- Which sorting class is the timber subject to? In a log house, unsorted damp wood is often used.
- How is the contact between the timber types controlled? Diamond notch, connection with moving timbers, and so on?
- Have mullions been installed? What type of timber, and how are the beams supported horizontally?
- What dimensions does the timber have? In a log structure, a grown trunk can often be integrated. These trunks do not have uniform dimensions, as nature cannot be put into a grid.
- How is it possible to consider the contact between two timber layers?
Question
Can I use RFEM to calculate a log house three-dimensionally?
Using the "Beam Panel" thickness type, you can model timber panel elements in 3D space. You just specify the surface geometry and the timber panel elements are generated using an internal member-surface construct, including the simulation of the connection flexibility.
Use the "Rib" component to define any number of longitudinal ribs on a member plate. By specifying a reference object, you can automatically specify welds on it.
You have the option to perform the fire resistance design of surfaces using the reduced cross-section method. The reduction is applied over the surface thickness. It is possible to perform the design checks for all timber materials allowed for the design.
For cross-laminated timber, depending on the type of adhesive, you can select whether it is possible for individual carbonized layer parts to fall off, and whether you can expect increased charring in certain layer areas.
Among others, the following cross-laminated timber manufacturers are available in the layer structure library:
- Binderholz (USA)
- KLH (USA, CAN)
- Kalesnikoff (USA, CAN)
- Nordic Structures (USA, CAN)
- Mercer Mass Timber
- SmartLam
- Sterling Structural
- Superstructures listed in Lignatec Edition 32 "Cross-Laminated Timber of Swiss Production"
By importing a structure from the layer structure library, all relevant parameters are adopted automatically. The library is continually updated.