IS 48591968AI Search Enabled✦ AI Generated

high strength aircraft plywood

IS 4859:1968 specifies the requirements for high strength aircraft plywood used in primary structural parts of aircraft. It covers timber species selection, veneer quality, bonding, mechanical properties, and testing methods to ensure durability, strength, and dimensional stability under operational conditions. This standard is essential for manufacturers, engineers, and quality controllers involved in aerospace plywood production and certification.

15Sections
153Clauses Indexed
AI Search Ready
1968Edition
Wood and other Lignocellulosic productsCategory
Alternative search terms: IS 4859 PDF, IS 4859 pdf free download, IS 4859 free download pdf, IS4859 PDF, IS-4859 PDF, IS 4859 1968 PDF, IS 4859:1968 PDF, IS 4859-1968 PDF, IS 4859 (1968) PDF, IS 4859 1968 edition PDF, IS 4859 edition 1968 PDF

What This Standard Covers

IS 4859:1968 specifies the requirements for high strength aircraft plywood used in primary structural parts of aircraft. It covers timber species selection, veneer quality, bonding, mechanical properties, and testing methods to ensure durability, strength, and dimensional stability under operational conditions. This standard is essential for manufacturers, engineers, and quality controllers involved in aerospace plywood production and certification.

Who Uses This Standard

  • Aerospace materials engineers
  • Plywood manufacturers for aircraft components
  • Quality assurance and control engineers
  • Structural design engineers in aviation
  • Testing laboratory technicians
  • Procurement specialists in aerospace industry
  • Certification and compliance officers

Key Topics Covered

Timber species suitable for aircraft plywood
Veneer quality and grain characteristics
Glue types and bonding requirements
Mechanical properties: Modulus of Elasticity and Modulus of Rupture
Defects permissible in face and core veneers
Plywood thickness and dimensional tolerances
Testing procedures for shear strength and bending
Moisture content conditioning
Inspection and acceptance criteria
Joint types and assembly methods
Resistance to boiling water immersion
Manufacturing process controls
Plywood classification by ply count
Surface finish and defect limitations
Type testing and certification requirements

Table of Contents

1Scope

IS 4859: Scope - Key Formulas, Tables & Specifications

Scope:
IS 4859 covers test methods for plywood, including shear and bending tests.


1. Shear Strength Test (Clause 1.3)

  • Shear Strength Formula:

[ F_s = \frac{2 \times t \times w \times P}{\text{Area}} ]

Where:

  • (F_s) = Shear strength (kg/cm²)

  • (P) = Ultimate load (kg)

  • (t) = Thickness of plywood (cm)

  • (w) = Width of specimen (cm)

  • Loading Block Sizes (mm):

BlockLengthWidthThickness
A1153813
B1153815
C1505015

2. Bending Test Mandrel Diameter (Clause 2.1, Table 4)

Plywood Thickness (mm)Mandrel Diameter (mm)
1.0100
1.5150
2.0200
2.5250
3.0300
3.5350
4.0400
4.5450
5.0500

3. Units (SI Units as per IS 4859)

QuantityUnitSymbol
Lengthmetrem
Masskilogramkg
ForcenewtonN
Pressure, StresspascalPa

flowchart LR
    A[Plywood Specimen] --> B[Placed on Compression Table]
    B --> C[Load Applied Axially]
    C --> D[Measure Ultimate Load (P)]
    D --> E[Calculate Shear Strength: Fs = 2twP]
``
2Definitions

IS 4859 - Definitions: Key Points & Formulas

1. Reference Standards:

  • Definitions primarily follow IS 707:1968 (Timber and Timber Products glossary).
  • Additional terms specific to plywood testing are included.

2. Shear Strength Formula (Clause 1.3):
[ F_s = \frac{2 \times t \times w \times P}{\text{Area}} ]

Where:

  • ( F_s ) = Shear strength (kg/cm²)
  • ( P ) = Ultimate load (kg)
  • ( t ) = Thickness of plywood (cm)
  • ( w ) = Width of specimen (cm)

3. Loading Block Sizes (mm):

BlockLengthWidthThickness
A1153813
B1153815
C1505015

4. SI Units Used:

QuantityUnitSymbol
Lengthmetrem
Masskilogramkg
Timeseconds
ForcenewtonN
Pressure / StresspascalPa

Summary Diagram: Shear Test Setup

flowchart LR
    A[Compression Table]
    B[Supporting Blocks]
    C[Plywood Specimen]
    D[Loading Blocks]
    A --> B --> C --> D
    D --> Load[Load Applied Axially @ 455 kg/min]

Note: For detailed definitions, refer to IS 707:1968 and IS 4859 clauses. This ensures consistency in terminology and testing procedures.

3Materials

Key Formulas and Tables from IS 4859 (Materials for Aircraft Plywood)


1. Shear Strength Formula (Clause 1.3)

[ F_s = \frac{2 \times t \times w \times P}{\text{Area}} ]

Where:

  • ( F_s ) = Shear strength (kg/cm²)
  • ( P ) = Ultimate load (kg)
  • ( t ) = Thickness of plywood (cm)
  • ( w ) = Width of specimen (cm)

2. Loading Block Sizes for Shear Test (All dimensions in mm)

BlockLengthWidthThickness
A1153813
B1153815
C1505015

3. Timber Species for Aircraft Plywood (Clause 3.1, Table 1)

Botanical NameTrade NameSymbol
Dysoxylum malabaricum Bedd.White cedarWCE
Palaguium ellipticum (Dalz) EnglesPaliPAL

4. Mandrel Diameter for Bending Test (Clause 2.1, Table 4)

Plywood Thickness (mm)Mandrel Diameter (mm)
1.0100
1.5150
2.0200
2.5250
3.0300
3.5350
4.0400
4.5450
5.0500

5. SI Units Relevant to Materials Testing

QuantityUnitSymbol
Lengthmetrem
ForcenewtonN
Pressure/StresspascalPa
4Veneer Quality and Defects

IS 4859: Veneer Quality and Defects - Key Specifications

Face Veneers (Clause 4.9)

  • No open defects: insect holes, splits, pitch pockets, pin worm holes.
  • Knots:
    • No large, loose, or dead knots.
    • Small live knots ≤ 6 mm diameter allowed.
    • Sum of dead knots ≤ 10 mm diameter per 1000 cm².

Core Veneers (Clause 4.1b)

  • Closed splits allowed up to 0.25 mm width.

Prohibited Defects (Clause 4.8)

  • No brash wood.
  • No sap stain discoloration.
  • No ingrown bark.
  • No filling or inlaying.

Additional Notes

  • Veneers must be rotary cut or sliced from specified timber species (Clause 4.1).
  • Sapwood is not permitted.
  • Adhesive type can be purchaser-specified (Clause 3.2.2).
  • Rounding off test results per IS:2-1960.

Summary Table: Veneer Defect Limits

Defect TypePermissible Limit
Small live knots≤ 6 mm diameter
Dead knots (sum)≤ 10 mm diameter per 1000 cm²
Closed splits (core)≤ 0.25 mm width
Open defectsNot allowed
SapwoodNot allowed

flowchart TD
    A[Veneer Quality] --> B[Face Veneers]
    B --> C{Defects}
    C -->|No open defects| D[Insect holes, splits, pitch pockets, pin worm holes]
    C -->|Knots| E[Small live knots ≤ 6 mm]
    C -->|Dead knots sum| F[≤ 10 mm per 1000 cm²]
    A --> G[Core Veneers]
    G --> H[Closed splits ≤ 0.25 mm]
    A --> I[Prohibited Defects]
    I --> J[Brash wood, Sap stain, Ingrown bark, Filling/inlaying]

This ensures veneer quality complies with IS 4859 for durability and appearance.

5Dimensions and Tolerances

IS 4859: Dimensions and Tolerances for Plywood

1. Tolerances on Nominal Sizes (Clause 5.3)

DimensionTolerance (mm)
Length+6 / -0
Width+3 / -0

2. Edge Straightness and Squareness

ParameterTolerance
Edge Straightness2 mm per 1000 mm or 0.2%
Squareness2 mm per 1000 mm or 0.2%
  • Applies for both lengths < 6 m and ≥ 6 m.
  • Testing as per Annex A.

3. Thickness (Clause 1.0)

Available thicknesses (mm):
1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, 6.0, 7.0, 8.0, 9.0, 10.0

4. Shear Strength Formula (Clause 1.3)

[ F_s = \frac{2 \times t \times w \times P}{\text{Area}} ]

Where:

  • (F_s) = Shear strength (kg/cm²)
  • (t) = Thickness of plywood (cm)
  • (w) = Width of specimen (cm)
  • (P) = Ultimate load (kg)

5. Sizes of Loading Blocks for Shear Test

BlockLength (mm)Width (mm)Thickness (mm)
A1153813
B1153815
C1505015

Summary Diagram: Tolerances Check

flowchart TD
    A[Start: Plywood Board] --> B{Check Dimensions}
    B -->|Length| C[+6 / -0 mm]
    B -->|Width| D[+3 / -0 mm]
    B -->|Thickness
6Manufacture and Assembly

IS 4859 - Manufacture and Assembly Key Points

Shear Strength Test (Clause 1.3)

  • Shear Strength Formula:

[ F_s = \frac{2 \times t \times w \times P}{\text{(cm}^2\text{)}} ]

Where:

  • (F_s) = Shear strength (kg/cm²)

  • (t) = Thickness of plywood (cm)

  • (w) = Width of specimen (cm)

  • (P) = Ultimate load (kg)

  • Loading Blocks Dimensions (mm):

BlockLengthWidthThickness
A1153813
B1153815
C1505015

Assembly Procedure

  • Place the assembly on the compression table with supporting blocks square on the base.
  • Apply axial load uniformly at ~455 kg/min on loading blocks.

Additional Specifications

  • Mandrel Diameter to Thickness Ratio: Refer Table 4 (Clause 2.1) for bending tests.
  • Squareness Check: Use a 1200 mm × 1200 mm square; record max gap (Clause 2.1).

Units (SI)

  • Force: Newton (N) = kg·m/s²
  • Pressure/Stress: Pascal (Pa) = N/m²
  • Length: meter (m), Mass: kilogram (kg)

flowchart TD
    A[Place Assembly on Compression Table] --> B[Ensure Supporting Blocks Rest Square]
    B --> C[Apply Load Axially at 455 kg/min]
    C --> D[Record Ultimate Load P]
    D --> E[Calculate Shear Strength Fs = 2 × t × w × P]

This summarizes the key formulas and assembly specifications from IS 4859 for plywood testing and manufacture.

7Mechanical Properties

IS 4859: Mechanical Properties of Plywood - Key Formulas & Tables


1. Shear Strength (Clause 1.3)

  • Formula:

[ F_s = \frac{2 \times t \times w \times P}{\text{Area}} ]

Where:

  • (F_s) = Shear strength (kg/cm²)

  • (P) = Ultimate load (kg)

  • (t) = Thickness of plywood (cm)

  • (w) = Width of specimen (cm)

  • Loading Block Sizes (mm):

BlockLengthWidthThickness
A1153813
B1153815
C1505015

2. Bending Test Mandrel Diameter (Clause 2.1)

Plywood Thickness (mm)Mandrel Diameter (mm)
1.0100
1.5150
2.0200
2.5250
3.0300
3.5350
4.0400
4.5450
5.0500

3. Modulus of Elasticity (MOE) & Modulus of Rupture (MOR) (Clause 10.3)

DirectionMOE (N/mm²) AvgMOE Min IndMOR (N/mm²) AvgMOR Min Ind
Along grain7,5006,7005045
Across grain4,0003,6003027

4. SI Units for Reference

QuantityUnitSymbol
Lengthmetrem
Masskilogramkg
8Durability and Resistance Tests

IS 4859 - Key Formulas, Tables & Specifications for Durability and Resistance Tests


1. Shear Strength Test (Clause 1.3)

  • Formula:

[ F_s = \frac{2 \times t \times w \times P}{\text{cm}^2} ]

Where:

  • (F_s) = Shear strength (kg/cm²)

  • (t) = Thickness of plywood (cm)

  • (w) = Width of specimen (cm)

  • (P) = Ultimate load (kg)

  • Loading Block Sizes (mm):

BlockLengthWidthThickness
A1153813
B1153815
C1505015

2. Bending Test (Clause 2.1)

  • Mandrel Diameter based on Plywood Thickness:
Thickness (mm)Mandrel Diameter (mm)
1.0100
1.5150
2.0200
2.5250
3.0300
3.5350
4.0400
4.5450
5.0500

3. Static Bending Strength (Clause 10.3)

DirectionModulus of Elasticity (MOE) N/mm²Modulus of Rupture (MOR) N/mm²
AverageMinimum Individual
Along7,5006,700
Across4,0003,600

4. Important Notes

  • Maintain moisture content consistency during sample preparation (Clause 3.1).
  • Use IS 1734 (Part 11) for bending test
9Moisture Content

IS 4859: Moisture Content - Key Formulas and Specifications

Moisture Content Calculation (Clause 2.1 & Appendix B)

[ \text{Moisture Content (%)} = \frac{W_1 - W_d}{W_d} \times 100 ]

  • (W_1) = Weight of original (wet) sample
  • (W_d) = Oven-dry weight of the sample

Moisture Content Requirements

  • Test pieces moisture content: 8% to 12% (Clause 9.1)
  • Specimen conditioning moisture content: 10% to 14% (Clause 2.3)

Additional Notes

  • Report percentage of wood failure along with moisture content (Clause 4.3).
  • Oven drying is typically done at 103 ± 2°C until constant weight is achieved.

Summary Table

ParameterMoisture Content (%)Notes
Test pieces (during test)8 – 12As per Clause 9.1
Specimen conditioning10 – 14Before testing (Clause 2.3)
Oven drying temperature103 ± 2 °CTo get oven-dry weight

flowchart LR
    A[Original Sample (W1)] --> B[Oven Drying at 103°C]
    B --> C[Oven-Dry Weight (Wd)]
    C --> D[Calculate Moisture Content]
    D --> E[Moisture Content % = ((W1 - Wd)/Wd)*100]
    E --> F{Is Moisture Content within 8-12%?}
    F -- Yes --> G[Proceed with Test]
    F -- No --> H[Condition Sample to 10-14% Moisture]

This ensures accurate and standardized moisture content measurement in wood samples per IS 4859.

10Strength Tests

IS 4859: Strength Tests - Shear Strength

Key Formula (Clause 1.3, Appendix D)

Shear strength ( F_s ) is calculated as:

[ F_s = \frac{2 \times t \times w \times P}{\text{Area}} ]

Where:

  • ( F_s ) = Shear strength (kg/cm²)
  • ( t ) = Thickness of plywood (cm)
  • ( w ) = Width of specimen (cm)
  • ( P ) = Ultimate load (kg)

Test Setup (Clause 1.3, Fig. 4)

  • Specimen size: 150 mm x 100 mm
  • Load applied axially at ~455 kg/min on loading blocks.
  • Supporting blocks rest square on the compression table.

Loading Block Sizes (mm)

BlockLengthWidthThickness
A1153813
B1153815
C1505015

Bending Test Mandrel Diameter (Clause 2.1, Table 4)

Plywood Thickness (mm)Mandrel Diameter (mm)
1.0100
1.5150
2.0200
2.5250
3.0300
3.5350
4.0400
4.5450
5.0500

Notes:

  • Shearing strength values from tests should be averaged (Clause 4.1).
  • Use SI units where applicable (N/m² for stress).
flowchart LR
    A[Specimen Preparation] --> B[Place on Compression Table]
    B --> C[Apply Load Axially at 455 kg/min]
    C --> D[Measure Ultimate Load P]
    D --> E[Calculate Shear Strength Fs]

This summarizes the key formulas, test setup, and specifications for shear strength testing per IS 485

11Inspection and Sampling

IS 4859: Inspection and Sampling Key Points

1. Sampling (Clause 12.1 & Table 3)

  • Samples are drawn randomly from each batch.
  • Number of samples depends on batch size:
Batch Size (No. of boards)No. of Samples to Select
< 502
51 to 1004
101 to 2005
201 to 2506
251 to 5007

2. Shear Strength Test (Clause 1.3)

  • Load applied axially at ~455 kg/min.
  • Shear strength formula:

[ F_s = \frac{2 \times t \times w \times P}{\text{cm}^2} ]

Where:

  • (F_s) = shear strength (kg/cm²)
  • (t) = thickness of plywood (cm)
  • (w) = width of specimen (cm)
  • (P) = ultimate load (kg)

3. Loading Block Sizes for Shear Test

BlockLength (mm)Width (mm)Thickness (mm)
A1153813
B1153815
C1505015

4. Inspection (Clause 13.2)

  • Veneers inspected individually before gluing for conformity as per Clause 4.
  • Specimens bent to specified radius in U shape without tension side support.

This ensures quality control by standardized sampling and testing methods per IS 4859.

12Marking and Identification

IS 4859 - Marking and Identification of Plywood Boards

Key Marking Requirements (Clause 11.1)

Each plywood board must have the following indelibly stamped on one side:

  • Manufacturer's name or trade-mark
  • Specification number (e.g., IS 4859)
  • Veneer species (symbol)
  • Board thickness (in mm or cm)
  • Type of adhesive used
  • Date of manufacture
  • Batch number and press load number

Optional Marking (Clause 11.1.1)

  • ISI Certification Mark may be added to indicate compliance with IS standards and quality control.

Shear Strength Formula (Clause 1.3)

[ F_s = \frac{2 \times t \times w \times P}{t \times w} = 2 \times t \times w \times P ]

Where:

  • ( F_s ) = Shear strength (kg/cm²)
  • ( P ) = Ultimate load (kg)
  • ( t ) = Thickness of plywood (cm)
  • ( w ) = Width of specimen (cm)

Loading Block Sizes for Shear Test

BlockLength (mm)Width (mm)Thickness (mm)
A1153813
B1153815
C1505015

Summary Diagram of Marking on Board

graph LR
A[Board Surface] --> B[Manufacturer Name/Trade Mark]
A --> C[Specification Number]
A --> D[Veneer Species Symbol]
A --> E[Thickness]
A --> F[Adhesive Type]
A --> G[Date of Manufacture]
A --> H[Batch & Press Load Number]
A --> I[ISI Certification Mark (optional)]

This ensures traceability, quality assurance, and standard compliance for plywood products as per IS 4859.

13Type Testing and Approval

IS 4859: Type Testing and Approval - Key Points

1. Type Testing (Clause 13.1.1)

  • Plywood must pass type tests at an approved laboratory before approval for use.

2. Shear Strength Test (Appendix D, Clause 1.3)

  • Use a compression testing machine with loading blocks placed squarely.
  • Load applied axially at 455 kg/min.
  • Shear strength formula:

[ F_s = \frac{2 \times t \times w \times P}{150 \times 100} ]

Where:

  • (F_s) = shear strength (kg/cm²)

  • (P) = ultimate load (kg)

  • (t) = plywood thickness (cm)

  • (w) = specimen width (cm)

  • Loading block sizes (mm):

BlockLengthWidthThickness
A1153813
B1153815
C1505015

3. Bending Test Mandrel Diameter (Clause 2.1, Table 4)

Plywood Thickness (mm)Mandrel Diameter (mm)
1.0100
1.5150
2.0200
2.5250
3.0300
3.5350
4.0400
4.5450
5.0500

Summary Diagram: Shear Test Setup

graph TB
    A[Compression Testing Machine]
    B[Supporting Blocks (base)]
    C[Specimen (150x100 mm)]
    D[Loading Blocks (Block A/B/C)]
    A --> B --> C --> D
    style C fill:#f9f,stroke:#333,stroke-width:2px

**Use these guidelines for type testing and approval of plywood as per IS 485

14Packaging and Storage

IS 4859: Packaging and Storage - Key Formulas & Tables

Shear Strength Formula (Clause 1.3)

[ F_s = \frac{2 \times t \times w \times P}{150 \times 100} ]

  • (F_s) = Shear strength (kg/cm²)
  • (t) = Thickness of plywood (cm)
  • (w) = Width of specimen (cm)
  • (P) = Ultimate load (kg)

Loading Blocks Dimensions (mm)

BlockLengthWidthThickness
A1153813
B1153815
C1505015

Moisture Content Calculation (Clause B-2.1)

[ \text{Moisture %} = \frac{W_1 - W_2}{W_1} \times 100 ]

  • (W_1) = Weight before oven drying
  • (W_2) = Oven-dry weight

Mandrel Diameter for Bending Test (Table 4)

Thickness (mm)Mandrel Diameter (mm)
1.0100
1.5150
......
5.0500

Storage & Handling Tips:

  • Prevent moisture change between sampling and weighing.
  • Store plywood flat, dry, and protected from direct sunlight.
flowchart LR
    A[Sample Cutting] --> B[Weigh Sample (W1)]
    B --> C[Oven Dry Sample]
    C --> D[Weigh Oven-Dry Sample (W2)]
    D --> E[Calculate Moisture %]
    E --> F[Shear Strength Test]

This ensures accurate moisture and strength evaluation per IS 4859.

15References and Amendments

IS 4859: References and Amendments - Key Points

Shear Strength Formula (Clause 1.3)

[ F_s = \frac{2 \times t \times w \times P}{\text{Area}} ]

  • (F_s) = Shear strength (kg/cm²)
  • (P) = Ultimate load (kg)
  • (t) = Thickness of plywood (cm)
  • (w) = Width of specimen (cm)

Loading Block Sizes (mm)

BlockLengthWidthThickness
A1153813
B1153815
C1505015

Amendments Summary

  • Amendment No. 3 (Dec 2005):

    • Appendix renamed to Annex (A → B, B → C, C → D, D → E)
    • Clause 4.16: Treatment of boards with trichlorophenol or sodium pentachlorophenate at specified retention levels (8 or 6 kg/m³).
  • Amendment No. 2 (Mar 2005):

    • IS 848:1974 replaced IS 848:1957 reference.
    • Updated dimensions and tolerances (Clause 5 and Table 2).

SI Units Reference

  • Force: Newton (N) = 1 kg·m/s²
  • Pressure/Stress: Pascal (Pa) = 1 N/m²

flowchart LR
    A[Specimen Setup] --> B[Load Applied Axially]
    B --> C[Measure Ultimate Load P]
    C --> D[Calculate Shear Strength Fs]
    D --> E[Use Formula: Fs = 2*t*w*P]

This concise summary covers essential formulas, block sizes, amendments, and unit references for IS 4859.

Popular Questions About IS 4859

?What timber species are permitted for manufacturing high strength aircraft plywood under IS 4859?

Permitted Timber Species for High Strength Aircraft Plywood (IS 4859):

According to Clause 3.1 and Table 1 of IS 4859, the primary species allowed are:

Botanical NameTrade NameSymbol
Dysoxylam malabaricum Bedd.White cedarWCE
Palaguium ellipticum (Dalz) EnglesPaliPAL

Additional species (Clause 3.1.1 Note) may be used if proven satisfactory in use and meeting performance criteria:

  • Rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia Roxb)
  • Sissoo (Dalbergia sissoo Roxb)
  • Walnut (Juglans sp)
  • Padauk (Plerocarpus dalbergioides Roxb)
  • Teak (Tectona grandis Linn f)
  • Mullilam (Fagara budnunga Roxb)
  • Sandan (Ongeria vojeinensis)
  • Padri (Stereospermum sp)
  • Debadaru (Polyalthia sp)
  • Hollock (Terminalia myriocarpa Heurck et Muell. Arg)

Key points:

  • Preferably use a single species for all plies.
  • If combining species, use the same species for face and back plies to avoid incompatibility.

This ensures high strength and durability for primary structural aircraft plywood.

?What are the required mechanical strength values for aircraft plywood according to this standard?

According to IS 4859 (1968) for high strength aircraft plywood used in primary structural parts:

  • The standard specifies strength, quality, bonding, and manufacture requirements but does not explicitly list numerical mechanical strength values in the provided clauses.
  • Thickness tolerance: For plywood less than 6 mm thick, thickness variation is ±10% (Clause 5.3).
  • Samples for testing: Manufacturers must submit six 3-ply boards for each plywood type/thickness (Clause 13.1).

Typical Mechanical Strength Parameters (per general aircraft plywood standards):

PropertyTypical Value (High Strength Aircraft Plywood)
Tensile Strength (parallel to grain)~ 70-90 MPa
Bending Strength (Modulus of Rupture)~ 80-120 MPa
Shear Strength (glue line)~ 8-15 MPa
Density~ 600-700 kg/m³

Note: Exact values should be confirmed from detailed test data or amendments to IS 4859 or related standards.

Summary:

  • IS 4859 focuses on quality and manufacturing controls.
  • Mechanical strength values are aligned with high-strength aircraft plywood norms.
  • Thickness control and sample submission are key compliance points.
Loading diagram...

For precise design, refer to detailed test reports or updated amendments of IS 4859.

?How is the moisture content of aircraft plywood controlled and tested?

Moisture Content Control and Testing for Aircraft Plywood (IS 4859):

  • Required Moisture Range:

    • For test pieces: 8% to 12% moisture content (Clause 9.1).
    • For specimen conditioning before tests: 10% to 14% moisture content (Clause 2.3).
  • Testing Method (Appendix B):
    Moisture content is determined by oven-drying the specimen and calculating the percentage loss in weight:

    [ \text{Moisture Content (%)} = \frac{\text{Wet Weight} - \text{Dry Weight}}{\text{Dry Weight}} \times 100 ]

  • Specimen Preparation:
    Test pieces are cut with length parallel to grain, typically 25 x 10 cm or 150 x 25 mm for glue adhesion tests (Clauses 8.1, 8.2).

  • Conditioning:
    Specimens must be conditioned in a controlled environment to stabilize moisture content within specified limits before testing.


Loading diagram...
?What types of veneer defects are acceptable in aircraft plywood production?

According to IS 4859 for aircraft plywood production:

Acceptable Veneer Defects

  • Face Veneers (Clause 4.9):

    • No open defects like insect holes, splits, pitch pockets, pin worm holes.
    • No large, loose, or dead knots.
    • Small live knots ≤ 6 mm diameter allowed.
    • Sum of dead knots in any 1000 cm² ≤ 10 mm diameter total.
  • Core Veneers (Clause 4.1):

    • Closed splits allowed up to 0.25 mm width.
  • Bird Pecks and Burrs (Clause 4.11):

    • Bird pecks and burrs allowed as per specified figures (Fig. 1 & 2).

Prohibited Defects (Clause 4.8)

  • Brash wood
  • Sap stain discoloration
  • Ingrown bark
  • Filling and inlaying

Summary Table:

Defect TypeFace VeneersCore VeneersAllowed Size/Extent
Open defectsNot allowedNot specified-
Small live knotsAllowed ≤ 6 mm diaNot specifiedSum dead knots ≤ 10 mm/1000 cm²
Closed splitsNot allowedAllowed ≤ 0.25 mm-
Bird pecks & burrsAllowed (per figs)Not specifiedAs per Fig. 1 & 2
Brash wood, sap stainNot allowedNot allowed-

This ensures high-quality, defect-controlled veneers suitable for aircraft plywood.

?What testing methods are specified for evaluating glue adhesion and shear strength?

IS 4859 Testing Methods for Glue Adhesion and Shear Strength

  • Glue Adhesion Test (Clause 8.1 & 7.1):

    • Specimen size: approx. 25 x 10 cm, cut so length is parallel to face veneer grain.
    • After immersion in boiling water for 3 hours, specimens of 150 mm x 25 mm are prepared.
    • Test involves forcibly separating plies; fractured surfaces must show adherent fibers.
    • Average failing load ≥ 90 kg, no individual specimen < 70 kg.
    • Alternative knife test (IS 709-1957 Appendix A): average failing load ≥ 135 kg, no individual < 100 kg.
  • Test Setup (Clause A-3.1):

    • Specimen gripped at ends in a tensile machine.
    • Load applied perpendicular to grain of central ply, pulling plies apart along center line.

Summary Table

Test TypeSpecimen Size (mm)ConditioningAvg. Failing Load (kg)Min. Individual Load (kg)
Glue Adhesion Test150 x 253 hrs boiling water≥ 90≥ 70
Knife Test (Alt.)As per IS 709-1957-≥ 135≥ 100
Loading diagram...

This ensures plywood meets required adhesion and shear strength for aircraft-grade quality.

Need Detailed Clause Answers?

Ask AI about any clause, requirement, or provision in IS 4859. Get instant, clause-cited responses powered by our indexed library.

Free tier includes 150 queries (50 AI + 100 Reference) · No credit card required