Panel-Lam Plant Fabrication
1. Individual laminates are planed in the Timber Sizer to provide uniform thickness. Then Precision Double End Trimmed to exact length.
2. The Gang Drill places dowel holes in a pattern determined by design calculations and assumptions.
3. West Coast Douglas Fir must be incised before treatment to ensure proper penetration of preservative.
4. Once all framing, drilling and other fabrication is complete, all bridge components are pressure treated prior to assembly.
5. Wheeler’s treating facility is state-of-the-art, providing enhanced quality control.
6. All treated materials are certified through an independent third party inspection service, Timber Products Inspection Company (TPI).
7. Panels are assembled by first starting the dowels in the pre-drilled holes of the laminates.
8. Laminates are placed into the press in pairs. The press then pushes all the dowels simultaneously until they penetrate four members.
9. Splice blocks are added and the panels are banded for shipping.
10. All panels are clearly marked according to final location per the project plans.
11. Spreader beams, curb, rail, posts, and miscellaneous components are match-marked and bundled for shipping.
12. Materials are loaded on independent carriers for shipment to the project site.
