Original and strengthened traditional timber connections (original) (raw)

Experimental evaluation of different strengthening techniques of traditional timber connections

Engineering Structures, 2011

A series of monotonic and cyclic tests on unstrengthened specimens were performed in order to characterize the original behaviour of connections representative of traditional timber trusses. Subsequently, connections strengthened with metal devices were tested under monotonic and cyclic loading. Tests on assembled connections were preceded by accurate material characterization, in terms of the mechanical properties of the timber elements used for all full-scale models.

Improvement of the Connections in Timber Structures in Theory and Practice

Zbornik radova Građevinskog fakulteta, 2019

Connections between timber structural elements are realized, usually with different steel jointing devices, which are installed in combination with specially shaped steel elements in accordance with certain theoretical settings and calculations. In the case of solid timber (C) or glued laminated timber (GL) constructions of large spans, there is a important consumption of steel for making connections between the elements of the primary and secondary structures. In this paper we give a brief overview of the development and improvement of modern models and methods of calculating connections in timber structures, through examples of original design solutions that have achieved the savings of connecting means in relation to the classic way of forming connections between timber elements. These solutions are followed by the need for high quality of glued laminated timber beams production and precision finishing.

Stiffness of steel‐to‐timber connection under cyclic loading

ce/papers, 2019

The paper deals with experimental and theoretical analysis of a problematic structural detail occurring in contemporary combined timber-steel road and pedestrian bridges-the connection of a steel crossbeam to a main timber girder. This joint is usually designed as a bolted connection and it is often required to behave as a rigid one in the plane perpendicular to the timber element in order to ensure the main timber girders against lateral and torsional buckling. The required stiffness of the joint is reached by its appropriate configuration, however, it is significantly affected by a dynamic character of loading, which causes gradual deterioration of the joint components finally resulting in possible decrease of the joint stiffness. In order to investigate this problematic detail more exactly, laboratory tests on specially prepared specimens were performed. The specimens were subjected to static and cyclic loading, as well. The joint stiffness is determined by means of component method that is rather well processed in the field of joints of steel structures. The input parameters for application of this method for combined steel-to-timber connection are specified on the basis of tests results. The aim of the research is to define how cyclic loading affects the stiffness of the investigated joint and to give some recommendations for practical modelling of this joint.

Modelling of timber joints in traditional structures

2006

Original unstrengthened timber connections and the effects of different strengthening techniques have been evaluated experimentally with tests on full-scale birdsmouth joints. Experimental results show that structural response of traditional timber connections under cyclic loading cannot be represented by common constraint models, like perfect hinges or rigid joints, but should be using semi-rigid and friction based models. A research program has investigated the behaviour of old timber joints and examined strengthening criteria. The main parameters affecting the mechanical behaviour of the connection have been singled out. A synthetic model of cyclic behaviour has been adapted on the basis of experimental results.

Understanding timber structural connection systems

The strength and stability of any timber structure depends heavily on the connections between the structural members. One prime advantage of wood as a structural material is the ease with which wooden structural parts can be joined together, using a wide variety of connecting systems. This chapter discusses how the characteristics of timber as an engineering material affect the performance and hence design of connection in timber structures.

Designing timber connections for ductility – A review and discussion

Construction and Building Materials, 2021

This paper discusses the design principles of timber connections for ductility with focus on laterally-loaded dowel-type fasteners. Timber connections are critical components of timber structures: not only do they join members, but they also affect load capacity, stiffness, and ductility of the overall system. Moreover, due to the brittle failure behaviour of timber when loaded in tension or shear, they are often the only source of ductility and energy dissipation in the structure in case of overloading, much like a fuse in an electrical circuit. This paper addresses current challenges in connection design for ductility, reviews selected best-practice design approaches to ensure ductility in timber connections, suggests simple performance-based design criteria to design connections for ductility, and aims to stimulate a discussion around potential solutions to implement safe design principles for ductile connections in future design codes and connection testing regimes.

Connections Testing and Reliability Assessment of Timber Connections with Dowel-Type Fasteners

2023

The accurate description of the structural behaviour of structural timber connections is still an open issue, which poses many unresolved challenges. The REACT research project engages in developing a reliable framework for the design of structural timber connections. Based on an extensive experimental campaign and novel multi-scale models, it will provide a sound reliability assessment of timber connections. This knowledge will stem from a multilevel analysis, ranging from the material up to the connection level, with a special focus on the interaction of timber with dowel-type fasteners. As a major contribution, the project will deliver information for design practice, allowing to make use of the obtained knowledge in a simple yet efficient way.