Timber frame structures in natural fires

Functional requirements in building regulations call for a better understanding in defining fire risk and fire safety precautions. In introducing multi-storey timber frame buildings in the market this understanding is essential. A level of documentation is required were functional requirements are interpreted and, in accordance with this interpretation, levels of required performance are defined and satisfied in the design. In the research work which forms the basis for this paper, natural fires are modelled by means of parametric fire curves which again are used in tests on load bearing timber frame structures. Various types and number of boards give a set of performance levels which are used in the assessment of functional requirements for medium-rise timber frame buildings. The probability of deviation from the ideal design in the construction work is emphasised.