Laboratory Exercise No.

3
SHEAR TEST OF WOOD

INTRODUCTION

Shear failure in flexural members, like joist and beam, is manifested through splitting
along the grains at the ends of the member. Flexural members must be investigated not
only on its flexural strength but on its shear strength also. Shear test is commonly
performed by applying shearing force along the direction of the grain until the sample
splits into two.

APPARATUS
1. Universal Testing Machine (UTM)
2. Vernier caliper
3. Analytical balance
4. Shear fixture

SAMPLE DESCRIPTION

Dimensions of wood samples are nominally 50 mm x 50 mm x 63 mm and planed in all

sides. Samples should be air or kiln dried and free from defects. Wood samples should
also vary in terms of density.

PROCEDURE

1. Place the wood sample inside the fixture.

2. Lower the shearing load slowly until it simply touches the top of the fixture.
3. Slowly apply load until the sample fails.
4. Record the maximum shearing load applied.

CALCULATION

1. Calculation of maximum shear stress

P
fV =
bL

where:

fV = shear stress, MPa

P = maximum applied load by the testing machine, N
L = height of sample, mm
b = average width of specimen, mm

Figure 3.1 Shear fixture

 (a) (b)

Figure 3.2 Wood sample placement in the fixture

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 Laboratory Exercise No. 3
SHEAR TEST OF WOOD

DATA WORKSHEET

Table 3.1 Shear Test Collected Data

Sample Physical Properties

ID b (mm) d (mm) L (mm) Density (kg/m3)
S1
S2
S3
S4

Table 3.2. Summary of Sample Properties for Shear Test

Sample Density Shear Area Maximum Load Maximum Shear

ID (kg/m3) (mm2) Applied (N) Stress (MPa)
S1
S2
S3
S4

SAMPLE CALCULATIONS

3
ILLUSTRATIONS OR PHOTOS OF SAMPLES

GROUP No. _________

Group Leader: __________________
Group Members: Signature:
1. _____________________ ____________
2. _____________________ ____________
3. _____________________ ____________
4. _____________________ ____________

Approved by:

_____________________

(Instructor)