What is LVL beams?

LVL beam is Laminated Veneer Lumber Beam – highly engineered wood beam product.  LVL beam like plywood although the grain of adjacent layers of veneer is typically aligned in the same direction. Plywood has alternate layers aligned at right angles
What kind of wood does SENSO use to make LVL beam?
SENSO LVL beam use pine wood from around plantations found in Perth in New Zealand .
How is LVL made?
SENSO manufactures LVL beam at a purpose built, world-class facility in China.
The manufacturing process involves laminating a series of plantation timbers with phenolic adhesives in a continuous assembly. Veneer grain directions all run longitudinally. The product is then pressed as a 1200mm nominal width continuous billet in various standard thicknesses.
What are the key features of SENSO’s LVL beam ?
SENSO LVL beam have a number of key features.
LVL beam strength:
SENSO LVL has a high strength-to-weight ratio, thanks to the combination of the natural characteristics of plantation timbers and SENSO’s leading-edge engineering and manufacturing processes. The high strength-to-weight ratio of SENSO e-beam LVL enables the product to be used a substitute for steel in many situations. It also reduces the overall amount of material needed in construction, resulting in cost savings.
LVL beam consistency: Because SENSO’s LVL is an engineered product, it has a low Coefficient Of Variation (COV) that, at 9%, puts in on a par with steel (7% COV) whilst outperforming timber (38% COV).As a result, it is easier to predict the way the material will behave, giving greater control over issues such as maintenance costs.
LVL beam with light weight: A piece of SENSO LVL weighs up to half the equivalent piece of hardwood, making it easier and safer to work with and reducing the need for mechanical lifting. This also speeds up the construction process, as well as giving a project lighter foundation requirements.
LVL beam with fixed cost: Unlike steel where costs are increasing all the time, the price of SENSO’s LVL does not fluctuate with world commodity prices. This gives builders greater control of building costs.
LVL beam with smooth edges: Framing carpenters appreciate the fact that SENSO LVL is smooth, splinter-free, chamfered products which handle well.
LVL beam with longer lengths: SENSO’s LVL products are available in lengths up to 12.6 metres
What are the applications of SENSO LVL BEAM?
LVL is in a wide variety of applications including, floor bearers and joists, large section beams, roof construction, bottom chords in girder trusses and support beams in concrete formwork to name but a few.
Does working with LVL beam involve learning new skills?
LVL cuts, nails and screws much the same as timber. However, nails should not be driven parallel to the direction of the LVL veneers.