Mechanical properties of screws and nails.

[dklarz]

I'm trying to find mechanical properties of screws vs. nails to support an arguement. Specifically I need to compare plastic coated utility screws (or deck screws) to galvanized nails. Anybody know where I can go to get property information?

Thanks - Dave

 

[Cockroach]

Try the Machinist Handbook?

Kenneth J Hueston, PEng
Principal
Sturni-Hueston Engineering Inc
Edmonton, Alberta Canada

 

[griffengm]

Might try Forest Products Laboratory Handbook. I believe they are on the web too. They did a lot of research on your question in the past.
You may need to define "nails" a bit further when you start looking. There are sveral different shank features that make big differences in hold.
You may need to specify material by species unless you are using a molded wood fiber/resin composite.

Griffy

 

[unclesyd]

I have to second the post by griffengm as I've see some papers and references to same on nails and screws. The website of the lab in Wisconsin might be a good place to start.

Look at some specific manufactures websites as I've seen some comparisons of different type screws.

 

[rorschach]

One has to ask the question, are you interested in the mechanical properties of the steel itself or are you interested in pull-out resistance due to geometry? Screws will ALWAYS outperform nails by a huge margin in that regard since they not only have the radial compression of the wood, but the shear effect of the thread itself as well.