Predictable Safety: Why Woodlam’s Glulam is the Engineer’s Choice for Fire-Rated Construction

In the world of structural engineering,"predictability" is the ultimate goal, especially when it comes to fire safety. While many assume that wood is a liability in a fire, the reality is quite the opposite. At Woodlam Indonesia, we are proving that high-performance glulam (glued laminated timber) offers a level of fire safety that often surpasses traditional materials like steel and concrete.

As a specialized wood consultant, manufacture, and build firm, we focus on the science behind the material to give architects and developers peace of mind.

The Problem with "Traditional" Materials

When a fire breaks out, every second counts. However, common construction materials can behave

unpredictably under extreme heat:

• Steel: Can lose up to 50% of its structural strength at approximately 500°C, often leading to sudden buckling or total collapse without warning

• Concrete: Can suffer from spalling, where internal pressure causes the material to crack or even explode, leading to abrupt structural failure.

In these scenarios, the window for evacuation is uncertain. This is where engineered wood changes

the game.

Jabon glulam wall specimen following fire-resistance testing, showing the charred fire-exposed surface.

Lab-Proven: 40 Minutes of Integrity and Insulation

We don't just guess our fire ratings; we verify them. In recent testing conducted at the Fire Resistance Laboratory (Balai Sains Bangunan) according to the SNI 1741:2008 standard, our 61mm Jabon Glulam Wall showed exceptional performance.

Even as the furnace temperature reached a staggering 935.50°C, our glulam panel maintained its structural integrity. The test results officially certified a TKA -/40/40 rating, meaning:

• 40 Minutes of Integrity: The panel successfully prevented the passage of flames and hot gases for a full 40 minutes.

• 40 Minutes of Insulation: The unexpected surface remained remarkably cool. While the furnace was nearly 1,000°C, the back of the panel only reached a maximum of 69.10°C—far below the safety limit of 209.10°C.

Jabon glulam wall specimen during laboratory fire-resistance testing.

Giving Engineers Total Control

For architects, developers, and contractors, these 40 minutes represent more than just a certificate. They represent precision control over evacuation standards.Because glulam performs so predictably in high heat, engineers can calculate exactly how much material is required to ensure a building remains standing for a specific duration.

Instead of a sudden "break" or "fail" point seen in other materials, glulam provides a steady, measurable window of safety that allows occupants to evacuate and emergency teams to respond effectively.

Build the Future with Confidence

At Woodlam Indonesia, our mission is to provide the international market with wood solutions that are as safe as they are sustainable. Whether you are designing a high-end commercial space or a complex residential build, our lab-tested glulam ensures your project meets the highest global safety standards.

Safety isn't an accident; it's engineered.

Explore our full range of fire-rated timber solutions and technical test results at our new home: www.woodlamindonesia.com.