Fracture mechanics analysis of row shear failure in dowelled timber connections: asymmetric case

Abstract

A quasi-nonlinear fracture mechanics model is presented for analysis of row shear failure in timber connections with multiple fasteners in a row. A prerequisite for use of the model is a known or assumed distribution among the fasteners of the total load applied on the connection. The model is capable of handling an asymmetric case, e.g. an outer row in a connection with multiple rows of fasteners where the edge distance is different from half the row spacing. Pure fracture mode II and usual assumptions used in the Volkersen-model are adopted, leading to simple explicit solutions. Maximum stress as well as mean stress failure criteria are considered. The model is compared with experimental data found in the literature on symmetrical single dowel connections, nearly symmetric multiple dowel connections, and highly asymmetric multiple dowel connections.