Differing radii are achieved by adjusting the clamp layout and using different thicknesses of timber.
Curved laminated timber beams.
The tightness of the radius will determine the thickness of the laminations.
A nine metre radius will require a plank thickness of 45mm but a two metre.
Larger cross sections can be made via special wood manufacturing processes.
Rigidply rafters inc has been manufacturing glue laminated products since 1954.
Radial curved elliptical shapes and reverse curves are all possible.
The thinner the planks are the easier they are to bend which allows tighter radii to be achieved.
Our creative curves can turn a humble beam into an arch and open a box into an atrium.
Curved beams are made by clamping glued lamella around an arrangement of clamp frames which are bolted to the floor.
As a rule of thumb the thickness of plank required is the radius 200 i e.
Factory made members can be formed into any practical shape and any desired size.
Laminated beams are superior in all strength characteristics to solid sawn lumber.
The flexibility of glulam beams allows for the designer s creative imagination to be realised.
Curved beams creativity involves thinking outside the square and wouldn t it be great to work with a material that allows you to do just that.
We can even fabricate complete circles.