Multiple-Bolted Joints in Wood Members--A Literature Review

This study reviewed the literature on experimental and analytical research for the connection of wood members using multiple laterally loaded bolts. From this, the influence of geometric factors were ascertained, such as staggered and aligned fasteners, optimum fastener configurations, row factors and length-to-diameter bolt ratios, spacing, end and edge distances, and the effect of mixed types and sizes of fasteners and eccentric loading. Areas of additional research needed on multiple-bolted joints in wood members are identified. Acknowledgments I thank the members of the Engineering Design Criteria Research Work Unit at the USDA Forest Service, Forest Products Laboratory (FPL), for their help while compiling this report and for the many technical discussions I had with several of the FPL staff. I extend a special thanks to Larry Soltis, Bill McCutcheon, Tom Wilkinson, and John Zahn. I am grateful to the FPL for their assistance with facilities during my stay as a Visiting Scientist and the opportunity to undertake this research. I also thank the Department of Civil Engineering, University of Nottingham, United Kingdom, for the use of their facilities while completing this research.