Comparative Racking Strength of Walls Framed with COM-PLY and Sawn Timber Studs. COM-PLY Report 11

摘要

Part of a series on the possibilities of producing house framing and structural panels with particleboard cores and veneer facings (COM - PLY or composite materials), this report compares the racking strengths of plywood wall sheathing framed with COM - PLY and sawn studs in view of the criteria for such strength and wall deformation as set forth by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). Of the six panels tested, three were framed with COM - PLY studs and three were framed with stud - grade spruce studs. Racking loads were applied with a hydraulic cylinder which had been previously calibrated in a universal testing machine. Loads were applied in 400 - pound increments until the panels failed, and the corresponding gage pressures were recorded. Results indicate that test panels framed with COM - PLY studs had greater racking strength and less deformation than those framed with spruce studs. An 8 x 8 foot frame made of COM - PLY studs and 1 / 2 - inch thick, CD - grade, exterior plywood sheathing met the requirements for racking strength as set forth by the FHA. Racking strength of panels made with the same type of plywood and framed with spruce studs did not meet FHA requirements. Photographs, diagrams, a table, and two references are supplied.