Study on the tensile and compression tension-carrying capacity of corner V-nails

The present research project was carried out to find out tension-carrying capacity of corner miter V-joints in tensile and compression directions to be compared with those of dovetail joints. Variables included the type of wood-composites to produce the joints (MDF and particleboard), the number of V-nail in each joint (2, 3, and 4 V-nails), and the height of V-nails (7 and 10 mm). Separate sets of joints were produced with and without polyvinyl acetate resin. Results demonstrated that the tension-carrying capacity under compression tension was significantly higher than those in the tensile tension. Moreover, MDF joints showed higher tension-carrying capacity in comparison to those made from particleboard. Joints with resin were significantly stronger than those without resin. Increase in the number of V-nails resulted in an improvement in the tension-carrying capacity in both directions. Based on the results of the present research project, it was concluded that V-nails are preferred to dovetail joints from different perspectives, including their lower production expenses, lack of need for an extra step to mill the joint so that joint bits be inserted into, fast and easy installation of V-joint in one-step process, as well as higher tension-carrying capacity. Based on the obtained results indicating the maximum tension-carrying capacity of 13.7 MPa and 28 MPa for V-nails without and with adhesive, respectively, it was concluded that 4 V-nails with 10 mm in height in MDF joint-members would be recommended for joints without resin. In case of joints with resin, MDF joint-members with 3 V-nails of 10 mm would provide the highest tension-carrying capacity for craftsmen and producers of furniture and cabinets.