Density based resistance model for structural assessment of timber elements using inspection data

Abstract

Timber structures require a maintenance plan, along with periodic monitoring of their condition, to ensure their performance is maintained. The most common methods for wood inspection are those classified as non-destructive. Notably, visual inspection is one of the most frequently used methodologies in diagnostic engineering services. These methods lack the capacity to estimate or evaluate the structural resistance and integrity of the elements. The study used data from the inspection conducted in the Maloca building at the University of Brasília to estimate the structural resistance of its elements. The resistance estimate was based on a new resistance model using basic density. This model simplifies the estimative of different resistance parameters using only the basic density of the wood species. The resistance models adopted for various load conditions followed the guidelines of the Brazilian wood standard. The results show that the proposed methodology aligns with the performance and levels of degradation observed during the inspection. In conclusion, the methodology proves to be an important tool for estimating and monitoring the structural capacity of timber structures in inspection contexts without the need for destructive methods.