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 | Nov 30, 2020
Finalized 2021 Energy Code leaves out future-proofing provision
Appeals process nixed requirement for residential electrification readiness.
Codes and Standards | Nov 23, 2020
GBCI turns over GRESB ownership to global investment firm
Organization assesses sustainability performance of real estate and infrastructure portfolios and assets.
Codes and Standards | Nov 23, 2020
New industrywide clay brick EPD launched
Contributes toward LEED v.4.0 and v.4.1 materials and resources requirements.
Codes and Standards | Nov 19, 2020
The ‘15-minute city’ could transform municipal planning
Concept aims for car-free living.
Codes and Standards | Nov 18, 2020
Commissioning study finds median energy savings of 3% to 16%
Berkeley Lab examines results of commissioning across building types.
Codes and Standards | Nov 17, 2020
Midtown Manhattan’s empty offices could be converted to affordable housing
Advocates envision idle offices re-zoned to alleviate housing crisis.
Codes and Standards | Nov 16, 2020
New concrete detailing manual includes downloadable CAD files
American Concrete Institute document contains guidance on codes for structural concrete.
Codes and Standards | Nov 12, 2020
California rent control measure defeated
Golden State voters reject Proposition 21.
Codes and Standards | Nov 11, 2020
NY court ruling makes it easier for condo boards to sue investors for construction defects
Investors would be tapped for damages on such cases.
Codes and Standards | Nov 10, 2020
Researchers and industry leaders will form national institute for AI in construction
Goal is to identify high-impact areas for application in design and construction.
