A rise in the use of the timber-concrete composite (TCC) system has led to new challenges within the construction market. With Eurotec's TCC MAX connector, creating permanent composite structures between timber and concrete in the form of beams or slabs is no longer a challenge.
TCC is a hybrid construction system that combines timber elements and concrete slabs into a single unit. Wood absorbs the tensile forces, while the concrete takes the compressive stress. The result is a both efficient and load-bearing building element that is particularly useful in multi-storey timber construction or in the renovation of existing buildings.
Eurotec’s connector consists of a steel cylinder that is attached to the timber component using KonstruX fully threaded screws from the company's own product range and is further anchored in the concrete using an M14 x 60mm stud bolt. The screws used ensure withdrawal resistance and high initial stiffness, while the bolt, together with the cylindrical part, supports the load-bearing capacity of the composite system.
The bond between timber and concrete depends significantly on the performance of the fasteners. High stiffness is particularly required for large spans and high live loads – this ensures the ductile failure mode. Various wood species can be used for the bond and the associated application of the TCC MAX. Depending on the requirements and local conditions, CLT, glued laminated timber, or LVL, for example, can be used. The connector is suitable for conventional concrete and lightweight concrete with a minimum strength class of C20/C25 and a maximum grain size of 8mm.
Conducting a design
Creating a load-bearing, structural bond between both materials requires comprehensive calculations and the selection of ideal fasteners. All relevant structural requirements must be considered. Eurotec's ECS design software enables precise calculations within the framework of structural planning. The software provides all necessary verifications and verifiable documentation.
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