WITHDRAWAL AND BENDING STRENGTHS OF DOWELS FROM THREE MALAYSIAN TIMBERS

Abstract

The factors influencing the performance of dowel joints using three Malaysian timbers, nyatoh (species of Sapotaceae), ramin (Gonystylus sp.) and rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis) were assessed. The effects on withdrawal and bending strengths on dowel species, dowel patterns and depths of dowel insertion were determined on testing blocks made from nyatoh. Species differences were not detected. Spiral-grooved dowels provided higher withdrawal strength while straight-grooved dowels performed better in bending. Both withdrawal and bending strengths increased with an increase in depth of insertion. In terms of application, dowels made from rubberwood are recommended.