Abstract

In this study, the mechanical capacities of the I-joist manufactured using Radiata pine structural sized timber were evaluated on visual grades (G1 and better, G2) and on a mechanical grade (C24), using a partially automated production line provided by the national industry sector. The mechanical characterization was carried out based on the North American standard ASTM D5055 [1], which specifies what requirements are used in order to evaluate the quality of the components, what test methodologies to use to determine the effectiveness of the manufacturing process and be able to determine the allowable values of the mechanical properties. Two types of I-joist were evaluated, each one of these materialized by three different structural grades. We could demonstrate with this study that the capacities of the I-Joist differ on each of the structural grades used, being C24 mechanical structural grade the one showing better results. It was able to develop spans up to a 32% higher than a solid structural graded beam with typical commercial sizes, grades and lengths (2x10” and 3x8” planed G1).