EUROPEAN STANDARD EN 789

NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM October 2004

ICS 79.040 Supersedes EN 789:1995

English version

Timber structures - Test methods - Determination of mechanical

properties of wood based panels

Structures en bois - Méthodes d'essai - Détermination des Holzbauwerke - Prüfverfahren - Bestimmung der
propriétés mécaniques des panneaux à base de bois mechanischen Eigenschaften von Holzwerkstoffen

This European Standard was approved by CEN on 1 April 2004.

CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European
Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national
standards may be obtained on application to the Central Secretariat or to any CEN member.

This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation
under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the Central Secretariat has the same status as the official
versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France,
Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia,
Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom.

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION

COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

Management Centre: rue de Stassart, 36 B-1050 Brussels

© 2004 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 789:2004: E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
EN 789:2004 (E)

Contents page

Foreword......................................................................................................................................................................4
Introduction .................................................................................................................................................................5
1 Scope.....................................................................................................................................................................6
2 Normative references ..........................................................................................................................................6
3 Terms and definitions..........................................................................................................................................6
4 Symbols and abbreviations ................................................................................................................................6
5 Sampling ...............................................................................................................................................................7
5.1 Sampling of panels..............................................................................................................................................7
5.2 Sampling of specimens .......................................................................................................................................7
6 Preparation of test pieces ...................................................................................................................................9
6.1 Conditioning ........................................................................................................................................................9
6.2 Dimensions of test pieces ...................................................................................................................................9
6.2.1 Methods of measurement ...............................................................................................................................9
6.2.2 Measurements to be taken .............................................................................................................................9
6.3 Moisture content..................................................................................................................................................9
6.3.1 Method of measurement .................................................................................................................................9
6.3.2 Measurements to be taken .............................................................................................................................9
6.4 Density ................................................................................................................................................................9
6.4.1 Method of measurement .................................................................................................................................9
6.4.2 Measurements to be taken .............................................................................................................................9
7 Bending properties ............................................................................................................................................10
7.1 Test piece..........................................................................................................................................................10
7.2 Loading equipment............................................................................................................................................10
7.3 Loading method ................................................................................................................................................10
7.4 Test procedure ..................................................................................................................................................10
7.4.1 Rate of application of load ............................................................................................................................10
7.4.2 Measurement of length and deformation ......................................................................................................11
7.5 Expression of results.........................................................................................................................................11
7.5.1 Modulus of elasticity and bending stiffness ..................................................................................................11
7.5.2 Bending strength and moment capacity .......................................................................................................12
8 Compression properties in the plane of the panel .........................................................................................12
8.1 Test piece..........................................................................................................................................................12
8.2 Loading equipment............................................................................................................................................12
8.3 Loading method ................................................................................................................................................13
8.4 Test Procedure..................................................................................................................................................13
8.4.1 Rate of application of load ............................................................................................................................13
8.4.2 Measurement of length and deformation ......................................................................................................13
8.5 Expression of results.........................................................................................................................................14
8.5.1 Compression of modulus of elasticity and stiffness......................................................................................14
8.5.2 Compression strength...................................................................................................................................14
9 Tension properties.............................................................................................................................................14
9.1 Test piece..........................................................................................................................................................14
9.2 Loading equipment............................................................................................................................................15
9.3 Loading method ................................................................................................................................................15
9.4 Test procedure ..................................................................................................................................................15
9.4.1 Rate of application of load ............................................................................................................................15
9.4.2 Measurement of length and deformation ......................................................................................................15
9.5 Expression of results........................................................................................................................................16
9.5.1 Tension modulus of elasticity and stiffness ..................................................................................................16

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 EN 789:2004 (E)

9.5.2 Tension strength........................................................................................................................................... 16

10 Panel shear properties ................................................................................................................................... 16
10.1 Test piece ....................................................................................................................................................... 16
10.2 Loading equipment ......................................................................................................................................... 17
10.3 Measurement of deformation ......................................................................................................................... 17
10.4 Loading method.............................................................................................................................................. 17
10.5 Test procedure ............................................................................................................................................... 18
10.5.1 Rate of application of load ......................................................................................................................... 18
10.5.2 Measurement of deformation ..................................................................................................................... 18
10.5.3 Failure mode .............................................................................................................................................. 18
10.6 Expression of results ...................................................................................................................................... 18
10.6.1 Panel shear modulus of rigidity.................................................................................................................. 18
10.6.2 Panel shear strength.................................................................................................................................. 18
11 Planar shear properties .................................................................................................................................. 19
11.1 Test piece ....................................................................................................................................................... 19
11.2 Loading equipment ......................................................................................................................................... 19
11.3 Loading method.............................................................................................................................................. 19
11.4 Test procedures.............................................................................................................................................. 19
11.4.1 Rate of application of load ......................................................................................................................... 19
11.4.2 Measurement of deformation ..................................................................................................................... 19
11.5 Expression of results ...................................................................................................................................... 20
11.5.1 Planar shear strength................................................................................................................................. 20
11.5.2 Planar shear modulus of rigidity................................................................................................................. 20
12 Test report........................................................................................................................................................ 21
12.1 General data................................................................................................................................................... 21
12.2 Material data................................................................................................................................................... 22
12.3 Data of individual test pieces.......................................................................................................................... 22
12.4 Data of physical properties ............................................................................................................................. 22
12.5 Additional data................................................................................................................................................ 22
12.6 Sampling data................................................................................................................................................. 22
Annex A (normative) In-plane compression test pieces .................................................................................... 23
Annex B (normative) Panel shear test pieces ...................................................................................................... 26
Annex C (normative) Planar shear test pieces .................................................................................................... 28
Annex D (informative) Compression properties perpendicular to the plane of the panel (bearing) ............. 29
Bibliography.............................................................................................................................................................. 32

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EN 789:2004 (E)

Foreword
This document (EN 789:2004) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 124 "Timber Structures", the
secretariat of which is held by SFS.

This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an identical text or by
endorsement, at the latest by April 2005, and conflicting national standards shall be withdrawn at the latest by April
2005.

This document supersedes EN 789:1995.

This document includes a Bibliography.

According to the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations, the following countries are bound to implement this European
Standard; Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary,
Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia,
Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom.

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 EN 789:2004 (E)

Introduction
The following amendments have been made to EN 789:1995:

- Certain descriptions of test methods and expressions of the test results have been improved.

- Following further research, the panel and planar shear test methods have been revised and moved from the
annexes to the main part of the document.

- A method for compression perpendicular to the plane of the panel has been added, as Annex D.

These changes are based on the results and experience of research carried out at a number of European
laboratories.

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EN 789:2004 (E)

1 Scope
This document specifies test methods for determining some mechanical properties of commercial wood-based panel
products for use in load-bearing timber structures. These properties are intended for the calculation of characteristic
values for use in obtaining material design values.

For each type and grade of load-bearing panel product, as defined in the Harmonised Standard for wood-based
panels (EN 13986), it is necessary to determine characteristic values of mechanical properties to enable it to be used
for structural purposes. This document details the testing required to establish characteristic values. The tests need
only be carried out once for each product, unless there is a reason to suspect a significant change has occurred in the
properties of the product.

NOTE For certain types and grades of panel, characteristic values are given in EN 12369 and these may be used for appropriate
panels without further testing to this document.

This document is not intended to be used for quality control testing, for which smaller test pieces than specified
herein, are adequate.

Due to the limited experience in use, the test method for compression perpendicular to the plane of the panel
(bearing) is included in Annex D (informative).

2 Normative references

The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated references, only
the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.

EN 322, Wood-based panels -Determination of moisture content

EN 323, Wood-based panels - Determination of density

EN 325, Wood-based panels - Determination of dimensions of test pieces

EN 14358, Structural timber – Calculation of characteristic 5-percentile value

3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.

3.1
specimen
piece of the panel from which a test piece will be fabricated

3.2
test piece
specimen of aggregate of parts from a sample fabricated to the size and shape required for testing

4 Symbols and abbreviations

A full cross-sectional area, equal to bt, in square millimetres;
b measured width of test piece, in millimetres;
E modulus of elasticity, in newtons per square millimetre;
F load, in newtons;
f strength, in newtons per square millimetre;
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 EN 789:2004 (E)

G shear modulus of rigidity, in newtons per square millimetre;

3
I second moment of area, equal to bt /12. In millimetres to the fourth power;
l length of test piece, in millimetres;
l1 gauge length, in millimetres;
l2 distance between an inner load point and the nearest support, in millimetres;
M moment, in newton millimetres;
t measured thickness of test piece, in millimetres;
t1 measured thickness of panel being tested, in millimetres;
u deflection or deformation, in millimetres;
2
W section modulus, equal to bt /6, in cubic millimetres.

Subscripts applied to loads, capacities, strengths, stiffness, and moduli of elasticity;

c compression;
m bending;
max. maximum;
v panel shear;
r planar shear;
t tension;
perp perpendicular to the plane of the panel.

5 Sampling

5.1 Sampling of panels

All panels in a sample shall be of the same type, grade, thickness range and composition or lay-up. The method of
sampling and the number of panels required is given in EN 14358.

5.2 Sampling of specimens

The specimens for each type of test in each direction shall not be from the same position in different panels of the
same sample and shall not number more than one from each panel. For in-plane compression test pieces, see Annex
A (normative). The position of the specimens within the panels shall be selected to ensure an unbiased sample.

NOTE 1 An example of a cutting schedule based on a sample of four panels, each with a minimum area of 1 200 mm x 2 400 mm,
is given in Figure 1.

NOTE 2 For quality control purposes, it may be necessary to establish correlations between the results from the test methods listed
here and those used in the factory. If this is the case, consideration should be given to modifying the cutting plan to allow for the
additional test pieces to be included on a “side-matched” basis.

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EN 789:2004 (E)

Dimensions in millimetres

Test Specimen number

Bending

longitudinal 1 to 4

lateral 5 to 8

Tension

longitudinal 9 to 12

lateral 13 to 16

Compression

longitudinal 17 to 20

lateral 21 to 24

Panel shear

longitudinal 25 to 28

lateral 29 to 32

Planar shear

longitudinal 33 to 36

lateral 37 to 40

Figure 1 - Example of a cutting schedule

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 EN 789:2004 (E)

6 Preparation of test pieces

6.1 Conditioning

All test pieces shall be conditioned to constant mass in an atmosphere of relative humidity (65 ± 5) % and temperature
(20 ± 2) ºC.

The constant mass is considered to have been reached when the results of two successive weighing operations,
carried out at an interval of 24 h do not differ by more than 0,1% of the mass of the test piece.

If the ambient conditions of testing are not the same as those in the conditioning chamber, tests shall be undertaken
immediately after the test pieces have been removed from the conditioning chamber.

NOTE The test methods specified in this document may also be used in other testing climates.

6.2 Dimensions of test pieces

6.2.1 Methods of measurement

The dimensions shall be determined in accordance with EN 325

6.2.2 Measurements to be taken

The thickness of the test pieces shall be measured at four points, two on each edge 80 mm from mid-length, but
25 mm in the case of the in-plane compression test pieces, and the average thickness t recorded. The width of the
test pieces shall be measured at two points, generally 80 mm from mid-length, but 25 mm in the case of the in-plane
compression test pieces, and the average width b recorded.

NOTE If the thicknesses of individual plies or layers in plywood or composite panels are required, then each should be measured
to the nearest 0,1 mm at the four edges of the test piece, and averaged.

6.3 Moisture content

6.3.1 Method of measurement

The moisture content shall be determined in accordance with EN 322.

6.3.2 Measurements to be taken

The moisture content shall be determined from at least one test piece per panel and measured at the time of testing.

6.4 Density

6.4.1 Method of measurement

The density shall be determined in accordance with EN 323.

6.4.2 Measurements to be taken

The density shall be determined from at least one test piece per panel and measured at the time of testing.

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EN 789:2004 (E)

7 Bending properties

7.1 Test piece

The test piece shall be rectangular in cross-section.

The depth of the test piece shall be equal to the thickness of the panel and the width shall be (300 ± 5) mm, but see
also the NOTE in 7.3.

The length of the test piece will depend on the nominal thickness of the panel, see Figure 2.

7.2 Loading equipment

The loading equipment shall be capable of measuring the load to an accuracy of 1%.

NOTE Since the test piece may twist under load, the loading equipment should be appropriately chosen.

7.3 Loading method

The application of the loads shall be as shown in Figure 2 with the load and reaction forces applied by rollers of (30 ±
1) mm diameter. The distance between the load points and the supports,l2, shall be 16 times the nominal thickness,
but not more than 400 mm and not less than 240 mm with an accuracy of ± 1 mm.

NOTE Large deflections may occur when test pieces with small bending stiffness are tested to failure, thus alternative test
arrangements may be required. In general, the test configuration described in this section is suitable for a test piece with a
2
thickness greater than 9 mm (corresponding to a bending stiffness per unit width of about 300 kN mm /mm). Smaller thicknesses
may be tested by using smaller diameter rollers and proportionally reducing the distances between them.

Dimensions in millimetres

240 mm ≤ l2 = 16 t ≤ 400 mm

Figure 2 - Arrangement for bending test

7.4 Test procedure

7.4.1 Rate of application of load

Load F shall be applied at a continuous rate of loading adjusted so that the maximum load is reached within (300 ±
120) s, and with a mean value of about 300 s for a sample.

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 EN 789:2004 (E)

7.4.2 Measurement of length and deformation

The length l1 and l2 see Figure 2, shall be measured to the nearest 1 mm. The deflection of the test piece shall be
measured on both sides midway between two points on the axis of the test piece located in the zone of uniform
moment. The distance between the two points (gauge length) shall be not less than 250 mm and the points shall be
spaced as far apart as possible, consistent with maintaining adequate clearance between the gauges and the loading
equipment.

NOTE For thicknesses of 9 mm or less, the 250 mm gauge length may be proportionally reduced. For these cases the deflection
can be taken on the outer tension side.

The deflection over the gauge length shall be measured to the nearest 0,01 mm.

7.5 Expression of results

7.5.1 Modulus of elasticity and bending stiffness

Using the data obtained and plot the load-deflection graph. Use that section of the graph between 0,1Fmax and 0,4Fmax
for a linear regression analyses.

The bending modulus of elasticity of the test piece shall be calculated from the following formula:

( F2 − F1 )l1 2l 2
Em =
16(u 2 − u1 ) I

The bending stiffness of the test piece shall be calculated from the following formula

( F2 − F1 )l1 2l 2
Em I =
16(u 2 − u1 )

where

F2 - F1 is the increment of load between 0,1Fmax and 0,4Fmax, see Figure 3

u2 - u1 is the increment of deflection corresponding to F2 - F1 using the linear regression line, see Figure 3

Both the modulus of elasticity and stiffness shall be calculated to an accuracy of 1%.

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EN 789:2004 (E)

Key
F Load
u Deflection or deformation

Figure 3 - Load-deflection or deformation graph within the range of elastic deformation

7.5.2 Bending strength and moment capacity

The bending strength of the test piece shall be calculated from the following formula:

Fmax l 2
fm =
2W
The moment of capacity of the test piece shall be calculated from the following formula:

Fmax l 2
M max =
2
The bending strength and moment capacity shall be calculated to an accuracy of 1%.

8 Compression properties in the plane of the panel

8.1 Test piece

The dimensions of the test pieces shall comply with the requirements given in Annex A.

The end surfaces of the test pieces shall be smooth and parallel to each other and at right angles to the test piece
length.

8.2 Loading equipment

The loading equipment shall be capable of measuring the load to an accuracy of 1%.

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 EN 789:2004 (E)

8.3 Loading method

The load shall be applied through a spherical connection on the upper head of the testing machine to allow initially for
any deviation from parallel of the ends of the test piece and permit adjustment to match the ends of the test piece, see
Figure 4. The head shall be locked after an initial small load.

Key

1 Spherical seated
2 Transducer
3 Test piece

Figure 4 - Arrangement for compression test

8.4 Test Procedure

8.4.1 Rate of application of load

Load F shall be applied at a continuous rate of loading adjusted so that the maximum load is reached within (300 ±
120) s, and with a mean value of about 300 s for a sample.

8.4.2 Measurement of length and deformation

Data for load-deformation curves shall be taken to determine the modulus of elasticity and the compression stiffness.

The deformation shall be measured over the central portion on two opposing faces of the test piece using a gauge
length l1 of between 75 mm and 125 mm. The gauge length l1 shall be measured to an accuracy of ±0,5 mm.

NOTE Attachment of the gauges may be with pins inserted in 3 mm diameter drilled holes or by glued mounts with the contact
area being less than 5 mm diameter.

The deformation on each face shall be measured to an accuracy of 1%. The average of the two readings shall be
calculated to the nearest 0,005 mm and shall be used in the calculation of the stiffness and modulus of elasticity of the
test piece.

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EN 789:2004 (E)

8.5 Expression of results

8.5.1 Compression of modulus of elasticity and stiffness

Using the data obtained plot the load-deformation graph. Use that section of the graph between 0,1Fmax and 0,4Fmax
for a linear regression analyses.

The compression modulus of elasticity of the test piece shall be calculated from the following formula:

( F2 − F1 )l1
Ec =
(u 2 − u1 ) A

The compression stiffness of the test piece shall be calculated from the following formula:

( F2 − F1 )l1
Ec A =
(u 2 − u1 )

where

F2 - F1 is the increment of load between 0,1Fmax and 0,4Fmax, see Figure 3

u2 - u1 is the increment of deformation corresponding to F2 - F1 using the linear regression line, see Figure 3

Both the modulus of elasticity and stiffness shall be calculated to an accuracy of 1%.

8.5.2 Compression strength

The compression strength of the test piece shall be calculated from the following formula:

Fmax
fc =
A
The compression strength shall be calculated to an accuracy of 1%.

9 Tension properties

9.1 Test piece

The test piece shall be rectangular in cross-section with a thickness equal to the thickness of the board and an overall
width of (250 ± 5) mm. The length of the test piece will depend on the equipment used to apply the load. The test
piece shall be reduced to a constant width of (150 ± 5) mm for a length of (250 ± 5) mm. The reduction shall be
achieved by a radius of (650 ± 5) mm, see Figure 5.

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 EN 789:2004 (E)

Dimensions in millimetres

Key
A Transducer
l1 Gauge length
l2 Length to suite self–aligning grips

Figure 5 - Arrangement for tension test

9.2 Loading equipment

The loading equipment shall be capable of measuring the load to an accuracy of 1%.

9.3 Loading method

The test piece shall be held in grips, which apply the required loads to the test piece with the minimum influence on
failure and position of failure.

The grips shall not apply a bending moment to the test piece, nor allow slippage under load.

The grips shall be self-aligning. The type of grips used shall be recorded.

9.4 Test procedure

9.4.1 Rate of application of load

Load F shall be applied at a continuous rate of loading adjusted so that the maximum load is reached within (300 ±
120) s, and with a mean value of about 300 s for a sample.

9.4.2 Measurement of length and deformation

Data for load-deformation curves shall be taken to determine the tension modulus of elasticity and stiffness.

The deformation shall be measured over the central portion on two opposing faces of the test piece using a gauge
length l1 of between 75 mm and 125 mm. The gauge length l1 shall be measured to an accuracy of ±0,5 mm.

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EN 789:2004 (E)

NOTE Attachment of the gauges may be with pins inserted in 3 mm diameter drilled holes or by glued mounts with the contact
area being less than 5 mm diameter.

The deformation on each face shall be measured to an accuracy of 1%. The average of the two readings shall be
calculated to the nearest 0,005 mm and shall be used in the calculation of the stiffness and modulus of elasticity of the
test piece.

9.5 Expression of results

9.5.1 Tension modulus of elasticity and stiffness

Using the data obtained plot the load-deformation graph. Use that section of the graph between 0,1Fmax and 0,4Fmax
for a linear regression analyses.

The tension modulus of elasticity of the test piece shall be calculated from the following formula;

( F2 − F1 )l1
Et =
(u 2 − u1 ) A

The tension stiffness of the test piece shall be calculated from the following formula;

( F2 − F1 )l1
Et A =
(u 2 − u1 )

where

A is the cross-section within the gauge length

F2 - F1 is the increment of load between 0,1Fmax and 0,4Fmax, see Figure 3

u2 - u1 is the increment of deformation corresponding to F2 - F1 using the linear regression line, see Figure 3

Both the modulus of elasticity and stiffness shall be calculated to three significant figures.

9.5.2 Tension strength

The tension strength ft of the test piece shall be calculated from the following formula;

Fmax
ft =
A
The tension strength shall be calculated to an accuracy of 1%.

If the fracture of a test piece occurs at or within the grips, or in the transition zone, the test result for this test piece
shall be reported separately.

10 Panel shear properties

10.1 Test piece

The dimensions of the test pieces shall comply with the requirements given in Annex B.

The loaded surfaces of the test pieces shall be smooth and parallel to each other and at right angles to the test piece
length.

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 EN 789:2004 (E)

10.2 Loading equipment

The loading equipment shall be capable of measuring the load to an accuracy of 1% of the maximum load applied to
the test piece.

10.3 Measurement of deformation

When shear modulus of rigidity (G) is to be determined, deflection gauges shall be attached to both sides of the test
piece, parallel to each other, as shown in Figure B1. The gauge length along which deformation is measured shall be
the compression diagonal at 45° to the rails passing through the centre of the shear area. The gauge length shall be
between 120 mm and 150 mm and centred between the rails along this line.

NOTE Attachment of the gauges may be with pins inserted in 3 mm diameter drilled holes or by glued mounts with the contact
area being less than 5 mm diameter.

10.4 Loading method

The load applied shall be applied evenly over the top surface of the uppermost rail as single force acting along the
longitudinal axis of the test piece, parallel to the rails. A suitable apparatus for applying equal loads to the rails is
shown in Figure 6.

Dimensions in millimetres

Figure 6 - Loading arrangement for panel shear test

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EN 789:2004 (E)

10.5 Test procedure

10.5.1 Rate of application of load

The load F shall be applied at a continuous rate of loading adjusted so that the maximum load is reached within
(300±120) s, and with a mean value of about 300 s for a sample.

10.5.2 Measurement of deformation

The deformation shall be determined as the average of the measurements taken on each side of the test piece, using
measuring devices (e.g. transducers) attached to the test piece. The accuracy of the measuring equipment shall be
within 1% of the total deformation and the deformation shall be recorded to the nearest 0,005 mm.

10.5.3 Failure mode

The failure mode of the specimen shall be recorded. Any piece that fails in any other manner than by panel shear on
the face of the test piece between the rails shall be reported separately.

NOTE Because shear stresses applied by the rails also produce tensile stresses at 45° to the rails, panels having tensile strength
less than or approaching their shear strength will usually display one or more tension breaks at approximately 45° to the rails and
often extended beneath them. Such results are not abnormal.

10.6 Expression of results

10.6.1 Panel shear modulus of rigidity

Using the data obtained plot the load-deformation graph. Use that section of the graph between 0,1Fmax and 0,4Fmax
for a linear regression analyses.

Panel shear modulus of rigidity shall be calculated from load and deformation data according to the following formula:

0.5( F2 − F1 )l1
Gv =
(u2 − u1 )lt

where

F2 - F1 is the increment of load between 0,1Fmax and 0,4Fmax, see Figure 3

u2 - u1 is the increment of deflection corresponding to F2 - F1 using the linear regression line, see Figure 3

u2 and u1 are means of the deformations measured on both faces

l1 is the gauge length

l is the length of the test piece measured along the centre line of the shear area (including the radius section)

t is the average thickness of the test piece measured at two points along the centre line of the shear area

The panel shear modulus of rigidity shall be calculated to three significant figures.

10.6.2 Panel shear strength

The panel shear strength shall be calculated from the following formula:

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 EN 789:2004 (E)

Fmax
fv =
lt
where

Fmax is the maximum load applied up to failure

l is the length of the test piece measured along the centre line of the shear area

t is the average thickness of the test piece measured at two points along the centre line of the shear area

The panel shear strength shall be calculated to an accuracy of 1%.

11 Planar shear properties

11.1 Test piece

The dimensions of the test piece shall be measured in accordance with EN 325 and shall comply with the
requirements given in Annex C.

11.2 Loading equipment

The loading equipment shall be capable of measuring the load to an accuracy of 1%.

11.3 Loading method

The load shall be applied to a projecting end of one of the steel plates, parallel to the test piece length direction. A test
rig for holding the test piece in position during testing is necessary. The principle of loading is shown in Figure 7a and
an example of a test set up is shown in Figure 7b. The roller supports may be changed to a low friction material.

NOTE PTFE has been found to be a suitable low friction material.

11.4 Test procedures

11.4.1 Rate of application of load

The load F shall be applied at a constant rate of loading adjusted so that the maximum load is reached within (300 ±
120) s, and with a mean value of approximately 300 s for a set of test pieces.

11.4.2 Measurement of deformation

11.4.2.1 General
Data from load-deformation curves shall be taken to determine the planar shear modulus of rigidity. The deformation
is regarded as the linear displacement of one of the two steel plates compared to the other. The deformation shall be
measured by means of two dial gauges or linear transducers (one placed on each side of the test specimen in order to
compensate for inaccuracy in gluing or loading). The deformation shall be recorded to the nearest 0,002 mm.

11.4.2.2 Abnormal test results

Failures may occur anywhere within the thickness of the test piece, but any test assembly that fails wholly or partially
in the bond between the metal plates and the test piece shall be reported separately.

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EN 789:2004 (E)

11.5 Expression of results

11.5.1 Planar shear strength

The planar shear strength shall be calculated from the following formula:

Fmax
fr =
lb

where

Fmax is the maximum load obtained during testing

b is the width of the test specimen
l is the length of the test specimen

The planar shear strength shall be calculated to three significant figures.

11.5.2 Planar shear modulus of rigidity

Using the data obtained plot the load-deformation graph. Use that section of the graph between 0,1Fmax and 0,4Fmax
for a linear regression analyses.

The planar shear modulus of rigidity shall be calculated from the following formula:

( F 2 − F 1) t
Gr =
( u 2 −u 1 ) lb

where

t is the panel thickness of test specimen

F2 - F1 is the increment of load between 0,1Fmax and 0,4Fmax, see Figure 3

u2 - u1 is the increment of deformation corresponding to F2 - F1 using the linear regression line, see Figure 3

u2 and u1 are means of the deformations measured on both faces of the test piece

b is the width of the test specimen

l is the length of the test specimen

The planar shear modulus of rigidity shall be calculated to an accuracy of 1%.

NOTE Guidance. Evaluation of the variability of Gr has shown that for panel product with ‘high’ Gr (small deformations) the
coefficient of variation can be high (50%).

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 EN 789:2004 (E)

Dimensions in millimetres

Key Key
1 Steel 1 Gauge equipment for measuring deformation
2 Steel plates
3 Test piece
4 Test rig bracing for measuring deformation
5 Test machine - Compression plate and load cell.

Figure 7a - Loading arrangement for Figure 7b - Example of planar shear test set up
planar shear

12 Test report

12.1 General

The test report shall include details of the test material, the method of test used and the test results. The amount of
detail given under each of these headings will depend on the purpose of the tests.

12.2 General data

The following data shall be given:

a) name of the testing organisation;

b) name(s) of the supplier(s) of the test material;

c) general description of the test material;

d) place and date of sampling.

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EN 789:2004 (E)

12.3 Material data

The following material data shall be given:

a) type, thickness, grade and composition or lay-up;

b) relevant product specification;

c) surface treatment, if any;

d) type of glue used, if any, in the in-plane compression test;

e) method of conditioning.

12.4 Data of individual test pieces

For individual test pieces, the following data shall be given;

a) test piece dimensions;

b) calculated values of the modulus of elasticity and strength (or stiffness) and capacity.

12.5 Data of physical properties

Date of the following physical properties shall be given:

a) moisture content of the test piece(s) at the time of testing;

b) density of the test piece(s) at the time of testing.

12.6 Additional data

Additional data may be required in some cases. These may include the following:

a) details of the method of fabrication of test pieces;

b) details of any natural defects or manufacturing features which influence the test results.

12.7 Sampling data

The following data shall be given:

a) copy of the cutting schedule used;

b) number of panels sampled for each property;

c) number of test pieces tested for each property.

12.8 Characteristic values

If the report is to include characteristic values then they shall be calculated in accordance with EN 14358.

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 EN 789:2004 (E)

Annex A
(normative)

In-plane compression test pieces

A.1 General
The preparation of the test pieces will depend on the thickness t1 of the panel to be tested. If the panel has a
thickness of 40 mm or greater, the test piece will consist of one thickness of the panel being tested, and be as
described in A.2 below. If the panel has a thickness less than 40 mm, the test piece will consist of several thicknesses
of the panel being tested and be fabricated as described in A.3.

A.2 Panels having a thickness of 40 mm or greater

For panels with a thickness t1 of 40 mm or greater, the width b of the test piece shall be 200 mm and the length l of the
test piece shall be between five and six times the thickness of the test piece. The form of the test piece is shown in
Figure A.1, and the typical sizes are given in Table A.1.

A.3 Panels having a thickness of less than 40 mm

For panels with a thickness t1 of less than 40 mm, the test piece shall consist of several thicknesses of the panel being
tested. The test piece shall be prepared from pieces having a minimum width of 42 mm and cut from adjacent
positions within the panel, see Figure A.2. The pieces shall be bonded together so as to make the test piece as
symmetrical as possible and until the thickness t of the test piece is not less than 40 mm. The test piece shall be
fabricated oversize and after the necessary bonding, machined to the sizes given.

After machining, the test piece shall have a minimum width b of 40 mm. The forms of the test pieces are shown in
Figure A.2 and the typical sizes are given in Table A.1.

The length l of the test piece shall be between five and six times the thickness of the test piece t.

Dimensions in millimetres

Figure A.1 - The form of test piece from panels having a thickness t1 of 40 mm or greater

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EN 789:2004 (E)

Dimensions in millimetres

Figure A.2 - Examples of test pieces from panels having a thickness of less than 40 mm

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 EN 789:2004 (E)

Table A.1 - Typical sizes of test pieces from panels having a thickness in the range of 6mm to
40 mm

Panel Number of Specimen Test piece

thickness t1 pieces cut
from a Length l Width b Length l Width b
(mm) specimen (mm) (mm) (mm) (mm)
t1≥40 1 - 220 5t1 to 6t1 200
20 ≤ t1 < 40 2 210 – 250 to 210 200 – 240 to 100
400 – 480 390 – 470
14 ≤ t1 < 20 3 220 – 260 to 220 210 – 250 to 67
310 – 370 300 – 360
10 ≤ t1 < 14 4 210 – 250 to 230 200 – 240 to 50
270 – 320 260 – 310
8 ≤ t1 < 10 5 210 – 250 to 240 200 – 240 to 40
230 – 280 220 – 270
6 ≤ t1 < 8 7 210 – 245 to 340 200 – 250 to 40
260 – 300 250 - 290

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EN 789:2004 (E)

Annex B
(normative)

Panel shear test pieces

The test piece shall be rectangular in cross-section. The thickness of the test piece shall be equal to the thickness of
the specimen as measured. Other dimensions of the test piece are given in Figure B.1.

NOTE 1 With certain panel materials, constructions and thicknesses, valid results may only be obtainable either in the longitudinal
or the lateral direction.

Timber rails having minimum dimensions of 35 mm x 145 mm x 700 mm long shall be bonded to both sides of the test
piece at each edge. The width of the rails may be increased to eliminate a shear failure between the rails and the test
piece. The rails shall be spaced (150 ± 2) mm apart with their ends even with the test piece at two diagonally opposite
corners as shown in Figure B.1. Prior to bonding, the rails and the test piece shall be conditioned to the approximate
moisture content at which the test piece is to be tested.

NOTE 2 Previous experience has shown that rails should be of "good quality" material with a minimum compression strength
2 2
parallel to grain of 35 N/mm and a minimum bending Em of 9000 N/mm . This is to ensure that the stiffness of the rails is greater
than that of the test panels and to ensure the stresses in the rails remain below 40% of ultimate.

A suitable PRF adhesive shall be used to attach the rails.

NOTE 3 Some panel materials have high panel shear strength but insufficient internal bond and planar shear strength to transfer
these stresses from the rails into the panel. In these cases, the rail may separate from the test piece. This may be prevented by
applying lateral pressure to the rails, for example by the use of bolts.

Steel rails may be substituted for timber rails and clamping may be substituted for bonding provided that no crushing
of the test piece or slippage between rail and test piece occurs. Special rail facings may be needed to develop
adequate friction between rails and test piece. The clamping method is particularly well suited to reconstituted panel
materials that would otherwise require bolting to prevent planar shear in the test piece under the rails.

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 EN 789:2004 (E)

Dimensions in millimetres

Key
1 Panel
2 Rail
3 Test piece
4 Radius
5 Load
t Thickness

Figure B.1 - The specimen and test set up for panel shear test

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EN 789:2004 (E)

Annex C
(normative)

Planar shear test pieces

The test piece shall be rectangular in cross-section and its thickness shall be equal to the thickness of the panel. The
width of the test piece shall be (100 ±1) mm and its length shall be (225 ±1) mm.

Thickness measurement shall be carried out in the four corners of the test piece 10 mm from edges. If the difference
between maximum and minimum thickness is above 0,5 mm the panel thickness is regarded as uneven. Sanding of
the test piece on two sides prior to gluing between steel plates is then necessary.

If test pieces fail in the surface layer with only a few particle/fibres adhering to the metal plate. Then subsequent test
pieces may be lightly sanded on both sides prior to gluing. The amount of material removed from each face by
sanding should not exceed 0,5 mm or 5% of the panel thickness, whichever is the lower.

The test piece shall be bonded between two steel plates, rectangular in cross-section, 25 mm thick, 250 mm long and
having a minimum width of 100 mm. The steel plates shall be bonded to the test piece with an adhesive sufficient to
preclude a significant contribution of adhesive creep to the measured deformation. One end of each steel plate shall
project 25 mm beyond the end of the test specimen as shown in Figure 7a. A rig should be used during gluing to
ensure that the ends of the two steel plates remain parallel to each other.

NOTE 1 Guidance. A low-temperature-hardening, epoxy-type adhesive, which debonds when it is heated to 150°C - 200°C, has
been found to be suitable.

NOTE 2 Guidance. Steel plates 2°mm to-5 mm wider than the test piece can be used to make the gluing of steel plates to the
specimen easier with regard to surplus glue.

NOTE 3 Guidance. If only the planar shear strength is to be tested, the test may be carried out using thinner, disposable plates,
bonded to the test pieces. These then fit into modified 25 mm thick steel test plates, which have machined recesses. This method
has been found to produce unreliable measurements of deformation and should not therefore be used for the calculation of planar
shear modulus.

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 EN 789:2004 (E)

Annex D
(informative)

Compression properties perpendicular to the plane of the panel (bearing)

D.1 Test piece

The cross-sectional dimensions of the test piece shall be 45 mm x 70 mm. The test piece shall comprise a number of
layers where each layer is a complete thickness of the panel being tested. The number of layers used shall be
selected so that the total height of the test piece is between 50 mm and 90 mm. The individual layers shall be bonded
together to produce a composite test piece with thin, rigid glue-lines. The composite test piece shall then be
machined to a square cross- section as illustrated in Figure D.1. The upper and lower bearing surfaces shall be plane
and parallel. Following machining, the test pieces shall be conditioned according to Clause 6.1.

Figure D.1 – Composite glued test piece for compression test perpendicular to the plane comprising a
number of identical layers

D.2 Loading equipment

The loading equipment shall be capable of measuring the load to an accuracy of 1% of the load applied to the test
piece.

D.3 Loading method

The test piece shall be mounted vertically between the test machine platens ensuring that the platens extend over
each of the four sides of the test piece by a distance at least equal to the width of the test piece. No initial stresses
shall be induced in the test piece during its positioning in the test machine.

The test piece shall be loaded concentrically.

NOTE This can be achieved using spherically seated loading-heads.

After an initial load has been applied, the loading-heads shall be locked to prevent rotation or angular movement
during the test.

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EN 789:2004 (E)

D.4 Test procedure

D.4.1 Rate of application of the load

The load F shall be applied at a constant rate of cross-head movement throughout the test. The rate of loading shall
be adjusted so that the maximum load Fc,90, max is reached within (300 ± 120) s.

NOTE This rate should be determined from the results of preliminary tests.

D.4.2 Measurement of deformation

The deformation of the test piece between the top and bottom platens of the test machine shall be measured
continuously throughout the test to an accuracy of 0,005 mm and a load-deformation curve produced.

D.5 Expression of results

D.5.1 Strength perpendicular to the plane of the panel

The compressive strength fc,90 shall be determined from the formula:

Fc ,90,max
f c ,90 =
bl
The compressive strength shall be calculated to three significant figures. The method for determining Fc,90, max is
illustrated in Figure D.2

The symbols are as given in Clause 4.

Figure D.2 – Load – deformation diagram for the compression test perpendicular to the plane of the panel

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 EN 789:2004 (E)

D.5.2 Compression modulus of elasticity perpendicular to the plane of the panel

Using the data obtained plot the load-deformation graph. Use that section of the graph between 0,1Fmax and 0,4Fmax
for a linear regression analyses.

The modulus of elasticity Ec,90 shall be calculated from the formula:

( F2 − F1 )l1
Ec , perp =
(u2 − u1 )bl

where

F2 - F1 is the increment of load between 0,1Fmax and 0,4Fmax, see Figure D.2.

u2 - u1 is the increment of deformation corresponding to F2 - F1 using the linear regression line, see

Figure 3.

u2 and u1 are means of the deformations measured on both faces.

The modulus of elasticity shall be calculated to three significant figures.

D.6 Test report

The test report shall include the details set out in Clause 12.

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EN 789:2004 (E)

Bibliography

EN 13986, Wood-based panels for use in construction – Characteristics, evaluation of conformity and marking.

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