CarbonBar

2.5" LVL Testing Results

1. Testing Scope 4. Performance Results 2. Test Methodology 5. Weight Comparison 3. Technical Background 6. Additional Benefits

Defining Scope

  • Based on ASTM D198, using 4-point bend test to determine modulus of elasticity (E) of LVL beams with CarbonBar™ rodding
  • Compare CarbonBar™ enhanced LVL beams to control
  • E is calculated using measured applied external load and deformation values
4-Point Bending Test Formula
4-Point Bending Test Diagram Test Fixture Equipment

Testing Specifications

Test Configuration

Testing Type 4 point
Sample Length (in) 192
Shear Span (in), L₁ 48
Support Span (in), Ltotal 144

Sample Information

  • 12' unsupported length (distance between supports)
  • 2.5" x 11.875" - Mack Daddy Bunks 2.5 XL
  • 3.5" x 12" - Dimensional lumber cross-sectional area
  • CarbonBar adhered with adhesive
  • All samples tested over a minimum of 5 trials
LVL Beam Testing Setup

Technical Background Explanation

E = Modulus of elasticity

I = polar moment of inertia

k = stiffness = E*I

Therefore, a shorter cross-sectional height will decrease stiffness and a taller cross-sectional height will increase stiffness.

Due to the nature of both the engineered and dimensional lumber, all beams exhibit anisotropic behavior, meaning the material properties are different in each direction.

Performance Results

2.5" CarbonBar™ Enhanced LVL provides 50% increase in load capacity

Vertical Loads Comparison Chart

Loads Comparison

4x12 1.75" LVL + 1L T&B 2.5" LVL + 1L Bottom
Load @ 1" Deflection (lbf) 11,100 12,000 16,900
Ratio x 1.13x 1.52x

Vertical E Comparison

4x12 1.75" LVL + 1L T&B 2.5" LVL + 1L
E (x10⁶ psi) 1.62 2.47 2.44

2.5" CarbonBar™ enhanced LVL demonstrates 50% increase in elastic modulus compared to the 4x12 in the vertical orientation.

Lateral E Comparison

4x12 1.75" LVL + 1L T&B 2.5" LVL + 1L Bottom
E (x10⁶ psi) 2.20 3.86 2.94

2.5" CarbonBar™ enhanced LVL demonstrates over 30% increase in elastic modulus compared to the 4x12 in the lateral orientation.

Weight Comparison

4x12 1.75" LVL + 1L Top & Bottom 2.5" LVL + 1L Bottom
Weight/24ft (lbm) 248 130 186
Ratio x 0.52x 0.75x

Summary: Comparison vs 4x12 Wooden Beam

>50%
Increase in load capacity
>30%
Increase in stiffness (lateral orientation)
>50%
Increase in stiffness (vertical orientation)
25%
Lighter than 4x12
50%
Lighter (1.75" LVL version)

Additional Benefits

Longevity

  • Exposed natural lumber will degrade much quicker while exposed to the elements compared to our enclosed product
  • Carbon fiber experiences little to no fatigue

Installation

  • Improved ergonomics with reduced total weight

Logistics Cost

  • Lower weight reduces logistics cost