Splitting Strength of Mortise Members in Timber Frame Joints

Abstract

AbstractSplitting resistance of mortise members loaded perpendicular to grain in pegged mortise and tenon joints is an important property in the design of timber frame joints. This paper investigated the effect of loaded edge distance and wood species upon the strength of mortise members loaded perpendicular to grain. To prevent failure of the tenon or pegs, a steel tenon and Grade 8 bolts were substituted. Load and stiffness values from experimental results were significantly different for the factors of loaded edge distance and specific gravity. Perpendicular-to-grain splitting resistance from CSA 086 predicted values were equivalent to the lower specific gravity wood values tested. The Canadian design literature did not account for differences in specific gravity due to different wood species, particularly white oak which is commonly used in timber framing. Comparison of the mortise testing to previous mortise and tenon joint testing showed similar maximum load and stiffness performance.