Modeling the Stress-Compression Relationships in Wood in Compression Perpendicular to Grain

Current allowable design properties for compression perpendicular to the grain (C-perp) appear to be unduly conservative. This report describes a procedure for attaining more equitable C-perp design limits by the use of mathematical models to predict stress-compression behavior. These models are based on a detailed analysis of the C-perp performance of nine softwood and hardwood species. Of 16 models examined, the model Y=A, where x is the average C-perp proportional limit, was selected as “best fitting” and most appropriate as a design base for visual grades of lumber. In cooperation with an ASTM task group, groundwork has been laid for implementing proposed procedures into appropriate ASTM standards. If accepted by ASTM committee ballot, the procedures will permit considerably less restrictive allowable C-perp design values when deformations greater than about 0.02 inch are acceptable.

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