IS 59661993AI Search Enabled✦ AI Generated

Non-coniferous timber in converted form for general purposes
1993 Edition

The standard outlines specifications for converted non-coniferous timber such as planks and scantlings used in general applications including storage boxes, crates, and lightweight furniture. It details grading systems, allowable imperfections, size tolerances, moisture content limits, and preservation procedures to ensure the timber's quality and longevity. This code is vital for professionals involved in the production and quality assurance of non-coniferous timber products in India.

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What This Standard Covers

The standard outlines specifications for converted non-coniferous timber such as planks and scantlings used in general applications including storage boxes, crates, and lightweight furniture. It details grading systems, allowable imperfections, size tolerances, moisture content limits, and preservation procedures to ensure the timber's quality and longevity. This code is vital for professionals involved in the production and quality assurance of non-coniferous timber products in India.

Who Uses This Standard

  • Structural design engineers
  • Timber product manufacturers
  • Quality assurance inspectors
  • Furniture creators
  • Construction industry experts
  • Material procurement officers
  • Wood preservation specialists

Key Topics Covered

Scope and application of converted non-coniferous timber
Approved timber species as per IS 1326:1992
Grading standards for Grade I and Grade II timber
Allowed defects including knots, splits, cracks, and borer damage
Dimensional tolerances for planks and scantlings
Moisture content limitations and testing methods
Marking and identification procedures
Preservation techniques for sapwood and end treatment
Methods for measuring and assessing defects
Referenced standards for seasoning, moisture determination, and timber sizing
Use and significance of the Standard Mark
Handling guidelines to reduce defects

Table of Contents

1Application Scope

Overview of Scope in IS 5966

This standard specifies requirements for timber door and window shutters, concentrating on dimensions, acceptable tolerances, and quality parameters.

Highlights on Scope:

  • Applicable to wooden door and window shutters.
  • Dimensions and tolerance requirements align with IS 1331:1971 for timber sizes.
  • Terminology follows IS 707:1976 addressing seasoned timber.
  • Numerical data rounding follows the guidelines of IS 2:1960.

Key Specifications:

AspectReference StandardNotes
Timber size standardsIS 1331:1971Standardized timber dimensions
DefinitionsIS 707:1976Terminology for seasoned timber
Rounding numerical dataIS 2:1960Rules for rounding values

Dimensions and Tolerances:

  • Strict adherence required to specified tolerances for proper fit.
  • Final values rounded consistent with the standard's precision.
flowchart LR
    TimberShutter[Timber Shutter] --> Dimensions[Dimensions & Tolerances]
    Dimensions --> IS1331[IS 1331:1971]
    Dimensions --> IS2[IS 2:1960 Rounding]
    TimberShutter --> Definitions[Definitions]
    Definitions --> IS707[IS 707:1976]

Refer to IS 1331 and IS 5966 for detailed dimension tables and tolerance clauses.

2Referenced Standards

Summary of Key References in IS 5966

  • Rounding Procedure (IS 2:1960):

    • Test outcomes must be rounded according to IS 2:1960.
    • Maintain the same significant figures as specified in IS 5966.
  • Dimension and Tolerance Limits:

    • Clause 5 of IS 5966 outlines precise size limits and acceptable tolerances.
  • Other Standards Referenced:

    • IS 707:1976 provides definitions and terminology.
    • Additional IS codes supply complementary requirements.

Summary Table:

AspectStandard ReferencePurpose
Numerical roundingIS 2:1960Standardizes rounding rules
TerminologyIS 707:1976Clarifies timber-related terms
Size and toleranceIS 5966 Clause 5Defines dimensional limits

For detailed size and tolerance data, specify the product or section for exact information.

3Terminology and Definitions

Definitions in IS 5966

  • IS 5966 adopts definitions from IS 707:1976, which is a glossary of timber technology terms.
  • The standard itself does not provide independent definitions but relies on IS 707 for terms like seasoning, moisture content, and defects.
  • Numerical data must be rounded per IS 2:1960 to maintain uniformity.

Reference Table:

StandardPurpose
IS 707:1976Timber technology terminology
IS 2:1960Rules for numerical rounding

Practical Guidance:

  • Always refer to IS 707 when interpreting timber-related terms in IS 5966.
  • Apply IS 2 rounding rules for all numerical results.
flowchart LR
    IS5966_Definitions --> IS707[Refer IS 707:1976]
    IS5966_Definitions --> IS2[Apply IS 2:1960 rounding]
    IS707 --> Timber_Terms[Timber Terminology]
    IS2 --> Rounding_Rules[Rounding Procedures]

This ensures clarity and uniform reporting.

4Approved Timber Species for General Use

Non-Coniferous Timber Species as per IS 1326:1992 Annex B

  • Timber must be sourced from species listed in the annex of IS 1326:1992 concerning non-coniferous sawn timber.
  • Moisture content limitations (Clause 6.2):
    • For timber thickness up to 50 mm: maximum 18% moisture within 10 mm from the surface.
    • For thickness over 50 mm: same 18% limit applies within 10 mm depth.
  • Measurement standards:
    • Length in meters, truncated to the nearest 0.05 m.
    • Width in millimeters, rounded down to nearest 10 mm.
    • Thickness in millimeters, rounded down to nearest 5 mm.
    • Volume calculated to three decimal places in cubic meters.
  • Permitted defects are governed by IS 3364 (Part 2):1976.
  • Plugging of defects is prohibited.
  • Defect limits vary by grade (I and II) and thickness.

Moisture Content Limits Table

Thickness of TimberMaximum Moisture Content
40 mm18% within 10 mm depth
> 50 mm18% within 10 mm depth
Seasoned timberAs specified

Refer to IS 1326 Annex B and IS 5966 Table 1 for comprehensive species and defect limits.

flowchart LR
    NonConiferousTimber --> Species_List[Species as per IS 1326 Annex B]
    Species_List --> Moisture_Limits[Moisture Content Restrictions]
    Moisture_Limits --> Measurement_Standards[Measurement Protocols]
    Measurement_Standards --> Permissible_Defects[Allowed Defects]
    Permissible_Defects --> Grade_I_II[Grade I and II Specifications]

Ensures timber suitability for diverse general applications.

5Size Specifications and Allowable Variations

Dimensional Specifications and Permissible Variances (IS 5966 Clause 5.2)

Size RangeWidth & Thickness Tolerance
Up to and including 100 mmNo minus tolerance (0 mm)
Above 100 mm+6 mm / -3 mm allowed
  • Minus tolerance beyond -3 mm is limited to a maximum of 10% of the quantity supplied.
  • For fixed width ranges (e.g., 150 to 250 mm), minimum widths have no minus tolerance and maximum widths have no plus tolerance.

Additional Information:

  • Timber sizes must comply with IS 1331:1971 for standard cut dimensions.
  • These tolerances guarantee uniformity and adherence to quality standards.

Tolerance Summary Table

Width/Thickness (mm)Allowed Tolerance (mm)Comments
400Exact dimension required
> 100+6 / -3Minus tolerance limited to 10%

flowchart LR
    Order --> CheckSize{Width 40 mm?}
    CheckSize -- Yes --> NoTolerance[No tolerance (0 mm)]
    CheckSize -- No --> Tolerance[+6 mm / -3 mm]
    Tolerance --> LimitMinus[Minus tolerance 40% of supply]
    WidthRange --> WidthLimits[No minus on min, no plus on max]

This maintains dimensional accuracy per relevant standards.

6Timber Grading Requirements

Timber Grading Criteria as per IS 5966

Size Tolerances (Clause 5.2):

  • Width and thickness up to 100 mm: zero tolerance allowed.
  • Width and thickness exceeding 100 mm: +6 mm and -3 mm tolerances permitted.
  • Minus tolerances over the limit are allowed only for up to 10% of the supply.
  • For specified width intervals (e.g., 150-250 mm), no minus tolerance on minimum widths and no plus tolerance on maximum widths.

Defect Limits for Grades I & II (Clause 8.1, Table 1):

DefectGrade I LimitsGrade II Limits
Grain slope1 in 151 in 12
Live knotsMax 13 mm size; 1 per meterMax 25 mm size; 2 per meter
Maximum check depth1 mm (≤50 mm thickness)2 mm (≤50 mm thickness)
2 mm (50-100 mm thickness)3 mm (50-100 mm thickness)
4 mm (>100 mm thickness)6 mm (>100 mm thickness)
End splitsUp to 3% of lengthUp to 5% of length
Pitch pocketsNot allowedAllowed with filling (except exposed edges)
Cup2 mm per 300 mm4 mm per 300 mm
Spring4 mm per 3 meters8 mm per 3 meters
Twist4 mm per 3 meters6 mm per 3 meters
Bow4 mm per 3 meters8 mm per 3 meters
Center heartAllowed if >250 cm², sound and boxedAllowed
WaneMaximum 4% surface affectedMaximum 8% surface affected
Borer holesMax 3 mm diameter; max 5/m one face; max 5 mm depthMax 3 mm diameter; max 10/m both faces (depth max 5 mm), or one face max 10 mm depth

Note: Live knots are prohibited within 1.5 times the smallest thickness near joints. Defects are assessed collectively.

This grading ensures timber meets quality and structural performance requirements.

7Moisture Content Requirements

Moisture Content Specifications for Converted Timber (IS 5966 Clause 6.2)

  • For timber thickness up to 50 mm, moisture content must not exceed 18% within 10 mm from the surface.
  • For timber thicker than 50 mm, the same 18% limit applies within 10 mm depth.
  • For seasoned timber, moisture content must conform to the specified value agreed upon in contract or order.

Measurement and Calculation:

  • Length measured in meters, rounded down to the nearest 0.05 m.
  • Width measured in millimeters, rounded down to nearest 10 mm.
  • Thickness measured in millimeters, rounded down to nearest 5 mm.
  • Volume computed in cubic meters with precision to three decimal places.

Defect Allowances (Table 1 Summary):

DefectGrade IGrade II
Grain slope1 in 151 in 12
Live knotsMax size 13 mm, 1/mMax size 25 mm, 2/m
Check depth1 mm (≤50 mm thick)2 mm (≤50 mm thick)
2 mm (50-100 mm)3 mm (50-100 mm)
4 mm (>100 mm)6 mm (>100 mm)
End splits3% of length5% of length
Cup2 mm per 300 mm4 mm per 300 mm
Spring4 mm per 3 m8 mm per 3 m
Twist4 mm per 3 m6 mm per 3 m
Bow4 mm per 3 m8 mm per 3 m
Borer holesMax 3 mm diameter; max 5/m one face; max 5 mm depthMax 3 mm diameter; max 10/m both faces; depth max 5 mm (one face max 10 mm)

Moisture Content Calculation (from IS 11215):

[ MC = \frac{W_{wet} - W_{dry}}{W_{dry}} \times 100 ]

Ensuring timber moisture is within limits is critical for durability and dimensional stability.

8Acceptable Defects

Permissible Defects in Converted Timber (IS 5966 Clause 8.1, Table 1)

DefectGrade I AllowanceGrade II Allowance
Slope of grain1:151:12
Live knotsMax 13 mm size; 1 per meterMax 25 mm size; 2 per meter
Checks (max depth)≤1 mm (≤50 mm thick); ≤2 mm (50-100 mm); ≤4 mm (>100 mm)≤2 mm (≤50 mm thick); ≤3 mm (50-100 mm); ≤6 mm (>100 mm)
End splitsMax 3% of lengthMax 5% of length
Pitch pocketsNot allowed on exposed edges; must be filled or pluggedAllowed except on exposed edges (same filling/plugging)
Cup2 mm per 300 mm4 mm per 300 mm
Spring4 mm per 3 m8 mm per 3 m
Twist4 mm per 3 m6 mm per 3 m
Bow4 mm per 3 m8 mm per 3 m
Centre heartAllowed if >250 cm², sound & boxedAllowed
Wane≤4% surface affected≤8% surface affected
Borer holes (dead infestation)Max 3 mm diameter; max 5/m one face; max 5 mm depthMax 3 mm diameter; max 10/m both faces (depth max 5 mm), or one face max 10 mm depth

Note: Live knots are prohibited within 1.5 times the smallest thickness in joint areas.

Additional measurement tolerances apply as per thickness and size requirements.

9Identification and Marking

Marking Protocols for Converted Timber (IS 5966 Clause 9.2)

  • Each timber piece shall be marked visibly at a convenient location.

  • The marking must include:

    • Manufacturer or source of production
    • Year of supply
  • Letters used for marking should be a minimum of 20 mm in height.

  • Timber may bear the BIS Standard Mark indicating conformity with IS 5966.

  • The Standard Mark certifies compliance under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 1986, including inspection and quality control by BIS.


Marking Details Summary:

ParameterSpecification
Location of MarkingConvenient and visible place
Information IncludedSource and supply year
Letter SizeAt least 20 mm tall
Standard MarkOptional, per BIS regulations

Preservation Related to Marking:

  • Timber ends must be treated against cracking to a distance at least 25 mm beyond the longest split.
  • End coating materials should comply with IS 1141:1973.
  • Preservative treatments should follow IS 401:1982.
flowchart TD
    Timber --> Marking
    Marking --> Details{Marking Content}
    Details --> Source[Source of Manufacture]
    Details --> Year[Year of Supply]
    Details --> LetterSize[Letter Size ≥ 20 mm]
    Marking --> StandardMark[BIS Standard Mark (optional)]
    StandardMark --> BISQuality[BIS Inspection & Quality Control]

This practice ensures traceability and quality assurance.

10Timber Preservation Guidelines

Preservation Requirements for Timber (IS 5966)

  • All timber containing sapwood must undergo preservative treatment in accordance with IS 401:1982.
  • Ends of timber planks and scantlings should be coated to prevent splitting and cracking, extending at least 25 mm beyond the longest visible split.
  • End coating materials must conform to IS 1141:1973.
  • The end coating process should be applied immediately after timber inspection.
  • Marking with the BIS Standard Mark may be used to signify adherence to preservation and quality standards.

Preservation Summary:

AspectSpecification
Sapwood treatmentMandatory, as per IS 401:1982
End coating lengthAt least longest split + 25 mm
End coating materialAs per IS 1141:1973
Application timingImmediately post-inspection
Quality assuranceOptional BIS Standard Mark

Additional Information:

  • Preservation safeguards timber against fungal, insect, and decay damage.
  • Moisture content influences preservative uptake; refer to IS 11215:1991 for moisture determination.
flowchart LR
    SapwoodPresence --> TreatmentRequired{Treatment needed?}
    TreatmentRequired -- Yes --> ApplyTreatment[Apply IS 401:1982 Treatment]
    ApplyTreatment --> EndCoating[Apply End Coating]
    EndCoating --> CoatingDetails[Coat at least (Longest split + 25mm) per IS 1141]
    CoatingDetails --> Timing[Apply immediately after inspection]
    Timing --> OptionalMarking[BIS Standard Mark (optional)]
    TreatmentRequired -- No --> NoTreatment[No treatment required]

These measures ensure timber longevity and compliance.

11Defect Measurement and Assessment

Measurement and Evaluation of Defects in Converted Timber (IS 5966 Clause 8.1, Table 1)

DefectGrade I LimitsGrade II Limits
Slope of grain1 in 151 in 12
Live knotsMax 13 mm size; 1 per meterMax 25 mm size; 2 per meter
Maximum check depth1 mm (≤50 mm thick); 2 mm (50-100 mm); 4 mm (>100 mm)2 mm (≤50 mm); 3 mm (50-100 mm); 6 mm (>100 mm)
End splitMax 3% of lengthMax 5% of length
Pitch pocketsProhibited on exposed edges; must be filled or pluggedAllowed except on exposed edges (same filling/plugging)
Cup2 mm per 300 mm4 mm per 300 mm
Spring4 mm per 3 meters8 mm per 3 meters
Twist4 mm per 3 meters6 mm per 3 meters
Bow4 mm per 3 meters8 mm per 3 meters
Centre heartPermitted if >250 cm², sound and boxedPermitted
WaneMaximum 4% surface affectedMaximum 8% surface affected
Borer holesMax 3 mm diameter; max 5/m one face; max 5 mm depthMax 3 mm diameter; max 10/m both faces (depth max 5 mm), or one face max 10 mm depth

Measurement Procedures (Clauses 5 & 6.2):

  • Length to be measured in meters, rounded down to nearest 0.05 m.
  • Width in millimeters, rounded down to nearest 10 mm.
  • Thickness in millimeters, rounded down to nearest 5 mm.
  • Volume computed in cubic meters to three decimals.

These methods ensure consistent defect evaluation and reporting.

12Application of the Standard Mark

Use of BIS Standard Mark under IS 5966 Clause 9.2

  • The Standard Mark signifies compliance with IS 5966 and quality assurance under BIS oversight.
  • Issued per the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 1986.
  • Products bearing this mark have undergone inspection, testing, and continuous quality monitoring by BIS.

Highlights:

  • The Standard Mark can be affixed to converted timber pieces meeting all IS 5966 specifications.
  • Licenses for use of the mark are granted by BIS.
  • The mark ensures conformity to dimensional, quality, and preservation standards.

Related Standards:

  • Sapwood preservation as per IS 401:1982.
  • End coating per IS 1141:1973, extending at least 25 mm beyond the longest split.

Summary Table for Standard Mark:

AspectDetails
Governing ActBureau of Indian Standards Act, 1986
Quality AssuranceCompliance with IS 5966 and BIS inspection
SurveillanceOngoing BIS audits of marked products
Licensing AuthorityBureau of Indian Standards (BIS)
Marking LocationOn converted timber components

flowchart LR
    Manufacturer --> QualitySystem[Quality Control System]
    QualitySystem --> Inspection[Inspection and Testing]
    Inspection --> ComplianceCheck{Meets IS 5966?}
    ComplianceCheck -- Yes --> ApplyMark[Apply Standard Mark]
    ApplyMark --> BISSurveillance[BIS Continuous Monitoring]
    ComplianceCheck -- No --> NoMark[No Marking]

This process assures timber products meet IS 5966 requirements.

13Rounding of Numerical Data

Guidelines for Rounding Numerical Values (IS 5966 and IS 2:1960)

  • All final numerical results must be rounded according to the rules in IS 2:1960.
  • The number of significant digits in the rounded figure must match that in the original IS 5966 specification.
  • This maintains consistency and accuracy in test data reporting.

Rounding Rules (IS 2:1960):

Digit RemovedAction on Last Retained Digit
Less than 5Leave unchanged
Greater than 5Increment by 1
Equal to 5Increment if last digit is odd; else leave unchanged

Example:

  • Specified value: 12.3 (3 significant figures)
  • Computed value: 12.3456 → Rounded to 12.3

Timber Size Tolerances (Clause 5.2):

Dimension (mm)Tolerance (mm)
Width & thickness ≤1000
Width & thickness >100+6 (max), -3 (min)
  • Minus tolerance beyond -3 mm is allowed only in up to 10% of the delivered quantity.
  • For specified width ranges, no minus tolerance on minimum or plus tolerance on maximum widths.

flowchart TD
    Value --> CheckSigDigits{Number of Significant Figures}
    CheckSigDigits --> MatchStandard[Match IS 5966]
    MatchStandard --> ApplyRounding[Apply IS 2:1960 Rounding]
    ApplyRounding --> FinalValue[Final Rounded Number]

This ensures clarity and conformity in data presentation.

14Updates and Amendments

Summary of Revisions and Amendments to IS 5966

  • Amendment 1 (March 2002): Updated provisions for non-coniferous converted timber.
  • Related standards referenced include:
    • IS 1331:1971 for timber sizing.
    • IS 401:1982 for timber preservation.
    • IS 707:1976 for terminology.

Amendment Highlights:

  • Clarified or modified specifications without full standard reissue.
  • Adjusted dimensions, grading criteria, or preservation methods to reflect current best practices.

Typical Specification Changes:

ParameterOriginal SpecificationAmended Specification
Timber dimensionsAs per IS 1331Updated sizing per latest IS
PreservationAs per IS 401Revised chemical treatments
TerminologyAs per IS 707Added new definitions

flowchart LR
    IS5966_1993 --> Amendment1_2002
    Amendment1_2002 --> UpdatedSizes[Updated Sizes (IS 1331)]
    Amendment1_2002 --> UpdatedPreservation[Updated Preservation (IS 401)]
    Amendment1_2002 --> UpdatedTerminology[Updated Terminology (IS 707)]

Refer to respective IS codes for detailed information and formulae.

15Annexures and Supplementary Details

IS 5966 Primary Focus: Specifications for Timber Doors

Important Annexes and Summaries:

  • Dimensions and Tolerances (Clause 5):

    • Door sizes adhere to IS 1331:1971.
    • Common door thicknesses include 35 mm, 40 mm, and 45 mm.
    • Width and height tolerances are generally ±2 mm.
  • Reference to IS 707:1976:

    • Defines species, grading, and seasoning.
    • Controls moisture content typically around 12 ± 2%.

Typical Dimension Table (Based on IS 1331):

Door TypeThickness (mm)Width (mm)Height (mm)
Flush Door35, 40, 45600-10001800-2100
Panel Door35, 40, 45600-9001800-2100

Notes:

  • Tolerances: ±2 mm for length and width; ±1 mm for thickness.
  • Moisture content: 10-15% as per IS 707.
  • Timber quality must meet IS 2202 for seasoning and defect control.
flowchart LR
  IS5966 --> Dimensions_IS1331[Dimensions & Tolerances (IS 1331)]
  IS5966 --> TimberQuality_IS707[Timber Quality (IS 707)]
  Dimensions_IS1331 --> Thickness[Thickness 35-45 mm]
  Dimensions_IS1331 --> Width[Width 600-1000 mm]
  Dimensions_IS1331 --> Height[Height 1800-2100 mm]
  TimberQuality_IS707 --> Moisture[Moisture 12±2%]
  TimberQuality_IS707 --> Seasoned[Seasoned Timber]

Review IS 5966 annexes and IS 1331 tables for precise door design and timber selection.

Popular Questions About IS 5966

?Which non-coniferous timber species are allowed according to IS 5966?

Permitted Non-Coniferous Timber Species per IS 5966

  • IS 5966 refers to Annex B of IS 1326:1992 for the approved non-coniferous timber species.
  • IS 1326:1992 lists non-coniferous sawn timber suitable for general applications.
  • Common species include:
    • Teak (Tectona grandis)
    • Sal (Shorea robusta)
    • Neem (Azadirachta indica)
    • Shisham (Dalbergia sissoo)
    • Mango (Mangifera indica)
    • Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus)
  • Selection is based on durability, workability, and availability.
IS Code ReferenceSpecies SourceExamples of Species
IS 5966 (1993)Annex B of IS 1326:92Teak, Sal, Neem, Shisham, Mango, Jackfruit

Refer to Annex B of IS 1326:1992 for a detailed species list.

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?What are the grading standards and allowed defects for Grade I and Grade II timber?

Grading Standards and Defect Limits for Grade I and II Timber (IS 5966 Clause 8.1, Table 1)

DefectGrade IGrade II
Slope of grain1:151:12
Live knotsMax size 13 mm; max 1 per meterMax size 25 mm; max 2 per meter
Checks (max depth)1 mm (≤50 mm thick); 2 mm (50-100 mm); 4 mm (>100 mm)2 mm (≤50 mm); 3 mm (50-100 mm); 6 mm (>100 mm)
End splitsMax 3% of lengthMax 5% of length
Pitch pocketsNot allowedAllowed except on exposed edges (must be filled)
Cup2 mm per 300 mm4 mm per 300 mm
Spring4 mm per 3 m8 mm per 3 m
Twist4 mm per 3 m6 mm per 3 m
Bow4 mm per 3 m8 mm per 3 m
Centre heartAllowed if >250 cm², sound & boxedAllowed
Wane≤4% surface affected≤8% surface affected
Borer holesMax 3 mm diameter; max 5/m one face; max 5 mm depthMax 3 mm diameter; max 10/m both faces (depth max 5 mm), or one face max 10 mm depth

Note: Live knots cannot occur within 1.5 times the smallest thickness near joints. Defects are assessed collectively. Plugging defects are not permitted.

This grading ensures timber strength and durability for structural use.

?What dimensional tolerances are specified for converted timber planks and scantlings?

Dimensional Tolerances for Converted Timber (IS 5966 Clause 5.2)

Dimension RangeAllowed Tolerance
Width & Thickness ≤ 100 mm±0 mm (no tolerance)
Width & Thickness > 100 mm+6 mm / -3 mm

Additional notes:

  • Minus tolerance beyond -3 mm is permitted in a maximum of 10% of the total supplied quantity.
  • For specified width ranges (e.g., 150–250 mm), minimum widths have no minus tolerance and maximum widths have no plus tolerance.
  • Length is measured in meters, rounded down to nearest 0.05 m.
  • Width rounded down to nearest 10 mm.
  • Thickness rounded down to nearest 5 mm.

This ensures consistent sizing and quality control.

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?How is moisture content determined and what limits are acceptable under IS 5966?

Moisture Content Measurement and Limits (IS 5966)

  • Moisture content is measured following IS 11215:1991 which outlines methods for determining timber moisture.

  • Permissible moisture content limits:

    • For timber thickness up to 50 mm: maximum 18% moisture within 10 mm depth from the surface.
    • For timber thicker than 50 mm: the same 18% limit applies within 10 mm depth.
    • For seasoned timber, moisture content must meet the specified contractual values.
  • Accurate measurement methods include oven-drying and electrical moisture meters.


Thickness RangeMaximum Moisture Content (%)Depth Considered (mm)
≤ 50 mm1810
> 50 mm1810
Seasoned (if specified)Contractual specification

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Maintaining moisture within limits is crucial for timber stability and durability.

?What preservation treatments are specified for sapwood and timber ends?

Per IS 5966 Clause 10:

  • All timber containing sapwood must undergo preservative treatment as outlined in IS 401:1982 (Code of Practice for Preservation of Timber).
  • To prevent end cracking and splitting, the ends of planks and scantlings should be treated to a minimum distance extending 25 mm beyond the length of the longest visible split.
  • Preservative materials used for end coating must comply with IS 1141:1973.
  • End coating should be applied immediately after timber inspection.
Timber ComponentTreatment StandardRemarks
SapwoodIS 401:1982Mandatory preservative application
Timber endsIS 1141:1973Coat beyond longest split + 25 mm

This treatment enhances durability and reduces defects such as splitting and cracking.

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