State-Of-The-Art: Current Statistical Methods for Estimating Lumber Properties By Proofloading

This paper explores from a statistical perspective the nature of current proofloading research involving lumber. The task of determining performance of the many grades, sizes, and species of lumber by test is a difficult one. Proofloading can reduce the number of tests required in particular testing programs by censoring the statistical distribution. Hence it may have an important role to play in developing more efficient testing strategies for the future. The objective of this report is to help prepare for further use of the proofloading technique for assessment of lumber properties in the years ahead. Recent literature is surveyed, and extensive consultation is reported with many of the researchers currently studying proofloading strategies. This paper reports on part of a research effort by the FPL in cooperation with the lumber industry, to identify the mechanical properties of structural lumber through testing of structural sizes and grades. This particular study focuses on alternative sampling and analysis schemes currently in use or under investigation in the wood properties arena. Although this paper dwells on lumber, concepts are applicable to all wood materials. These concepts can serve as alternatives to current quality assessment procedures.

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