Nonlinear finite-element analysis of embedment behavior of metal washer in bolted timber joints

Abstract The pretensioning force in bolted joints enhances the lateral strength of connections, and causes embedment metal washers into wood. Despite significance behavior design joints, its mechanism has yet to be fully understood. In this study, a washer wood along radial direction was examined through three-dimensional nonlinear finite-element analysis (FEA). FEA results were validated by comparing them with experimental for nine different geometries. Moreover, sensitivity stiffness yield load wooden material constants also investigated. numerical showed good qualitative quantitative agreement results. addition, sensitive stress Young’s modulus tangential directions. determination these mechanical properties testing is important reproducing accurately estimating initial using FEA. This will play significant role designing joints.