New Compression Based Design principals for Reinforced Glulams

摘要

The use of high-strength-fiber-reinforced-plastics (RP) as reinforcement for glued laminated wood beams (glulams) is now commercialized. A major consideration in this new technology is the use of a compression based design approach for bending strength. This paper presents the new compression based design used in FiRP~TM Reinforced glulams. The principals used, derivation of formulas, and proof of same from testing are discussed. The reduction in coefficient of variation (CoV) for design value safety factors is explored and the design advantages highlighted. Finally, a comparative design in reinforced and unreinforced glulam is presented.