ASTM D4761

Full Name

ASTM D4761 – Standard Test Methods for Mechanical Properties of Lumber and Wood-Based Structural Materials

Scope

ASTM D4761 outlines procedures for determining the mechanical properties of stress-graded lumber and other wood-based structural materials. These tests cover various aspects of the material’s performance under different loading conditions.

The scope of ASTM D4761 includes:

  • Bending tests:
    • Edgewise bending: evaluates the strength and modulus of elasticity of lumber and wood-based materials when loaded on their narrow face (depth greater than or equal to breadth).
    • Flatwise bending with center-point loading: determines the long-span modulus of elasticity of lumber and wood-based materials when loaded on their wide face (breadth greater than depth) with a single load at the center.
    • Flatwise bending with third-point loading: determines the bending strength and stiffness of lumber and wood-based materials when loaded on their wide face with two loads at one-third points of the span.
  • Materials:
    • The standard applies to stress-graded lumber and other wood-based structural materials, such as glued-laminated timber, structural composite lumber, and cross-laminated timber.
  • Applications:
    • The test methods are primarily used for research and development, quality control, and design purposes. They provide valuable data for evaluating the performance of new wood products, verifying the quality of existing products, and establishing design values for wood structures.
  • Limitations:
    • The standard does not cover all possible mechanical properties of wood and wood-based materials. It focuses on specific bending tests under static loading conditions and does not address dynamic or impact loading.

By providing standardized test methods, ASTM D4761 ensures consistency and reliability in evaluating the mechanical properties of lumber and wood-based structural materials, contributing to the safety and efficiency of wood construction.

ASTM D4761 Accredited Laboratory

Applied Testing & Geosciences, LLC is accredited for performing tests using the ASTM D4761 standard.

Let us partner with you to ensure the structural integrity and performance of your wood-based building projects. Contact us today to discuss your specific testing needs under ASTM D4761.

Resources

Keywords

bending; lumber; modulus of elasticity; strength; stiffness; wood-based structural materials