Short-term performance of the HSB® shear plate-type connector for timber–concrete composite beams

Experimental results of eight short-term tests of the HSB® (Habitat System Beton) timber–concrete connection system are presented. The specimens were compressive double shear tested according to EN 26891:1991, placing two connectors per shear plane.The ultimate shear force and slip modulus were measured and compared with the estimated values proposed by structural European design codes.The comparison between experimental and code values presents unsafe results for stiffness and the recommended distance between connectors, but results are consistent for strength. The connector itself failed in almost 50% of the cases due to the brittleness of the aluminium alloy.

► Strength and stiffness of HSB® timber–concrete connector are obtained.
► Experimental stiffness value is lower than the expected value defined by Eurocode 5.
► HSB® connection offers great strength and stiffness.
► Suggestions to improve the test procedure of EN 26,891 are included.
► Failure modes are analysed and characterised.