Prefered grain direction in steam bent ribs (frames)?

[nedL]

Does anyone know of the preferred direction of the grain (growth rings) in steam bent ribs or frames? When looking down at the end grain at the gunwale do you want to see the rings aligned running fore & aft or athwart ship? I seem to remember an article in W.B some years ago but couldn't find it in the directory and haven't found any reference in my books that I've checked. I thought I knew, but saw something recently that's making me double check. Thanks.

[George Roberts]

For thin ribs (siding greater than molding) I would like the rings to run athwart. For square or thicker ribs (siding less than molding) I would like the rings to run fore & aft.

If I need to use screws for fasteners, I would like the rings to run athwart. For thru fasteners I would like the rings to run fore & aft.

If I am bending them, I want them one way. If you are bending them, I want them the other.

[Jack Heinlen]

Fore and aft.

[Ken Hutchins]

What is more important is the stock must follow the grain along the length and any defects should be on the inside of the radius so they are under conpression not tension. I cut all my stock (2-1/4 sq white oak) following the grain with the band saw, so they were somewhat crooked before bending. Why cut straight when it is going to be bent? Didn't pay much attention to the end grain. Only one failure in 28 ribs a few others had minor splinters which were repairable by glueing.

[nedL]

Thank you. That confirms what I thought & what I had started out doing. Last weekend I took a look at the end grain of the old ribs I'm replacing & realized the growth rings om those 60 year old ones are running athwart ship which made me start questioning myself. Now I can keep going as I started with confidence. smile.gif