Summary: SARL Dobson Structures provided structural solutions for Moulin la Roche, a historic mill, focusing on a new solid timber floor supported by oversized steel beams. The design balanced aesthetics with safety, ensuring the timber and steel components met durability and load requirements while preserving the building’s character.
SARL Dobson Structures was engaged to carry out structural calculations for Moulin la Roche, a historic mill in France undergoing significant upgrades. The focus of our work was to ensure the structural integrity of a new solid timber floor supported by steel beams and to address areas of deterioration.
Designing for a Solid Timber Floor
The new floor was designed using 300x150mm oak timbers, chosen for their durability and aesthetic appeal. We calculated the necessary steel supports to handle the weight of the timber floor, including allowances for potential long-term environmental impacts like moisture. While we aim to calculate the most efficient solution, in this case, the steel sections were intentionally oversized to meet the client’s desire for a striking industrial look. Our designs incorporated HEA 240 beams with specific bearing and positioning requirements to distribute the loads effectively.
Addressing Timber Durability
For timber durability, we assumed a D18 grade, accounting for potential challenges in drying large timber sections. The design ensures that deflection (flexing under weight) remains within safe limits for both short- and long-term performance.
Comprehensive Safety Measures
Our recommendations also included thinner steel sections (UPE 240) along edges for improved aesthetics and compatibility. All steel and timber connections were carefully calculated to meet safety standards, considering the building's historic stone walls and unique layout.
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