The Framework Project, LLC announced that the company has successfully completed two significant fire tests on Cross-laminated Timber as a building material, “demonstrating for the first time the feasibility of tall mass timber buildings in the U.S.”
The two tests provide proof that a mass timber assembly using Cross-laminated Timber (CLT) and Glue-laminated timber (glulam) can be used safely while meeting stringent fire code requirements. Tall wood buildings using CLT and glulam have already been permitted in Europe, Australia, and Canada.
The tests also achieved breakthrough results, Framework Project says. A two-hour fire rating for the glulam beam to glulam column connection is a “fundamental breakthrough in mass timber construction, exceeding results conducted anywhere in the world.” This construction system allows mass timber to be used for high-rise construction, with some of the timber exposed. In previous CLT fire tests, the structural frame of timber has been concealed under layers of gypsum board.
Tests were conducted by Southwest Research Institute (SwRi), an independent, nonprofit, applied research and development organization.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Mar 13, 2019
Climate change can’t be stabilized without addressing urban sprawl
Even if power goes green, transportation will still be a major emissions source.
Codes and Standards | Mar 12, 2019
Virginia county hones new rainwater harvesting standard
Developer prompts new rules to use rainwater for heating and air conditioning.
Codes and Standards | Mar 8, 2019
Portland delays requirement for posted warnings on unreinforced brick and stone buildings
Regulation would mandate signs warning that buildings could be unsafe during earthquakes.
Codes and Standards | Mar 7, 2019
California will allow flame retardant-free building insulation
State also repeals business furniture flammability standard.
Codes and Standards | Mar 6, 2019
Sixty six construction companies cited for wage theft violations in Massachusetts
Penalties total $2.7 million.
Codes and Standards | Mar 5, 2019
Persistent flooding having economic impact on coastal cities
Atlantic City, Annapolis among communities affected.
Codes and Standards | Mar 1, 2019
$1 billion Boston hospital project to include extensive disaster resiliency features
Mass. General expansion will be designed for four days of shelter in place.
Codes and Standards | Mar 1, 2019
U.S. cities have become more dangerous for bicyclists and pedestrians
Reduced speed limits, traffic calming, better education seen as keys to improvement.
Codes and Standards | Feb 28, 2019
High-income renters now the fastest-growing housing market segment
Growth is fastest in mid-sized cities with strong economies.
Codes and Standards | Feb 27, 2019
Katerra launches software platform for ‘entire lifecycle of the building process’
Firm is accepting industry applicants to test the product.