The construction team has continued to make progress on the reconstruction of the Roundhouse clerestory roof. Important structural components of the clerestory are two rings; a small upper compression ring, and a large lower tension ring. The tension ring sits atop and is supported by the Roundhouse's vertical columns. Twenty-two queenpost trusses then connect the tension ring with the smaller compression ring. These trusses also provide the support for the wood decking and slate roof. The original tension ring was made of wrought iron, and the original compression ring was made of wood timbers set in cast iron shoes. The original rings were disassembled, removed, and replaced with replicated rings of steel.
Thank you for your continued support as The B&O Railroad Museum remains closed until further notice.
The construction team has continued to make progress on the reconstruction of the Roundhouse clerestory roof. Important structural components of the clerestory are two rings; a small upper compression ring, and a large lower tension ring. The tension ring sits atop and is supported by the Roundhouse's vertical columns. Twenty-two queenpost trusses then connect the tension ring with the smaller compression ring. These trusses also provide the support for the wood decking and slate roof. The original tension ring was made of wrought iron, and the original compression ring was made of wood timbers set in cast iron shoes. The original rings were disassembled, removed, and replaced with replicated rings of steel.