Which factor is included when adjusting the flexure capacity of a Gulam beam but not a sawn lumber beam?

The flexure capacity of a Gulam beam, which is a type of engineered wood product, requires consideration of the moisture content factor due to the way these materials are processed and their response to various environmental conditions. Gulam beams are typically manufactured to specific dimensions and performance criteria, which can be influenced by moisture levels. This factor accounts for potential reductions in strength when the moisture content deviates from the established norm, recognizing that engineered wood can be more sensitive to moisture variations than sawn lumber.

In contrast, sawn lumber beams have established properties based on specific moisture content and typically do not adjust their flexural capacity based on moisture content changes in the same manner. Their design presumes a certain level of stability concerning moisture, as they are usually graded for strength based on the conditions they are expected to perform under, but they do not have the same level of adjustment to moisture content as engineered products.

Thus, when adjusting the flexure capacity of a Gulam beam, the moisture content factor is a critical aspect, while it does not play the same role in the design of sawn lumber beams. This distinction highlights the unique characteristics and design considerations of engineered wood products compared to traditional materials.