The unique structure of wood necessitates a variety of testing methods to fully characterize the material properties. The specific end use application for the wood material also dictates which test methods are necessary to determine the appropriate material strengths. Tensile tests of wood are conducted parallel and perpendicular to the wood grain, using both large and small specimens. Care must be taken when preparing wood samples for parallel testing to ensure that the growth rings, through the gage section, run parallel to the direction of force application. Elongation properties for parallel testing are measured using an extensometer on the wood specimen gage section, ensuring that only strain in the section with parallel grain is measured. Wood specimens for testing perpendicular to the grain are much smaller than parallel samples and generally do not require elongation data beyond than given by test grip separation. ASTM and ISO have created standard test methods for testing the various tensile properties of wood, timber and wood based products. These test methods allow wood to be tested by a consistent method so that data can be accurately compared across different years, species, and manufacturing companies. Popular test standards are ASTM D143 for small timber specimens, ASTM D1037 for wood base fiber and particle panels, ASTM D3500 for structural panels, ISO 16984 for wood based panels, and ISO 3346 for wood. Wood tensile test equipment selection can be highly dependent on the specific type of wood material being tested and the direction of testing. ASTM and ISO standards specify machine and grip requirements for each type wood tensile test method. The machine and grip families below can be configured to meet the ASTM and ISO requirements and TestResources application engineers can help you decipher the right solution for your test needs.
Applicable Testing Standards
- ISO 3346 Tensile Stress Parallel to Grain of Wood Test Equipment
- ISO 16984 Perpendicular Tensile Strength of Wood Panels Test Equipment
- ASTM D143 Timber Clear Specimen Test Equipment
- ASTM D1037 Wood Fiber Particle Panel Test Equipment
- ASTM D3500 Tension Structural Panel Testing Machine
Recommended Test Machine
Force range of 5 kN to 600 kN (1,125 lbf to 135,000 lbf)
Adjustable test space
The most popular choice for static tension and compression tests
These dual column testers are available in both tabletop and floor standing models
Recommended Testing Accessories
Designed in accordance to ASTM D143
Rated to 5 kN (1,125 lbf)
Works well with flat or round specimens
Maximum specimen thickness / diameter of 10 mm (0.4 in)
Load ratings up to 250 kN (56,250 lbf)
Base lengths up to 1200 mm (48 in)
Various roller sizes available
Available in 3-point and 4-point configurations
Rated to 5 kN (1,125 lbf)
Works well with flat or round specimens
Maximum specimen thickness / diameter of 10 mm (0.4 in)