Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) breaks the tree down to rebuild it perfect. Obtained by rotary peeling of the trunk, it transforms logs of modest diameter into beams of very large size and absolute stiffness.
The production process maximises efficiency (65% trunk yield, against 45% for sawn timber). The trunk is peeled into a continuous veneer sheet about 3 mm thick. These sheets, dried and jointed, are stacked, coated with thermosetting adhesive and hot-pressed. By breaking the wood down to a millimetric level, natural defects are dispersed and cancelled out (knots, grain slope), obtaining a homogeneous and highly isotropic material.
There are two main variants. In LVL-P (Parallel), used for beams and columns, the veneers are all oriented longitudinally, offering an exceptional elastic modulus along a single axis. In LVL-C (Cross), about 20% of the layers are glued orthogonally, ideal for load-bearing wall panels or slabs, improving shear strength and reducing surface warping.
Standards
European and international references applicable.
Physical properties
Usage environment
Service Class 1 and 2 (indoor). Due to its exceptional density and phenolic glues, the charring rate is 0.65 mm/min, achieving R60/R90 without passive linings. Always pre-drill before screwing to avoid splitting parallel to the grain.