More mass timber beam and column options available in the U.S.
By Peter Fabris, Contributing Editor
Availability of manufactured mass timber elements that can be used in high-rise construction projects is increasing in the U.S.
The latest line of timber beams and columns was recently announced by Freres Lumber Co., Inc. of Lyons, Ore. The APA-certified products currently run up to 12 inches in length with a depth of 72 inches, but, the company says, could be produced up to 24 inches thick.
The product line is capable of being produced up to 60 feet in length, but Freres’ current press is limited to 48 feet. The company will seek certification for products in larger widths and depths in the coming months.
Freres’s Mass Plywood Panel (MPP) manufacturing process is patented, producing engineered wood products that use 20%-30% less wood than other mass timber products, according to a Freres’ news release.