A new concept in timber beams which takes its design from electrical sign waves is being readied for introduction into the growing engineered joists market.
Andrew McReady is sounding out his “Wave Beam” design with housebuilders and the timber frame sector with the intention of taking market share from I-beams.
The patented system consists of solid timber on the top and bottom and plywood sections in between. Biscuit joints are cut into the timber in the shape of curved sign waves, matching similar cuts in the plywood.
Mr McReady, a mechanical engineer with roof truss systems provider Alpine Automation (UK) Ltd, said the design was extremely strong, lightweight, used less wood and naturally resisted rotational movement. Holes are pre-cut into the plywood sections for easy installation of services.
He is currently looking for additional financial backing to take the product through TRADA/BRE testing before launching it onto the market.
