Comparison of Single- and Two-Bolted LVL Perpendicular-to-Grain Connections. I: National Design Specification for Wood Construction Equations

摘要

Little research is available for perpendicular-to-grain connections in wood using multiple bolts. Experimental testing of single-and two-bolt connections was compared with predicted values from General Dowel Equations for Calculating Lateral Connection Values Technical Report 12. Two different laminated veneer lumber materials were tested with variable loaded-edge distances, and variable bolt sizes in both single- and two-bolt connections. Splitting failures, and crushing of main member and formation of a single plastic moment in the bolt were observed. Connection resistance increased as loaded-edge distance and number of bolts increased. Most design factors of safety representing the ratio of experimental strength to lateral design values were controlled by shear design provisions. Design factors of safety were greater at smaller loaded-edge distance with single bolt compared to other configurations. Further investigation of the design shear provisions may be needed. Yield theory overpredicted the connection strength at the lower loaded-edge distances because of splitting of the member before yielding occurred.