Investigation of design methods in calculating the load-carrying capacity of mortise-tenon joint of timber structure

This study compares two prominent design provisions, National Design Specification (NDS) and Eurocode 5, on load-carrying capacity calculations and failure analysis for mortise-tenon joints. Design procedures of double-shear connection from both provisions were used to calculate load-carrying capacity of mortise-tenon joints with eight different bolt sizes. From this calculation, the result was validated using finite element analysis and failure criteria models. Although both provisions share similar failure modes, their distinct calculation methods significantly influence the design load-carrying capacity values. Notably, Eurocode 5 predicts a 6% higher design load-carrying capacity for mortise-tenon joints with varying bolt diameters under horizontal loads and 14% higher under vertical loads compared to NDS. However, the results from failure criteria models indicate that NDS closely aligns with the actual load-carrying capacity. This indicates that Eurocode 5 presents a less conservative design and potentially requires fewer fasteners in the final timber connection design. This evaluation initiates the potential for the development of a wider range of timber connections, including mortise-tenon joints with wooden pegs.