DEVELOPMENT OF A SYSTEM OF HAND DRIVEN NAILPLATE TRUSSED RAFTERS IN KENYA

摘要

The paper presents the steps taken to promote more efficient use of plantation grown constructional timber in Kenya through the introduction of a system of hand driven nailplate trussed rafters. The promotional work resulting from a joint British Government and Kenya Government project; The Efficient Use of Plantation Grown Timber Project. A brief summary of the obstacles that were seen to be hindering the introduction of trussed rafter systems in Kenya are discussed, including the steps taken to overcome the obstacles namely the introduction of an up-to-date grading standard, training of timber graders, derivation of strength properties for the principle plantation species through a programme of structural size testing, drafting of a Kenya Standard for the Structural Use of Timber and establishment of a Trussed Rafter Development Unit (TRDU) to demonstrate and promote the material saving benefits of trussed rafter systems. The Trussed Rafter Development Unit commenced commercial operation in the late 1999, providing a design, fabrication and erection service for trussed rafter roofs for government and private sector developments. A considerable number of trussed rafter roof structures using hand driven nailplates have now been completed, clearly demonstrating improved efficiency of timber usage and encouraging the more widespread use of trussed rafter technology in Kenya.