FLEXURAL EVALUATION OF TIMBER SCAFFOLD BOARDS USING TWO LOADING METHODS

Abstract

The national standard method for mechanical test of timber scaffold boards is lacking. In the local construction, engineers and contractors rely on existing data for mechanical properties of timber. These data were derived from tests of small clear specimens described as timber with no noticeable defect. Studies have demonstrated that the dimensions of specimens and presence of natural defects influence mechanical test results of timber. This article reports on methods and results of the mechanical testing of local timber scaffold boards. Flexural tests of two different systems were conducted on kempas scaffold boards. Static bending test using universal testing machine was conducted on one sample group and dead weight loading test on another batch. In general, modulus of rupture and modulus of elasticity of static bending test showed higher values than dead weight loading test. Thus, adjustment factors were recommended. Horizontal split failures were observed from dead weight loading test but none from static bending test. The duration to complete the test using dead weight was considerably longer.