building systems |
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structural performance
Wood products and systems used for structural purposes generally
need to be tested to document their performance in various applications
and conditions, and facilitate their market acceptance. FPInnovations'
Structural Performance research provides the technical basis to
keep wood systems competitive with respect to other materials, both
in the codes and in the minds of engineers, architects and
builders.
Through this research, our specialists work closely with the Canadian
Wood Council to provide on-going assurance that Canadian wood
products meet published design values, particularly in the US market.
Our laboratories are accredited to evaluate
the structural performance of wood products and building systems.
In collaboration with the National
Lumber Grades Authority (NLGA), FPInnovations also works on
developing standards to expand the use of conventional and new engineered
wood products, such as finger-jointed lumber and laminated products,
in the construction field.
Over the years, FPInnovations has also developed an internationally
recognised seismic research program. Our specialists have demonstrated,
amongst other results, that affordable seismic performance is one
of the strongest attributes of platform-frame wood buildings. FPInnovations
also coordinates an International Research Network on the seismic
resistance of wood structures.
On another front, FPInnovations studies on the dynamic performance
of floors with respect to vibration (particularly floors built with
engineered wood products) have reinforced the credibility of wood
as a structural component in commercial and multi-family buildings.
For our members, details are
available in the 2008-2009 Building Systems Program Summary and the description of current
Structural research projects. A list of relevant publications
is offered within our sections Newsletter
(Publications Update) and Technotes.
Also of interest is the Earthquake-Resistant
Housing fact sheet produced in collaboration with the Canadian
Mortgage and Housing Corporation.
Our Members may also be interested
in the following key innovations that have emerged over the years
through our structural performance research:
- MIDPLYTM
Wall - a high performance wood-frame shear wall, which shows
much greater load carrying capacity and ductility than conventional
nailed shear walls.
- JAFA
(Jointing Apparatus Force Analyser) - a device to measure
the pressure applied to lumber in the finger-jointing process.
- Test
Suite (data acquisition system) - software that automate product
evaluation.
For specific needs, we also offer contract
services in the field of structural performance for wood products
and building systems, with strict confidentiality guidelines.
20/07/10
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