Background

Notched timber beams are susceptible to splitting failure initiated at the re-entrant corner of the notch. The design provisions in Eurocode 5 (EC5) are based on fracture-mechanics concepts and have been calibrated and verified against experimental results.

Recent finite-element studies have shown that the predicted load-bearing capacity can be strongly influenced by the support conditions: Bearing plates (Case A) may give substantially lower capacities than idealised beam-type supports (Case B) for certain notch geometries.

This raises the question of whether the support arrangements used in experiments underlying the current EC5 provisions have influenced the measured capacities and, consequently, the calibration of the design model.

Aim

The aim of the project is to investigate the influence of support conditions on the load-bearing capacity of notched timber beams, with particular focus on the experimental basis for the Eurocode 5 design provisions.

Main tasks

The work may include:

reviewing relevant experimental studies and compiling information on specimen geometry, material properties, loading and support conditions.
developing finite-element models of selected tests.
investigating the influence of bearing length, support location and notch geometry.
comparing numerical predictions with experimental results and the EC5 design model.

Method

The project combines a literature and database study with numerical modelling. Two-dimensional finite-element models will be used, primarily together with linear-elastic fracture-mechanics approaches.

Research questions

How strongly do the support conditions used in experiments influence the load-bearing capacity of notched timber beams, and has this influenced the calibration of the current Eurocode 5 design model?

Our division

We at the Division of Structural Mechanics are driven by understanding engineering problems and conducting research that contributes to solving societal challenges. We offer a good study and work environment, good team spirit with dedicated employees and joint “fika” every day. We have a strong focus on high-quality teaching and research. We are proud to belong to a university that is ranked among the top 100 in the world, and we enjoy the international environment in which we operate.

Contact

Erik Serrano, Professor, Division of Structural Mechanics, LTH - e rik.serrano@construction.lth.se
Henrik Danielsson, Associate Professor, Division of Structural Mechanics, LTH - henrik.danielsson@construction.lth.se