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. 

 

 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 

 

 

 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 

 

 

 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 

 

 

 Limitations 

 

 Can crack or splinter if overloaded or poorly drilled 

 Heavier than many modern composite materials 

 Sensitive to moisture if left unsealed 

 

 

 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.