Glulam

Glulam (glued laminated timber) is a type of structural engineered wood product comprising a number of layers of dimensioned lumber bonded together with durable, moisture-resistant adhesives. These layers, also known as laminations, are typically arranged with their grain parallel to the length of the member. Glulam is used in a variety of applications, from simple beams and columns to complex arches and domes.

History

The development of glulam dates back to the early 20th century. The first patent for a glulam product was issued in 1901 in Germany. The technology spread to other countries, including the United States and Canada, where it became popular for its strength and versatility.

Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing process of glulam involves several steps:

1. Selection of Lumber: High-quality lumber is selected and dried to the appropriate moisture content.
2. Planing and Grading: The lumber is planed to a uniform thickness and graded for strength.
3. Adhesive Application: A durable, moisture-resistant adhesive is applied to the surfaces of the laminations.
4. Assembly and Pressing: The laminations are assembled and pressed together to form the desired shape.
5. Curing: The adhesive is cured under controlled conditions to ensure a strong bond.
6. Finishing: The glulam member is planed and trimmed to its final dimensions.

Advantages

Glulam offers several advantages over traditional solid-sawn lumber:

• Strength and Durability: Glulam is stronger and more durable than solid-sawn lumber of the same dimensions.
• Versatility: It can be manufactured in a wide range of shapes and sizes, including curved and tapered forms.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The natural beauty of wood is preserved, making glulam an attractive choice for exposed structural elements.
• Sustainability: Glulam is made from renewable resources and can be produced using smaller, fast-growing trees.

Applications

Glulam is used in a variety of structural applications, including:

• Residential Construction: Beams, columns, and trusses in homes and apartments.
• Commercial Buildings: Large-span roofs, floors, and walls in offices, schools, and shopping centers.
• Bridges: Structural components in pedestrian and vehicular bridges.
• Recreational Facilities: Roofs and support structures in sports arenas and swimming pools.

Related Pages

• Engineered wood
• Laminated veneer lumber
• Cross-laminated timber
• Timber framing
• Woodworking

See Also

• Structural engineering
• Building materials
• Sustainable architecture