Effects of Loaded End Distance and Moisture Content on the Behavior of Bolted Connections in Squared and Round Timber Subjected to Tension Parallel to the Grain

Abstract

This article presents the results of static tests on bolted connections in squared and round timber with inserted steel plates. The experiment evaluates structural timber connections with different distances between the fastener and the loaded end at different moisture contents. Specimens were loaded by tension parallel to the grain and load–deformation diagrams were recorded. Fifty-six specimens with three different distances between the fastener and the loaded end, at different moisture contents, were tested. The results were statistically evaluated using regression analysis, complemented with load–deformation curves, and compared with calculations according to the valid standard for design of timber structures. A decrease in the evaluated load-carrying capacity with increasing moisture content was confirmed experimentally. A slight increase in the evaluated load-carrying capacity with increasing fastener distance from the loaded end was found.