Comparison of Branch Failure During Static Loading of Silver and Norway Maples

Abstract

Trees in the urban setting can be a hazard to utility lines, structures, traffic flow and pedestrians. Identifying characteristics that make limbs prone to failure could help save money and lives. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of branch angle, form, and wood specific gravity on susceptibility to failure during static loading. Branches of silver (Acer saccharinum) and Norway (Acer platanoides) maple were mechanically broken. Forces causing failure were measured. No correlation was found between bending stress and branch angle or wood specific gravity. Silver and Norway maples were similar in susceptibility to failure.