Growth Rings are a term used in the Australian construction industry to describe the annual growth patterns visible in timber. These rings are formed as a result of the changes in the tree's growth rate due to seasonal variations in temperature and rainfall. In the construction industry, Growth Rings are an essential factor to consider when selecting and using timber for various applications.
In Australian commercial construction projects, the orientation of growth rings in timber is important for determining the type of sawn lumber. For instance, quarter sawn lumber is defined as wood where the annular growth rings intersect the face of the board at a 60 to 90-degree angle . On the other hand, timber that is sawn so that the growth rings are inclined at less than 45 degrees to the wide face is classified differently .
The appearance of growth rings on the wide face of the timber can also vary, with some timbers showing very wide growth rings . In some species, such as York gum, the growth rings are distinct, particularly on end grain .
While the concept of growth rings is important in the Australian construction industry, there is some confusion in the literature regarding their treatment and classification . Nevertheless, understanding growth rings is essential for ensuring the quality and durability of timber used in commercial construction projects.
It is worth noting that the provided contexts do not specifically address the definition of growth rings in the context of major public infrastructure projects (as defined in ) or the Standard Best Practice Industry Conditions for building construction projects . However, the general definition and characteristics of growth rings in timber are applicable to the Australian commercial construction industry as a whole.
