Novice Q – I’ve watched most of David Marks’ TV shows and he extolled loose tenons. He made his out of the same wood he was using in his project. I’ve read various articles and my impression is that most of them agree that loose tenons are as strong as integral tenons (some disagree). Now the Festool Domino has appeared with those ultra-engineered birch loose tenons and I have only seen one article about their strength (not exceptional) compared to integral tenons OR to tenons made from the same wood as the parts being joined.
Would Domino joints be improved by using Oak (or whatever) on an Oak project?
Replies
1. Size for size (and properly fitted and glued), loose tenons and integral tenons have similar strength.
2. I doubt that there is much difference between oak and birch (or maple), the major difference is the size and number of tenons. If you have a joint that is under considerable strain, then changing the wood is unlikely to offer much additional strength. Consider doubling the tenons, or cutting a larger tenon, it wood movement permits.
Glaucon
If you don't think too good, then don't think too much...
Notwithstanding the strength question I would , on through tenons, address the appearance of contrasting or matching ends according to tastes.
Regarding loose tenons I have to think of the recent article in FWW regarding pressure and glue joint strength. In a mortise and tenon joint the pressure that is provided while the glue sets comes from the tightness of the joint. Even in a very tight mortise and tenon with a difference of .005" between O.D. of tenon and I.D. of mortise there is no way that the pressure approaches the thousands of psi described and prescribed in the FWW article. Does anyone have any thoughts on how so many indestructible Mortise and tenon joints have overcome this theoretical dilemma?
Obviously, the article in question calls into question the utility of the M&T joint- and the dovetail joint- and all joints. I would advise that we immediately cease the use of all joinery in favor of yellow glue and hydraulic clamping techniques followed by the use of carriage bolts. One can never be too safe in constructing a jewelry box...Glaucon
If you don't think too good, then don't think too much...
They have allowed the glue to do its work. I reclaim as much wood as possible and repair broken chairs when asked. The most frequent cause of failure in the joints I see is glue starvation which is a consequence of trying to cut out the clean up step in assembly.
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