Inglis A: A Fully Rigid Multi-storey Welded Steel Frame

In the early years of the Institution it was customary to elect to the Presidency outstanding public men who brought distinction to their office. With the growth of the Institution in size, activity and standing, the honour of the Presidency has long been such that it is the office which brings distinction to its holder. I am particularly conscious of and grateful for the honour you have paid me in my election to our highest office. For me personally it is a double honour because I happen to be the first member of the Lancashire and Cheshire Branch to become the President whilst still a member of the Branch. Dr. D.D. Matthews

The background development and advantages of this form of construction are described and the range of bridge types and span dimensions currently used in North America and elsewhere are given. Materials used for glue lamination are discussed with respect to timber species and grades, timber preservatives and adhesive types, in terms of North American and British specifications. The manufacturing process is described, as are the quality control procedures necessary to achieve a high standard of lamination. T.M. Wardle

Professor S. R. Sparkes (Member) referred to the stress concentration factor of 17 which had been recorded at sea and to Dr. Chapman’s statement that it was possible, by introducing a suitably shaped cut, to reduce this figure very greatly. Could Dr. Chapman give a little more detail of what a suitably shaped cut would be, and what he meant by very greatly reducing the stress concentration?