This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles

for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

Designation: E2126 − 19

Standard Test Methods for

Cyclic (Reversed) Load Test for Shear Resistance of Vertical
Elements of the Lateral Force Resisting Systems for
Buildings1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E2126; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope D4442 Test Methods for Direct Moisture Content Measure-

1.1 These test methods cover the evaluation of the shear ment of Wood and Wood-Based Materials
stiffness, shear strength, and ductility of the vertical elements D7438 Practice for Field Calibration and Application of
of lateral force resisting systems, including applicable shear Hand-Held Moisture Meters
connections and hold-down connections, under quasi-static E72 Test Methods of Conducting Strength Tests of Panels
cyclic (reversed) load conditions. for Building Construction
E564 Practice for Static Load Test for Shear Resistance of
1.2 These test methods are intended for specimens con- Framed Walls for Buildings
structed from wood or metal framing braced with solid E575 Practice for Reporting Data from Structural Tests of
sheathing or other methods or structural insulated panels. Building Constructions, Elements, Connections, and As-
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded semblies
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical E631 Terminology of Building Constructions
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only 2.2 ISO Standard:3
and are not considered standard. ISO 16670 Timber Structures—Joints Made with Mechani-
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the cal Fasteners—Quasi-static Reversed-cyclic Test Method
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the 2.3 Other Standards:
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- ANSI/AWC NDS4 National Design Specification4 for Wood
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter- Construction
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. CSA O86 Engineering Design in Wood5
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard- 3. Terminology
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom- 3.1 For definitions of terms used in this standard, see
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Terminology E631.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee. 3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 ductility ratio, cyclic (D), n—the ratio of the ultimate
2. Referenced Documents displacement (∆u) and the yield displacement (∆yield) of a
2.1 ASTM Standards:2 specimen observed in cyclic test.
D2395 Test Methods for Density and Specific Gravity (Rela- 3.2.2 elastic shear stiffness (Ke) (see 9.1.4, Fig. 1), n—the
tive Density) of Wood and Wood-Based Materials resistance to deformation of a specimen in the elastic range
before the first major event (FME) is achieved, which can be
expressed as a slope measured by the ratio of the resisted shear
1
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E06 on load to the corresponding displacement.
Performance of Buildings and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E06.11
on Horizontal and Vertical Structures/Structural Performance of Completed Struc-
tures.
3
Current edition approved Aug. 1, 2019. Published August 2019. Originally Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO
approved in 2001. Last previous edition approved in 2018 as E2126–11 (2018). Central Secretariat, BIBC II, Chemin de Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier,
DOI: 10.1520/E2126–19. Geneva, Switzerland, http://www.iso.org.
2 4
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or A registered trademark of and available from American Wood Council, 222
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Catoctin Circle SE, Suite 201, Leesburg, VA 20175, https://www.awc.org.
5
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on Available from CSA Group, 178 Rexdale Blvd. Toronto, ON Canada M9W
the ASTM website. 1R3, Canada, http://www.csagroup.org.

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

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 E2126 − 19

FIG. 1 Performance Parameters of Specimen: (A) Last Point at Pu $ 0.8 Ppeak

3.2.3 envelope curve (see Fig. 2), n—the locus of extremi- 3.2.7 failure load (Pu), n—the load corresponding to the
ties of the load-displacement hysteresis loops, which contains failure limit state.
the peak loads from the first cycle of each phase of the cyclic 3.2.8 first major event (FME), n—the first significant limit
loading and neglects points on the hysteresis loops where the state to occur (see limit state).
absolute value of the displacement at the peak load is less than
3.2.9 limit state, n—an event that demarks the two behavior
that in the previous phase.
states, at which time some structural behavior of the specimen
3.2.3.1 Discussion—Specimen displacement in the positive
is altered significantly.
direction produces a positive envelope curve; the negative
specimen displacement produces a negative envelope curve. 3.2.10 specimen, n—the vertical element of the lateral force
The positive direction is based on outward movement of the resisting system to be tested. Example of specimens are walls,
hydraulic actuator. structural insulated panels, portal frames, etc. A specimen can
be a single element or an entire line of resistance within a
3.2.4 envelope curve, average (see Fig. 3), n—envelope lateral force resisting system.
curve obtained by averaging the absolute values of load and
displacement of the corresponding positive and the negative 3.2.11 stabilized response, n—load resistance that differs
envelope points for each cycle. not more than 5 % between two successive cycles at the same
3.2.4.1 Discussion—For a monotonic test, the measured amplitude.
load-displacement curve is used as the average envelope curve 3.2.12 strength limit state (see Fig. 1), n—the point on the
for analysis purposes. envelope curve corresponding to the maximum absolute dis-
3.2.5 equivalent energy elastic-plastic (EEEP) curve (see placement ∆peak at the maximum absolute load (Ppeak) resisted
9.1.4, Fig. 1), n—an ideal elastic-plastic curve circumscribing by the specimen.
an area equal to the area enclosed by the envelope curve 3.2.13 ultimate displacement, cyclic (∆u), n—the displace-
between the origin, the ultimate displacement, and the dis- ment corresponding to the failure limit state in cyclic test.
placement axis. For monotonic tests, the observed load- 3.2.14 ultimate displacement, monotonic (∆ m), n—the dis-
displacement curve is used to calculate the EEEP curve. placement corresponding to the failure limit state in monotonic
3.2.6 failure limit state, n—the point on the envelope curve test.
corresponding to the last data point with the absolute load 3.2.15 yield limit state, n—the point in the load-
equal or greater than |0.8 Ppeak |, as illustrated in Fig. 1. displacement relationship where the elastic shear stiffness of

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FIG. 1 Performance Parameters of Specimen: (B) Last Point at Pu = 0.8 Ppeak (continued)

FIG. 2 Examples of Observed Hysteresis Curve and Envelope Curves for Test Method A

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FIG. 2 Examples of Observed Hysteresis Curve and Envelope Curves for Test Method B (continued)

the assembly decreases 5 % or more. For specimens with cyclic, the loading process simulates the actions and their
nonlinear ductile elastic response, the yield point (∆yield , Pyield) effects on the specimens.
is permitted to be determined using the EEEP curve (see 9.1.4). 5.2 The monotonic test is intended to provide data from a
continuous displacement ramp loading of a matched test
4. Summary of Test Method
specimen with boundary conditions identical to the specimens
4.1 The elastic shear stiffness, shear strength and ductility of that will be cyclically tested. The results from the monotonic
specimens are determined by subjecting a specimen to full- test, when employed, are primarily intended for defining the
reversal cyclic racking shear loads in accordance with one of amplitudes of load cycles for the three cyclic protocols.
the three cyclic test protocols. The test is accomplished by
NOTE 2—The monotonic test is not intended to serve as an equivalent
anchoring the bottom edge of the specimen to a test base alternative to the cyclic protocols of this Test Method or the procedures of
simulating intended end-use applications and applying a force Test Methods E72 or Practice E564.
parallel to the top of the specimen. The specimen is allowed to
displace in its plane. Sheathing panels that are a component of 6. Specimen
a specimen shall be positioned such that they do not bear on the 6.1 General—The typical specimen consists of a frame,
test frame during testing. (See Note 1.) As the specimen is bracing elements, such as panel sheathing, diagonal bracing,
racked to specified displacement increments, the racking etc., and fastenings. The bracing is attached on one side of the
(shear) load and displacements are continuously measured (see frame unless the purpose of the test requires bracing on both
8.8). A similarly configured monotonic test also is provided as sides. The elements of the specimen shall be fastened to the
an available means to derive the cyclic test protocol. frame in a manner to conform to 6.2. Elements used to
construct specimens may be varied to permit anticipated failure
NOTE 1—If the end-use applications require sheathing panels bear
directly on the sill plate, such as most structural insulated panels, the
of selected elements. All detailing shall be clearly identified in
specimen may be tested with sheathing panels that bear on the sill plate. the report in accordance with Section 10.
6.2 Connections—The performance of specimens is influ-
5. Significance and Use enced by the type, spacing, and edge distance of fasteners
5.1 These cyclic test methods are intended to measure the attaching sheathing to framing and spacing of the shear
performance of vertical elements of the lateral force resisting connections and hold-down connectors, if applicable, and the
system subjected to earthquake loads. Since these loads are tightness of the fasteners holding the specimen to the test base.

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FIG. 2 Examples of Observed Hysteresis Curve and Envelope Curves for Test Method C (continued)

FIG. 3 Example of Average Envelope Curve (see Fig. 2, Test Method C)

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6.2.1 Sheathing Panel Attachments—All panel attachments 6.3.1.2 All Other Systems with Wood Framing—The critical
shall be consistent with the types used in actual building wood framing members to be measured shall be those that
construction. Structural details, such as fastener schedules, directly contribute to the in-plane shear strength and stiffness
fastener edge distance, and the gap between panels, shall be of the specimen. No individual framing member shall exceed
reported in accordance with Section 10. the published reference specific gravity by more than 10 %.
6.2.2 Attachment to the Test Base—Specimen shall be at-
NOTE 4—Test Methods D2395, Method G, is sometimes useful for an
tached to the test base with fasteners in a manner representing approximate specific gravity determination that can be used to pre-sort
field conditions. For intended use requirements over a non- materials prior to constructing a specimen. While it does not provide a
rigid foundation, a mock-up flexible base shall be constructed direct correlation to Test Methods D2395, Methods A or B, for any given
to simulate field conditions. Consideration shall be given to the piece, it can help to predict the average oven-dry specific gravity of the
framing prior to building the specimen. Published reference values for
orientation and type of floor joists relative to the orientation of specific gravity can be found in documents such as the ANSI/AWC NDS
the wall assembly. When strap connections are used, they shall and CSA O86.
be installed (that is, inside/outside the sheathing, etc.) without
6.3.2 For steel or other metal framing members, record the
pre-tension in a configuration that simulates the field applica-
material specifications and thickness.
tion. The test report shall include details regarding this attach-
ment. 6.4 Structural Insulated Panel—The panel is prefabricated
6.2.3 Anchor and Hold-Down Bolts—When the specimen assembly consisting of an insulating core of 1.5 in. (38 mm)
frame is made of solid wood or wood-based composites, the minimum sandwiched between two facings. The assembly is
anchor bolts shall be tightened to no more than finger tight plus constructed by attaching panels together and to top and bottom
a 1⁄8 turn, provided that the design value of stress perpendicular plates or tracks.
to the grain is not exceeded. The hold-down bolts shall be 6.5 Specimen Size—The specimen shall have a height and
tightened consistently between replicates in accordance with length or aspect (height/length) ratio that is consistent with
hold-down manufacturer’s recommendation. The assembly test intended use requirements in actual building construction (see
shall not start within 10 min of the anchor bolt tightening to Fig. 4).
allow for stress relaxation of the anchor.
NOTE 3—Since solid wood and wood-based composites relax over time 7. Test Setup
as well as potentially shrink due to changing moisture content, the intent
of the finger tight plus a 1⁄8 turn is to avoid any significant pre-tension on 7.1 The specimen shall be tested such that all elements and
the anchor bolts, which may affect the test results. It is the committee sheathing surfaces are observable. For specimens such as
judgment that the maximum bolt tension should not be more than 300 lbf framed walls with sheathing on both faces of framing or
(1.33 kN) for the purpose of ensuring the bolt is not caught on a thread or frameless structural insulated panels, the specimens are dis-
not seated fully. It should be noted that, however, the bolt tension depends
mantled after tests to permit observation of all elements.
on wood species and density, bolt thread pitch (or bolt diameter), and plate
washer size. A general rule of thumb is to finger-tight plus 1⁄8 turn, which 7.2 The bottom of the specimen shall be attached to a test
will result in a nut displacement of approximately 0.01 in. (0.254 mm) for base as specified in 6.2. The test apparatus shall support the
1⁄2 and 5⁄8 in. diameter (12.7 and 15.9 mm diameter) UNC bolts. A torque

of about 50 lbf-in. (5.65 kN-mm) without bolt lubrication would normally specimen as necessary to prevent displacement from the plane
produce 300 lbf (1.33 kN) of bolt tension. of the specimen, but in-plane displacement shall not be
restricted.
6.3 Frame Requirements—The frame of the specimen shall
consist of materials representative of those to be used in the 7.3 Racking load shall be applied horizontally along the
actual building construction. The connections of these mem- plane of the specimen using a double-acting hydraulic actuator
bers shall be consistent with those intended in actual building with a load cell. The load shall be distributed along the top of
construction. the specimen by means of a loading beam or other adequate
6.3.1 For wood framing members, record the species and devices. The beam used to transfer loads between the hydraulic
grade of lumber used or the relevant product identification cylinder and the test specimen shall be selected so that it does
information for structural composite lumber framing; moisture not contribute to the measured racking strength and stiffness.
content of the framing members at the time of the specimen 7.3.1 If applied to the top of the specimen directly, for
fabrication and testing, if more than 24 h passes between these example, as is shown in Fig. 5, the maximum stiffness of load
operations (use Test Methods D4442, Methods A or B; or beam permitted is 330 000 kips-in.2 (947 kN-m2).
Practice D7438); and specific gravity of the critical framing
NOTE 5—The selected stiffness corresponds with an HSS 5 by 3 by 1⁄4
members (use Test Methods D2395, Methods A or B). The in. (127 by 76 by 6.4 mm) steel section. Other sections with equal or less
measured average oven-dry specific gravity of the critical stiffness have been successfully employed.
framing members shall be representative of the reference 7.3.2 The load beam selected shall not be continuous over
published specific gravity as outlined below: discontinuities in the test specimen.
6.3.1.1 Light-frame Wood Stud Shearwalls with Structural
Panel Sheathing—The critical members to be measured shall NOTE 6—Examples of discontinuities include portal frame openings,
be those that receive perimeter sheathing fasteners at the wall perforations, transitions between differential bracing types, etc.
Continuation of a rigid load beam over these discontinuities can add to the
sheathing panel boundaries. The measured average oven-dry measured in-plane rigidity of the system. However, the use of continuous
specific gravity of these members shall not exceed the pub- load beam over discontinuities may be considered provided that the added
lished reference specific gravity by more than 0.03. in-plane rigidity can be justified by the end-use applications.

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FIG. 4 An Example of Shear Wall Specimen

7.3.3 The combined gravity load applied to the specimen by cyclic test displacement cycle amplitudes, at least one mono-
the load beam and actuator shall be less than 350 lbf (1.56 kN), tonic test shall be conducted.
unless the purpose of the test includes the influence of vertical 8.2 The cyclic displacement of the actuator shall be con-
loads on the system performance (see Appendix X3). trolled to follow a cyclic displacement schedule described in
7.4 Test setup shall be designed and installed so that vertical either 8.3 (Test Method A), 8.4 (Test Method B), or 8.5 (Test
(gravity) loads from test equipment applied to the specimen are Method C). Monotonic displacement of the actuator shall be
negligible. Other vertical loads shall not be added to the controlled to follow the continuous ramp described in 8.6 (Test
specimen unless justified by analysis of actual building con- Method D).
struction or the objective of the testing. When vertical loads are
8.3 Test Method A (Sequential-Phased Displacement Proce-
applied, the magnitude and test setup for the vertical load shall
dure):
be reported along with the justification.
8.3.1 Sequential Phased Displacement (SPD) Loading
NOTE 7—The neglect of vertical loads in this standard may result in Protocol—Displacement-controlled loading procedure that in-
inaccurate estimates of the capacity of the specimen as an element of the volves displacement cycles grouped in phases at incrementally
lateral force resisting system in actual building construction. For example,
the neglect of uplift forces in testing may overestimate the racking increasing displacement levels. The cycles shall form either a
capacity of the element, while the neglect of dead weight of the story sinusoidal wave or a triangular wave. The SPD loading
above may underestimate the racking capacity of the element unless consists of two displacement patterns and is illustrated in Fig.
buckling is the predominant failure mode. 6. The first displacement pattern consists of three phases, each
containing three fully-reversing cycles of equal amplitude, at
8. Procedure displacements representing 25 %, 50 %, and 75 % of antici-
8.1 Number of Tests—A minimum of two specimens of a pated FME. The second displacement pattern is illustrated in
given construction shall be tested cyclically if the shear Fig. 7. Each phase is associated with a respective displacement
strength (vpeak) values of each specimen calculated according level and contains one initial cycle, three decay cycles, and a
to 9.1.1 are within 10 % of each other. The lower of the two test number of stabilization cycles. For nailed wood-frame walls,
values shall be used to calculate the 10 % allowance. three stabilization cycles are sufficient to obtain a stabilized
Otherwise, at least three specimens of a given construction response. The amplitude of each consecutive decay cycle
shall be cyclically tested. When required to initially define the decreases by 25 % of the initial displacement.

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FIG. 5 An Example of Test Setup for Shear Wall Specimen

FIG. 6 Cyclic Displacement Schedule (Test Method A)

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FIG. 7 Single Phase of Pattern 2 (Test Method A)

FIG. 8 Cyclic Displacement Schedule (Test Method B)

8.3.2 The schedule of amplitude increments between the 8.4.1 ISO Displacement Schedule—Displacement-
sequential phases is given in Table 1. The amplitude incre- controlled loading procedure that involves displacement cycles
ments selected for the SPD procedure are based on the FME grouped in phases at incrementally increasing displacement
determined from the monotonic test on an identical specimen levels. The ISO loading schedule consists of two displacement
in accordance with Test Method D. To determine ∆yield, it is patterns and is illustrated in Fig. 8. The first displacement
permitted to compute EEEP curves, as shown in Fig. 1 based pattern consists of five single fully reversed cycles at displace-
on monotonic test data, in accordance with 9.1.4. ments of 1.25 %, 2.5 %, 5 %, 7.5 %, and 10 % of the ultimate
8.4 Test Method B (ISO 16670 Protocol): displacement ∆m. The second displacement pattern consists of

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FIG. 9 Cyclic Displacement Pattern (Test Method C)

TABLE 1 Test Method A—Amplitudes of Initial Cycles

Minimum
Amplitude of Initial Cycle
Pattern Step Number
% FME
of CyclesA
1 1 3 25
2 3 50
3 3 75
2 4 7 100
5 7 125
6 7 150
7 7 175
8 7 200
9 7 250
10 7 300
11 7 350
12 Additional increments of
50 (until specimen failure)
A
See 8.3.1 for details.

phases, each containing three fully reversed cycles of equal amplitude expressed as a fraction (percent) of the reference
amplitude, at displacements of 20 %, 40 %, 60 %, 80 %, deformation, ∆, and subsequent trailing cycles with amplitude
100 %, and 120 % of the ultimate displacement ∆ m. of 75 % of the primary one.
8.4.2 The sequence of amplitudes, which is given in Table 2, NOTE 8—The initiation cycles serve to check loading equipment,
are a function of the mean value (where applicable) of the measurement devices, and the force-deformation response at small am-
ultimate displacement (∆m) obtained from the monotonic tests plitudes.
on a matched specimen in accordance with Test Method D. 8.5.2 The schedule of amplitude increments is given in
8.5 Test Method C (CUREE Basic Loading Protocol): Table 3 and is illustrated in Fig. 9. The reference deformation
8.5.1 CUREE Basic Loading Protocol—Displacement- ∆ shall be an estimate of the maximum displacement at which
controlled loading procedure that involves displacement cycles the load in a primary cycle has not yet dropped below 0.8 Ppeak.
grouped in phases at incrementally increasing displacement The value of ∆ shall not exceed 0.025 times the wall height. In
levels. The loading history starts with a series of (six) initiation the absence of previous data or a consensus value, an initial
cycles at small amplitudes (of equal amplitude). Further, each estimate of the maximum displacement shall be permitted to be
phase of the loading history consists of a primary cycle with obtained from a monotonic test on a matched specimen in

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TABLE 2 Test Method B—Amplitudes of the Reversed Cycles
Minimum
Pattern Step Number Amplitude, % ∆m
of Cycles
1 1 1 1.25
2 1 2.5
3 1 5
4 1 7.5
5 1 10
2 6 3 20
7 3 40
8 3 60
9 3 80
10 3 100
11 3 Additional increments of
20 (until specimen failure)

TABLE 3 Test Method C—Amplitude of Primary Cycles

Minimum
Amplitude of Primary
Pattern Step Number
Cycle, % ∆
of Cycles
1 1 6 5
2 2 7 7.5
3 7 10
3 4 4 20
5 4 30
4 6 3 40
7 3 70
8 3 100
9 3 100 + 100αA
10 3 Additional increments of
100α (until specimen failure)
A
α # 0.5.

accordance with Test Method D. If the panel has not failed at cycle in a cyclic test or once per second in a monotonic test.
the end of Phase 8 of Table 3, then additional phases shall be The following instrumentation shall be provided for measuring
added. Each subsequent phase shall consist of a primary cycle displacements, and hold-down connector forces when required:
with an increase in amplitude of α (α ≤ 0.5) over the previous 8.8.1 Horizontal displacement of the specimen at the top
primary cycle, and followed by two trailing cycles with plate.
amplitude of 75 % of the primary one. 8.8.2 Vertical (upward and downward) displacement of both
8.6 Test Method D (Monotonic Loading Protocol)—The end posts (or equivalent) relative to the rigid base. The
monotonic load shall be applied as a continuous displacement- reference point for this measurement shall be on or immedi-
controlled ramp. It shall be permitted to apply the load in either ately adjacent to the outside face of the end post.
lateral direction. However, for a specimen that is expected to 8.8.3 Horizontal displacement of the bottom plate relative to
provide asymmetrical resistance, the ramp shall be applied in the rigid base (lateral in-plane sliding).
the weakest direction. 8.8.4 Vertical displacement of the hold-down connectors
relative to the end posts (deformation of the connectors and
8.7 The actuator displacement in Test Methods A, B, or C fastener slip), as applicable.
shall be controlled at either constant cyclic frequency or at a 8.8.5 When specified, loads on the bolts fastening the
constant rate of displacement. The rate of displacement shall be hold-down connectors to the rigid base.
between 0.04 and 2.5 in./s (1.0 and 63.5 mm/s). The cyclic
frequency shall range from 0.2 to 0.5 Hz to avoid inertial 9. Calculation
effects of the mass of the wall and test fixture hardware during 9.1 Based on the observed hysteresis response curves from
cyclic loading. The actuator displacement in Test Method D a cyclic test, the envelope (positive and negative) curves are
shall be controlled at a constant rate of displacement that does generated for each tested specimen. If the laboratory chooses to
not exceed 1 in./min (25.4 mm/min). In all cases, cyclic or report the positive and negative performances individually,
monotonic, the loading shall follow the corresponding proce- then both envelopes (positive and negative) shall be analyzed
dure until the applied load diminishes more than 0.2 Ppeak, that separately in accordance with Section 9. If the laboratory
is, until the failure limit state occurs. chooses to report one set of performance parameters that
8.8 Displacements shall be measured with displacement characterizes both envelopes, then the positive and negative
measuring devices with a resolution of 0.005 in. (0.13 mm) or envelope curves shall be averaged to produce an average
other suitable devices for continuously measuring envelope curve according to 3.2.4 and the calculations outlined
displacement, at a minimum sampling rate of 100 readings per in Section 9 shall be conducted for each specimen based upon

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 E2126 − 19
the average envelope curve. To analyze a monotonic test, the where:
actual load-displacement curve is used as the average envelope Pyield = yield load, lbf (N);
curve. A = the area under envelope curve from zero to ultimate
displacement (∆u) of the specimen, lbf·in. (N·m);
NOTE 9—If the specimen behavior in the positive and negative
Ppeak = maximum absolute load resisted by the specimen in
quadrants is similar (major events occur in the same phases on the
negative and positive sides), a reasonable approximation of the average the given envelope, lbf (N);
performance can be achieved by determining the parameters from positive ∆e = displacement of the top edge of the specimen at 0.4
and negative envelopes individually and then averaging them (see Ppeak, in. (mm); and
Appendix X4). Ke = 0.4 Ppeak/∆e.
9.1.1 Shear Strength (νpeak) lbf/ft (N/m)—The maximum 9.1.4.1 To generate an EEEP curve as described in 8.3.2
load per unit specimen length resisted by the specimen in the based on monotonic test results, the procedures in this section
given envelope shall be calculated as follows: are permitted, with ∆m substituting for ∆u.
P peak 9.1.5 If the envelope curve contains data points at loads less
ν peak 5 (1) than |0.8 Ppeak| (past strength limit state), the failure limit state
L
shall be determined at 0.8 Ppeak using linear interpolation, as
where: illustrated in Fig. 1.
Ppeak = maximum load resisted by the specimen in the given
envelope, lbf (N); and 10. Report
L = length of specimen, ft (m).
10.1 The report shall include the following information:
9.1.2 Secant shear modulus, G', at 0.4 Ppeak and at Ppeak 10.1.1 Date of the test and of report.
shall be calculated as follows: 10.1.2 Names of the test sponsors and test agency and their
P H locations.
G' 5 3 (2) 10.1.3 Identification of the specimen (test number, and so
∆ L
forth).
where: 10.1.4 Detailed description of the specimen and the test
G' = shear modulus of the specimen obtained from test setup, including the following:
(includes shear and uplift deformation for the connec- 10.1.4.1 Dimensions of the specimen.
tion system), lbf/in. (N/m); represents the secant shear 10.1.4.2 Details of the physical characteristics or structural
stiffness at specified specimen displacements times the design, or both, of the specimen, including, if applicable, the
aspect ratio; type, spacing, and edge distance of fasteners attaching sheath-
P = applied load measured at the top edge of the specimen,
ing to framing.
lbf (N);
∆ = displacement of the top edge of the specimen based on 10.1.4.3 Details of attachment of the specimen in the test
test, in. (m). This includes both the shear deflection of fixture, including a description of the test base and whether
the sheathing material and its connections, and the sheathing panels are directly bearing on the sill plate during
contribution of the shear and hold-down connection testing.
systems; 10.1.4.4 Location of load application and load cell, strain
H = height of specimen, ft (m); and gauges, deflection gauges, and other items for test as appli-
L = length of specimen, ft (m). cable.
10.1.4.5 Description of construction materials (for example,
9.1.3 Cyclic ductility ratio, D, as described in 3.2.1, shall be material type and grade, thickness, yield point, tensile strength,
calculated. If the shear stiffness (shear modulus) at 0.4 Ppeak is compressive strength, density or specific gravity, moisture
greater than that at Ppeak, generate the EEEP curve as described content, manufacturer of components used, source of supply,
in 9.1.4. Otherwise, the FME and the ultimate displacement dimensions, model, type, and other pertinent information, and
shall be determined directly from the envelope curve. Calculate so forth, as appropriate for materials used).
values of displacement, shear forces, and shear modulus at the 10.1.4.6 Drawing showing plan, elevation, principal cross
yield limit state and strength limit state. section, and other details as needed for description of the
9.1.4 When specified by 9.1.3, develop an EEEP curve to specimen and the test setup (see 10.1.4.1 – 10.1.4.5).
represent the envelope curve. Fig. 1 illustrates typical EEEP 10.1.4.7 Description of general ambient conditions includ-
curve. The elastic portion of the EEEP curve contains the ing the following:
origin and has a slope equal to the elastic shear stiffness, Ke. (1) At construction;
The plastic portion is a horizontal line equal to Pyield deter- (2) During curing or seasoning, if applicable (including
mined by the following equation: elapsed time from construction to test); and

P yield 5 S Œ
∆u 2 ∆ 2u 2
2A
Ke
D Ke (3)
(3) At test.
10.1.4.8 Modifications made on the specimen during test-
ing.
2A 10.1.4.9 Description of any noted defects existing in the
If ∆ 2u , , it is permitted to assume P yield 5 0.85 P peak
Ke specimen prior to test.

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10.1.5 Description of the test, including a statement that the 10.1.9 Photographs of the specimen, particularly those de-
test or tests were conducted in accordance with this test method picting conditions that cannot otherwise be easily described in
or otherwise describing any deviations from the test method. the report text, such as failure modes and crack patterns.
10.1.6 A full description of the cyclic or monotonic load 10.1.10 Appendix (if needed) that includes all data not
protocol employed, including the amplitude of the load cycles specifically required by test results. Include special observa-
used in a cyclic test. tions for building code approvals.
10.1.7 Summary of results, including: 10.1.11 Signatures of responsible persons are in accordance
10.1.7.1 Hysteresis loops (applied load versus displacement with Practice E575.
at the top of the specimen) for every specimen tested. 11. Precision and Bias
10.1.7.2 Complete record (table or plot) of individual dis-
11.1 No statement on the precision and bias is offered due to
placements required to be measured in 8.8.
the numerous individual elements that comprise the specimen
10.1.7.3 Shear strength (νpeak ) from tests of identical and the small number of replicate specimens tested. A gener-
specimens (9.1.1). ally accepted method for determining precision and bias is
10.1.7.4 As-tested and mean values of P, ∆ and G' at yield currently unavailable.
limit state and strength limit state in accordance with Section 9.
10.1.7.5 EEEP curve developed from the mean loads and 12. Keywords
displacements at yield limit state and failure limit state, if 12.1 cyclic loads; earthquake; framed walls; lateral-force
applicable (see 9.1.3 and 9.1.4). resisting systems; portal frames; racking loads; rigid support;
10.1.8 Description of failure modes and any behavior shear displacement; shear stiffness; shear strength; structural
change and significant events, for each test. insulated panels

APPENDIXES

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. DETERMINATION OF FIRST MAJOR EVENT

X1.1 The FME is the first significant limit state that occurs for a typical 8 ft (2.4 mm) wall.
during the test. The limit state in turn denotes an event marking
X1.1.1 Wood-Framed Walls with Wood Structural Panel
phase change between two behavior states. As noted in 8.3.2,
Sheathing—Aspect ratios of 2:1 or less, FME = 0.8 in. (20
the FME can be determined from monotonic tests on a matched
mm); aspect ratio of 4:1, FME = 1.2 in. (31 mm).
specimen in accordance with Test Method D. If the first
estimate is inappropriate, the data obtained can be revised for X1.1.2 Wood-Framed Walls with Gypsum Sheathing—
the subsequent tests. The following estimates offer guidance Aspect ratios of 2:1 or less, FME = 0.25 in. (6.4 mm).

X2. SELECTION OF LOADING METHOD

X2.1 Test Method A Versus Test Method B vast databases on walls tested under Ref (2). For the purposes
X2.1.1 Test Method A: of acceptance testing it would be permissible to correlate the
X2.1.1.1 Test Method A is a sequential phased displacement results of the two test methods.
pattern that exhibits decay cycles between the steps in the X2.1.2 Test Method B:
loading pattern. These decay cycles provide information on X2.1.2.1 The cyclic protocol for Test Method B was devel-
whether there is a lower bound in displacement required to oped for ISO 16670, a method for testing mechanically fas-
produce hysteretic energy dissipation (1).6 An example where tened timber joints. The background for this standard is given
a lower bound displacement causing hysteretic energy dissipa- in Ref (3-6), which indicates that a unique cyclic displacement
tion may occur would be a bolted connection through an or loading history will always be a compromise, but one that is
over-drilled hole. conservative for most practical cases should be selected. The
X2.1.1.2 Test Method A is based on Ref (2), which was Test Method B test protocol is intended to produce data that
developed by the Structural Engineers Association of Southern
sufficiently describe elastic and inelastic cyclic properties; and
California (SEAOSC) to test wood or steel framed shear walls
typical failure mode that is expected in earthquake loading.
for earthquake resistance. The Ref (2) is currently not being
maintained. There is a considerable breadth of information and X2.1.3 Selection of Test Method A Versus Test Method B:
X2.1.3.1 Test Method A may be applicable to systems when
6
The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to a list of references at the end of FME is the yield limit state or for testing slack systems to
this standard. determine a lower bound displacement causing hysteretic

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 E2126 − 19
energy dissipation. Test Method B is a ramped displacement the cyclic loading history. It is used to control the loading
phase that bases the cycles on the percentage of an ultimate history, and therefore needs to be estimated prior to the test.
displacement determined through monotonic tests in accor- The estimate can be based on previous experience, the results
dance with Test Method D. Test Method B may be more of a monotonic test in accordance with Test Method D, or a
applicable to systems that exhibit linear elastic behavior where consensus value that may prove to be useful for comparing
FME is the strength limit state. If the ratio of ∆m and FME is tests of different details or configurations. In CUREE Project
less than three, Test Method B may be preferable. Both test (7), the following guidelines were used:
methods are intended to generate similar displacement ampli- X2.2.2.1 Perform a monotonic test, which provides data on
tudes in order to obtain similar number of points in the the monotonic deformation capacity, ∆m. This capacity is
envelope curves. The difference is the number of cycles in each defined as the deformation at which the applied load drops, for
phase (step). the first time, below 80 % of the maximum load that was
X2.2 Test Method C applied to the specimen.
X2.2.1 Test Method C (CUREE protocol) is the latest X2.2.2.2 Use a specific fraction of ∆m, that is, γ∆m, as the
addition to the family of cyclic test protocols. It was developed reference deformation for the basic cyclic load test. At this
based on the statistical analysis of seismic demands on time, a value of ∆ = 0.6 ∆m is suggested. The factor γ should
light-frame buildings representative of California (in particular account for the difference in deformation capacity between
Los Angeles) conditions. The CUREE basic loading history is monotonic test and a cyclic test in which cumulative damage
a realistic and conservative representation of the cyclic defor- will lead to earlier deterioration in strength.
mation history to which a component of a wood structure likely
is subjected in earthquakes (7, 8). At relatively large deforma- X2.3 Test Method D
tions (primary cycles exceeding an amplitude of 0.4 ∆), the
X2.3.1 The monotonic test is not intended to, and will not
amplitude of the primary cycles increases by large steps. These
typically, provide results that are equivalent to any of the cyclic
large steps are based on statistics of inelastic time history
test methods. The primary intended use of this test method is to
responses. If the purpose of the experiment is acceptance
specify a standardized means to conduct a controlled mono-
testing, then it is permissible to reduce the step size of the
tonic displacement test on an otherwise matched test specimen
primary cycles with large amplitudes. Smaller step sizes close
that also will be tested using one of the cyclic test methods. All
to failure may result in a larger capacity (largest amplitude at
which the acceptance criteria are met), even though they will of those cyclic test methods may require the results from such
result in larger cumulative damage. The reason is that the large a monotonic test of a matched wall to at least initially
step sizes of the basic loading history permit evaluation of determine the amplitude of the displacement loading cycles.
acceptance only at discrete and large amplitude intervals. This There also may be secondary uses of this test for modeling
standard permits a reduction in step size only for phases in purposes where a continuous, uninterrupted load-displacement
which the amplitude of the primary cycle exceeds ∆. In that response curve of a representative specimen is required.
regime the amplitude the primary cycle may be increased by X2.3.2 Given the differences in the specimen’s boundary
α∆, with α to be chosen by the user, but α ≤ 0.5. conditions and load protocols, Test Method D is not intended to
X2.2.2 The reference deformation, ∆, is a measure of the serve as a substitute for Test Methods E72, Practice E564, or
deformation capacity (∆u) of the specimen when subjected to any other established monotonic loading protocols.

X3. TEST SETUP

X3.1 CUREE recommendations (9) suggest that top of wall setups where vertical load from the actuator is carried by the
boundary conditions may influence wall test results. The test setup, the impact of the actuator mass may be evidenced by
weight of the load beam and actuator on a test specimen can the difference in the positive and negative response from a
reduce the anchorage demand in a specimen tested in a vertical symmetrical system. Test frames have been constructed that do
orientation. The inertia from a heavy load beam during a cyclic not impose any vertical load on the specimen. The 350 lbf
test will exaggerate the measured response in test frames that (1.56 kN) load limit is based on committee judgment that
test a wall either vertically or horizontally. For these reasons, considered a range of test frames that are successfully em-
the mass of the load beam and any hydraulics supported by the ployed.
specimen shall be minimized to the extent practical. In test

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X4. COMMENTARY

X4.1 Performance Parameters—It is always permissible to analysis. Using this approach reduces the non-conservatism for
analyze the positive and negative envelope curves for a a moderately asymmetric wall. Calculation of average param-
specimen individually and report the corresponding response eters individually from the negative and the positive envelopes
parameters without averaging. However, the method for com- will provide a practical approximation of the average param-
puting average performance parameters that characterize both eters for reasonably symmetric envelopes; that is, if major
envelopes (positive and negative) can make a difference when events occur in the same phases on the negative and the
a specimen shows an asymmetrical response. In laboratory positive sides. Caution and judgment should be used in
practices, the responses from most wall tests are asymmetrical estimating any form of average response to characterize a
to some degree as damage created with an initial positive system that is grossly asymmetric. In these instances, the
excursion tends to weaken the response from the subsequent positive and negative envelopes should always be analyzed and
negative excursion within the same cycle. Determining the reported individually without averaging.
average response parameters for a specimen with dissimilar X4.2 Number of Tests—Depending on the purpose of a
positive and negative envelope curves by analyzing each testing program, the minimum number of tests required in 8.1
envelope (positive and negative) individually and then averag- may require an adjustment. For example, if the test program is
ing can result in non-conservative estimates of the perfor- intended for an exploratory study, the number of tests (two)
mance. Therefore, it is the committee judgment that when one specified in 8.1 may be sufficient. On the other hand, if the test
set of parameters is used to summarize the specimen response program is intended for code acceptance, three to five replica-
for structural design purposes, the parameters should be tions are typically required by the code evaluation agencies for
calculated from the average envelope as the primary method of a specific specimen configuration.

REFERENCES

(1) Porter, M. L., “Sequential Phased Displacement (SPD) Procedure for Ref T222-6, San Francisco, CA, 1998.
TCCMAR Testing,” Proceedings of Third Meeting of the Joint (6) Foliente, G. C., and Zacher, E. G., “Performance Tests of Timber
Technical Coordinating Committee on Masonry Research, U.S./Japan Structural Systems Under Seismic Loads. Analysis, Design, and
Coordinated Earthquake Research Program, Tomamu, Japan, 1987. Testing of Timber Structures Under Seismic Loads,” Proceedings of
(2) Structural Engineers Association of Southern California, Standard Research Needs Workshop, available from University of
Method of Cyclic Reverse Load Tests for Shear Resistance of Framed California–Berkeley, Forest Products Laboratory, Richmond, CA,
Walls for Buildings, Sacramento, CA, 1997. 1994.
(3) Park, R., “Evaluation of Ductility of Structural & Structural Assem- (7) Krawinkler, H., Parisi, F., Ibarra, L., Ayoub, A., and Medina, R.,
blages from Laboratory Testing,” Bulletin of the New Zealand Society “Development of a Testing Protocol for Wood Frame Structures,”
for Earthquake Engineering, Vol 22, No. 3, September 1989. CUREE Publication No. W-02, 2000.
(4) Chopra, A. K., Dynamics of Structures—Theory and Applications to (8) White, M. W., and Dolan, J. D., “Nonlinear Shear-Wall Analysis,”
Earthquake Engineering,” Prentice-Hall, Inc., Englewood Cliffs, NJ, ASCE Journal of Structural Engineering, American Society of Civil
1995. Engineers, New York, NY, November 1995.
(5) Foliente, G. C., Karacabeyli, E., and Yasumura, M., “International (9) Cobeen, K, Russell, J., and Dolan, J. D., “Recommendations For
Test Standards for Joints in Timber Structures under Earthquake and Earthquake Resistance in the Design and Construction of Woodframe
Wind Loads,” Proceedings of Structural Engineering World Congress, Buildings,” CUREE Publication No. W-30, 2003.

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