Nails, staples, spikes, wood screws, bolts, and timber connectors, such as shear plates and split rings, are used for connections in wood construction. Because determination of stress distribution in connections made with wood and metal is complicated, information for design of joints has been developed from tests and experience.
The data indicate that design values and methods of design for mechanical connections are applicable to both solid sawn lumber and laminated members. The National Design Specification for Wood Construction, (NDS) American Forest & Paper Association, provides design equations and tabulates design values for connections made with various types of fasteners. Design values for connections made with more than one type of fastener, however, should be based on tests or special analysis.
