In an engineered beam like that, the load is distributed along the ends of the 
OSB top/bottom through the solid parts. It is evenly distributed. Nailing puts 
the load at points, with some residual friction between surfaces. Bear in mind, 
OSB is not as strong as real wood, but it's cheaper and of uniform properties 
(though weaker) so it's cheaper to make the engineered beam and manufacturing 
doesn't depend on working around any natural imperfections. They can also be 
made longer than would be easily obtainable in real wood. It is _not_ good for 
your application.


Cedric Chang wrote:
> I really appreciate the replies and will let you all know what I do  
> and what happens.
> One further comment:  I have a lot of faith in OSB since I have seen  
> many I-beams
> built out of them.
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