Analysis and Design of Cross-Laminated Timber Mats

Abstract

Cross-laminated timber (CLT), a new generation of engineered wood product developed initially in Europe, has been gaining popularity in residential and industrial applications in several countries because of the many advantages it offers. Being an orthotropic material, CLT behavior is challenging to predict in various applications, thus requiring caution from engineers and researchers. This study presents the analysis and design procedure for CLT crane mats, mainly used to provide a stable roadbed for heavy vehicles used in the oil and gas industry. Three-dimensional (3D) nonlinear finite-element (FE) models, using ANSYS, have been created, analyzed, and compared with experimental work previously performed by the authors. The orthotropic elastic and damage models have been used to model CLT linearly and nonlinearly, respectively. After the effectiveness of the model was determined, a comparison was carried out between the behavior of traditional wood mats connected by steel rods and various configurations of CLT mats. This comparison showed that the unique orientation of layers gives CLT more strength compared to traditional wood mats, which are strong only in the direction of the grain. A CLT design procedure was developed according to previously published guidelines for crane mats supported by soft soil and the effective section properties of the CLT. Recommendations were made for the design procedure for CLT mats that also highlight the limitations of previous published guidelines.