Determining the deflection/deformation characteristics of glulam timber species
The challenge
Glued-laminated (glulam) structural timber beams are used where large span and/or high strength beam elements are required. Their design specifications using the current Australian standards (AS1720.1) are based on testing done on timber products manufactured overseas and are unlikely to reflect the structural properties of domestic products. The lack of specific creep factor (j2) data for Australian products limits market access and competitiveness of glulam beams.
The solution
This project will specifically focus on determining the deflection/deformation characteristics of glulam timber species manufactured in Australia both softwood (e.g., radiata pine, slash pine) and hardwood (e.g., Victorian ash/Tasmanian oak and spotted gum). It involves long-term testing (18 months) glulam beams across a range of conditions so that the Australian standard (AS1720.1) will adequately reflect the structural properties of these products.
Outcomes
Ensuring that the Australian standards are specified to our local products and conditions and enhance glulam’s ability to be considered as a direct substitute for emission intensive materials such as steel. A change to the creep modification factor would also enhance the development of new engineered wood solutions such as large spanning timber portal frames, composite floor systems and beam type elements.
