Methodology to predict the strength and stiffness of red alder block pallet connections fastened with helically threaded nails

The objective of this project is to develop a methodology to measure and predict the strength and the stiffness of red alder (Alnus rubra) nailed pallet connections subjected to repetitive loading. Joint tests were conducted to define the mechanical properties of bottom block pallet connections. The primary tests were conducted to define the strength and stiffness of joint specimens tested in cyclic lateral loading, using three different side member thicknesses and four types of nails. Also, the influence of other specific variables on joint performance was evaluated including friction, pattern, moisture content, number of nails per joint, specific gravity, and rate of loading. In total, 23 sets of nailed joint specimens, with 15 replications each, were constructed and tested. The use of a reversing cyclic lateral loading procedure permits documentation of the effect of dynamic loading on the load-slip response of the connection. Analysis of the data included the creation of two envelope curves, the initial and the final (stabilized) curve. The data obtained from the two curves was used to find the “best” model for predicting the strength and stiffness of the connections. Four models were identified but only one of these was found useful for prediction purposes. Finally, experimental capacity loads were found to be at least three times greater than the national design specification allowable design loads.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science

Level thesis:degree_level

masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Wood Science and Forest Products

Department dc:contributor.department

Wood Science and Forest Products

Grantor dc:publisher

Virginia Tech

Year dc:date.issued

1994

Author dc:creator

• Sosa, Hector M.

Statement dc:rights

• In Copyright

Licence dc:rights.uri

• http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/

Language dc:language.iso

en

Dc Identifier Other

etd-04072009-040852

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:vtechworks.lib.vt.edu:10919/41940