CLT beam analysis using classical elastic theory of layered beams

The classical elastic theory of layered beams is used for the analysis of cross-laminated timber (CLT) beams. A brief introduction of the theory is given and followed by examples. The theory of layered beams offers a widely studied and well-established method for the analysis the CLT beams including displacements and stresses of each layer of the beam. It is shown that the theoretical basis of the widely used Shear Analogy is the same as the theoretical basis of the theory of layered beams. The results are compared to test results and to results of the finite element calculations. It is seen that the deflections and strains are in 10 % fractals in mean in the considered cases. The theory of layered beams seems to be suitable method in the analysis of the CLT beams at the elastic phase.