Effect of scarf joints on bending properties of laminated veneer lumber

Authors

Forintek Canada Corp.

Document Type

Report

Volume

Project # T1B66-71

First Page

1

Last Page

7

Publication Date

1989

Abstract

The laminated veneer lumber industry is relatively new with a history of less than 20 years in large scale production. LVL was produced from Sitka spruce veneer and used in light weight aircrafts over 40 years ago (Luxford, 1944) but commercial production was not begun until early 1970's. Research in the past has shown many advantages of LVL over sawn lumber in terms of strength properties and allowable design stresses (Preston 1950 and Kunesh 1978). The production of LVL can also provide higher yields than obtainable from conventional sawing practices (Bohlem, 1972) because the material is peeled on a veneer lathe producing limited residuals. Strength reducing defects such as knots, holes and angled grain are dispersed and randomized through many veneer plies. This provides for more uniform strength properties and the opportunity of utilizing lower grade logs. Previous studies have been predominantly concerned with LVL made from Douglas-fir (Echols and Currier, 1973; Bohlen 1974; Bohlen 1975; and Kunesh 1978) and southern pine (Koch 1967; and Koch and Woodson 1968). However, there was no published reports on LVL made from the group of wood species, spruce, pine and fir.

Recommended Citation

Effect of scarf joints on bending properties of laminated veneer lumber. 1989. Forintek Canada Corp. Forestry Canada, Northern Forestry Centre, Edmonton, Alberta. Canada-Alberta Forest Resource Development Agreement Report 72. 7 p.