Truss Builder: An Essential Job in the Production Process
At ICG we manufacture pre-assembled framing components before constructing them in the field. One essential job in this production process is the Truss Builder role. Truss Builders manufacture each truss using laser measurements, table “puck” alignments, and each truss’ engineering projected on screens above.
The truss builder is responsible for assembling the wood and connection elements to the exact engineering specification designs to successfully build trusses. The truss builder utilizes a large elevated working space that has several automated elements. On the working space, lasers are used to align the truss’ components. The truss builder uses these lasers to see where to place each pre-cut piece of lumber before fastening them together. The lasers also help with gusset plate alignment to achieve adequate connections at truss member joints. There are also moving “pucks” on the elevated workspace. The pucks automatically move into precise positions to match the engineering plans being projected on the screen above. These “pucks” are used as a stopper to again, align the truss’ components against. It is important for Truss Builders to be proficient in reading truss engineering shop drawings in order to assemble all of the truss components properly and recognize the needed elements. This includes the size, placement, and angle of each gusset plate and the correct lumber dimensions and grades being used. Once all the lumber elements are laid out in place, they are fastened together with a corrugated fastener. The gusset plates are then hammered into place as a means of a temporary tack, before the entire truss is moved along the elevated workspace, to the finish roller. The finisher roller, or plate press, is a set of large rollers with a specific throat opening that the truss is passed through that applies the required pressure to secure each gusset plate permanently.
