In timber engineering, self-tapping screws, optimized primarily for axial loading, represent the state-of-the-art in fastener and reinforcement technology. Their economic advantages and comparatively easy handling make them one of the first choices for application in both domains. This paper focuses on self-tapping screws and threaded rods applied as reinforcement, illustrating the state-of-the-art in application and design approaches in Europe, in conjunction with numerous references for background information. With regard to medium to large span timber structures which are predominately erected by using linear timber members, from e.g. glued laminated timber, the focus of this paper is on their reinforcement against stresses perpendicular to grain as well as shear. However, latest findings with respect to cross laminated timber are included as well.
Consolidated knowledge of CLT properties under in-plane shear is crucial for typical structural applications such as wall and floor diaphragms, cantilevered CLT walls and CLT used as (deep) beams, in all cases potentially featuring holes or notches. The current technical approvals for CLT products contain differing regulations to determine their load-carrying capacities in-plane. Generally they imply a verification of the torsional stresses in the cross-section of the cross-wise glued elements as well as a verification of the shear stresses proportionally assigned to the boards of the top and cross layers. The basis of theoretical and practical considerations are the following three basic failure scenarios for a CLT-element under in-plane shear: (i) gross-shear (longitudinal shearing in all layers), (ii) net-shear (transverse shearing in all layers in weak direction), and (iii) torsion failure in the gluing interfaces between the layers.
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