Lyons, OR–Freres Lumber has developed a new Mass Plywood Panel (MPP) beam-and-column line so the company is now able to provide MPP customers with all of the structural elements for large-scale wood buildings.
Freres’ patented MPP is an engineered Softwood product made by combining extremely thin layers of Douglas Fir veneers. It uses 20 to 30 percent less wood than other mass timber products because of how densely the veneers are layered. The wood product is strong, fire resistant and lighter per volume than traditional building materials such as concrete or steel.
“We are excited to round out our MPP offering with these beams and columns,” said Kyle Freres, vice president of operations for Freres Lumber. “Most manufacturers produce either panels or glulam beams, but not necessarily both. Now Freres is positioned to be a one-stop shop for all the structural elements of large-scale wood buildings at a cost-competitive price.”
The beam-and-column line gives customers a wider range of product dimensions than most other mass timber options. It currently is APA certified up to a 12-inch width with a 72-inch depth, but has the ability to cut product up to 24 inches thick. Although the beam-and-column line is capable of running product up to 60 feet in length, its current press is limited to 48 feet. Freres will be seeking certification for products in those larger widths and depths in coming months, a company statement said.
With MPP, Freres can produce large dimension timbers out of small diameter logs, and those products can be engineered to efficiently utilize the wood fiber for its highest value.
Established in 1922, Freres Lumber specializes in bringing high-quality wood products to market. It manufactures finished plywood products, lumber, veneers and structural composite lumber.
More information is available at www.frereslumber.com.
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