Bending evaluation of Acrocarpus fraxinifolius wood by the vaporization technique

Abstract

The technique of bending wood by vaporization presents itself as a viable option for curvilinear structural projects, such as gridshells. Coniferous woods are often used in roof structures because, in addition to the desired relationship between mechanical strength and density, they allow the complete treatment of the cross-section of the piece. However, characteristics such as the predominance of sapwood or heartwood and the presence of defects are variables that affect structural performance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the bending limit of Acrocarpus flaxinifloius (Indian cedar) veneers with a bending radius of 21 cm at different thicknesses. The impact of the predominance of sapwood or heartwood and the presence of defects on the bending strength was also investigated. The literature indicates that plastic flexibilization by steam occurs at 100 °C, with 2.4 minutes for each millimeter of lamella thickness, which were the parameters considered in this study. The statistical analysis indicated a thickness limit of 8 mm for the lamellae to bend and the greater presence of sapwood or heartwood, as well as wood defects, did not significantly affect the bending force.