ASTM D143 – Standard Test Methods for Small Clear Specimens of Timber
Description:
Significance and Use
4.1 These test methods cover tests on small clear specimens of wood that are made to provide the following:
4.1.1 Data for comparing the mechanical properties of various species,
4.1.2 Data for the establishment of correct strength functions, which in conjunction with results of tests of timbers in structural sizes (see Test Methods D198 and Test Methods D4761), afford a basis for establishing allowable stresses, and
4.1.3 Data to determine the influence on the mechanical properties of such factors as density, locality of growth, position in cross section, height of timber in the tree, change of properties with seasoning or treatment with chemicals, and change from sapwood to heartwood.
Scope
1.1 These test methods cover the determination of various strength and related properties of wood by testing small clear specimens.
1.1.1 These test methods represent procedures for evaluating the different mechanical and physical properties, controlling factors such as specimen size, moisture content, temperature, and rate of loading.
1.1.2 Sampling and collection of material is discussed in Practice D5536. Sample data, computation sheets, and cards have been incorporated, which were of assistance to the investigator in systematizing records.
1.1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. When a weight is prescribed, the basic inch-pound unit of weight (lbf) and the basic SI unit of mass (Kg) are cited.
1.2 The procedures for the various tests appear in the following order:
| Sections | |
| Photographs of Specimens | 5 |
| Control of Moisture Content and Temperature | 6 |
| Record of Heartwood and Sapwood | 7 |
| Static Bending | 8 |
| Compression Parallel to Grain | 9 |
| Impact Bending | 10 |
| Toughness | 11 |
| Compression Perpendicular to Grain | 12 |
| Hardness | 13 |
| Shear Parallel to Grain | 14 |
| Cleavage | 15 |
| Tension Parallel to Grain | 16 |
| Tension Perpendicular to Grain | 17 |
| Nail Withdrawal | 18 |
| Specific Gravity and Shrinkage in Volume | 19 |
| Radial and Tangential Shrinkage | 20 |
| Moisture Determination | 21 |
| Permissible Variations | 22 |
| Calibration | 23 |
ASTM D1429