Wood Density

Overview

Engineering reference data for Wood Density in material science and properties.

Key Formulas

Stress

$\sigma = \frac{F}{A}$

Force per unit area.

Strain

$\varepsilon = \frac{\Delta L}{L_0}$

Change in length per original length.

Hooke's Law

$\sigma = E \varepsilon$

Stress proportional to strain in elastic region.

Thermal Expansion

$\Delta L = \alpha L_0 \Delta T$

Length change due to temperature.

Variables

Wood Density Data

Density Unit Conversions

To convert wood density from kg/m³ to other common units:

For example, to convert oak density ($700 \text{ kg/m}^3$) to lb/ft³:

$\rho_{\text{lb/ft}^3} = 700 \times 0.0624 = 43.68 \text{ lb/ft}^3$

Wood Moisture and Seasoning

After felling, timber naturally loses moisture to reach equilibrium with atmospheric conditions. Key properties:

• Target moisture content: Below 20% to prevent fungal attack
• Seasoning: The controlled process of reducing moisture content to the appropriate level for the intended application
• Typical shrinkage: 3–4% across the grain as a result of moisture loss

The density values in the table above represent wood in a seasoned and dry condition. Green (unseasoned) wood will have significantly higher density due to water content.

Interactive Charts

References

• Original Source