Tecbeam joists are an all-Australian product, extensively tested and proven as a structural beam for use in all types of floor and roof construction that use plantation-grown softwood timber flanges nailed to both sides of the a patented steel web.
The web is formed from 100 percent galvanised steel coil that can be recycled. It has regularly spaced holes, with stiffening ribs formed between each hole. The edges of the hole are formed into a stiffening rim that also eliminates sharp edges. The folded rim flattens out where it meets the timber flanges. The unique hole shape is said to give Tecbeam I-beam joists several exclusive structural features including: the ability for large air ducts to pass easily through, along with other services. The web holes allow for very secure wedge-fixing of timber “strongbacks” running through the web holes. These cross-bracing strongbacks ensure major reductions in live-load vibration, where joists are at or near their maximum span. Another advantage is that load bearing beams can become redundant where several Tecbeam joists are linked by strongbacks in order to share high loads. Tecbeams are also ideal for supporting high point loads such as pitched tiled roofs and for offices, mezzanine floor storage areas and commercial buildings. They offer significant cost savings if upper levels are set back from open-plan lower levels, where the whole upper level structure can often be supported on Tecbeam I-beam joists, eliminating the need for heavy steel support beams and posts.
Source: Building Products News.