The Structural Engineering laboratory has been in it's present location since the Cassie building was constructed in 1957.
This photograph shows early testing of a timber roof truss (circa 1959). It is interesting to note the method of loading and load indication. The floor threaded holes have been fitted with eye bolts as a reaction and turn-buckles used to apply the load, the load being indicated by large spring balances. The crane in the photograph is not the present 10 tonne gantry it was a 2 tonne gantry that proved too light for the lab.
The next photograph which was taken in January 1967 also shows a timber roof truss being tested but the loading is being carried out by a different method. 56lbs(25kG)weights are stacked on the truss as a dead load. Note the previous spring balances are stored on the wall. The 10 tonne crane has been installed by this date.
