# Plywood

Plywood is a layered wood composite made by pressing thin sheets of wood veneer together with alternating grain directions. This structure gives it strength and resistance to cracking compared to solid wood.

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</div>## Why FRC Teams Use It

Plywood is used because it:

- Is strong and relatively stiff for its weight
- Is easy to cut, drill, and shape with basic tools
- Holds fasteners reasonably well
- Is inexpensive and widely available

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</div>## Common Use in FRC

Plywood is primarily used as **bumper backing**, where it:

- Provides a rigid structure for bumper assemblies
- Helps maintain bumper shape during impacts
- Supports mounting hardware that attaches bumpers to the robot frame

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</div>## Material Notes

- Typically 3/4" thick in FRC applications
- Grain layers are oriented for strength in multiple directions
- Works best when edges are sealed or protected

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</div>## Limitations

- Can crack or splinter if overloaded or poorly drilled
- Heavier than many modern composite materials
- Sensitive to moisture if left unsealed

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</div>## Key Idea

Plywood is a strong, low-cost composite material used in FRC for structural support in bumper systems, where rigidity and durability are more important than weight savings.