Technical properties
Fire stability
Wooden structures with a large cross-section remain highly stable in a fire. Despite its flammability, the penetration rate for burning glulam is slow at around 0.5–1 mm per minute. This low penetration rate is due in part to the insulating charcoal layer that forms on the surface of glulam products. Smoke development in a fire is moderate.
Glulam retains much of its load-bearing capacity even in a fire. The figure shows a glulam cross-section before a fire (left), after 30 minutes of burning (centre) and after 60 minutes of burning (right) in a four-side fire attack.
Design values of material properties
The design values of the material properties are a crucial factor when drawing up glulam designs. Strength class GL30 states the characteristic bending strength value. GL stands for GluLam. In Sweden, glulam manufacturers are subject to ongoing control by an accredited certification body. The products are CE marked and the wood laminates are mechanically strength-graded.
Designs should also take into account the serviceability limit state (deflection) and the ultimate limit state (load-bearing capacity). Useful information on design values can be found in The Glulam Handbook Parts 1–3. The Glulam Handbook PThe glulam manufacturers are also happy to help with design specifications and dimensions.
Cross-section data
Simple designs can be made using computer software or diagrams in the handbook. Contact your nearest builders’ merchant or timber merchant, or Swedish Wood.
