Connections
Design for Assembly
Connections are critical to ensure the success of any Mass Timber project.
Glued-in rods ( Gi-Rods ) are on the cutting edge of this technology. Venturer has invested significantly in the adoption of this connection typology. In connection design, we prioritize the aesthetic appearance, performance, and ease of installation.
Gi-Rods technology is based on steel rods being glued into pre-drilled holes in timber elements before the elements arrive on site. The concept is simple but the process and due diligence is anything but. The mechanical advantages of Gi-Rods include reliable strength under regular conditions, high local force transfer, relatively high stiffness, and the possibility of ductile behaviour.
In our opinion, this is a wise investment in further off-site preparation that has a significant impact on reducing the complexity of many installations, coupled with a reduction in highly skilled glulam familiar installers. We have also witnessed an improvement in quality and appearance as connections become less visible and there is a significant decrease in the risk of damage to components during the installation sequence.
An evolution in timber construction
19th vs 20th Century techniques, massive reduction in components and labour on site, waste, time to install, whilst providing better quality and value with higher factory made precision.