens the density of the test pieces shall be determined prior to test after
conditioning from the measurements of mass and volume of the whole test piece.

8 Conditioning of test pieces

All tests shall be carried out on pieces, which are conditioned at the standard environment of (20 ± 2) ' C and
(65 ± 5) % relative humidity. A test piece is conditioned when it attains constant mass. Constant mass is
considered to be attained when the results of two successive weightings, carried out at an interval of 6 h, do
not differ by more than 0,1 % of the mass of the test piece.

Where the timber to be tested is not readily conditioned to the above standard environment (e.g . for
hardwoods with high densities) that fact shall be reported .

For small specimens, unless otherwise protected , test pieces shall not be removed from the conditioning
environment more than 1 h before testi n g.

8
 BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

Test pieces can be stored in the test area for up to 24 h provided they are close piled and wrapped in vapour
tight sheeting .

9 Determination of local modulus of elasticity in bending

9.1 Test piece

The test piece shall have a minimum length of 19 times the depth of the section . Where this is not possible,
the span of the beam shall be reported .

9.2 Procedure

The test piece shall be symmetrically loaded in bending at two points over a span of 18 times the depth as
shown in Figure 1. If the test piece and equipment do not permit these conditions to be achieved exactly, the
distance between the load points and the supports may be changed by an amou nt not greater than 1,5 times
the piece depth, and the span and test piece length may be changed by an amount not greater than three
times the piece depth, while maintaining the symmetry of the test.

The test piece shall be simply supported .

Small steel plates of length not greater than one-half of the depth of the test piece may be inserted between
the piece and the loading heads or supports to minimize local indentation.

Lateral restraint shall be provided as necessary to prevent lateral torsional buckling . This restraint shall permit
the piece to deflect without Significant frictional resistance.

Load shall be applied at a constant rate . The rate of movement of the loading head shall be not greater than
(0,003 h) mm/s (see Figure 1).

The maximum load applied shall not exceed 0,4 Fm.,.e".

The estimated maximum load, F ma, .•" of the material under test shall be obtained either from tests on a least
ten pieces of the appropriate species, size and grade or from appropriate existing test data .

, 6h +
- 1, 5h 6h 6h + .
- 1 5h

II = 5h
! h

'-, I r~ ~
I ~
~
r -
X '\ / L l-
T
l =18h±3h

Figure 1 - Test arrangement for measuring local modulus of elasticity in bending

9
BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

The loading equipment used shall be capable of measuring the load to an accuracy of 1 % of the load applied
to the test piece or, for loads less than 10 % of the applied maximum load, with an accuracy of 0,1 % of the
maximum applied load.

The deformation w shall be taken as the average of measurements on both side faces at the neutral axis, and
shall be measured at the centre of a central gauge length of five times the depth of the section.

The measuring equipment used shall be capable of measuring deformation to an accuracy of 1 % or, for
deformations less than 2 mm, with an accuracy of 0,02 mm .

9.3 Expression of results

Using data obtained from the local modulus of elasticity test, plot the load/deformation graph.

Use that section of the graph between 0,1 Fma>.e" and 0,4 Fma,.e" for a regression analysis.

Find the longest portion of this section that gives a correlation coefficient of 0,99 or better. Provided that this
portion covers at least the range 0,2 Fma,.e" to 0,3 Fma"e,' calculate the local modulus of elasticity from the
following expression :

a/,' (F, - F,) (1 )

161("" - w,)

where

F, - F, is an increment of load in newtons on the regression line with a correlation coefficient of

0,99 or better; and

w, - W, is the increment of deformation in millimetres corresponding to F, - F, (see Figure 2).

The local modulus of elasticity, Em" shall be calculated to an accuracy of 1 %.

If a portion of the graph cannot be found with a correlation coefficient of 0,99 or better covering the range
0,2 Fma"e" to 0,3 Fm",e,', check the test equipment and take measures to eradicate any errors caused by
distorted specimens. If 0,99 is still not achieved, discard the specimen.

The modulus of elasticity shall be calculated to an accuracy of 1 %.

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 85 EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

,
- - - - --~-------------- - - ---- -- - -- -------

,
,, -- ------ --- - --- - ---- -- - - - - -- ---- ~ - ---- ---- --

Key

F load
w deformation

Figure 2 - Load-deformation graph within the range of elastic deformation

10 Determination of global modulus of elasticity in bending

10.1 Test piece

The test piece shall have a minimum length of 19 times the depth of the section . Where this is not possible,
the span of the beam shall be reported .

10.2 Procedure

The test piece shall be symmetrically loaded in bending at two points over a span of 18 times the depth as
shown in Figure 3. If the test piece and equipment do not permit these conditions to be achieved exactly, the
distance between the load points and the supports may be changed by an amount not greater than 1,5 times
the piece depth, and the span and test piece length may be changed by an amount not greater than three
times the piece depth, while maintaining the symmetry of the test.

The test piece shall be simply supported .

Small steel plates of length not greater than one-half of the depth of the test piece may be inserted between
the piece and the loading heads or supports to minimize local indentation.

Lateral restraint shall be provided as necessary to prevent lateral (torsional) buckling . This restraint shall
permit the piece to deflect without significant frictional resistance.

11
B5 EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

Load shall be applied at a constant rate . The rate of movement of the loading head shall be not greater than
(0,003 h) mm/s (see Figure 3).

The maximum load applied shall not exceed 0,4 Fm".e,' or cause damage to the piece unless this test is
carried out in conjunction with Clause 19.

The estimated maximum load, Fm".e" of the material under test shall be obtained either from tests on at least
ten pieces of the appropriate species, size and grade or from appropriate existing test data.

6h ± 1 5h 6h 6h ± 1,5h

h
:-l r,
I I
"
'-L: - w L~ T
--
1=18h±3h

Figure 3 - Test arrangement for measuring global modulus of elasticity in bending

The loading equipment used shall be capable of measuring the load to an accuracy of 1 % of the load applied
to the test piece or, for loads less than 10 % of the applied maximum load, with an accuracy of 0,1 % of the
maximum applied load .

The deformation w shall be measured at the centre of the span and from the centre of the tension or
compression edge. When w is measured at the neutral axis it shall be the mean of measurements made on
both sides of the test piece.

Deformations shall be determined with an accuracy of 1 % or, for deformations less than 2 mm , with an
accuracy of 0,02 mm .

If the test configuration differs from the above in any way then these differences are recorded and adjustment
factors are determined.

NOTE The deformation w includes an y local indentations that might occur at the supports and loading poinls and
deformalion of the supports themselves.

Alternative determination methods based on the dynamic modulus of elasticity are allowed provided the
correlation between the measured dynamic modulus of elasticity and the global modulus of elasticity is well
established and documented.

10.3 Expression of results

Use that section of the graph between 0,1 Fmax.e" and 0,4 Fm".e,' for a regression analysis.

12
 85 EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

Find the longest portion of this section that gives a correlation coefficient of 0,99 or better. Provided that this
portion covers at least the range 0,2 F max,e,' to 0,3 Fmox,e,t. calculate the global modulus of elasticity, Em,. from
the following expression :

3al ' - 4a J
(2)
6a )
SGbh

where

F 2 - F, is an increment of load in newtons on the regression line with a correlation coefficient of

0,99 or better; and

W2 - W, is the increment of deformation corresponding to F 2 - F in millimetres (see Figure 2).

"
If unknown , G can be taken as infinite .

NOTE The mean shear modulus of coniferous wood species can be taken as G = 650 Nlmm ' .

The other symbols are as given in Clause 4 . The modulus of elasticity shall be calculated to an accuracy of
1 %.

11 Determination of the shear modulus

11.1 Torsion method

11.1.1 Test piece

The test piece shall be of rectangular cross-section and have a testing length of at least 19 times the largest
cross-sectional dimension.

NOTE 1 The method also applies to test pieces with non-rectangular cross-section provided appropriate modified
equation coefficients are applied .

NOTE 2 This method is particularly suitable for sawn timber beams.

11,1.2 Procedure

The test piece is clamped at the supports, which are spaced more than 16 times the largest cross-sectional
dimension and subjected to torsion along the longitudinal axis by a relative rotation of the supports, see
Figure 4. The test piece shall be mounted such as to minimize the bending deflection caused by the self
weight. The centres of the supports are in line such that clamping the test piece will not cause any
deformation that could influence the torsion results. The torque is applied by rotation of one or both supports .

NOTE 1 In order to avoid additional bending stresses caused by the self weight especially when testing thin specimens,
the starting position of such specimens should be edge wise.

NOTE 2 The torque can be applied in different ways.

The relative rotation of two cross-sections, 1 and 2 (see Figure 4) spaced within the free testing length , 1, is
measured in addition to the torque . The distance between the support and these cross-sections, I, should be
at least two times and at maximum three times the thickness .

The torque is applied such that the relative rotation rate per time increment, d<p/dt is:

d<p _ h.,X
- - - -- - (I,) (3)
dt 225GlJ h

13
BS EN 408 :2010
EN 408:2010 (El

where

,rand" are given in Table 1.

Examples of the gauges that enable the rotation measurements are shown in Figure 5.

The relation between the applied torque, T, and the relative rotation , 'fJ represented by the torque stiffness , k,o,
is determined using a linear regression equation as shown in Figure 6. A linear elastic portion of the graph is
taken for linear regression analyses . The correlation coeffi cient should be at least 0,98.

r ,-_. - - - I > 16 " - - --_.- , -.--~ ;,

12h <I,< 3It __ I, ._ _ . ___._ _ _ j 2h<I,<3h ; F -.J, b~-
, ,

I '1
~~ _ _~~IL-__________________~____~

1
II
Figure 4 - Example of test setup with requirements of specific locations for the gauges

Figure 5 - Example of test setup

14
 BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

,
_"::;"_ _ _.l.-_I\_'~ tor

o
o J 4

':p =
Key
Tr torque

lfJ i rotation at cross-section i

k to, torque stiffness

Figure 6 - Torque versus relative rotation

The maximum torque applied should be reached within 150 s and shall not exceed the proportional limit or
cause damage to the piece between the cross-sections 1 and 2. For this reason the torque is limited to:

(4)

where

X is the value taken from Table 1.

The loading equipment used shall be capable of measuring the torque to an accuracy of 1 % of the torque
applied to the test piece or, for loads less than 10 % of the maximum applied torque, with an accuracy of
0,1 % of the maximum applied torque .

11.1.3 Expression of results

The shear modulus Gto , is given by the equation :

klor
GlOr=--/ t (5)
77 h b1

where

77 is the shape factor according to Table 1.

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BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

Table 1 - Shape factor values for torsion test

hlb 1,0 1,2 1,5 2,0 2,5 3 4 5 10

T) 0,1406 0,166 0,196 0,229 0,249 0,263 0,281 0,291 0,312

X 0,4158 0,4564 0,4618 0,4904 0,5162 0,5334 0,5634 0,596 ° 0,627 °

11.2 Shear field test method

11.2.1 Test piece

The test piece shall have a minimum length of 19 times the depth of the section . Where this is not possible,
the span of the beam shall be reported .

NOTE 1 This method is particutarly suitable for laminated members.

NOTE 2 This method may be apptied together with the detenmination of the bending strength and global modulus of
elasticity.

11.2.2 Procedure

The test piece shall be symmetrically loaded in bending at two points over a span of 18 times the depth as
shown in Figure 7. If the test piece and equipment do not permit these conditions to be achieved exactly, the
distance between the load points and the supports may be changed by an amount not greater than 1,5 times
the piece depth , and the span and test piece length may be changed by an amount not greater than three
times the piece depth, while maintaining the symmetry of the test.

The test piece shall be simply supported .

NOTE Small steel plates of length not greater than one·half of the depth of the test piece may be inserted between
the piece and the loading heads or supports to minimize local indentation.

6h ± 1 5h 6h 6h ± 15h
,

h
, .., -.L
~ ~
'-;
- :: L ~T

J=18h ± 3h

Figure 7 - Test arrangement for shear field test

Lateral restraint shall be provided as necessary to prevent lateral (torsional) buckling . This restraint shall
permit the piece to deflect without significant fri ctional resistance.

16
 BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

Load shall be applied at a constant rate. The rate of movement of the loading head shall be not greater than
(0 ,003 h) mm/s.

The maximum load applied shall not exceed 0,4 Fm.... " or cause damage to the piece unless 11 .2.1, Note 2
applies .

The estimated maximum load , Fm.... " of the material under test shall be obtained either from tests on at least
ten pieces of the appropriate species, size and grade or from appropriate existing test data.

The loading equipment requirements correspond with 10.2.

In the middle of the area under constant shear stress, a square is marked on both side faces, placed
symmetrically with respect to the height of the test piece. A device that measures the change of the square
diagonals is fixed to the test piece at the square corners, see Figure 8.

Figure 8 - Example of the shear field test apparatus fixed on one of both sides

Deformations shall be determined with an accuracy of 1 % or, for deformations less than 2 mm, with an
accuracy of 0,02 mm.

The shear force applied shall not exceed the proportional limit unless 11.2.1 , Note 2 applies .

The loading equipment used shall be capable of measuring the shear force to an accuracy of 1 % of the shear
force applied to the test piece or, for loads less than 10 % of the maximum applied shear force , with an
accuracy of 0,1 % of the maximum applied shear force .

The shear deformation, w, is defined as the mean value of the summation of the absolute readings of both
diagonals at each side face of the cross-section, see Figure 9.

17
BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (El

-'---- - - - - -- - - - -- _._.,
,
L ._ ,---.
• - - --_._ ---- ,
, •
___ ~ ~1_ ~

. ~: ..

Figure 9 - Deformation of the square with diagonals

11.2.3 Expression of results

For beams with rectangular cross-section the shear modulus, Gto, ., is given by the equation :

ho (V,.2 - V
,,,l
Gw ., = a bh (W -w, ) (6)
2

where

2
3 h
a= - - -
' (7)
2 4h '

k,l +h2ll with i = 1, 2 (8)

2

w, is the mean deformation of both diagonals i on opposite side faces of the beam for a
given shear load V s ,; , in millimetres ;

is the shear load increment, in newtons.

For non rectangular cross-section structural engineering principles apply.

12 Determination of modulus of elasticity in tension parallel to the grain

12.1 Test piece

The test piece shall be of full structural cross section , and of sufficient length to provide a test length clear of
the testing machine grips of at least nine times the larger cross-sectional dimension .

12.2 Procedure

The test piece shall be loaded using gripping devices which will permit as far as possible the application of a
tensile load without inducing bending. The gripping devices and loading conditions actually used shall be
reported .

Load shall be applied at a constant rate . The rate of strain in the piece shall be not greater than 0,000 05/s.

18
 BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

The maximum load applied shall not exceed the proportional limit load or cause damage to the test piece,
unless this test is carried out in conjunction with Clause 13. If significant movement occurs, for example with
wedge type grips, preliminary tests may be needed to establish a rate of movement of the machine cross-
head.

The loading equipment used shall be capable of measuring the load to an accuracy of 1 % of the load applied
to the test piece or, for loads less than 10 % of the applied maximum load , with an accuracy of 0,1 % of the
maximum applied load.

Deformation shall be measured over a length of five times the width of the piece, located not closer to the
ends of the grips than twice this width . Two extensometers shall be used , and shall be positioned to minimize
the effects of distortion .

Deformations shall be determined with an accuracy of 1 % or for deformations less than 2 mm, with an
accuracy of 0,02 mm.

12.3 Expression of results

The modulus of elasticity in tension E" o is given by the equation

_ ( , (F, - F, )
£ 10 (9)
, - AWz
( - wl )

where

F2 - F, is an increment of load on the straight line portion of the load deformation curve, in newtons
(see Figure 2);

W2 - w, is the increment of deformation corresponding to F2 - F" in millimetres (see Figure 2).

The other symbols are as given in Clause 4.

If £,,0 is calculated from a load/deformation linear regression the correlation coefficient should be greater than
0,99 .

The modulus of elasticity in tension shall be calculated to an accuracy of 1 %.

13 Determination of tension strength parallel to the grain

13.1 Test piece

The test piece sh all be of full structural cross section, and of sufficient length to provide a test length clear of
the testing machine grips of at least nine times the larger cross-sectional dimension .

For tensile parallel top grain finger joint tests the joint shall be located at centre span , The test length clear of
machine grips is at least nine times the smallest cross-sectional dimension, see Figure 10.

19
85 EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

--+
!
A 1 • +--
!h --+
9h
I- ·1
-
I
6
9b
:;.
A
I
.- ;b --+
--+

I- -I
Figure 10 - Test setup tensile strength parallel to grain

13.2 Procedure

The test piece shall be loaded using gripping devices which will permit as far as possible the application of a
tensile load without inducing bending. The gripping devices and loading conditions actually used shall be
reported .

The loading equipment used shall be capable of measuring the load to an accuracy of 1 % of the load applied
to the test piece .

Load shall be applied at a constant loading-head movement so adjusted that maximum load is reached within
(300 ± 120) s.

NOTE This rate should be determined from the results of preliminary tests. The objective is that the time to reach
Fmax for each piece is 300 s.

The time to failure for each test piece shall be recorded and its average reported . Any single piece diverging
more than 120 s from the target of 300 s shall be reported .

13.3 Expression of results

The tensile strength ft.o is given by the equation

r ---A-
. t.O
Fm~ (10)

The symbols are as given in Clause 4.

The tensile strength, ft.o shall be calculated to an accuracy of 1 %.

The mode of fracture and growth characteristics at the fracture section of each test piece shall be recorded. If
failure is associated with the grips, this shall be reported .

14 Determination of modulus of elasticity in compression parallel to the grain

14.1 Test piece

The test piece shall be of full cross section, and shall have a length of six times the smaller cross-sectional
dimension. The end grain surfaces shall be accurately prepared to ensure that they are plane and parallel to
one another and perpendicular to the axis of the piece .

20
 85 EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

14.2 Procedure

The test piece shall be centre loaded using spherically seated loading-heads or other devices which permit
the application of a compressive load without inducing bending . After an initial load has been applied the
loading-heads shall be locked to prevent angular movement. The gripping devices and loading conditions
actually used shall be reported .

Load shall be applied at a constant rate. The rate of movement of the loading-head shall be not greater than
(0,000 05 C) mm/s.

The loading equipment used shall be capable of measuring the load to an accuracy of 1 % of the load applied
to the test piece, or for loads less than 10 % of the applied maximum load , with an accuracy of 0,1 % of the
maxim um applied load .

Deformation shall be measured over a central gauge length of four times the smaller cross-sectional
dimension of the piece . Two extensometers shall be used, and shall be positioned to minimize the effects of
distortion.

Deformations shall be determined with an accuracy of 1 % or, for deformations less than 2 mm , with an
accuracy of 0,02 mm .

14.3 Expression of results

The modulus of elasticity in compression Ee,o is given by the equation:

E - eI (F2 - F, ) (1 1)
c,O - A(w )
2 - wI

where

F2 - F, is an increment of load on the straight line portion of the load deformation curve, in
new10ns (see Figure 2);

is the increment of deformation corresponding to F2 - F in millimetres (see Figure 2).

"
The other symbols are as given in Clause 4.

If Ec.o is calculated from a load/deformation linear regression the correlation coefficient should be greater
than 0,99.

The modulus of elasticity in compression shall be calculated to an accuracy of 1 %.

15 Determination of compression strength parallel to grain

15.1 Test piece

The test piece shall be of full cross section , and shall have a length of six times the smaller cross-sectional
dimension. The end grain surfaces shall be accurately prepared to ensure that they are plane and parallel to
one another and perpendicular to the axis of the piece .

15.2 Procedure

The test piece shall be loaded concentrica lly using spherically seated loading-heads or other devices, which
permit the application of a compressive load without inducing bending . After load pick up the loading-heads
shall be locked to prevent angular movement. The gripping devices and loading conditions actually used shall
be reported .

21
BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

The loading equipment used shall be capable of measuring the load to an accuracy of 1 % of the load applied
to the test piece .

Load shall be applied at a constant loading-head movement so adjusted that maximum load is reached within
(300 ± 120) s.

NOTE This rate should be determined from the results of preliminary tests. The objective is that the time to reach
F""" for each piece is 300 s.

The time to failure of each test piece shall be recorded and its average reported . Any single piece diverging
more than 120 s from the target of 300 s shall be reported .

15.3 Expression of results

The compressive strength fc .o is given by the equation :

r = F m" (12)
J c,o A

The symbols are as given in Clause 4.

The compressive strength shall be calculated to an accuracy of 1 %.

The mode of fracture and growth characteristics at the fracture section of each test piece shall be reported.

16 Determination of tension and compression strengths perpendicular to the grain

16.1 Requirements for test pieces

16.1.1 Fabrication

The fabrication of the test pieces shall be such as to allow the application of the loads to the test piece .

NOTE 1 Suitable arrangements are shown in Annexes A and B.

For tension tests , the test piece shall be glued to steel plates or timber blocks . The gluing process shall be
capable of ensuring the specified position of the test piece during testing.

NOTE 2 A suitable adhesive for fixing the steel plates to the timber test piece is a two-part epoxy. Immediately prior to
gluing, the surfaces to be joined should be prepared by planing the timber test piece surfaces and sandblasting the steel
plates.

16.1.2 Surface preparation

16.1.2.1 General

The loaded surfaces shall be accurately prepared to ensure that they are plane and parallel to each other and
perpendicular to the test piece axis. This preparation shall be carried out after conditioning .

16.1.2.2 Structural timber

The test pieces shall have the dimensions given in Table 2 and be as shown in Figure 11 .

16.1.2.3 Glued laminated timber

3
The test pieces shall have the dimensions given in Table 2, with the object of achieving a volume of 0,01 m
for tension test pieces, and be as shown in Figure 12.

22
 BS EN 408:2010
EN 408 :2010 (E)

Table 2 - Dimensions of structural timber or glued laminated timber test pieces

Specimen characteristics

Structural timber Glued laminated timber

8(mm) I h (mm) 11 (mm) Volume I b x 1(mm') I b minimum (mm) I h (mm)

Tension

45 180 70 0,01 m> I 25 000 100 400

I I I I
Compression

45 90 70 - 25 000 100 200

I I I I I
The symbols are as given in Clause 4.
The permitted deviation of the test piece dimensions b, hand 1 shall be 1 %.

16.2 Procedure

The test piece shall be mounted vertically between the test machine plates and the appropriate compression
or tension loads applied. The gauge length, ho (approximately 0,6 h), shall be located centrally in the test
piece height and not closer than bl3 to the loaded ends of the test piece, see Figure 13.

,
\
" '.' j
I

Key
1) grain direction

Figure 11 - Structural timber test piece

23
BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

~ 1 )

Key
1) grain direction

Figure 12 - Glued laminated timber test piece

I!

!I
Figure 13 - Test principle

The loading equipment used shall be capable of measuring the load to an accuracy of 1 % of the load applied
to the test piece or, for loads less than 10 % of the maximum load, with an accuracy of 0,1% of the maximum
load.

The test piece shall be loaded concentrically.

NOTE 1 This can be achieved using spherically seated loading-heads (see also Annexes A and B).

In the case of the compression test, after an initial load has been applied , the loading-heads shall be locked to
prevent rotation or angular movement during the test.

NOTE 2 Suitable devices are shown in Annex A.

24
 85 EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

In the case of either a tension test or a compression test the longitudinal axis of the test piece shall be aligned
with the axis of the machine and fixed in such a way that no initial stresses in the test piece are introduced,
except those due to the weight of the test piece and the equipment.

In the case of tension tests on solid timber the test piece shall have pinned ends, with the axis of the pin
parallel to the grain direction of the test piece.

The load F shall be applied at a constant rate of cross head movement throughout the test. The rate of loading
shall be adjusted so that the maximum load F e ,90,m,>,est or Ft.90,m'> is reached within (300 ± 120) s.

NOTE 3 This rate should be determined from the results of preliminary tests. The objective is that the time to reach
Fmax for each test piece is 300 s.

NOTE 4 The relationship between Fc,90,max,est and F e,go.max is discussed in 17.3.1.

16.3 Expression of results

16.3.1 Compression perpendicular to the grain

The compressive strength fe,90 shall be determined from the equation :

- F c,90,max
J.c.90 - be

The compressive strength shall be calculated to an accuracy of 1 %. The method for determining Fe ,90,max is
given in 17,3.1.

The symbols are as given in Clause 4 .

16.3.2 Tension perpendicular to the grain

The tensile strength ft,90 shall be determined from the equation :

- F1,90, max
J.t,90 - be (13)

The tensile strength shall be calculated to an accuracy of 1 %.

The symbols are as given in Clause 4.

The result of a test shall be disregarded where failure occurs on the system used to connect the test piece to
the testing machine (e .g. in the glue line between the steel plates and the timber of the test piece). If the
failure occurs partly in the glued area of the test piece/steel plate interface, the result is valid only if this area is
less than 20 % of the area of failure.

17 Determination of modulus of elasticity perpendicular to the grain

17.1 Requirements for test pieces

The shape and dimensions of the test pieces shall comply with Table 2.

17.2 Procedure

The test pieces shall be mounted in the loading equipment as specified in 16.2, and the loading procedure
described in 16.2 shall be followed .

25
BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

Two extensometers shall be used, and shall be positioned to minimize the effects of distortion. The
extensometers shall measure the deformations which shall be determined to an accuracy of 1 %. The
deformation in the load direction refers to the centre of the loaded section and is calculated on the basis of
measurements on two opposite sides of the test piece,

The data from each extensometer shall be recorded separately.

17,3 Expression of results

17.3,1 Compression perpendicular to the grain

The modulus of elasticity E"go shall be calculated from the equation:

E _ (F40 -F,o)ho
(14 )
,.90 - ( w - wlO )bt
40

where

F40 - F, o is an increment of load on the straight line portion of the load-deform ation curve, in
newtons. F 10 shall be 10 % and F40 shall be 40 % of F ',90,m",est;

W40 - W10 is the increment of deformation corresponding to F 40 - F10 , in millimetres.

The other symbols are as given in Clause 4. The modulus of elasticity shall be calculated to an accuracy of
1 %.

F 2

0,4 Fc,9o,ma
x

O,lFc,9o,ma
x

Figure 14 - Load-deformation diagram (compression)

The determination of F"go,m" may be carried out using the iterative process as follows:

Estimate a value for the load F"gO,m,,' Using the test results , plot the load/deformation curve in the form shown
in Figure 14, Calculate 0,1 F"go ,m" and 0,4 F"90,m,, and determine where these two values intersect the
load/deformation curve. Through these two points draw the straight line 1 as shown in Figure 14. Parallel to
line 1, draw line 2 having its origin at load F =°
and at a distance from it equivalent to a deformation of 0,01 ho
as shown in Figure 14. Where line 2 intersects the curve of the test results is F"gO ,m,,' If the value of F"go,m" as

26
 85 EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

determined is within 5 % of Fc,90,ma<,e" then that va lue may be used to determine the compressive strength;
otherwise, repeat the procedure until a value of F c ,9(J,ma< within that tolerance is obtained ,

17.3.2 Tension perpendicular to the grain

The modulus of elasticity E,,90 shall be calculated from the equation:

(15)

where

is an increment of load on the straight line portion of the load-deformation curve , in

new1ons , F,o shall be 10 % and F40 shall be 40 % of F,,90,ma<,e,';

is the increment of deformation corresponding to F40 - F,o , in millimetres.

The other symbols are as given in Clause 4,

The modulus of elasticity shall be calculated to an accuracy of 1 %.

18 Determination of shear strength parallel to the grain

18,1 Requirements for test pieces

lB.l.1 Fabrication

The test piece shall be glued to steel plates. The steel plates shall be tapered as shown in Figure 15,

NOTE A suitable adhesive for fixing the steel plates to the timber test piece is a two-part epoxy, Immediately prior to
gluing, the surfaces to be joined should be prepared by planing the timber test piece surfaces and sandblasting the steel
plates.

1B,1.2 Surface preparation

All surfaces shall be accurately prepared to ensure that adjacent surfaces are perpendicular and opposite
surfaces are parallel to each other. This preparation shall be carried out after conditioning ,

The test pieces shall satisfy the requirements shown in Figure 15, The values of the dimensions shall be as
follows :

e=(300 ± 2) mm ;
b = (32 ± 1) mm;

h = (55 ± 1) mm.

The steel plate thickness shall be (10 ± 1) mm ,

NOTE 1 Consideration needs to be given to thicker plates for stronger species and hardwoods.

NOTE 2 Variations in these dimensions are permissible within the stated tolerances, to achieve the object of an angle of
14 in the test.
0

27
BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

Dimensions in millimetres

-.:,;---JIo.' 1
2
3

·
··· ··
··
~ 1
··

··
1 ··

... .:.
~,I
··
~I
/.' /
1/.,..-

·. ...2. I IF
({//// ..
"'::' 2
...
- 1_. f f f I I

-..:..:...
h -: I I. I

Key
1 grain direction
2 steel plate
3 timber test piece

Figure 15 - Timber test piece shown glued to steel plates

18 .2 Procedure

The test piece shall be mounted in a test machine as shown in Figure 16. The test piece shall be al igned such
that continuous contact is maintained where the line loads F are applied. The angle between the load direction
and the longitudinal axis of the test piece shall be 14°.

28
 BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

' "~> 1
2
3

Key
1 grain direction
2 steel plate
3 timber test piece

Figure 16 - Loading arrangement

The loading equipment used shall be capable of measuring the load to an accuracy of 1 % of the load applied
to the test piece or, for loads less than 10 % of the maximum load , with an accuracy of 0,1% of the maximum
load.

If the failure occurs partly in the glued area of the test piece/steel plate interface, the result is valid only if this
area is less than 20 % of the area of failure .

Load F shall be applied at a constant rate of loading-head movement so adjusted that the load F ma , is reached
within (300 ± 120) s.

NOTE This rate should be determined from the results of preliminary tests. The objective is that the time to reach
Fmax for each test piece is 300 s.

Single test pieces diverging more than 120 s from the target of 300 s shall be reported . The time to failure
shall be recorded and its average reported .

18.3 Expression of results

The shear strength fv shall be determined from the equation:

29
BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

Fma."cos 14°
Iv (16)
fb

and shall be calculated to an accuracy of 1 %.

The symbols are as given in Clause 4.

19 Bending strength parallel to grain

19.1 Test piece

For the determination of the bending strength of the timber the test piece shall have a minimum length of
19 times the depth of the section . Where this is not possible, the span of the beam shall be reported .

For the determination of the bending strength of the finger jointed timber the test piece shall have a minimum
length of twelve times the depth of the section . Where this is not possible, the span of the beam shall be
reported .

19.2 Procedure

For the determination of the bending strength of the timber the test piece shall be symmetrically loaded in
bending at two points over a span of 18 times the depth as shown in Figure 17.

For the determination of the bending strength of the finger jointed timber the test piece shall be symmetrically
loaded in bending at two points over a span of eleven times the depth as shown in Figure 18 with the finger
joint at mid span.

If the test piece and equipment do not permit these conditions to be achieved exactly, the distance between
the load points and the supports may be changed by an amount not greater than 1,5 times the piece depth ,
and the span and test piece length may be changed by an amount not greater than three times the piece
depth , while maintaining the symmetry of the test.

The test piece shall be simply supported.

NOTE Small stee l plates of length not greater than one-half of the depth of the test piece may be inserted between
the piece and the loading heads or supports to minimize local indentation.

Lateral restraint shall be provided as necessary to prevent buckling. This restraint shall permit the piece to
deflect without significant frictional resistance.

Load shall be applied at a constant rate until failure occurs or the finger joint fails . The rate of movement of the
loading head shall be not greater than (0,003 h) mm/s (see Figure 18).

Failures that originate from other types than bending shall be reported.

The maximum load (Fma , ) of the bending test shall be record ed.

30
 BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (El

6h ± 1,Sh 6h 6h ± 1,Sh
•

'-, ~
L~ L ;-... T
1=18h±3h

Figure 17 - Test arrangement for measuring bending strength

6h + 1,Sh 6h 6h + 1,Sh
4

c, ~
j
L :> L~
T
1=1 8h + 3h

Figure 18 - Test arrangement for measuring the bending strength offinger joints

The load ing eq uipment used shall be capable of measuring the load to an accuracy of 1 % of the load applied
to the test piece or, for loads less than 10 % of the applied maximum load, with an accuracy of 0,1 % of th e
maximum applied load.

19.3 Expression of results

The bending strength is determ ined by:

3Fa
(17)
f m = bh 2

The sym bols are as given in Clause 4.

The bending strength shall be calculated to an accuracy of 1 %.

The mode of fracture and the growth characteristics at the fracture section of each test piece shall be
recorded.

31
BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

20 Test report

20.1 General

The test report shall include details of the test piece, the test method used and the test results .

20.2 Test piece

The following information shall be given :

a) description of the test piece, a specification and quality of material: species or type, grade, density,
deviations from specifications, strength reducing characteristics, size of defects;

b) size of test piece or finger joint, the type of glue used if applicable and the orientation and the number of
laminations where appropriate;

c) country, region or mill of origin of the material sampled. In addition , for glued laminated timber, the factory
of origin;

d) method of selection of test pieces;

e) method of conditioning;

f) any other information which may have influenced the test results, for example drying history.

20.3 Test method

The following information shall be given :

a) reference to test methods used;

b) temperature and relative humidity at the time of test;

c) description of the load testing device, the test equipment and the measuring instruments used ;

d) any other information which may influence the use of the test results .

20.4 Test results

The following information for each test piece shall normally be given :

a) moisture content of the test piece at time of test;

b) actual dimensions;

c) strength andl or stiffness values;

d) location and shape of the cracks or other fa ilure modes than intended;

e) estimated percentage glued line and wood failure in the finger joint if applicable;

f) time to reach the maximum load ;

g) any other information which may influence the use of the test results.

32
 BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (El

AnnexA
(informative)

Example of compression perpendicular to grain test arrangement

Figure A.1 shows an example of a compression perpendicular to grain test arrangement.

The load can be transferred to the test piece through steel plates . To ensure uniform deformation from the
beginning of the load application, a pair of steel wedges can be inserted between the steel plate and the
pressure disc of the testing machine . This enables the equalization of small deviations in parallelity.

The use of the devices shown in Figure A.2 will :

facilitate the correct alignment of the test piece between the platens of the test machine; and

facilitate full contact between the end sunaces of the test piece and the platens of the test machine; and

following the initial loading, prevent any further rotation of the platens.

Figure A.1 - Compression test arrangement

33
BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

1 -- - -\

3
Key
1 test piece
2 square plate with hemispherical knee joint
3 adjustment and locking system

Figure A.2 - Compression test locking device

34
 BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

Annex B
(informative)

Example of tension perpendicular to grain test arrangement with rigid

fixings

The load can be transferred to the test piece through steel plates glued to the test piece or by timber pieces .
For the glued on timber pieces the direction of the grain should be parallel the load direction. A suitable
adhesive to glue steel plates to timber is a two-component epoxy. For timber to timber any appropriate
adhesive will do. Using steel plates the interface surfaces should be prepared by sandblasting the steel and
planing the wood just before the gluing.

Alternatively, to provide the load introduction not only steel plates but also other suitable load introduction
methods can be applied provided no eccentricity with the symmetrical axis of the specimen occurs .

An example of the arrangement is shown in Figure B.1 for glued laminated test pieces.

.,1.", ~
.n -:'" .n , l' II t
It . ,. . 'J"""'"

t
( .- (
,
.. .....
~ ~:'.
-=. ~.-" .:. ,.
.... -,
/.
_. "'"
' ,' -. ',
"
T
,..,', -~
~ ,
" , , ." ~~ " .......:'.J
- ...
,- - ,-'. .- ' - .~ ~

" .... , "

: _.,. r. . '" ..... "
'
i ,, ',-...
n .~

' ~ .
" .' .... I
," . ~" '. /
l ' .' , , .'
~, ~

j
- , '

~ .!
'

~ .r .- -1-it 1t
c: ' . ::J
T 0 t
::J
,-1-
Figure B.1 - Tension test arrangements and load introduction methods for a glued laminated test
piece

35
BS EN 408:2010
EN 408:2010 (E)

Bibliography

[1] ISO 8375 :2009 , Timber structures - Glued laminated timber - Test methods for determination of
physical and mechanical properties

[2] Feldborg, T., Determination of some mechanical properties of timber in structural sizes, In Proceedings of
the 1991 International Timber Engineering Conference, London 1991, Vo1.2 . p189-199

[3] Brandner, R., Gehri, E., Bogensperger, T., Schickhofer, G. Determination of modulus of shear and
elasticity of glued laminated timber and related examinations , Proceedings of CIB - 18 paper 40-12-2,
Bled , August 2007

36
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