Application criteria for the benefit of plasticity within timber structures due to connection ductility

摘要

The plastic behavior of connections in timber structures have become more and more of interested in recent time. The theory for the calculation of dowel type fasteners is based on developing plastic hinges within the fastener, and is nowadays state of the art not only in Germany, but also in Europe. This type of connectors shows a significant ductile behavior if a certain embedded length within the timber is ensured, and the connection is not endangered due to splitting of the timber. Most of the inherent material properties do not allow a plastic design in timber structures. Connections accomplished with dowel type fasteners enable to bridge that gap.