Lateral Load Carrying Capacity of Self-Tapping Screw Assembly

Self-tapping screws (STS), when compared to traditional wood screws, are longer and have improved thread geometry, and are made of hardened steel which increases their axial, bending, torsional, and most importantly also their withdrawal capacity. The use of STS in connection assemblies, however, is not standardized and their advantageous performance when implemented at an angle to the grain cannot be fully utilised unless proven by testing. The objective of the project is to test the connections utilizing ASSY Full Thread STS inserted at 45 degrees to wood grain according to International Code Council (ICC) testing requirements. It is expected that the intern will become an expert in the use of STS, and become familiar with the ICC requirements. The Canadian partner organization expects to receive approval for their product from ICC in order to expand into the US market.

Faculty Supervisor:

Thomas Tannert

Student:

Eyan Fiszman

Partner:

MyTiCon Timber Connectors Inc.

Discipline:

Engineering - civil

Sector:

Construction and infrastructure

University:

University of British Columbia