ASTM D143
Full Name
ASTM D143 – Standard Test Methods for Small Clear Specimens of Timber
Scope
ASTM D143 covers the determination of various strength and related properties of wood by testing small, clear specimens. These specimens are free of knots or other defects that might influence the test results. The standard includes a wide range of test methods for evaluating both mechanical and physical properties of wood.
The mechanical tests covered in ASTM D143 include:
- Static bending: determines the modulus of rupture and modulus of elasticity in bending.
- Impact bending: measures the energy absorbed in fracturing a specimen under impact loading.
- Compression parallel to grain: determines the compressive strength and modulus of elasticity parallel to the wood grain.
- Compression perpendicular to grain: measures the compressive strength perpendicular to the wood grain.
- Shear parallel to grain: evaluates the shear strength parallel to the wood grain.
- Cleavage: assesses the resistance of wood to splitting along the grain.
- Tension parallel to grain: measures the tensile strength parallel to the wood grain.
- Tension perpendicular to grain: determines the tensile strength perpendicular to the wood grain.
- Hardness: evaluates the resistance of wood to indentation.
- Nail withdrawal: measures the force required to withdraw a nail from wood.
The physical tests covered in ASTM D143 include:
- Specific gravity and shrinkage in volume: determines the specific gravity and volumetric shrinkage of wood.
- Radial and tangential shrinkage: measures the shrinkage of wood in the radial and tangential directions.
- Moisture determination: determines the moisture content of wood.
The data obtained from these tests can be used for various purposes, such as:
- Comparing the mechanical properties of different wood species.
- Establishing allowable stresses for structural design.
- Determining the influence of factors like density, growth location, and chemical treatment on the mechanical properties of wood.
ASTM D143 Accredited Laboratory
Applied Testing & Geosciences, LLC is accredited for performing tests using the ASTM D143 standard.
Whether you need to compare different wood species, optimize material selection, or support research and development efforts, our team is dedicated to providing exceptional service. Contact us today to discuss your specific testing needs and learn how our ASTM D143 services can benefit your project.
Resources
Keywords
wood; timber; strength; properties; testing; specimens; static bending; impact bending; compression; shear; tension