Glued-laminated timber – for high demands on the load-bearing capacity and appearance

Glued-laminated timber (BSH) is the construction material for wide span supporting frames. It is made of several board lamellas that are joined by finger jointing.

The lamellas are glued together in a press bed to produce straight, curved or 3D elements. Element heights of up to 2000 mm, widths of up to 220 mm and lengths of up to 30 metres are common, but much larger dimensions can also be produced. The dimensions depend on the possibilities of transportation.

Boards of various strength classes can be arranged within the cross-section depending on the static requirements. The element is planned, chamfered and cut once the glue has set; countersinks are produced if necessary. Spruce is normally used, though other softwood varieties and some hardwoods are also allowed. Gluing is carried out depending on the class of use and optical requirements using various artificial resin glues or polyurethane. Three surface qualities (industrial, visible, elite) can be ordered. Only officially approved and quality-controlled companies may manufacture glued-laminated timber.

Glued-laminated timber is very homogeneous, dimensionally stable and portative. It is suitable for the construction of large halls and stadiums, industrial buildings, bridges, towers and special buildings, though also for houses and multi-storey buildings. Self-supporting span lengths of hundreds of metres and more have been realised throughout the world with glued-laminated timber.