Evaluation of Strength Properties for Bolted Connections with Lumber from Small Diameter Logs

EYM (European Yield Model), which was adopted in NDS (National Design Specification for wood construction), has been used in Korea without any verification of the analysis of bolted wood connections. In the case of applying lumber from domestic small diameter logs, however, there are some problems with the direct application of EYM ; 1) relatively low dowel bearing strength and dimensional stability due to a large amount of immature wood, 2) effect of MC (moisture contents) on the dowel bearing strength of wood and the yield load of a bolted connection. To evaluate the strength properties of bolted connections with lumber from domestic small diameter logs, effect of MC on the dowel bearing strength of wood was investigated and double shear bolted connection tests were performed. As the MC of wood increased, the dowel bearing strength was linearly reduced, even under 19% MC, which showed that adjustment, not considered in NDS, was required. Double shear bolted connection tests indicated that effect of MC on yield load should be considered in order to determine design value.