CONSTRUCTION

STEEL AND TIMBER CONSTRUCTION

 
Ultra-slim steel joists are used in steel construction. The forces from these joists must be transferred to the components below, such as columns, in a specific way. High-quality elastomeric bearings are often required since high pressures act on small surfaces in these structures. In addition to these forces, these elements need to absorb the torsion in the joists and also horizontal movements caused by temperature-related linear expansions. Absorption is assured by both sliding bearings and shear deformation bearings.
 
Increases in climate protection and energy efficiency requirements promote construction with renewable building materials, meaning buildings are increasingly being constructed partly or entirely with timber. Walls and floor slabs in timber construction, as an integral part of load-bearing structures, are largely prefabricated and are practically impossible to replace. Just like construction bearings, they thus need to meet the same requirements as other load-bearing parts of the building with regard to service life. Elastomeric bearings transmit mainly vertical loads between the wall and ceiling at wall-ceiling joints. Since construction bearings deflect under load, a sufficiently dimensioned edge distance should be maintained to prevent the elastomeric bearing from bulging (visual deficit). Elastomeric bearings can be used as fixed bearings or sliding bearings; the format used is mainly point-shaped.
 
Composite timber-steel construction (e.g. a load-bearing reinforced concrete structure with curtain-type, timber-clad exterior walls) is also suited to elastomeric bearings. Calenberg elastomeric bearings are approved by the building authorities and meet fire safety requirements.
 
 

ALUMINIUM-GLASS STRUCTURES

 
A popular stylistic device in modern architecture is the use of aluminium-glass façades or glass roofs. Their ultra-slim profile face widths are optimally combined with energy efficiency and a long service life. In most cases, this construction method achieves a reduction in minimal visible elements in the supporting structure. In the case of a skeletal aluminium supporting structure, load is transferred via the vertical posts. Depending on the construction method used, sliding bearings ensure horizontal displacement to prevent constraints that would otherwise quickly lead to structural damage with serious consequences. Cold bridges and condensation may occur due to the high thermal conductivity of aluminium, but these can be avoided by using thermal breaks with optimal force absorption.