Fiber Reinforced Glulam Beams
Our reinforced beams are manufactured with one or more thin layers of fiber reinforced panel (FiRP®). The reinforcing consists of high-strength fibers embedded in a matrix and are strategitically placed between certain laminations to increase beam strength and stiffness. Three types of reinforcing are currently approved for use in our beams: Aramid, Carbon, and Fiberglass. The addition of reinforcing generally permits a reduction in beam width reducing the volume of wood fiber used, particularly in larger beams (21" in depth or greater).Special tension laminations are used next to the reinforcing. Depending on the depth of the beam, additional tension laminations may be required. Other laminations are permitted to be of a lower grade. This can provide additional savings. Key
We can design a reinforced beam for your project. Our FiRP® beam design complies with the published code report (PFC 5100). Because engineering design is required, savings are greatest when a series of beams have identical spans and loading. Substantial savings may also be realized with a single beam if it is large.
The curved reinforced beams shown on the left were used to support the roof over a swimming pool in Stayton, Oregon. The HVAC equipment was designed to maintain a low humidity so that dry stresses could be used in beam design. Many reinforced beams have been used for bridge girders. Usually bridge girders are pressure treated with a preservative and designed for wet use conditions.
