Leading structural solutions provider, B & K Structures has joined forces with Austrian engineered timber manufacturer, Binderholz, to form the X-LAM Alliance - a working partnership that aims to support and advise the construction industry in maximising the benefits of this versatile material.
B & K Structures will be showcasing the new alliance on stand S1710 of this year’s Ecobuild, as well as displaying its impressive and unique package of design, supply, project management and site construction services – all of which incorporate cross laminated (X-LAM) and glulam engineered timber constructions and mixed material hybrids
The X-LAM Alliance formalises a long standing working relationship between B & K Structures and Binderholz and seeks to provide the construction industry with a clear and consistent source of information regarding the supply and application of cross laminated timber.
Recognising that the UK construction market is not fully exploiting the benefits of this adaptable and highly sustainable material, B & K Structures has also produced a series of CPDs that succinctly explain the enormous potential of engineered timber, including X-LAM products.
Alan Wildsmith, Business Development Manager at B & K Structures, commented: “We are committed to continually improving the scope of application for this wonderful building material and a large part of that is down to educating the UK market about its potential. We’ve already got a long-standing history with Binderholz and this new formalised partnership is a huge step forward that will bring exciting times for both organisations, as well as the future of X-LAM.”
X-LAM is formed by stacking layers of timber (known as lamellas) at 90º to the one below, which are glued together to produce standard panels of up to 18m in length and 2950mm in width (bespoke panels are also available), suitable for creating structural roof, wall and floor panels. The large bearing area means that X-LAM panels deliver an extremely high axial load, with a high sheer strength to resist horizontal loads.
X-LAM also offers significant advantages in respect of fire protection compared with reinforced concrete or steel materials. In a fire, a charred layer forms around the central core, which retains its load bearing capacity, reducing the entry of oxygen and heat from outside and significantly delaying the spread of the flame.
As a renewable and highly sustainable material, X-LAM also delivers a number of environmental benefits and both B & K Structures and Binderholz can offer full accreditations, including FSC, PEFC and Chain of Custody.
For more information please visit www.bkts.co.uk