fin plate connection with LVL

[radiocontrolhead]

Hi Eng Tips,

I am treating this as a typical dowel connection and I'm used to seeing these type of connections on Glulam beams for aesthetic reasons.

I don't see why they couldn't work for LVL unless I'm missing something? What are your thoughts?

 

[KootK]

As much as I prefer direct bearing connections in wood, I don't see why a fin plate connection that would work in glulam couldn't also work in LVL. If anything, LVL should have less shrinkage. It pretty much forces you to use large, single LVL members rather than members built up from multiple plies though, right?

 

[jayrod12]

You would need to ensure enough shear capacity remains where you cut your slot for the knife plate, otherwise it can be done.

I guess the question is why? It's not like LVL are aesthetically pleasing, so usually they're covered in finishes and therefore can have a more conventional connection.