Nail metal connector plate - experimental determination of load-bearing capacity of timber member connections

Abstract

This paper demonstrates the results of experimental determination of load-bearing capacity of structural timber member connections realized by nail metal connector plates which represent a new type of mechanical fasteners in load-bearing timber structures. The application of this type of metal connector should eliminate weakness of the standard metal connector plates produced by sheet perforating and pulling the teeth perpendicular to a sheet plane. The aim of the conducted experimental study was to determine the load-bearing capacity of connections realized by nail metal connector plates, in accordance with the provisions of Eurocode 5. Experimental testing was conducted by loading of multiple samples up to the limit bearing capacity of connection realized by nail metal connector plate. Discussion of the test results included the analysis of the limit bearing capacity of connection for different values of connection displacements, comparison of the obtained results with characteristic load-bearing capacity of standard type of metal connectors and with load-bearing capacity of nails calculated in accordance with limit state theory. Review of the determined limit bearing capacities of realized connections was given in the conclusion, together with the comment on test results, for the purpose of improving the application of metal connectors in modern systems of timber structures.