Compression strength testing. Table 1 provides the design values for visually graded Southern Pine dimension lumber that became effective June 1, 2013. During a bending test, initial yielding occurs on the compression side, followed by visible compression failures and enlargement of the compression zone. The high values of the compressive strength and specific compressive and tensile strengths perpendicular to the grain (width direction) shown by the experimental thermoplastic composites compared to wood reveal their great potential for use in compressed elements and in functions where components are compressed or tensioned perpendicularly to the grain. These columns are subject to axial compressive loads, and in some cases, eccentric loads. Next, the strongest softwoods also tend to have high compressive strength ratings. Steel studs used for walls, as a replacement for 2x4's, are probably grade 36, that is, the yield strength of the steel is 36 ksi (ksi = one thousand pounds per square inch, as in 36,000 psi). There is a big difference in compressive strength, resistance to buckling, and lateral deflection between a 9' 2x4 wall and a 9' 2x6 wall. Now you need to look at the Parallel compression of a 2x4, remembering from above, the compression strength was 440 psi. I was hoping to quantify a typical failure pressure for such a piece of lumber. For the woodworker, the primary types of compression to consider are parallel to the grain and perpendicular to the grain. The purpose of this letter is to provide a brief summary of the testing that was performed on the SIPS and the strengths obtained from the testing. 1.5*L in 2, vs 3.5*L in 2. Compression parallel to the grain shortens the fibers in the wood lengthwise. Strength Properties of Commercially Important Woods. These pieces are known as upper cords and there are two of them in each truss. The compression strength of air-dry wood is about half of the corresponding tensile strength. To visualize, an example of this would be a table or desk leg being compressed between the ground and the top surface. An example would be chair or table legs which are primarily subjected to downward, rather than lateral pressure. This will divide the load among each of those supports. Use of pressure treated lumber in an unsupported verticle manor is not recommended. Compressive stress perpendicular to grain—Reported as stress at proportional limit. One 2″ x 4″ x 8′ #2 Spruce Pine Stud is good for about 3000 lbs of compressive load, when held in place by drywall. 3.5" for dimensional lumber. Trusses are made up of four main parts. The effect of knots is minimized by placing them away from the edges and containing the large knots in wider lumber. Given the variety of lumber products and dimensions available (including 2x4 and 2x6 stud walls, post and beam and laminated timber), wood offers an excellent flexibility in architectural design. This the measurement of a wood species’s strength to withstand force pushed inward from end grain to end grain. The elasticity and durability of wood increase as its density increases. Item # KCBS116248 ALP Bearing Pads and Shims. Compression stress shortens or compresses the material. The compressive stregnth of a 2x4 used as a mudsill is is no diffrent than that of any other member in a wood framed structure. Robert:, Thanks for the input. My question is: what bearing strength or stress should I use when calculating the allowable tension (or compressive) load in this assembly? Mostly due in fact that the wood member is punctured multiple times up to 3/8" to facilitate the injection of the copper chromate solution. 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