Behaviour of single and double 102 mm split ring conneotions loaded in tension

Two experimental studies were undertaken to verify the effect of the end distance on the resistance of single connector joints using 102 mm split rings and the combined effects of timber connector end distance and spacing on the resistance of double connector joints using 102 mm split rings. A total of 108 test specimens were loaded to failure in tension. Sixty of those tests were single connector joints with end distances varying from 80 to 270 mm. The remaining 48 test specimens were double connector joints with split ring end distances varying from 100 to 270 mm and a spacing of either 125 or 230 mm. The single connector joints results showed an increase in connector resistance with the increasing end distance. However, it was shown that even though some specimens were tested at an end distance below the standard minimum required value (end distance of 80 mm instead of the minimum required of 135 mm), they resisted a significant load. For the double connector joints, it was observed that brittle failures are more common, as opposed to single connector joints which tend to fail showing signs of ductility. Also, results showed that the connection resistance is not a direct function of the number of fasteners and that a factor of 0.475 has to be applied. Results obtained suggested that the end distance does not have a statistically significant influence on the resistance of connections with connector spacing at either 230 or 125 mm. However, the spacing of the connectors appears to affect the resistance. Thus, the design philosophy of Clause 10.3.3 of the wood design standard is inadequate for these particular joints. Recommendations to determine connection resistances are provided. Key words: wood, fasteners, resistance, split ring, end distance, spacing.