Finite-Element Simulations of the Influence of Cracks on the Strength of Glulam Beams

Abstract: The importance of the number, size and location of cracks and how these conditions influence the mechanical properties of glulam beams have been investigated in this thesis. This study in fracture analyses and crack simulation of wood will compliment previous studies, which makes this investigation important. The investigation was made theoretically with finite-element simulations using the commercial software ABAQUS. The simulations were then compared with experimental results in order to verify the results. The shear strengths and failures of the glulam beams were studied. In addition, attention was given to the initiation of the crack propagation and the failure of the structure. Experimental results were obtained from the experiments conducted by SP Trätek, Skellefteå, Sweden. In conclusion, the finite-element model indicated some consistency to the experimental results especially with deeper cracks on one side.