Monotonic and Cyclic Behaviour of Slender Dowel-Type Fasteners in Wood-Steel-Wood Connections: Project Report

By Alexander Schreyer

This study investigates the monotonic and cyclic behavior of various slender dowel-type fasteners embedded in PARALLAM(R) (Parallel Strand Lumber) using one or two slotted-in steel plates. A total of 73 tests were conducted on four fastener types: (a) plain shank steel dowels (6.35 mm diameter, SH), (b) threaded-end steel dowels with nuts and washers (6.35 mm diameter, SHT), and (c) two self-drilling dowels (SFS WS-T7 and WS-T5) featuring asymmetric ends with a thread and cutting bit (7 mm and 5 mm diameters). In addition to the experimental program, a finite element model based on an elasto-plastic beam on a nonlinear foundation was used to simulate both monotonic and cyclic responses. The model was enhanced to include the effects of fastener head behavior, hole tolerances, and material fatigue. Test results demonstrated that fastener head configuration significantly influenced both strength and stiffness under monotonic and cyclic loading. Fasteners with greater head restraint exhibited increased load resistance, though cyclic performance was affected by permanent fastener elongation, connection slack from oversized holes, and fatigue-related degradation. The analytical model closely replicated the observed load-displacement behavior across all test conditions. Accurate prediction required incorporation of key physical parameters, including head effects, fastener fatigue, and geometric tolerances. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of dowel-type fastener mechanics in engineered wood products under realistic loading scenarios.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1300061219
• ISBN13: 9781300061212
• Release Date: July 2025
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Length: 138 Pages
• Weight: 0.74 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 8.5" x 11.0"