Determination of the Capacities of a new Composite Timber-Steel Connection System the TiSCo

The TiSCo-Connector (Timber-Steel-Connector) is a novel end-grain connection system designed for heavy timber construction offering high load-carrying capacity and ease of fabrication. Unlike conventional connectors that struggle with reduced strength in end-grain applications the TiSCo system utilizes axial load transfer along the wood fibers and a tubular geometry to maximize the load-transmitting surface area. This design enables a load transfer efficiency approaching 100%.This study presents the results of an experimental test program focused on one prototype version of the TiSCo-Connector. The tested version featured a sandblasted surface with subsequent developments introducing grooves or threads to improve adhesive bonding. Testing was conducted in both tension and compression to determine characteristic strength values slip moduli and failure modes. The influence of edge distances and the performance of single and double connector configurations under lateral load were also examined.Additional tests evaluated the effects of cyclic climatic exposure revealing a reduction in load-carrying capacity of approximately 15%. Mortar bed tests including double-lap shear testing provided shear strength data and further insight into installation methods. Adhesive behavior was studied in detail as it plays a critical role in overall connection performance. Spacer elements were tested for alignment improvements in mortar applications.The results demonstrate that the TiSCo-Connector provides reliable and repeatable performance within the tested configuration. While findings apply specifically to the prototype version studied shear test results may be transferable to other versions due to their dependence on wood properties. A standardized testing procedure was developed to support further research and application.