Statics gap in timber construction is closed

(CONNECT) Researchers from the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa), the Bern University of Applied Sciences and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich (ETH) have conducted an extensive series of tests in collaboration with the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN). According to a press release, the aim of these investigations was to close a structural gap in timber construction. Multiple tests and mathematical models were used to gain insights into the horizontal load of timber frame structures.

"We are investigating the horizontal bracing of buildings with timber frame walls that contain window openings," Nadja Manser, project manager at Empa, is quoted as saying in the press release. "Neither in Switzerland nor in other European countries is there currently a regulation on how much horizontal load a timber frame wall can bear if it contains a window opening."

To obtain this data, the researchers carried out numerous experiments in Empa's construction hall with two-storey and single-storey walls, each containing two window openings. For this purpose, the horizontal beams were loaded with a load of over 100 kilonewtons.

In a further step, a computer model that is easy for structural engineers to calculate is to be created from a large amount of data obtained, which can be used to realise structural calculations for timber frame buildings. Throughout the project, the researchers are working with partners from industry such as Swiss Timber Engineers, Holzbau Schweiz and Ancotech AG. One of the aims is to eliminate the need for expensive and labour-intensive steel anchors and the concrete cores previously required. ce/ww