Lateral strength of green oak frames: physical testing and modelling

Traditional green oak timber framing, connected with the all-timber pegged mortice and tenon joint, is enjoying a revival in the UK. However, innovation is restricted by a lack of design guidelines or design methods for the strength analysis of such frames. This paper presents results from tests on four full-scale green oak cross-frames with different brace arrangements and also presents a model for strength prediction. The importance of pull-out strength (peg loaded in double shear normal to its longitudinal axis) of pegged connections is highlighted and proven through frame tests. Influence of tensile knee-bracing on frame behaviour is confirmed by the physical testing.

J. D. Shanks. MEng, PhD
Engineer, Buro Happold, Bath, UK

P. Walker, BSc, PhD, MIEAust, CPEng
Dept. Architecture & Civil Engineering, University of Bath, Bath, UK