The Relationship between Different Proofs of Load-Bearing Capacity, Fire Resistance of the Cross-Section and the Price of Solid Softwood

The impact of ultimate limit state checks on the fire resistance of the cross-section (element) of softwood structural timber is analyzed in this study, which was found to depend on the cross-sectional area, strength class or material quality expressed through the actual price. The limit state method and the reduced cross-section method were used to obtain numerical results. The established practice suggests that, if the ultimate limit state is satisfied, the softwood structural timber will meet fire resistance according to the load-bearing criterion of 30 min (R30). This study shows that this is not entirely correct and is not always applicable. The main results of this study are precisely related to the above, and it will now be possible to provide much more precise answers to questions related to fire resistance according to the load-bearing criterion. Certainly, the price, which plays a significant role in achieving a certain or required fire resistance, should not be overlooked. This study provides the possibility of optimizing the choice of the cross-sectional area, fire resistance and price, depending on the state of stress to which the cross-section (element) is exposed.

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