Incorporating bespoke components and connection design, the Hanson WI beam system is a revolutionary approach to masonry construction that increases masonry lateral load capacity.
The system is AIS approved for use under Part A of the Building Regulations 2000 as well as being CERAM tested and approved. In addition, the Hanson WI beam system’s simplified design process reduces build time and costs by 20-30% compared to traditional windpost construction.
An innovative combination of masonry and reinforced concrete construction, the Hanson WI beam system significantly improves the architectural and aesthetic appearance of masonry walls. The system also retains the performance characteristics of traditional masonry such as fire integrity, accoustic performance and air permeability.
The system allows for the flexible location of service penetrations. Using standard components and materials from the industry’s biggest masonry and steel manufacturers, the Hanson WI beam system reduces procurement lead times, and removes the need for storage of windposts and lintels on site.
In addition, by removing the handling and fixing of heavy windposts and lintels and reducing the number of blocks needing to be cut the overall health and safety of construction workers is improved.
The patented Hanson WI beam system is simple and clever requiring the use of only three unique components:
• U blocks
• End cleats
• Transfer rods
These components are used in conjunction with two standard 16mm diameter T16 steel reinforcing bars and pre-mixed C40 concrete to provide an in-fill panel with excellent lateral strength.
The Hanson WI beam system has surpassed rigorous testing by CERAM resulting in masonry construction superior to windpost built walls for lateral load capacity and stiffness.
Greatly enhanced lateral strength is achieved by linking the transfer rods, extending through the central U block, to the steel reinforcing bars which create a composite masonry beam between the blockwork courses immediately above and below the Hanson WI beam centreline.
Transfer rods also locate and connect the two standard T16 steel reinforcing bars in the central blocks and increase the Hanson WI beam’s load distribution area over three courses of blockwork to reduce surrounding sub panel sizes.
The Hanson WI beam end cleats connect to a building’s primary structural frame and focus the lateral wall load onto a building’s structural frame.
