Standard: ASTM D4761 – Standard Test Methods for Mechanical Properties of Lumber and Wood-Base Structural Material

Certification Required: N/A

Scope: Per ASTM D4761: "These test methods cover the determination of the mechanical properties of stress-graded lumber and other wood-base structural material."

Applicable Products: Lumber and wood-base structural material

Test Procedure: The following test procedures are defined within ASTM D4761:

  • Bending Edge-Wise: The test specimen is supported on each end and loaded by two concentrated forces which are spaced evenly between the two supports. The load is applied at a rate that produces failure in approximately 1 minute. The deflection and maximum load are recorded as well as a description of the failure.
  • Bending Flat-Wise -Center Point Loading: Test specimens are placed flatwise on two supports and a displacement device is placed at the center point. A load is applied at the midpoint between the supports until the desired deflection is reached. The long-span modulus of the specimen is then calculated.
  • Bending Flat-Wise -Third Point Loading: The test specimen is placed on two supports and is loaded through two points that are spaced evenly between the supports. The load is applied at the desired rate which depends on the properties being tested for. The maximum load, deflection, and type of failure are recorded.
  • Axial Strength in Tension: Specimens are gripped at both ends and a load is applied at a rate that achieves failure in approximately 1 minute. The maximum load is recorded as well as the characteristics of the failure.
  • Axial Strength in Compression: The test specimen is placed on the testing machine such that the long axis corresponds with the direction of loading. The load is applied at a rate that achieves failure in approximately 1 minute. The maximum load is recorded as well as the characteristics of the failure.

End Result: These test methods result in the desired mechanical properties of the wood material.

Special Notes: N/A

Intertek Testing Locations: York, PA

 

View Additional Standards