ELEMENT:
Tasbeam Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) timber portal frame with steel
dowel and epoxy jointing
AIM:
The portal frame structural system provides the primary building structure
for the house.
The benefits of utilising a portal frame structural system for the primary
structure are a low embodied energy, high speed of construction and flexibility.
STRATEGY:
Optimise Passive Design
Spatially the frame transfers the bearing loads generated by the roof
and floors reducing the need for internal bracing walls. Internal rooms
can then be manipulated easily without compromising the structural integrity
of the building. Window openings can be maximised and large voids can
be created to help ventilation.
Small pad foundations are possible with the portal frame which reduces
the site impact.
The rigidity of the primary structure makes the use of lightweight construction
possible; corrugated iron roof and suspended timber floors with pine wall
framing. Fibre cement cladding is used to the exterior with plasterboard
lining inside.
Minimise Embodied Energy
One of the main reasons for the use a timber portal systems is to reduce
the total embodied energy (initial energy) of the building including the
production energy on site through effective on-site construction. Timber
uses 5 times less energy to produce the equivalent steel member.
Maximise The Use of Sustainable Resources
The use of laminated veneer lumber (LVL) timber members to produce the
portals ensures the use of small pieces of plantation timber. The members
are manufactured using raw material that is sourced from sustainably managed
forests.
The portal frame is prefabricated to allow top down construction. Early
completion of the roof allows protection for the personnel completing
the remainder of the building.
Factory produced elements provide a high quality result. Timber has a
high strength to weight ratio so can be erected quickly and easily.
Onsite building material waste is minimised by the use of prefabricated
elements as the need for onsite cutting is reduced.
REFERENCE:
Tasbeam Trade Literature Australia
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