Cutting-edge timber technology developed in Christchurch could change the future of construction and how buildings react to earthquakes.
The new Beatrice Tinsley building, at the University of Canterbury’s (UC) Ilam campus, is under construction utilising UC-patented technology. Pres-Lam has been developed for multi-storey timber construction.
Pres-Lam is the name given to the construction technique, or system, incorporating Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL), Cross Laminated Timber (CLT), and steel fastening elements. LVL was made using layers of thinly milled timber stuck together with high-strength glue. When complete, it is said to be stronger than concrete.
The building is unique in the world for the extent of its structure being made of timber.
Read more:
Canterbury technology behind the future of earthquake-resistant construction – Stuff, 28 August 2018
New Ilam campus building uses innovative NZ timber tech – Voxy.co.nz, 27 August 2018
Photo Supplied by University of Canterbury: University of Canterbury’s Beatrice Tinsley building uses innovative timber technology, developed by several of the university’s professors. The building is expected to be completed in 2019.
