BS EN 408 focuses on the timber structure. The main aim of the BS EN 408 is to provide manufacturers with the test procedures that can help them determine the strength of the timber which helps in making the appropriate product.
BS EN 408 specifies test methods for determining the following properties of structural timber and glued laminated timber: modulus of elasticity in bending; shear modulus; bending strength; modulus of elasticity in tension parallel to the grain; tension strength parallel to the grain; modulus of elasticity in compression parallel to the grain; compression strength parallel to the grain; modulus of elasticity in tension perpendicular to the grain; tension strength perpendicular to the grain; modulus of elasticity in compression perpendicular to the grain; compression strength perpendicular to the grain and shear strength. In addition, the determination of dimensions, moisture content, and density of test pieces are specified. The methods apply to rectangular and circular shapes (of substantially constant cross section) of solid unjointed timber or finger-jointed timber and glued laminated timber unless stated otherwise.
BS EN 408 on timber is useful for:
Wood has a wide range of physical and mechanical properties, species can be selected on the basis of how well they fit the requirements for a particular product. The ability of wood to resist loads depends on a number of factors, including the type, direction, and duration of loading; ambient conditions of moisture content and temperature; and the presence or absence of defects such as knots and splits.
BS EN 408 provides methods to check the moisture, dimension, and density of the timber which helps in determining the strength of the wood. BS EN 408 provides test methods that can help you determine the strength of the timber. This will help in the grading of the wood based on the mechanical properties and aid in choosing the appropriate timber for a particular product.
EN 408:2010+A1:2012