ASTM D3501

ASTM D3501 – Standard Test Methods for Wood-Based Structural Panels in Compression

Description:

Significance and Use

3.1 These methods determine the compressive strength of structural panels in response to stresses acting in the plane of the panel.

3.2 Method A—This method is applicable to structural panels of uniform properties within a panel. It is useful for evaluating plywood of clear, straight-grained veneers, and determining the effect of chemical or preservative treatments, construction, principal direction with respect to direction of stress, and other variables that are expected to uniformly influence the panel.

3.3 Method B: 

3.3.1 The compressive properties obtained by this method are a reliable approximation of the strength of a full-size panel, and are intended for use in design.

3.3.2 The compressive properties are influenced by buckling; however, this effect can be eliminated in this test by restraining the edges of the specimens.

3.4 It is recommended that where comparisons are to be made, that the same method and specimen size be used throughout. This is because the volume of material included in a test specimen can influence the compressive strength regardless of whether the material properties are uniform throughout the sheet or vary widely due to the presence of growth or manufacturing features.

Scope

1.1 These test methods cover the determination of the compression properties of wood-based structural panels. Wood-based structural panels in use include plywood, waferboard, oriented strand board, and composites of veneer and of wood-based layers.

1.2 Method A, Compression Test for Small Specimens—This method is applicable to small specimens that are uniform with respect to elastic and strength properties. Two types of compression tests are employed: one to evaluate both elastic and compressive strength properties, and the second to evaluate maximum compressive strength only.

1.3 Method B, Compression Test for Large Specimens—This method employs large specimens and responds well to manufacturing variables and growth characteristics that influence compression properties of structural panels.

1.3.1 This method is intended for the following:

1.3.1.1 Comparative tests of structural panels,

1.3.1.2 Evaluating the effects of moisture content on strength properties of structural panels,

1.3.1.3 Determining the strength properties of structural panels, and

1.3.1.4 Evaluating the effects of raw material and manufacturing variables on compression properties of structural panels.

1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.