Prediction of bending load capacity of timber beams using a finite element method simulation of knots and grain deviation

A finite element model was used to simulate timber beams with defects and predict their maximum load in bending. Taking into account the elastoplastic constitutive law of timber, the prediction of fracture load gives information about the mechanisms of timber failure, particularly with regard to the influence of knots, and their local grain deviation, on the fracture. A finite element model was constructed using the ANSYS element Plane42 in a plane stress 2D-analysis, which equates thickness to the width of the section to create a mesh which is as uniform as possible. Three sub-models reproduced the bending test according to UNE EN 408: i) timber with holes caused by knots; ii) timber with adherent knots which have structural continuity with the rest of the beam material; iii) timber with knots but with only partial contact between knot and beam which was artificially simulated by means of contact springs between the two materials. The model was validated using ten 45 × 145 × 3000 mm beams of Pinus sylvestris L. which presented knots and grain deviation. The fracture stress data obtained was compared with the results of numerical simulations, resulting in an adjustment error less of than 9.7%.

► Simulations by FEM of an orthotropic and elastoplastic behaviour of timber in compression. ► Mechanical simulation of timber beams containing knots and local grain deviation around them. ► Experimental bending test of sawn timber beams according to EN 408. ► Three types of models used for knots in FEM software. ► Relationship between maximum load in analytical model and experimental tests.