Lesson 1-Properties of Steel and Timber

LESSON 1:
Properties of
Steel and Timber
Prepared by:
Engr. Jasmin G. Madayag
Learning Outcome:
At the end of this lesson, students should be able to:
1. Identify the properties of steel and timber needed in the design as a
structural member.
2. Know the advantages and disadvantages of each material
considering the production, economics, and environmental impact.
What is Timber?
Timber Production
Mechanical Properties of Timber
• Strength - the ability of a piece of timber to maintain stress
(force) without 'failure'
• Toughness - this includes flexibility and the reverse of

brittleness
• Hardness - resistance to indentation and scratching/abrasion

Non-mechanical Properties of Timber
• Specific Gravity - Denser timber tend to swell and shrink
more than less dense.
• Density - the higher the proportion of wood substance, the

greater the density. Mean values for the density of softwoods
and hardwoods range from about 400 to 650 kg/m3 and 500
to 1200 kg/m3
*The data used are for air-dry density, that is, the wood at 12%
moisture content, which is the average equilibrium moisture
content for internal environments in Queensland.
• Odor - this characteristic only present when freshly cut
• Color - dark color indicates high durability
• Grain - the alignment of grain may be straight, spiral,
interlocked, wavy or irregular
• Moisture Content - The acceptable moisture levels of wood
and lumber are in the range of 6% to 8% for interior and 9%
to 14% for exterior wood or for building envelope
components within constructed assemblies.
What is Steel?
• Steel is an alloy consists of
iron and carbon.
Steel Production
Classifications of Steel
I. Structural steel
II. Cold-formed steel
III. Fastening products
IV. Reinforcing Steel
Mechanical Properties of Steel
1. High Strength
Steel has a high tensile strength. It is divided into three categories:
Normal strength: Yield stress is about 240 MPa, tensile strength
about 360 MPa.
High strength: Yield stress is about 340 MPa, tensile strength
about 470 MPa.
Extra-high strength: Yield stress is about 450 MPa, tensile strength
about 550 MPa.
2. Toughness
Structural steel is tough, they have both strength and ductility. A
steel member can be subjected to large deformation without fracture.
Mechanical Properties of Steel
3. Ductility
Steel can undergo large plastic deformation before failure,
thus providing large reserve strength. In addition, steel with
low carbon is more ductile.
4. Durability
Steel is very durable material. It can withstand extreme
conditions.
Physical Properties of Steel
1. Thermal Conductivity
The thermal conductivity of steel is measured at approximately
45 W/(mK).
2. Flammability
Steel is a non-combustible material which means it is not easy to
burn.
3. Density
The density of steel is 7850 kg/m3
Steel vs. Timber in terms of Durability
• The average life expectancy of timber is 25 years but it can last

more than 40 years if maintained and not exposed directly to a
natural and man-made disaster.
• The average life expectancy of steel is 35 years and still

serviceable up to 50 years. It can withstand extreme
environmental conditions if designed correctly.
Steel vs. Timber considering Construction
Method
Timber frames are easier to install than a steel frames. It can
be constructed by carpenters, whereas a steel frame requires
steel fabricators to weld together the structure.
Steel members may install for a very short time by a certified

steel worker.
Steel vs. Timber considering the Cost
• The cost of a project which involves the use of steel or timber

will depend on the factors affecting the phase of production.
Nevertheless, in terms of labor, timber offers a lower cost.
Steel vs. Timber in terms of Availability
• Timber is locally available and the main product of the
CARAGA region. It can be grown and re-grown through
natural processes and also through replanting and forestry
management programs.
• Steel has limited sources (mills) and raw materials used for
the production are non-renewable.
Steel vs. Timber considering Environmental
Impact
• Timber is the most environmental-friendly construction
material because it requires low energy consumption and
does not contain toxic elements. However, it produces
abundant waste from its production and construction.
• Steel is a recyclable material that produces less waste. The

production of steel requires intensive energy and generates
carcinogenic compound emissions to water and air.

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LESSON 1:

• Toughness - this includes flexibility and the reverse of

• Hardness - resistance to indentation and scratching/abrasion

• Density - the higher the proportion of wood substance, the

• The average life expectancy of timber is 25 years but it can last

• The average life expectancy of steel is 35 years and still

Steel members may install for a very short time by a certified

• The cost of a project which involves the use of steel or timber

• Steel is a recyclable material that produces less waste. The

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