In addition, it may be necessary to separate lab HVAC systems from other parts of the building..
The glue can start evaporating at a relatively low temperature causing engineered timber to fall apart even before it burns.If the timber only chars, it might remain stable but may not be suitable for compartmentation as smoke can break through at joints.. Our response is to:.
- Use engineered timber in lower buildings with a decreased risk of vertical propagation.. - Involve specialist contractors and fire specialists from early stages to ensure the material’s structural integrity in the event of fire and robust co-ordination between disciplines.. - Engage early with statutory bodies, supply chain, and timber contractors.. - Consider the use of sacrificial layers of timber to protect the rest of the structure and potentially result in self extinguishment.. - Use timber fire treatment such as intumescent paint to prevent the spread of fire and reduce the amount of smoke produced, taking account of the impact on recyclability.. - As a last resort, consider full fire bonding if there is a risk of debonding of layers.This scenario is appropriate in multistorey residential buildings.. Other general concerns when using CLT include:.- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s).
- Shortage of construction expertise.- MEP co-ordination.
Conclusions for the industry.
Timber is a renewable material that has the potential to help decarbonise new buildings.It is also designed be the UK's first commercial development to be net zero in both construction and operation.. P-DfMA makes this possible.Antonios Kountouriotis.
Our integrated approach to the delivery of M&E services is designed to deliver the best possible results.Using Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) adds value at every stage of the design and build process, by identifying opportunities for standardisation of components and / or processes.
It brings the principles, experience and successes of the manufacturing industry to construction – with all the associated benefits in terms of reducing cost and waste, while increasing quality and efficiency.(Read more about DfMA.
(Editor: Cordless Grills)