ASTM F3359/F3359M-21 PDF

Overview

ASTM F3359/F3359M-21 specifies the standard test method for determining the bending yield moment of staples, particularly those used as mechanical fasteners in wood construction. This method outlines how to evaluate the bending resistance of flat crown staples, as identified in ASTM Specification F1667/F1667M, but is also suitable for round wire staples. The bending yield moment is a critical property when calculating the capacity of laterally-loaded staple connections using yield theory-an essential aspect in the engineering design of wood structures such as shear walls and diaphragms.

Key Topics

• Bending Yield Moment: The test determines the bending yield moment, which is the key strength characteristic used in yield theory calculations for staple connections.
• Applicable Fastener Types: While intended mainly for flat crown staples, the standard also applies to staples made from round wire.
• Test Procedure: Involves static loading of staple specimens to measure load-deflection properties using calibrated testing apparatus, ensuring consistent and accurate results.
• Dimensional Measurements: Defines the required measurements, including staple crown width, leg length, thickness, width, and test span.
• Load-Deflection Analysis: The yield load is determined by using a straight-line fit to the initial load-deflection curve, with an offset equal to 5% of the staple leg thickness.
• Units and Conformance: Provides standards for both SI (metric) units and inch-pound units; values in each system must be used independently to ensure conformance.
• Sampling: Requires random selection and testing of a minimum number of specimens to accurately represent the staple population.

Applications

This standard has significant practical value in the construction and engineering industries, particularly for:

• Structural Wood Construction: Staples are widely used for fastening engineered wood elements. Accurate determination of the bending yield moment ensures reliable connection design and safety.
• Shear Walls and Diaphragms: The bending yield moment is directly applicable for staples installed with the crown parallel to framing members, which is common practice in shear wall and diaphragm assemblies.
• Product Evaluation and Quality Control: Manufacturers and quality assurance personnel use this method to verify staple strength and consistency before market release or within quality management systems.
• Engineering Design: Structural engineers rely on the specified data to calculate nominal resistance values in accordance with yield theory when designing laterally-loaded connections in commercial and residential buildings.

Related Standards

The ASTM F3359/F3359M-21 standard references several related documents, which help ensure method consistency and broader applicability:

• ASTM F1667/F1667M - Specification for Driven Fasteners (including nails, spikes, and staples), which defines the types of staples applicable for testing under F3359/F3359M.
• ASTM E4 - Practices for Force Calibration and Verification of Testing Machines, ensuring load measurement accuracy during staple testing.
• International Standardization Principles - Developed in alignment with globally recognized principles established by the World Trade Organization on technical barriers to trade (TBT).

Keywords: ASTM F3359/F3359M, bending yield moment, staples, wood fasteners, yield theory, static loading test, staple connection strength, structural fastening, construction standards.

Using ASTM F3359/F3359M-21 ensures standardized, reliable assessment of staple bending yield moment, supporting safe, effective engineering of wood connections and helping manufacturers and designers meet stringent international requirements.