7

Part 1

Material Specifications for Lumber, Timber, Engi-

neered Wood Products, Timber Piles, Fasteners, Tim-

ber Bridge Ties and Recommendations for Fire-

Retardant Coating for Creosoted Wood

— 2017 —
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section/Article Description Page

1.1 Structural Grades of Softwood Lumber and Timber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-3

1.1.1 Grading Rules (2010). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-3 3
1.1.2 Preservative Treatments (2010) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-3

1.2 Grading Rules for Hardwood Structural Timbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-3

1.2.1 General (2009) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-3

1.3 Specifications for Engineered Wood Products (2016) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-3

1.3.1 Structural Glued Laminated Timber - Glulam (2016) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-3

1.4 Ordering Structural Lumber, Timber and Engineered Wood Products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-6
1.4.1 Inquiry or Purchase Order (2010) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-6

1.5 Specifications for Timber Piles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-7

1.5.1 General Provisions (2007) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-7
1.5.2 Classification of Piles (2013) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-7
1.5.3 General Requirement for All Piles (2007) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-11
1.5.4 Special Requirements for First-Class Piles (2007) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-12
1.5.5 Special Requirements for Second-Class Piles (2007) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-13
1.5.6 Inquiries and Purchase Orders (2007) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-13

1.6 Specifications of Fasteners for Timber Trestles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-14

1.6.1 Material (2008) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-14
1.6.2 T ypes of Fasteners (2009) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-14
1.6.3 Use of Protective Coatings for Steel Fasteners on Timber Bridges (2008) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-16

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Timber Structures

TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT)

Section/Article Description Page

1.7 Specifications for Timber Bridge Ties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-16

1.7.1 Material (2009). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-16
1.7.2 Physical Requirements (2009) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-16
1.7.3 Design (2009) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-17
1.7.4 Inspection (2009) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-17
1.7.5 Delivery (2010) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-18
1.7.6 Shipment (2009) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-18
1.7.7 Dapping or Sizing Bridge Ties (2009) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-18
1.7.8 Bridge Tie Installation (2017) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-18
1.7.9 Preservative Treatment of Bridge Ties (2009) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-20
1.7.10 Spike or Bolt Holes (2009). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-20
1.7.11 Tie Plugs (2009) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-20
1.7.12 Tie Branding (2009) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-20
1.7.13 End Splitting Control Devices (2009) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-20

1.8 Recommendations for Fire-Retardant Coating for Creosoted Wood (1963) R(2008) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-20
1.8.1 Scope (1988). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-20
1.8.2 General Product Requirements (1988) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-21
1.8.3 Application Requirements and Instructions (1988) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-22
1.8.4 T esting (2011) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-23

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure Description Page

7-1-1 Measurement of Short Crook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-13

LIST OF TABLES
Table Description Page

7-1-1 Typical Net Finished Glulam Sizes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-4

7-1-2a Friction Piles – Specified Butt Circumference with Minimum Tip Circumferences for Coast Douglas-fir Piles and
Other Species, Except Southern Yellow Pine (See Note 1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-9
7-1-2b Friction Piles – Specified Butt Circumference with Minimum Tip Circumferences for Southern Yellow Pine (See
Notes 1, 2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-10
7-1-3a End-Bearing Piles – Specified Tip Circumferences with Minimum Butt Circumferences for Piles of Coast Douglas-fir
and Other Species Except Southern Yellow Pine (See Note 1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1-10
7-1-3b End-Bearing Piles – Specified Tip Circumferences with Minimum Butt Circumferences for Piles for Southern Yellow
Pine Piles (See Notes 1, 2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . 7-1-11

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7-1-2 AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering

 Material Specifications for Lumber, Timber, Engineered Wood Products, Timber Piles, Fasteners, Etc.

SECTION 1.1 STRUCTURAL GRADES OF SOFTWOOD LUMBER AND TIMBER1

1.1.1 GRADING RULES (2010)

It is recommended that structural lumber and timber be purchased in accordance with the grading rules of the industry’s
agency publishing rules for the species. For allowable stresses for stress graded lumber and timber generally used refer to
Article 2.5.6.

1.1.2 PRESERVATIVE TREATMENTS (2010)

Pressure preservative treatments are listed in American Wood Protection Association (AWPA) Standards.2

Retention and penetration levels are specified in AWPA Standards (U1 or T1 as applicable) in units of pounds of retained
preservative per cubic foot of wood and depth of penetration in inches. Creosote retentions in the range of 8 to 12 pcf are
common in railroad applications.

It is strongly recommended that all fabrication, trimming and boring of glulam members be performed prior to the pressure
treating process. If field fabrication is needed, surface damage, cuts and holes must be field treated to protect any exposed
wood. Field treatments in accordance with AWPA Standard M4 should be specified.

SECTION 1.2 GRADING RULES FOR HARDWOOD STRUCTURAL TIMBERS3 1

1.2.1 GENERAL (2009)

Hardwood structural timbers shall comply with the requirements of Northeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association, Inc.
(NELMA), Chapter 6, Timber, Beams and Stringers, Posts and Timbers for the species and grades listed in Part 2 of this
Manual. 3

SECTION 1.3 SPECIFICATIONS FOR ENGINEERED WOOD PRODUCTS4 (2016)

4
1.3.1 STRUCTURAL GLUED LAMINATED TIMBER - GLULAM (2016)5

1.3.1.1 General and Appearance

a. General

For allowable stresses for Glued Laminated Timber generally used refer to Article 2.4.1.2.

b. Appearance Classifications6

1
See Part 6 Commentary.
2
See Reference 8.
3
References, Vol. 65, 1964, pp. 393, 756; Vol. 89, 1988, p. 106.
4
References, Vol. 55, 1954, pp. 568, 1005; Vol. 56, 1955, pp. 641, 1071; Vol. 62, 1961, pp. 512, 848; Vol. 69, 1968, p. 362; Vol. 84, 1983, p. 81; Vol. 89,
1988, p. 106.
5
See Part 6 Commentary.
6
See Part 6 Commentary.

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Timber Structures

For railway bridge stringer, pile cap, deck panel, and rail tie applications, the Industrial or Framing appearance
classifications should be considered.

Industrial Appearance: Voids appearing on the edges of laminations need not be filled. Loose knot holes appearing
on the wide face of the laminations exposed to view shall be filled. Members are required to be surfaced on two sides
only and the appearance requirements apply to these sides. Wane is not allowed in glued laminated timber members
used in railway structures.

Framing Appearance: The Framing appearance classification permits "hit or miss" surfacing to provide specialized
finish widths of 3-1/2, 5-1/2 and 7-1/4 inches. This appearance classification may be suitable for pile caps or bridge
deck panel applications. Wane is not allowed in glued laminated timber members used in railway structures.

1.3.1.2 Layup Combinations1

For glulam members stressed primarily in bending, such as for railroad bridge stringers, layups of graded Douglas fir (DF) and
Southern pine (SP) lumber are used throughout the member depth based on the "Stress Groups" shown in Table 7-2-7, selected
specifically for the most commonly used applications. Stress Group options for bending members shown in this table are
defined by bending-stress/Modulus of Elasticity (MOE) categories selected specifically as "Balanced Combinations" for
railroad applications.

1.3.1.3 Balanced Beams2

These members are manufactured with symmetrical grade zones above and below mid-depth. Balanced beams should be used
in applications where both the top and bottom of the member are stressed in tension, such as continuous stringers, or when
preservative treatments may make it difficult to distinguish the tension side.

1.3.1.4 Hardwoods

Hardwoods may be specified by special order in accordance with the Standard Specification For Structural Glued Laminated
Timber Of Hardwood Species, AITC 119.

1.3.1.5 Adhesives

Adhesives must be in conformance with specifications included in ANSI A190.1 for wet-use. Wet-use adhesives may be
specified for all moisture conditions and are required when the in-service moisture content is 16 percent or higher for repeated
or prolonged periods, or when the wood is treated with preservatives before or after gluing.

1.3.1.6 Finished Sizes3

Table 7-1-1. Typical Net Finished Glulam Sizes

Nominal Width 3” 4” 6” 8” 10” 12”

Western Species 2-1/2” 3-1/8” 5-1/8” 6-3/4” 8-3/4” 10-3/4”
Southern Pine 2-1/2” 3” 5” 6-3/4” 8-3/4” 10-1/2”

Depths can be provided in multiples of nominal 1-1/2 inch for Western species or 1-3/8 inch for Southern Pine laminations, or
for special depths to be compatible with existing solid sawn installations.

1
See Part 6 Commentary.
2
See Part 6 Commentary.
3 See Part 6 Commentary.

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 Material Specifications for Lumber, Timber, Engineered Wood Products, Timber Piles, Fasteners, Etc.

1.3.1.7 Preservative Treatments1

Pressure preservative treatments listed in American Wood Protection Association (AWPA) Standard U1 for glulam include
creosote, pentachlorophenol and waterborne inorganic arsenicals. Waterborne treatments such as ammoniacal copper arsenate
(ACA) and chromated copper arsenate (CCA) are not recommended for western species but may be used to treat glulam
manufactured with Southern Pine. Waterborne treatments are typically applied to lumber prior to the laminating process.
Waterborne treatments applied to glulam after the laminating process can cause dimensional changes such as warping, and
twisting, in addition to excessive checking as the result of the necessary re-drying process. Fire-retardant coatings may be
used for glulam railroad structures in accordance with Part 6 Commentary.

Species listed in AWPA Standard U1 for preservative treatment include Pacific Coast Douglas fir, Western hemlock, hem-fir
and southern pine. Other species may also be available by specification in agreements with the glulam manufacturer.

Retention and penetration levels are specified in AWPA Standard U1 in units of pounds of retained preservative per cubic foot
of wood and depth of penetration in inches. Creosote retentions in the range of 8 to 12 pcf are common in railroad
applications.

It is strongly recommended that all fabrication, trimming and boring of glulam members be performed prior to the pressure
treating process. If field fabrication is needed, surface damage, cuts and holes must be field treated to protect any exposed
wood. Field treatments in accordance with AWPA Standard M4 should be specified.

1.3.1.8 Fire-retardant coatings

Fire-retardant coatings may be used for glulam railroad structures in accordance with Article 1.8.
1
1.3.1.9 Certification, Wrapping and Shipping2

When specified by the engineer or customer, Certificates of Conformance shall be supplied by the glulam manufacturer to
indicate conformance with industry standard ANSI A190.1.

1.3.1.10 Storage and Handling3 3

Loading & Unloading: Glulam stringers are commonly loaded and unloaded with forklifts. Greater stability can be
achieved when the sides of the beams rest on the forks. Moving long beams on their sides, however, can cause them to
flex excessively increasing the risk of damage. If a crane with cable slings or chokers is used to load, unload, or install
glulam members, adequate blocking shall be provided between the cable (or strap), and the members. Wooden cleats
or blocking should be used to protect long edge corners. Use of spreader bars can reduce the likelihood of damage
when lifting beams in excess of 30 feet in length. 4
Storage: To minimize possible degradation that can result from excessive seasoning checks or splits (checks that
develop into openings across the member width), glulam members should be stored off of the ground on blocks in a
level, well-drained location and covered. If members are to be stacked, spacer blocks should be placed between
members to allow for ventilation and to protect against water entrapment on surface areas.

1
See Part 6 Commentary.
2
See Part 6 Commentary.
3 See Part 6 Commentary.

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Timber Structures

SECTION 1.4 ORDERING STRUCTURAL LUMBER, TIMBER AND ENGINEERED WOOD

PRODUCTS1

See Commentary Article 6.1.4 for an Example.

1.4.1 INQUIRY OR PURCHASE ORDER (2010)

An inquiry or purchase order for structural lumber or timber should clearly stipulate:

a. Quantity in board feet or number of pieces.

b. Thickness, width and length.

c. Whether rough or surfaced, and extent of surfacing.

d. Stress-grade. Use the complete designation as given in the rules. Paragraph or page numbers may be used as additional
identification.

e. Species of wood.

f. The name and date of the grading rule book and the name of the organization issuing it. It is preferable to use the most
recent rule book but the designation “current grading rules” should not be used because confusion may result due to
changes in grade names and/or paragraph or page numbers.

g. Any exceptions to or modifications of the grading rules such as:

(1) Lumber or timber to be free of wane.

(2) Seasoning if desired, stating the method and acceptable moisture content. (Note that mills do not ordinarily season
beam and stringer or post and timber sizes.)

(3) Special heartwood requirements.

(4) Special shear grades.

(5) Special provisions to make joist and plank or beam and stringer grades suitable for continuous spans.

(6) Special provisions to make joist and plank or beam and stringer grades suitable as columns or tension members.

(7) Special inspection provisions.

(8) Provisions for treatment.

1
See Part 6 Commentary.

© 2017, American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association

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 Material Specifications for Lumber, Timber, Engineered Wood Products, Timber Piles, Fasteners, Etc.

SECTION 1.5 SPECIFICATIONS FOR TIMBER PILES1

1.5.1 GENERAL PROVISIONS (2007)

1.5.1.1 Scope

This specification covers the physical characteristics timber piles to be used either untreated or treated by approved
preservative process.

1.5.1.2 Species of Wood

Piles may be of any species which will satisfactorily withstand driving and support the superimposed loads.

1.5.2 CLASSIFICATION OF PILES (2013)

1.5.2.1 Classes

Piles are classified in this specification under two general classes according to quality, First-Class Piles and Second-Class
Piles. First-Class Piles are divided into two size groups as follows:

1.5.2.2 First-Class Piles

a. Butt Circumference – The butt circumference is specified and minimum tip circumferences are in accordance with
Table 7-1-2a and Table 7-1-2b. (friction piles) .
1
b. Tip Circumference –The tip circumference is specified and minimum butt circumferences are in accordance with
Table 7-1-3a and Table 7-1-3b. (end-bearing piles).

1.5.2.3 Second-Class Piles

Piles which do not meet the requirements of First-Class Piles but which are suitable for use in cofferdams, falsework, 3
temporary work and light foundations or other light construction. Second-Class Piles may also be specified by butt
circumference or tip circumference.

1.5.2.4 Sizes

a. The ratio of “out of round” maximum to minimum diameter at the butt or the tip of any pile shall not exceed 1.2.

b. All circumference measurements must be taken under the bark. 4

1
References, Vol. 10, 1909, part 1, pp. 541, 603; Vol. 29, 1928, pp. 506, 1301; Vol. 34, 1933, pp. 66, 760; Vol. 37, 1936, pp. 668, 1036; Vol. 40, 1939, pp.
376, 789; Vol. 406, 1945, pp. 185, 802; Vol. 54, 1953, pp. 945, 1329; Vol. 61, 1960, pp. 587, 1095; Vol. 89, 1988, p. 106.

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Timber Structures

c. The circumference at the butt may not exceed the circumference at 3 feet from the butt by more than 8 inches.

d. The butt diameter of a first-class pile should match the supporting timber cap width. Pile butt diameters that are less
than the cap width must be of sufficient size as to prevent the pile or cap from failing in bearing or the pile punching
through the cap. Pile butt diameters larger than the cap width should be trimmed to match the cap width.

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7-1-8 AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering

 Material Specifications for Lumber, Timber, Engineered Wood Products, Timber Piles, Fasteners, Etc.

Table 7-1-2a. Friction Piles – Specified Butt Circumference with Minimum Tip Circumferences for Coast
Douglas-fir Piles and Other Species, Except Southern Yellow Pine (See Note 1)

Required
Minimum
Circumference, 22 25 28 31 35 38 41 44 47 50 57
(inches),
3 feet from Butt

Length (feet) Minimum Tip Circumference (inches)

20 16.0 16.0 16.0 18.0 22.0 25.0 28.0
30 16.0 16.0 16.0 16.0 19.0 22.0 25.0 28.0
40 16.0 17.0 20.0 23.0 26.0 29.0
50 16.0 17.0 19.0 22.0 25.0 28.0
60 16.0 16.0 18.6 21.6 24.6 31.6
70 16.0 16.0 16.0 16.2 19.2 26.2
80 16.0 16.0 16.0 16.0 21.8
90 16.0 16.0 16.0 16.0 19.5
100 16.0 16.0 16.0 16.0 18.0
110 16.0 16.0
120 16.0
1
Note 1: Where the taper applied to the butt circumferences calculates to a circumference at the tip of less than 16
inches, the individual values have been increased to 16 inches to ensure a minimum of 5 inches tip diameter
for purposes of driving.

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Timber Structures

Table 7-1-2b. Friction Piles – Specified Butt Circumference with Minimum Tip Circumferences for Southern
Yellow Pine (See Notes 1, 2)

Required
Minimum
Circumference, 22 25 28 31 35 38 41 44 47 50 57
(inches),
3 feet from Butt

Length (feet) Minimum Tip Circumference (inches)

20 16 16 18 21 25 28 31 34 37 40 47
30 16 16 16 19 23 26 29 32 35 38 45
40 17 21 24 27 30 33 36 43
50 19 22 25 28 31 34 41
60 20 23 26 29 32 39
70 18 21 24 27 30 37
80 19 22 25 28 35
Note 1: Where the taper applied to the butt circumferences calculates to a circumference at the tip of less than 16
inches, the individual values have been increased to 16 inches to ensure a minimum of 5 inches tip diameter
for purposes of driving.
Note 2: Southern Yellow Pine piles are generally available in lengths shorter than 70 feet or girth of less than 50 inches
at 3 feet from butt. A dark horizontal line in each column designates pile sizes (above the line) which are
generally available. The purchaser should inquire as to availability of sizes below the lines.

Table 7-1-3a. End-Bearing Piles – Specified Tip Circumferences with Minimum Butt Circumferences for
Piles of Coast Douglas-fir and Other Species Except Southern Yellow Pine (See Note 1)

Required
Minimum Tip
16 19 22 25 28 31 35 38
Circumference,
(inches)

Length (feet) Minimum Circumferences 3 feet from Butt (inches)

20 21.0 24.0 27.0 30.0 33.0 36.0 40.0 43.0
30 23.5 26.5 29.5 32.5 35.5 38.5 42.5 45.5
40 26.0 29.0 32.0 35.0 38.0 41.0 45.0 48.0
50 28.5 31.5 34.5 37.5 40.5 43.5 47.5 50.5
60 31.0 34.0 37.0 40.0 43.0 46.0 50.0 53.0
70 33.5 36.5 39.5 42.5 45.5 48.5 52.5 55.5
80 36.0 39.0 42.0 45.0 48.0 51.0 55.0 58.0
90 38.5 41.5 44.5 47.5 50.5 53.5 57.5 60.5
100 41.0 44.0 47.0 50.0 53.0 56.0 60.0
110 43.5 46.5 49.5 52.5 55.5 58.5
120 46.0 49.0 52.0 55.0 58.0
Note 1: Piles purchased as “8-inch and natural taper” have a required minimum tip
circumference of 25 inches and are available in lengths of 20 to 45 feet.

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Table 7-1-3b. End-Bearing Piles – Specified Tip Circumferences with Minimum Butt Circumferences for
Piles for Southern Yellow Pine Piles (See Notes 1, 2)

Required
Minimum Tip
16 19 22 25 28 31 35 38
Circumference,
(inches)

Length (feet) Minimum Circumferences 3 feet from Butt (inches)

20 19 22 25 28 31 34 38 41
30 21 24 27 30 33 36 40 43
40 26 29 32 35 38 42 45
50 31 34 37 40 44 47
60 33 36 39 42 46 49
70 35 38 41 44 48 51
80 37 40 43 46 50 53
90 39 42 45 48 52 55
Note 1: Piles purchased as “8-inch and natural taper” have a required minimum tip
circumference of 25 inches and are available in lengths of 20 to 45 feet.
Note 2: Southern Yellow Pine piles are generally available in lengths shorter than 70 feet or
girth of less than 50 inches at 3 feet from the butt. A dark horizontal line in each 1
column designates pile sizes (above the line) which are generally available.

1.5.3 GENERAL REQUIREMENT FOR ALL PILES (2007)

1.5.3.1 General Quality

3
Except hereinafter provided, all piles shall be of sound wood, free from defects which may impair their strength or durability
as piles such as decay, red heart, marine borer attack, or insect attack. Cedar and cypress piles may have a pipe or stump rot
hole not more than 1-1/2 inches in diameter. Cypress piles may have peck aggregating not more than the limitation for holes.
Piles having sound turpentine scars not damaged by insects shall be permitted. Piles shall be cut above the ground swell and
have continuous and reasonably uniform taper from butt to tip.

1.5.3.2 Knots1 4
a. Sound knots shall be no larger than one sixth the circumference of the pile located where the knot occurs. Cluster
knots shall be considered as a single knot, and the entire cluster cannot be greater in size than permitted for a single
knot. The sum of knot diameters in any 1 foot length of pile shall not exceed one third of the circumference at the point
where they occur. Knots shall be measured at a right angle to the length of the pile.

b. Piles may have unsound knots not exceeding half the permitted size of a sound knot, provided that the unsoundness
extends to not more than a 1-1/2 inch depth, and that the adjacent areas of the trunk are not affected.

1.5.3.3 Heartwood

Piles specified to have high heartwood content, for use without preservative treatment, shall exhibit a heartwood diameter at
the butt not less than eight-tenths the diameter of the pile.

1
See Part 6 Commentary.

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1.5.3.4 Sapwood

Piles for use with preservative treatment shall have sufficient sap wood to meet minimum penetration requirements.

1.5.3.5 Close Grain

If close grain is specified for softwood piles, the pile shall show on the butt end not less than 6 annual rings per inch, measured
radially over the outer 3 inches of the cross section. Douglas-fir and pine averaging from 5 to 6 annual rings per inch shall be
accepted as the equivalent of close grain if having one-third or more summerwood.

1.5.3.6 Cutting and Trimming

Butts and tips of piles shall be sawed square with the axis of the piles and shall not be out of square by more than 1/10 inch per
inch of diameter. All knots and limbs shall be trimmed or smoothly cut flush with the surface of the pile.

1.5.3.7 Peeling

a. Piles are classified according to the extent of bark removal as clean-peeled, rough-peeled or unpeeled.

b. Clean peeled piles require the removal of all outer bark. In addition, at least 80 percent of the inner bark, well
distributed over the surface of the pile shall be removed. Piles for preservative treatment shall have no strip of inner
bark larger than 1 by 6 inches.

c. Rough-peeled piles require the complete removal of all outer bark.

d. Unpeeled piles require no bark removal.

e. The sapwood of piles shall not be unnecessarily scarred or injured in the process of peeling.

f. Piles for preservative treatment shall be clean-peeled.

1.5.3.8 Lengths

Piles shall be furnished cut to any of the following lengths as specified: 16 feet to 40 feet, incl., in multiples of 2 feet; over 40
feet in multiples of 5 feet. Individual piles may exceed the length specified as much as plus 1 foot in piles 40 feet and shorter,
and plus 2 feet in piles over 40 feet.

1.5.3.9 Twist of Grain

Spiral grain shall not exceed 180 degrees of twist when measured over any 20 foot section of the pile.

1.5.4 SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR FIRST-CLASS PILES (2007)

a. A straight line from the center of the butt to the center of the tip of First-Class piles shall lie entirely within the body of
the pile. First-Class piles shall be free from short crooks that deviate more than 2-1/2 inches from straightness in any 5
foot length (see Figure 7-1-1).

b. Holes less than 1/2 inch in average diameter shall be permitted in First-Class piles provided that the sum of average
diameters of all holes in any square foot of pile surface does not exceed 1-1/2 inch, and the depth of any hole does not
extend to more than 1-1/2 inch and provided that holes are not caused by decay or marine borer attack. Internal holes
or damage to the cross-section (bearing) surfaces caused by decay, marine borers, or insects are not permitted.

c. Splits in First-Class Piles shall not be longer than the butt diameter. The length of any shake or combination of shakes,
measured along the curve of the annual ring, shall not exceed one-third the circumference of the butt of the pile.

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1
Figure 7-1-1. Measurement of Short Crook

1.5.5 SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR SECOND-CLASS PILES (2007)

a. A straight line from the center of the butt to the center of the tip of Second-Class piles may lie partly outside the body
of the pile, but the maximum distance between the line and the pile shall not exceed 1/2 percent of the length of the pile 3
or 3 inches, whichever is the smaller. Second-Class piles shall be free from short crooks that deviate more than 2-1/2
inches from straightness in any 5 foot length. (See Figure 7-1-1).

b. Holes less than 1/2 inch in average diameter shall be permitted in Second-Class piles provided that the sum of the
average diameters of all holes in any square foot of pile surface does not exceed 3 inches and the depth of any hole
does not extend to more than 1-1/2 inch and provided that the holes are not caused by decay, or marine borer attack.
Internal holes or damage to the cross-section (bearing) surfaces caused by decay, marine borers, or insects are not 4
permitted.

c. Splits in Second-Class piles shall not be longer than 1-1/2 times the butt diameter. This length of any shake or
combination of shakes, measured along the curve of the annual ring, shall not exceed one half the circumference of the
butt of the pile.

1.5.6 INQUIRIES AND PURCHASE ORDERS (2007)

Each inquiry or purchase order for piles purchased under this specification should clearly state:

a. The number of pieces of each length.

b. The species of wood.

c. Whether the piles shall conform to the requirements for First Class or Second Class piles.

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d. Whether the piles shall be specified by butt circumference or tip circumference.

e. Whether the piles shall be clean-peeled, rough peeled, or unpeeled.

f. If close grain is wanted (in softwood piles).

g. If heartwood content is wanted.

h. Whether piles shall be treated or untreated, and if treated, the type of preservative and minimum penetration.

i. Any exceptions to this specification such as the entire removal of all inner bark for clean-peeled piles.

j. Instruction for inspection, marking, acceptance and shipment.

SECTION 1.6 SPECIFICATIONS OF FASTENERS FOR TIMBER TRESTLES1

1.6.1 MATERIAL (2008)

a. Malleable Iron. Malleable iron castings shall conform to current ASTM Specifications, designation A47, Grade 35018,
with minimum yield point of 35,000 psi.

b. Cast Iron. Cast iron shall conform to current ASTM Specifications, designation A48, Class No. 30.

c. Rolled Steel. Rolled steel plates, bars and shapes shall conform to current ASTM Specifications, designation A36.

d. Cast Steel. Cast steel shall conform to current ASTM Specifications, designation A27, Grade 65-35, full annealed with
minimum yield point of 33,000 psi.

1.6.2 T YPES OF FASTENERS (2009)

a. Nails, Spikes and Drift Bolts. Nails, spikes and drift bolts shall be made of rolled steel, square or round, as called for on
the plans. Where special heads are not specified, the manufacturer’s standard heads will be acceptable. Nails used for
fastening timbers shall be of a type having grooved, barbed or otherwise deformed shanks for greater holding power.

b. Through Bolts. Through bolts shall be made of rolled steel with U.S. standard square or hexagon heads and nuts unless
otherwise specified on the plans.

c. Washers.

(1) Ogee washers shall be made of cast iron and conform with ASTM A48.

1
References, Vol. 7, 1906, pp. 692, 719; Vol. 11, 1910, part 1, pp. 178, 228; Vol. 37, 1936, pp. 667, 1036; Vol. 48, 1947, pp. 386, 938; Vol. 54, 1953, pp. 942,
1329; Vol. 61, 1960, pp. 587, 1095; Vol. 89, 1988, p. 106.

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 Material Specifications for Lumber, Timber, Engineered Wood Products, Timber Piles, Fasteners, Etc.

A B T
Bottom
Bolt Size Top Outside
Outside Thickness
Diameter
Diameter
1/2 1-3/8 2-3/8 1/2
5/8 1-5/8 2-3/4 5/8
3/4 1-7/8 3 3/4
7/8 2 3-1/2 7/8
1 2-1/2 4 1
1-1/8 2-1/2 4-1/4 1-1/8
1-1/4 2-1/2 4-1/2 1-1/4
1-1/2 3 5-1/2 1-1/2

(2) Malleable cast iron round washers shall be made of malleable or cast iron. Finish may be black or hot dip
galvanized.

A T 1
Bolt
Outside
Size Thickness
Diameter
3/8 2-1/2 1/4
1/2 2-1/2 1/4
5/8 2-3/4 5/16
3/4 3 7/16
7/8 3-1/2 7/16 3
1 4 1/2
1-1/8 4-1/2 1/2
1-1/4 5-1/2 9/16
1-1/2 6 3/4

(3) Round plate washers shall be made of rolled steel. Finish may be black or hot dip galvanized. 4

B A C
Bolt Outside Inside
Size Diameter Diameter Thickness
3/8 2 7/16 3/16
1/2 2-1/4 9/16 3/16
5/8 2-1/2 11/16 1/4
3/4 3 13/16 1/4
7/8 3-1/2 15/16 5/16
1 4 1-1/16 3/8
1-1/4 5 1-3/8 3/8
1-1/2 5 1-5/8 3/8

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d. Lag Screws. Lag screws, including steel drive dowels and spikes with spirally grooved shanks shall be made of rolled
steel. Heads for lag screws shall be U.S. standard unless otherwise specified.

e. Special Castings. Special castings, including such parts as gib plates, angle blocks, etc., shall be made of cast or
malleable iron. They shall be true to pattern, free from wind, without injurious defects and of the size and shape
specified on the plans.

f. Cap - Stringer Fasteners. These include such types of fastenings as shown on Appendix 3 - Legacy Designs; Figure 7-
A3-64. They shall be made of rolled steel of the size and shape specified on the plans.

g. Metal Joint Connectors.

(1) Spiked grids, cast shear plates and claw plates shall be made of malleable iron.

(2) Split rings, toothed rings, bull dog types, pressed shear plates and clamping plates shall be made of rolled steel.

(3) They shall be of the size and design specified on plan.

h. Brace Plates and Washer Plates. Brace plates and washer plates or similar items shall be made of rolled steel to the
size and details specified on the plan.

1.6.3 USE OF PROTECTIVE COATINGS FOR STEEL FASTENERS ON TIMBER BRIDGES

(2008)

a. Plain iron or steel fastenings will ordinarily outlast untreated timber. Creosote oil, whether straight or in coal-tar or oil
mixtures, will retard corrosion of embedded metal fastenings.

b. Galvanizing or other protective coating on iron or steel fastenings is not warranted if the fastenings are to be entirely
embedded in untreated or creosote treated timber or if metal is to be exposed only to ordinary weathering.

c. When metal fastenings are not to be completely embedded and are to be exposed to salt water or an unusually corrosive
atmosphere, consideration should be given to the use of galvanizing or to some other protective coatings on the
exposed metal. As the limits within which protectively coated metal is economical are not well established, local
experience should be investigated.

SECTION 1.7 SPECIFICATIONS FOR TIMBER BRIDGE TIES

1.7.1 MATERIAL (2009)

1.7.1.1 Kinds of Wood

Before manufacturing ties, the railway or end user shall determine which species of wood are acceptable.

1.7.2 PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS (2009)

1.7.2.1 General Quality

The general quality of bridge ties shall conform to the appropriate grading rules. All ties shall be sawn from live, sound,
straight timber free of defects that may impair strength or durability; such as decay, splits, shake, excessive slope of grain, or
numerous holes or knots, bark, wane, etc.

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1.7.3 DESIGN (2009)

Also see Article 1.7.4.

1.7.3.1 Support Conditions

Depending on the intended service conditions, bridge ties may be classified as structural or bearing ties. Structural ties are
normally used for open deck bridges having steel girder spans. Under these conditions the strength of the ties is governed by
flexure or horizontal shear. Bearing ties are normally used for open decks of timber trestle spans or on open decks of steel
beam spans having multiple beams where the strength of ties is governed by bearing on the top of the stringer flange.

1.7.3.2 Dimensions

a. The minimum cross-section for structural and bearing type bridge ties shall be based on the applicable clauses of
Chapter 7, Part 2.

b. The minimum width of bridge ties shall be eight (8) inches nominal.

c. When ties are dapped, the minimum depth of the tie shall be the net depth as calculated in Article 1.7.3.2a.

d. The minimum length of bridge ties shall be ten feet (nominal) or center-to-center of outer supports plus three times the
depth of tie, whichever is greater.

1.7.4 INSPECTION (2009) 1

1.7.4.1 Place

Before accepting ties for installation, the bridge ties shall be inspected at locations specified by the railway.

1.7.4.2 Manner
3
Prior to treatment, inspectors shall make a close examination of the top, bottom, sides and ends of each bridge tie with regard
to its manufacture and compliance with respect to the grading rules. Each bridge tie shall be judged independently, without
regard to decisions on other ties in the same lot.

1.7.4.3 Handling

Bridge ties are to be handled with care to prevent damage. Damaged ties will not be accepted. 4

1.7.4.4 Quality

Bridge ties shall be treated No. 1 Grade in the following species:

• Douglas-fir - Costal Species, Beams and Stringers, WCLIB, WWPA or NLGA.

• Oak, Timbers - Beams and Stringers, NELMA.

• Southern Yellow Pine, Timbers, SPIB.

1.7.4.5 Dimensions

The following finished dimensional tolerances of sawn or machined bridge ties are to be followed unless otherwise specified
by the railway.

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Depth: Sized or dapped areas: ± 1/16”

1.7.5 DELIVERY (2010)

1.7.5.1 Location

Bridge ties delivered for acceptance shall be stacked at suitable and convenient locations meeting individual railway safety
requirements and as approved by the railway. Bridge ties delivered on the premises of a railway for inspection shall be stacked
on blocking placed on firm ground.

1.7.5.2 Risk, Rejection

All bridge ties remain the property of the supplier until accepted. All rejected ties shall be removed from railway premises by
the supplier at his expense within a time frame specified by the railway; for example within thirty (30) days after the date of
rejection.

1.7.6 SHIPMENT (2009)

Bridge ties shall be separated into bundles therein according to bridge locations for which they are intended, and also
according to the location on the bridge spans, unless otherwise stipulated in the contract, on the railway order form or on the
accompanying plans for the ties.

1.7.7 DAPPING OR SIZING BRIDGE TIES (2009)

Dapping or sizing of ties is to be performed in a framing mill properly equipped to perform such work. Dapping or sizing is to
be performed before treatment.

a. When dapped bridge ties are used, the width of dap shall be the width of flange plus 1/2 inch and the minimum depth
of dap shall be 3/8 inch or such that the undapped portion will not bear on gusset plates, bracing, etc.

b. When sized ties are required, the railway may specify surfacing on 1 or more sides or edges.

c. On curved tracks, superelevation may be provided by tapered ties, which may be dapped or sized. An approved tie plan
must be provided to the framing mill and the ties should be uniquely and individually numbered to identify ties having
different dapped dimensions. The method of numbering shall comply with the requirements of the railway.

1.7.8 BRIDGE TIE INSTALLATION (2017)

1.7.8.1 Bridge Tie Spacing and Spacers1

a. The maximum recommended nominal clear distance between ties shall be:

• six (6) inches for structural ties,

• six (6) inches for bearing ties on steel beams or girders and

• eight (8) inches on timber stringers.

b. Bridge tie spacers may be a minimum 4" x 8" wood, or 3" x 5/8” steel bar having predrilled holes for fasteners, or of
other design as specified by the railway.

1
See Part 6 Commentary.

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c. A tie spacer shall be fastened to each bridge tie with 5/8” diameter drive spikes, lag screws or lag bolts and shall be
long enough to engage a minimum of one half the depth of tie. To avoid splitting, it is recommended to pre-bore holes
in the ties.

1.7.8.2 Rail Fastening

The type of rail fasteners to be used will be determined by the railway.

a. For spikes refer to Chapter 5, Part 2.

b. For spiking refer to Chapter 5, Part 4.

c. For other fastening systems refer to manufacturer’s specifications.

1.7.8.3 Tie Plates

a. For tie plates refer to Chapter 5, Part 1.

b. Suitably sized double shouldered tie plates shall be used taking into consideration species of wood, axle loads,
predominant train speeds, track curvature, etc.

c. The minimum recommended size of tie plates is:

Main line bridge decks: 7¾” x 15"

1
For other bridge decks: 7" x 12"

d. The railway may use tie plates of special design providing the requirements of Article 1.7.8.3c are met.

1.7.8.4 Bridge Tie Pads

3
a. Tie pads may be used to minimize plate cutting and to reduce impact and vibration effects on the bridge structures.

b. Tie pads may be made of a plain or reinforced elastomeric material, impregnated fibrous material or any other suitable
product, provided they are strong enough for the loading, are water repellent and stay firm in shape during service.

c. The size of tie pad shall conform to the tie plate used and shall be of suitable thickness.
4
d. Many special design tie plates do not permit the use of tie pads. The suitability of specific tie plates for use with bridge
tie pads shall be verified with the tie plate manufacturer.

e. Refer to Chapter 30, Section 2.5 for material requirements and testing.

1.7.8.5 Bridge Tie Fastening

a. For fastening bridge ties to timber stringers, one of the following anchoring systems may be used:

(1) Bolts or drive spikes.

(2) Machine bolts with adequate washers and nuts.

(3) A combination of (1) and (2).

b. For fastening bridge ties to steel beams and girders, one of the following anchoring systems may be used:

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(1) Machine bolts with a plate or spring washer and standard or lock type nut.

(2) Hook bolts with a plate or spring washer and standard or lock type nut.

(3) Machine bolts with a clip and plate or spring washer and standard or lock type nut.

(4) Other systems may be used if approved by the railway.

(5) Ties installed on the rivet or bolt heads of built-up girders should have the fasteners re-tightened after traffic has
set the new deck down on the girder flange.

c. The size and the spacing of the anchoring system should be such as to provide adequate stability for the open deck
considering the loads and forces as described in Chapter 7 and Chapter 15.

d. Refer to Chapter 7, Part 1 and Chapter 15, Section 8.3 of the latest revision of this Manual for additional guidelines.

1.7.9 PRESERVATIVE TREATMENT OF BRIDGE TIES (2009)

Refer to Chapter 30, Section 3.6 and Section 3.7.

1.7.10 SPIKE OR BOLT HOLES (2009)

Refer to Chapter 30, Part 3.

1.7.11 TIE PLUGS (2009)

Refer to Chapter 30, Article 3.1.5.

1.7.12 TIE BRANDING (2009)

Refer to Chapter 30, Article 3.1.4.5.

1.7.13 END SPLITTING CONTROL DEVICES (2009)

Refer to Chapter 30, Articles 3.1.6 and 3.1.7.

SECTION 1.8 RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FIRE-RETARDANT COATING

FOR CREOSOTED WOOD1 (1963) R(2008)

1.8.1 SCOPE (1988)

These recommendations are intended primarily for use with coatings of the film-forming classification, such as paints and
mastics. Any material other than film-forming type shall conform to these recommendations except where film-forming
qualities are required for fulfillment of the recommendations and apply to:

a. Performing requirements of fire-retardant coating compositions for use with wood treated with creosote or mixture of
creosote with coal tar or petroleum, and

1
References, Vol. 64, 1963, pp. 374, 621; Vol. 89, 1988, p. 106.

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b. Methods for the acceptance testing of such fire-retardant coatings.

1.8.2 GENERAL PRODUCT REQUIREMENTS (1988)

1.8.2.1 Uniformity

a. All component raw materials of the product shall be thoroughly mixed and dispersed during its manufacture, unless the
product is a multi-component system which sets or polymerizes rapidly and requires mixing immediately prior to
application.

b. The formulation and quality of the product shall be maintained constant by the manufacturer and shall not be varied
without notice.

1.8.2.2 Stability in Storage

The product shall maintain stability at temperatures above 32 degrees F, shall not require unusual storage conditions, and shall
conform to the requirements of the following:

a. In a freshly opened container the product shall reveal no curdling, livering, lumping, decomposition, gelling or any
other objectionable characteristic within 12 months after delivery.

b. Separated, settled, caked or thickened materials shall be easily and adequately dispersible with a paddle without change
in the quality or properties of the product.
1
1.8.2.3 Applied Coating

A dry film of the product shall exhibit the following properties:

a. Adhesion: The product shall be cohesive and shall adhere to the primary surface or to any secondary supporting
surface.
3
b. Durability: The product shall resist water, brine, creosote, mixtures of creosote with petroleum or coal tar, sunlight,
freezing and thawing, and general temperature extremes.

c. Foot Traffic: The product shall resist damage when applied on traffic areas.

d. Fire Retardancy: The product shall withstand heat or flames originated by miscellaneous heat sources, including
ignited fusees, hot brake shoe splinters, sparks, hot coals or cinders, drops of molten metal, and burning debris. 4
1.8.2.4 Flammability of Wet Films

a. The evaporation of solvents or other materials from a wet film of the product shall cease to constitute a flammable
hazard within 4 hours after application.

b. A film of the product, applied so as to achieve the minimum total dry thickness recommended by the manufacturer,
shall cease to support combustion within 48 hours after application of the final coat.

1.8.2.5 Drying Time

A film of the product, applied at the maximum wet thickness recommended by the manufacturer, within 36 hours after
application and without forced drying, shall be hard enough to allow firm pressure of the thumb against the coated object
without rupture of the film or adherence of coating to the thumb.

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1.8.3 APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS AND INSTRUCTIONS (1988)

1.8.3.1 Handling Instructions

All precautions for storage and handling prior to and during application of the product shall be stated clearly in an
accompanying instruction leaflet prominently displayed on each container, together with complete information and
instructions for recommended equipment and materials for surface preparation, thinning, and application.

1.8.3.2 Product Information

All information and physical measurements not specified elsewhere in these recommendations, which might assist in the
proper handling or testing of the product, shall accompany the instructions and shall include the following:

a. Specific gravity, and weight in pounds per gallon, or weight to the nearest 0.1 g of 1 pint of the coating.

b. Recommended maximum wet thickness and calculated coverage of a single-coat application of the coating, unthinned
and thinned with recommended proportions of thinner.

c. Measured resultant dry thickness of the recommended maximum wet thickness of a single-coat application.

d. Recommended minimum dry thickness required for fire-retardancy effectiveness.

e. Drying time required between applications, thinned and unthinned.

f. Duration of solvent fire hazard during the drying lime of a single-coat application, thinned and unthinned.

g. Drying or curing time required to attain maximum fire retardancy.

h. Recommended spray equipment (gun type, orifice size, spray pattern, pressure, etc.).

i. Solvents and materials which may be used to clean application equipment.

j. Corrosiveness of product to container and spray equipment.

k. Toxicity to humans and animals of the product in the wet and dried conditions.

1.8.3.3 Working Properties

a. The product shall be applicable by brushing, spraying and, if it is a mastic, by trowelling, or it shall be adaptable for
spraying, without loss of quality, by addition of a thinner recommended by the manufacturer.

b. A wet film of the product, when applied at the thickness recommended by the manufacturer, shall not show sagging,
running, pinholing or other objectionable features.

1.8.3.4 Surface Preparation

Timber surface preparation or treatment shall not be extensive and shall not require unusual equipment, materials or
operations.

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1.8.4 T ESTING (2011)

1.8.4.1 Specimen Preparation

a. Wood Selection. The wood shall be selected from well-seasoned nominal 2 inches by 6 inches boards of Grade B & Btr
edge-grained southern yellow pine containing no more than 10 percent heartwood, at least 14 feet in length, dressed on
four sides and free from knots, stains, pitch pockets and bark. The maximum width of the annual growth rings shall be
no greater than 1/16 inch. Edge-grained shall mean that at both ends of a board, where the wood has been cut cross
sectionally, at least half of the acute angles between lines drawn tangential to the annual rings and lines drawn
perpendicular to the broad surfaces of the board shall be no greater than 45 degrees.

b. Sectioning. The first 6 inches of the ends of each board shall be discarded, and the remainder shall be cut laterally into
18 inch sections. Each section shall be identified by the board number and by its own number from one end of the
board. Each section shall be tested for moisture content at 6 inch intervals along its longitudinal axis with an electrical
moisture meter employing metal probes which are no shorter than 1/4 inch. The moisture content of a section shall be
greater than 8 percent and less than 15 percent. The sections shall be protected from checking or loss of moisture,
preferably by storage in a cold, humidified atmosphere. A section which has checked shall not be used as a test
specimen.

c. Preservative Treatment. The dimensions of an 18 inch section shall be measured to the nearest 0.01 inch and the
volume calculated to the nearest 0.001 cubic foot. Each section shall be weighed to the nearest gram before
preservative treatment. The creosote solutions and treating methods employed for impregnation of the sections shall be
prescribed by the purchaser. After preservative treatment, each section shall be allowed to drain freely for 24 hour,
wiped clean, and weighed to the nearest gram. The preservative retention shall be calculated in pounds per cubic foot 1
to the nearest 0.01 lb per cubic foot, using the previously obtained dimensions and volume calculations, and the
resultant figure shall be called “initial retention.” The treated sections shall be stored for a minimum of 30 days or a
maximum of 60 days, at approximately 75 degrees F and 50 percent relative humidity, prior to a coating application or
any form of testing. Immediately prior to preparation of a section for use in testing procedures, the section shall be
weighed to the nearest gram, the net preservative retention shall be calculated: the resultant figure shall be called “test
retention.” The test retention of any specimen shall be no less than 10 lb per cubic feet. All treated or untreated
specimens used in a test shall be subjected to identical pre-test storage conditions. 3
1.8.4.2 Fire Tests

1.8.4.2.1 Testing in Fire-Test Cabinet

a. Apparatus. The fire-test cabinet shall be a rectangular insulated chamber measuring 31 inches high, 10 inches wide and
12 inches deep. In order to suspend the specimen in the fire-test cabinet, a supporting rod shall be affixed horizontally 4
1 inch from the tops of opposite walls of the cabinet. For draft control, the 2-inch bottom section of the cabinet shall
consist of louvers which can be raised 90 degrees. Two pairs of ungalvanized iron pipe with 3/8 inch internal diameter,
each pair vertically parallel and separated by 3 inches between their longitudinal axes, shall be fastened to opposite
sides of the cabinet. Orifices of 1/32 inch diameter shall be located in a straight line at 1-inch intervals, for 20 inches
along each pipe, beginning at 1/2 inch from the cap (Figure 7-A3-1). The cabinet shall be equipped with a removable
door fitted with viewing ports covered with mica sheet (Figure 7-A3-2). A pilot-flame orifice shall be installed at the
bottom of one pipe at each side of the cabinet (Figure 7-A3-3 and Figure 7-A3-4).

b. Fuel. Bottled liquid-petroleum gas, with a minimum propane content of 95 percent, shall be supplied to the burner
pipes at the rate of 0.4 cubic foot per minute or approximately 60,000 Btu per hour during the course of a specimen
ignition. The flames shall extend approximately 4 inches horizontally from the orifices and shall be a definite yellow
color.

c. Specimen Section and Position. The test specimen shall be selected by the procedures specified under Article 1.8.4.1a
coated with a film of uniform thickness, allowed to dry or cure completely, and shall be suspended vertically in the

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fire-test cabinet at the initiation of the test. The broad faces of the specimen shall parallel the two pairs of burner pipes
at a distance of 3 inches from the orifices, with the top end of the specimen on a level with the top orifices.

d. Test Procedure. A specimen shall be positioned in the fire-test cabinet with the door closed and the pilot flames lit. The
ignition of the specimen shall be effective by quickly opening the fuel valve to the required setting and allowing the
flames of the ignited gas to be directed against the specimen for 5 minutes. The duration of self-sustained flaming after
ignition shall be recorded and designated as “free-burning time.” The period after which flaming has stopped and
glowing occurs shall be recorded and designated as “glow time.” The free-burning interval shall be terminated for one
of the following reasons:

(1) A maximum free-burning time of 30 minutes shall have passed.

(2) During the 30-minute free-burning period it is judged that the flames are merely flickering or flashing and
constitute practical self-extinguishment, or that small flames are being sustained only at the ends of the specimen.

If at the end of the 30-minute free-burning period, flaming continues at a rate requiring the use of an accessory
extinguishing agent, the flames shall be extinguished with a fire-extinguishing gas.

The test may be conducted in a well insulated laboratory fume hood or on a table placed under an insulated canopy.
Both the fume hood and the canopy shall be equipped with efficient, safe, smoke-exhaust fans. The exhaust fans shall
be operating prior to ignition of the specimen.

e. Observations. The specimen shall be attentively observed during the ignition and the free-burning periods, and
specimen appearance, coating condition and flame activity shall be recorded. Relative flame activity during the free-
burning period and at its termination shall be described with the following terminology:

(1) Vigorous – Entire specimen flaming with little or no apparent diminishment of combustion rate.

(2) Very Strong – Approximately 75 percent of specimen flaming, with apparent combustion rate slowly decreasing.

(3) Strong – Approximately 50 percent of specimen flaming, with apparent combustion rate decreasing.

(4) Mild – Approximately 25 percent of specimen flaming, with apparent combustion rate decreasing rapidly.

(5) Scattered – Areas of flaming where creosote wicking may be occurring or a heat trap may be located.

(6) Torching – Flames occurring with jet-like activity at points of coating rupture or specimen checking.

(7) Flickering – Small, virtually extinguished, flames at a few discrete points.

(8) Flashing – Spontaneous extinguishment and reignition of an area.

After the free-burning period, the specimen shall be allowed to remain in the fire-test cabinet, with the door removed,
until glowing has ceased. The time required for the cessation of glowing shall be recorded as “glow time.”

The burned specimen shall be weighed to the nearest gram, with the coating removed and wood char intact, not less
than 24 nor more than 36 hours after the free-burning period. The specimen shall be cleaned of char immediately,
without damage to the wood, and weighed again. The differences between the two weighings shall be recorded as the
weight of the char, and shall be calculated in pounds per cubic foot of volume of the unburned specimen. The
difference of weight of the specimen before burning and after being burned and cleaned shall be recorded as its total
weight loss, and shall be calculated in pounds per cubic foot by volume of the unburned specimen.

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 Material Specifications for Lumber, Timber, Engineered Wood Products, Timber Piles, Fasteners, Etc.

The thickness of the burned, cleaned specimen shall be measured to the nearest 1/64 inch on its longitudinal axis at a
point 6 inches from the end which was topmost in the fire-test cabinet. The difference between the thickness of the
specimen before and after cleaning shall be divided by two and recorded as char depth.

Other observations which shall be recorded are:

(1) Coating thickness and weight, wet.

(2) All defects found in a coated or uncoated specimen before a fire test.

(3) Blistering, fissuring, rupturing, intumescence, sloughing or other effects exhibited by a coating during a test and
the elapsed time before their occurrence.

(4) Relative extent of preservative bleeding during a fire test.

(5) Relative amount of smoke production during a fire test.

f. Acceptance Criteria. The specimen shall be totally self-extinguished within the 30-minute free-burning period or shall
exhibit only flickering flames.

(1) The total weight loss of the specimen, with char removed, shall not exceed 30 percent, or 15 lb per cubic foot by
volume of the unburned specimen.

(2) The char depth shall not exceed 1/8 inch. The char shall be evenly distributed with no occurrence of cupped areas.
1
(3) The quality of char shall not exceed 2.5 lb per cubic foot by volume of the unburned specimen.

(4) Glowing shall cease within 1 hour after termination of the free-burning period.

(5) The coating shall remain intact upon the specimen throughout the ignition, free-burning and glow periods, and
shall exhibit no sloughing, spalling or peeling.
3
(6) The performance of a minimum of three specimens, prepared in an identical manner, shall conform to the
stipulations of the acceptance criteria.

1.8.4.2.2 Fusee Test

a. Construction. The fusee test apparatus shall consist of two specimens selected by the procedures specified under
Article 1.8.4.1a and a section of gypsum or other fireproof insulating board measuring 18 inches by 16 inches by 1 4
inch. The two wood specimens shall be coated uniformly with the same thickness used for specimens tested in the fire-
test cabinet, and allowed to dry or cure completely. The coated specimens shall be joined together lengthwise in the
shape of an “L”, forming one side and the bottom of a flat-bottomed trough. The trough shall be completed in a “U”
shape by joining the insulation board to the bottom specimen. The specimens need not be nailed or fastened together.
The bottom specimen may be laid flat, with the other coated specimen and the insulation board standing on their edges
and placed flush against the edges of the bottom specimen.

b. Procedure. The trough shall be situated in a laboratory fume hood, with the exhaust fan operating. A 10-minute fusee
shall be ignited and laid snugly in the corner formed by the junction of the two coated specimens. When the fusee has
been consumed the duration and intensity of residual flame activity shall be recorded.

c. Acceptance Criteria.

(1) Flames shall be totally or virtually self-extinguished within 10 minutes after the fusee has stopped burning.

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(2) The coating shall not flake, peel, crumble, slough or exhibit any other effects which result in the exposure of the
wood substrate.

(3) Glowing shall have ceased within 30 minutes after flaming has stopped.

1.8.4.2.3 Accelerated Weathering Test

a. Apparatus and Specimens. When a coating shall have conformed to the standards of the first tests during initial testing,
it shall be used to prepare five additional specimens which shall be approximately identical to those which had been
tested. After thorough drying or curing, the specimens shall be exposed to artificial sunlight and simulated rainfall in a
weathering device described in ASTM Specifications, designation E42.

b. Procedure. Each specimen shall be positioned vertically in the weathering device, with one of its broad surfaces facing
the light source. The same surface shall face the light throughout the test. The test shall be terminated after an
accumulated light-exposure time of 1,000 hours or when, at any prior time, the coating is judged to have failed. The
decision of apparent coating failure shall be subjective and shall be based on the appearance of excessive blistering or
softening, or exposure of wood by sloughing, peeling, flaking, cracking or other effects. The test shall be conducted in
accordance with the following program:

(1) The specimen shall be exposed to artificial sunlight at all times during the operation of the weathering device,
except for such time as shall be required for the restriking of the carbon arc.

(2) The specimens shall be mounted, with a face-to-face diameter of 30 inches, on a circular rack which rotates at the
rate of 1 rpm. A water spray in the weathering device shall operate for 18 minutes at intervals of 102 minutes, so
that during each 2 hours of light radiation the specimens shall be exposed to water for 18 minutes. In this manner
each specimen shall receive approximately 2.5–3.0 minutes direct water spray during each 2-hour radiation period.

(3) Exposure in the artificial weathering device shall be undertaken daily, for a total of 90 hours within 5 days. At the
end of each 90 hours of exposure, the specimens shall be allowed to cool at room temperature for a minimum of 2
hours and then placed for 65 hours in a cold chamber adjusted to maintain a temperature of –20 degrees F. At the
end of the cold period, the specimens shall be observed during all handling and transfer operations involving a
specimen so as not to modify its condition.

c. Acceptance Criteria. At the termination of the weathering program, if failure has not occurred, the specimens shall be
subjected to the fire tests and shall be rated by the acceptance criteria of those tests.

1.8.4.2.4 Brine Resistance Tests

a. Apparatus. An assembly shall be arranged consisting of a stop-cock-controlled funnel and a small container equipped
with an overflow outlet. The container shall measure 4 inches on all sides, with an overflow tube of a minimum 1/8
inch diameter leading out from a point 1 inch below the top edge, and shall be composed of waterproof and chemical-
resistant materials, such as glass, rubber or plastics. The funnel shall be large enough to contain a minimum of 500 ml
of liquid and shall be placed vertically over the container.

b. Specimen Selection and Preparation. An 18 inch preservative-treated specimen shall be selected by the procedures
outlined under Article 1.8.4.1a discarding 4-1/2 inches of each end of the specimen. The remainder of the specimen
shall be sawn laterally at 2 inch intervals, yielding four sections, each of which shall be weighed to the nearest 0.1 g. A
uniform continuous coating film of the same thickness used for the fire-test specimens shall be applied to all surfaces
of the section, beginning at a point 1 inch from one end. The thickness and weight of the wet coating application shall
be recorded, and the coating shall be allowed to dry or cure completely.

c. Test Procedure. The container shall be filled to the overflow outlet with a 10 percent sodium chloride brine solution.
The funnel also shall be filled with the brine solution. The test shall be conducted at room temperature, 75 to 80
degrees F, and the brine shall be maintained at that temperature throughout the test. The coated end of a specimen shall

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 Material Specifications for Lumber, Timber, Engineered Wood Products, Timber Piles, Fasteners, Etc.

be immersed at approximately a 45 degree angle in the container, with the wider side facing upward, and with the
uncoated area of the opposite side resting on the edge of the container. No more than 4 nor less than 3-1/2 inches of a
coated side shall be below the surface of the solution. The tip of the funnel shall be positioned 1 inch above the center
of the line between the coated and uncoated areas of the specimen. At the start of the test, the stop cock shall be opened
sufficiently to allow drops of brine to fall at the rate of approximately 10 drops per minute, striking the specimen at the
midpoint of the line between the coated and uncoated areas. Dripping and immersion shall be continuous for 300
hours. The effluent from the specimen container shall be collected in any suitable container and discarded. At the end
of 300 hours, the brine solution in the specimen container shall be examined for discoloration and for materials which
have separated from the coating. The specimen shall be observed for blistering, fissuring, crumbling or other effects.

d. Acceptance Criteria. The specimen shall be examined immediately at the end of a test and at a time one week after the
test. Fissures in the coating shall be no wider than hairline cracks. Blisters shall be no larger than 1/8 inch in diameter.
Gentle teasing of the coating with knife point shall not result in easy dislodgement of coating particles. The dry
thickness of the coating at any location on the specimen shall not have decreased by more than 1/4 of the original dry
thickness. Discoloration of the brine solution and the presence of coating particles in the container shall indicate
possible leaching or solvation of the fire-retardant constituents of the coating.

1.8.4.2.5 Foot Traffic Test

A specimen shall be selected and prepared in the same manner as the specimens used for the fire tests, with the same thickness
of coating applied. The coating shall be allowed to dry or cure completely.

a. Procedure. The specimen shall be heated for 1 hour at 140 degrees F in an electric oven. The specimen shall then be
removed from the oven and immediately laid flat on one of its broad surfaces on a protected area of the floor, The
uppermost surface shall be stepped upon with one foot by a person weighing no less than 150 lbs. His entire weight
1
shall be concentrated on the specimen for 1 minute, at the end of which time he shall execute a 45 degree twisting
movement of the ball of his foot upon the coating and then step off the specimen.

b. Acceptance Criteria.

(1) The coating shall not exhibit tearing and shall not be lifted from the wood substrate by adhesion to the shoe used to 3
exert pressure. Should these or other objectionable effects occur, the test shall be repeated, using mineral aggregate
or similar material spread over the specimen surface while the coating is still wet.

(2) When a surfacing material is used in conjunction with a coating, it shall not be sufficiently dislodged to require
resurfacing the specimen.

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