Exploring Mass Timber Performance Through Data & Design
Forell Elsesser has been investigating vibration performance of mass timber floor systems for laboratory occupancy with sensitive equipment. We are highly interested in partnering with builders to develop these studies more fully, looking at benefits and drawbacks related to cost, schedule, and constructability.
F|E created an interactive dashboard tool to compare mass timber solutions with conventional concrete fill on metal deck floors and steel framing. In the tool, users can toggle structural material, bay size, beam depth, and loading in order to compare vibration results. We modeled permutations of these features in CSI SAP 2000 and extracted the out-of-plane vibration modes. Resonance and impulse response of floors subjected to walking is calculated according to AISC Design Guide 11. Please contact us at masstimber@forell.com if you’re interested in learning more.
Forell Elsesser partnered with Colin Gordon Associates to conduct vibration instrumentation and analysis at the UC Berkeley Undergraduate Academic Building. The study included measuring footfall-induced vibrations at various locations in the building to understand the impact of different stiffening or damping elements on the vibration characteristics of the 5-ply CLT floor. The effects were compared at different phases: bare CLT floors, CLT floors with acoustic mat and gypcrete topping, and following the installation of partition walls and cladding.
Since the vibration analysis and design guidelines for mass timber floors are still in the early stages of development, this study was crucial in advancing the knowledge needed to use mass timber in various occupancies, including vibration-sensitive facilities.
More data is needed from different building types to refine and improve our analytical methodology. If you’re involved in a mass timber project – office, lab, classroom or residential – partnering for testing can help push the industry forward. It’s non-invasive and takes minimal time. Please reach out if you are interested in collaborating.