TIMBER ENGINEERING

Author
CONTACT:
DI Dr. Andreas Neumüller  (Ext. -53, Email)
DI Dr. Christoph Hackspiel  (Ext. -65, Email)

Wood-concrete composite roof

The specialized division ”Timber engineering“ covers structures with wider spans

The specialized division ”Timber engineering“ covers structures with wider spans or complicated designs e.g. halls, sports facilities, bridges and other special constructions. Particularly wide span timber structures call for a high level of care and precision to be exercised during all phases of the construction process. Furthermore perfect communication, complete documentation and quality control of all processes are required.

Only properly marked building products and components must be used in order to ensure the highest level of quality
During the service life of the construction the owner has to observe his responsibility for proper maintenance; building monitoring is of great significance in this context.

The specialized division works on the development and approval of building materials, of connectors between timber components and between timber and steel components and of new composites materials e.g. wood-concrete composites. Topics such as for example bracing of buildings are also being addressed. New solutions also have to be found for components subjected to extreme climatic conditions, weathering or chemically aggressive environments (e.g. facilities for storing salt). Since constructional wood protection often runs contrary to modern architecture, building materials have to be of a very durable nature.

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

Connectors and joining techniques in timber engineering

Connectors used in modern timber engineering have to be able to transmit increasingly high loads. Thus new joining techniques and solutions are required. 

Anchorage of structures

As of the year 2009 structural design has to be carried out in accordance with the new European standards. As a consequence additional loads have to be superimposed on all building materials in order to provide additional stability in case of a seismic event.

Structural defects

The research project addresses the damage assessment of construction works, the investigation and development of new methods for monitoring, evaluation and predictive modelling of the future state of a building by means of new methods and technologies.

TESTING AND INSPECTION

Services in the area of testing and inspection are related to the technical requirements of glulam production (Österreichischer Holzleimbauverband)

ADDITIONAL SERVICES

Upon request a customer receives support throughout the development process of new products including testing of prototypes. As an accredited institute Holzforschung Austria offers numerous tests as well as certification according to national, European and international standards. Expert’s reports can be prepared in the event of structural defects.

SPECIAL FACILITIES: 

• Universal testing machine (100 and 275 kN)
• Rig for testing building elements (600 kN)
• Tensile testing machine (1.200 kN)
• Conditioning rooms and chambers
• Equipment for accelerated weathering

For further information log on website :
http://www.holzforschung.at/ingenieurholzbau.html?&L=1