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It is common to use an odd number of layers to make plywood to increase resistance to bending. The angle at which the veneer grains are arranged might be varied from 90 degrees. Common angles include 45 and 30 degrees to each other. The changes in angle strengthen the plywood. This allows the plywood to be used in bracing panels and fabricated beams.
The strength of plywood is only as high as the tree it is extracted from. But it can be strengthened later on during its manufacturing cycle. It is common to add grains of each veneer at 90 degrees to each other to prevent splitting, especially when hammered at the edges. This gives the veneer additional strength and increased stability. This makes it ideal for webbed beams, flooring, and shear walls.
Plywood has the added advantage of being shaped into the manufacturer’s choice. Its thickness can be varied from just a few millimetres to several inches. Manufacturers use additional veneers to increase the plywood’s strength. Each additional layer of veneer increases the strength of the plywood proportionally. It is common to use thin veneers for increased flexibility for use in panelling and ceilings.
There are several types of glues used to bind the pieces of veneer together. The right choice of adhesive gives the plywood special properties such as resistance to moisture and humidity. Adding a layer of varnish and paint also increases resistance to water damage. This allows the veneer to be used in sheds, marine construction, and cladding.
Moisture resistance plays an important role in interior applications as well, including floors and walls. If the plywood is cross-laminated, it ensures the veneers won’t shrink, or expand when exposed to high temperatures and water.
While plywood is naturally vulnerable to chemical substances, this can be avoided by treating the veneers with preservatives. The result is so effective that it can be used in chemical works such as cooling towers.
Although plywood and veneer are well-known fire hazards, manufacturers have been able to increase fire resistance by the use of a chemical coating. This is done by combining non-combustible chemicals such as fibrous cement and plasterboard. It can then be used in structures to make them compliant with local regulations
Plywood has naturally high sound and thermal insulation. It is commonly used to insulate floorings, roofs, wall claddings, and ceilings. The high insulation properties of plywood reduce heating and cooling costs over the years.
While plywood is naturally resistant to impact and shock due to high tensile strength, it can be further strengthened via cross lamination of veneers. This is because of the distribution of force over a large surface area, reducing the tensile strength over an isolated area.
The result is plywood that can withstand excessive overloading by up to three times or more before crumbling. This is especially useful during high winds and seismic activity. Plywood with high tensile strength is used in heavy-duty applications such as concrete framework and flooring.
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