Edinburgh Napier University

  Compression strength perpendicular to grain is an important timber property that governs the bearing strength of beams and might influence connection design. According to modern standards, the design value for compression strength is determined according to EN 408, but historic values (including the ones given in EN 338 strength classes) might have been determined using different procedures. This study investigates how the compression strength perpendicular to grain is influenced by the test method.
Small and full-size specimens of seven hardwood species were tested and results evaluated with methods described in three different standards. The compression strength perpendicular to grain varies between species but is also dependent on the test method. While individual values might vary significantly, results indicate that population values, such as mean and percentiles, can be readily translated between different procedures.