AU2004278053A1 - A fibre reinforced cement column and method of forming the same - Google Patents

Description

WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 "A FIBRE REINFORCED CEMENT COLUMN AND METHOD OF FORMING THE SAME" This invention relates to the design and manufacture of tubular bodies such as columns or pipes. The invention has been developed primarily in relation to 5 architectural columns manufactured from Fibre Reinforced Cement (FRC) and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular material or field of use. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The following discussion of the prior art is intended to place the invention in an 10 appropriate technical context and to allow its significance to be properly appreciated. However, any references to the prior art should not be construed as admissions that such prior art is widely known or forms part of common general knowledge in the field. Known methods of machining tubular columns have typically involved mounting the column on a lathe using a rotatable chuck at each end of the column. Once engaged 15 by the chucks, a single support roller is brought into contact with the outer surface of the column to provide lateral support for the column during the machining process. The outer circumference of the column is then machined to the desired profile using a machining head located opposite the support roller. Typically both the support roller and the machining head arc mounted on a rail or slide extending along the length 20 of the lathe. In this way, the machining head and the support roller can be driven progressively along the length of the column, machining the column as they move, and without moving out of relative alignment with one another. This known method of forming tubular columns tends to work reasonably well with columns having relatively thick walls. However, the applicant has found that if 25 thinner walled columns are profiled using the prior art method, the columns tend to vibrate excessively when rotated on the lathe, resulting in fracture or severe surface grooving of the columns during the machining process. This problem is particularly pertinent in the context of FRC columns and pipes. Consequently, such columns are required to be formed with wall thicknesses greater than the intended application would WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 -2 dictate in structural terms, which increases the requirement for raw materials, cost and weight, while compromising handlability. It is an object of the present invention to overcome or ameliorate one or more of the disadvantages of the prior art, or at least to provide a useful alternative. 5 DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION A first aspect of the invention provides a Fibre Reinforced Cement tubular body having a wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.050. Preferably, the body has a wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.045. More preferably, the body has a wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of 10 less than around 0.035. Preferably, an outer circumferential surface of the body is machined or profiled until the wall thickness to outer diameter ratio defined above is achieved. More preferably, the body is profiled using a method including the steps of: supporting the body at or adjacent its ends for rotation about a longitudinal axis; 15 supporting the body laterally at two or more lateral support locations between the ends; rotating the body about the longitudinal axis; and machining or profiling an outer surface of the body using a profiling tool. Preferably, the tubular body is designed for use as an architectural column, but 20 may alternatively be intended for use as a pipe, structural member, a concrete forming element or for some other purpose. Preferably, the two or more lateral support locations are disposed at substantially the same position along the length of the column. More preferably, the two or more lateral support locations are spaced circumferentially around the column. 25 Alternatively, the two or more support locations may be located at different axial positions along the column. In this alternative embodiment, the support locations are preferably also spaced circumferentially around the column.

WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 -3 Preferably, the lateral support is provided by respective support rollers engageable with an outer circumferential surface of the column. The support rollers and the profiling tool are preferably adapted to move in unison along the length of the column during the profiling operation. Preferably, two of the support rollers are independently 5 movable into engagement with the column. More preferably, three support rollers are provided, two of the support rollers being movable into engagement with the column independently of the third support roller. Even more preferably, two of the support rollers are dependently movable into engagement with the column. Preferably, the dependently movable support rollers are hingedly mounted to 10 opposite ends of a first bell crank having an axis of rotation substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the column. More preferably, the first bell crank is hingedly connected to one end of a second bell crank having an axis of rotation parallel to the longitudinal axis of the column. Preferably, the other end of the second bell crank is rotatably connected to a first 15 base plate. More preferably, the first base plate is longitudinally movable along the elongate base. Even more preferably, the first base plate is selectively fixedly connectable to the elongate base in any one of a plurality of axial locations. Preferably, the independently movable support roller is mounted to one end of a pivotal arm. More preferably, the arm has an axis of rotation parallel to the longitudinal axis of the column. 20 Preferably, the other end of the arm is hingedly connected to a second base plate. More preferably, the second base plate is longitudinally movable along the elongate base. Even more preferably, the second base plate is selectively fixably connectable to the elongate base in any one of a plurality of axial locations. Preferably, the method includes the additional step of progressively moving the 25 first and second base plates and the profiling tool simultaneously along the column during the profiling step. Preferably, at least one of the support rollers is configured to move axially in response to imperfections in the outer circumferential surface of the column. Preferably, the profiling tool when in use is located axially adjacent one of the 30 lateral support locations.

WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 -4 Preferably, the FRC column to be profiled is a blank formed on a mandrel using a Hatschek process. The machining or profiling step is preferably used to substantially reduce the initial wall thickness and refine the surface finish of the blank to form the architectural column. 5 Preferably, the column has a wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.050. More preferably, the column has a wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.045. Even more preferably, the column has a wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.035. Preferably, the column is profiled on a lathe assembly including: 10 an elongate base; a pair of chucks located at opposite longitudinal ends of said base, said chucks being configured to engage opposite longitudinal ends of the column; two or more lateral supports connected to said base to support the column at two or more support locations between its ends; 15 drive means for rotating the column about a longitudinal axis; and a profiling tool connected to the base and engageable to machine or profile an outer circumferential surface of the column. Preferably, the two or more lateral supports are located at substantially the same axial position along the length of the column relative to one another. More preferably, 20 the supports are spaced circumferentially around the column. Alternatively, the two or more supports are located at different points along the length of the column. More preferably, in this alternative embodiment, the support locations are also spaced circumferentially around the column. Preferably, the lateral supports take the form of support rollers engageable with an 25 outer circumferential surface of the column. Preferably, two of the support rollers are independently movable into engagement with the column. More preferably, three support rollers are provided, two of the support rollers being movable into engagement with the column independently of the third support roller. Even more preferably, two of the support rollers are dependently movable into engagement with the column.

WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 -5 Preferably, the dependently movable support rollers are hingedly mounted to opposite ends of a first bell crank lever having an axis of rotation substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the column. More preferably, the first lever is hingedly connected to one end of a second bell crank lever having an axis of rotation parallel to 5 the longitudinal axis of the column. Preferably, the other end of the second lever is rotatably connected to a first base plate. More preferably, the first base plate is longitudinally movable along the elongate base. Even more preferably, the first base plate is selectively fixedly connectable to the elongate base in any one of a plurality of axial locations. Preferably, a pneumatic 10 actuator is operable on the second lever to move the respective rollers into and out of engagement with the column. Preferably, the independently movable support roller is mounted to one end of a pivotal arm. More preferably, the arm has an axis of rotation parallel to the longitudinal axis of the column. 15 Preferably, the other end of the arm is hingedly connected to a second base plate. More preferably, the second base plate is longitudinally movable along the elongate base. Even more preferably, the second base plate is selectively fixably connectable to the elongate base in any one of a plurality of axial locations. Preferably, a pneumatic actuator is operable on the arm to move the respective 20 roller into and out of engagement with the column. Preferably, at least one of the support rollers is configured to move radially in response to imperfections in the outer circumferential surface of the column. Preferably, the profiling tool when in use is located axially adjacent one of the support locations. More preferably, the profiling tool is longitudinally movable along 25 the elongate base. Even more preferably, the profiling tool is selectively fixedly connectable to the elongate base in any one of a plurality of axial locations. In a preferred form, the profiling tool, first base plate and second base plate are interconnected such that they move substantially in unison along the rails, so as to remain in relative lateral alignment during profiling operation.

WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 -6 A second aspect of the invention provides a method of manufacturing an elongate tubular body, said method including the steps of: supporting the body at or adjacent its ends for rotation about a longitudinal axis; supporting the body laterally at two or more lateral support locations between the 5 ends; rotating the body about the longitudinal axis; and machining or profiling an outer surface of the body using a profiling tool. Preferably, the tubular body is designed for use as an architectural column, but may alternatively be intended for use as a pipe, structural member, a concrete forming 10 element or for some other purpose. Preferably, the two or more lateral support locations are disposed at substantially the same position along the length of the column. More preferably, the two or more lateral support locations are spaced circumferentially around the column. Alternatively, the two or more support locations may be located at different axial 15 positions along the column. In this alternative embodiment, the support locations are preferably also spaced circumferentially around the column. Preferably, the lateral support is provided by respective support rollers engageable with an outer circumferential surface of the column. The support rollers and the profiling tool are preferably adapted to move in unison along the length of the column 20 during the profiling operation. Preferably, two of the support rollers are independently movable into engagement with the column. More preferably, three support rollers are provided, two of the support rollers being movable into engagement with the column independently of the third support roller. Even more preferably, two of the support rollers are dependently movable into engagement with the column. 25 Preferably, the dependently movable support rollers are hingedly mounted to opposite ends of a first bell crank having an axis of rotation substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the column. More preferably, the first bell crank is hingedly connected to one end of a second bell crank having an axis of rotation parallel to the longitudinal axis of the column.

WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 -7 Preferably, the other end of the second bell crank is rotatably connected to a first base plate. More preferably, the first base plate is longitudinally movable along the elongate base. Even more preferably, the first base plate is selectively fixedly connectable to the elongate base in any one of a plurality of axial locations. Preferably, 5 the independently movable support roller is mounted to one end of a pivotal arm. More preferably, the arm has an axis of rotation parallel to the longitudinal axis of the column. Preferably, the other end of the arm is hingedly connected to a second base plate. More preferably, the second base plate is longitudinally movable along the elongate base. Even more preferably, the second base plate is selectively fixably connectable to 10 the elongate base in any one of a plurality of axial locations. Preferably, the method includes the additional step of progressively moving the first and second base plates and the profiling tool simultaneously along the column during the profiling step. Preferably, at least one of the support rollers is configured to move axially in 15 response to imperfections in the outer circumferential surface of the column. Preferably, the profiling tool when in use is located axially adjacent one of the lateral support locations. Preferably, the column is formed of Fibre Reinforced Cement (FRC). Preferably, the FRC column to be profiled is a blank formed on a mandrel using a Hatschek process. 20 The machining or profiling step is preferably used to substantially reduce the initial wall thickness and refine the surface finish of the blank to form the architectural column. Preferably, the column has a wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.050. More preferably, the column has a wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.045. Even more preferably, the column has a wall thickness to 25 outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.035. According to a third aspect, the invention provides a lathe assembly for forming an elongate tubular body, said lathe assembly including: an elongate base; a pair of chucks located at opposite longitudinal ends of said base, said chucks 30 being configured to engage opposite longitudinal ends of the tubular body; WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 -8 two or more lateral supports connected to said base to support the tubular body at two or more support locations between its ends; drive means for rotating the body about a longitudinal axis; and a profiling tool connected to the base and engageable to machine or profile an 5 outer circumferential surface of the tubular body. Preferably, the tubular body is an architectural column, but may alternatively be intended for use as a pipe, a structural member, a concrete forming element or for some other purpose. Preferably, the two or more lateral supports are located at substantially the same 10 axial position along the length of the column relative to one another. More preferably, the supports are spaced circumferentially around the column. Alternatively, the two or more supports are located at different points along the length of the column. More preferably, in this alternative embodiment, the support locations are also spaced circumferentially around the column. 15 Preferably, the lateral supports take the form of support rollers engageable with an outer circumferential surface of the column. Preferably, two of the support rollers are independently movable into engagement with the column. More preferably, three support rollers are provided, two of the support rollers being movable into engagement with the column independently of the third support roller. Even more preferably, two of 20 the support rollers are dependently movable into engagement with the column. Preferably, the dependently movable support rollers are hingedly mounted to opposite ends of a first bell crank lever having an axis of rotation substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the column. More preferably, the first lever is hingedly connected to one end of a second bell crank lever having an axis of rotation parallel to 25 the longitudinal axis of the column. Preferably, the other end of the second lever is rotatably connected to a first base plate. More preferably, the first base plate is longitudinally movable along the elongate base. Even more preferably, the first base plate is selectively fixedly connectable to the elongate base in any one of a plurality of axial locations. Preferably, a pneumatic WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 -9 actuator is operable on the second lever to move the respective rollers into and out of engagement with the column. Preferably, the independently movable support roller is mounted to one end of a pivotal arm. More preferably, the arm has an axis of rotation parallel to the longitudinal 5 axis of the column. Preferably, the other end of the arm is hingedly connected to a second base plate. More preferably, the second base plate is longitudinally movable along the elongate base. Even more preferably, the second base plate is selectively fixably connectable to the elongate base in any one of a plurality of axial locations. 10 Preferably, a pneumatic actuator is operable on the arm to move the respective roller into and out of engagement with the column. Preferably, at least one of the support rollers is configured to move radially in response to imperfections in the outer circumferential surface of the column. Preferably, the profiling tool when in use is located axially adjacent one of the 15 support locations. More preferably, the profiling tool is longitudinally movable along the elongate base. Even more preferably, the profiling tool is selectively fixedly connectable to the elongate base in any one of a plurality of axial locations. In a preferred form, the profiling tool, first base plate and second base plate are interconnected such that they move substantially in unison along the rails, so as to 20 remain in relative lateral alignment during profiling operation. Preferably, the column is formed of Fibre Reinforced Cement. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS A preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: 25 Figure 1 is a perspective view of a lathe assembly according to one aspect of the invention, shown in use; Figure 2 is a side elevation of the lathe assembly of Figure 1; WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 - 10 Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the lathe assembly of taken on line 3-3 Figure 2; Figure 4 is a schematic view of a "Classic" shaped column formed on the profiling assembly of Figure 1; 5 Figure 5 is a schematic view of a "Tapered" shaped column formed on the profiling assembly of Figure 1; Figure 6 is a schematic sectional side elevation of an unfilled load bearing column; Figure 7 is a sectional plan view taken along line 7-7 of Figure 6 Figure 8 is a schematic sectional side elevation of a filled load bearing column in a 10 pinned base arrangement; Figure 9 is a schematic sectional side elevation of a filled load bearing column in a fixed base arrangement Figure 10 is a plan view of an unfilled load bearing column with a handrail; and Figure 11 is a side elevation of the column of Figure 10. 15 PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION Referring to the drawings, the lathe assembly includes an elongate base 1 incorporating a pair of longitudinally extending rails 2 and 3. Chucks 4 are located respectively at opposite ends of the base. The chucks are longitudinally movable with respect to the base and are configured to engage opposite longitudinal ends of a Fibre 20 Reinforced Cement (FRC) column blank 5, to be profiled. Each chuck is selectively fixably connectable to the base in any one of a plurality of axial locations. As best seen in Figure 3, two lateral supports in the form of first 6 and second 7 lathe steadies are connected to the base to support the column blank 5 at respective support locations between the chucks 4. Drive means for rotating the column blank about its longitudinal 25 axis are also provided. In the illustrated embodiment, the drive means take the form of a motor and associated gearbox, within housing 8, and disposed to drive the chucks 4 via a suitable arrangement of belts and pulleys. A profiling assembly 9 is connected to the WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU20041001378 - 11 base. This assembly includes a profiling head 10 engageable with an outer circumferential surface of the column blank 5. The first lathe steady 6 includes two support rollers 11 and 12 having respective axes of rotation parallel to the longitudinal axis of the column blank. The rollers are 5 thereby engageable with the outer circumferential surface of the column blank to provide lateral support for the blank during rotation on the lathe. The support rollers are rotatably mounted to opposite ends of a first bell crank lever 13. The lever 13 has an axis of rotation which is movable but which remains parallel to the longitudinal axis of the column blank throughout its locus of movement. The lever 13 is curved in order that 10 its axis of rotation is offset from the axes of rotation of the associated support rollers 11 and 12. The lever 13 in turn is hingedly connected to a second bell crank lever 14. The lever 14 also has an axis of rotation parallel to the longitudinal axis of the blank. The lever 14 is rotatably connected to a first base plate 15. The first base plate is connected to an engaging formation 16 for retaining the first lathe steady on the rail 2. In this way, 15 the first lathe steady is longitudinally movable along the rail 2. The second lathe steady 7 includes a single support roller 17 having an axis of rotation parallel to the longitudinal axis of the column blank. The roller 17 is engageable with the outer circumferential surface of the column blank to provide lateral support for the blank during rotation on the lathe, in the diametrically opposing position 20 from the lateral support provided by the first lathe steady. The roller 17 is rotatably mounted on a pivotal arm 18. The arm has a pivot axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the column blank. The arm in turn is pivotably connected to a second base plate 19. The second base plate is connected to an engaging formation 20 for retaining the second lathe steady on the respective longitudinal rail 3. The second lathe steady is thereby 25 longitudinally slidable along the rail 3. The second lathe steady is fixedly connected to the first lathe steady by a cross-member 21. A first pneumatic actuator 22 is operable on the second bell crank lever 14 of the first lathe steady to move the respective rollers 11 and 12 into and out of engagement with the column blank. A second pneumatic actuator 23 is operable on the pivotal arm 30 18 of the second lathe steady to move the respective roller 17 into and out of engagement with the column blank.

WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 - 12 In the illustrated embodiment, the support rollers I1 and 12 of the first lathe steady are configured to move generally radially in response to imperfections in the outer circumferential surface of the column blank, thereby to absorb vibration and to provide a smoother finish to the blank. The radial movement of the rollers 11 and 12 is facilitated 5 by the bell-crank configuration of the frame 13. The rotational mounting of the frame also serves to ensure equal distribution of forces between the rollers and the column surface, as any slight misalignment of the rollers is automatically corrected by rotation of the frame. The profiling assembly 9 is connected to the cross-member 21 adjacent the first 10 lathe steady. The profiling assembly is longitudinally movable along the rail 2. The lathe steadies 6 and 7 and the profiling assembly 9 are driven simultaneously along the rails by a motor and associated gearbox (not shown) located between the rails. A vacuum extractor 24 is connected to the profiling assembly to remove dust and waste material machined from the column blank during the profiling operation. 15 In use, a FRC column blank 5 to be profiled is supported in the lathe assembly by moving the chucks 4 longitudinally into engagement with opposite longitudinal ends of the column. The lathe steadies 6 and 7 are then brought into laterally supporting contact with the column blank 5 by actuating the respective pneumatic actuators, which in turn move the respective support rollers into diametrically opposing engagement with the 20 outer surface of the column blank. The motor and drive assembly are then activated to rotate the chucks and thereby the blank 5. Next, the profiling head 10 on the profiling assembly is brought into profiling engagement with the outer surface of the column blank 5. During the profiling operation, the lathe steadies 6 and 7 and the profiling 25 assembly 9 are driven progressively in unison along the rails 2 and 3 by the motor located between the rails (not shown), to profile the outer surface of the blank 5 along all or most of its length. However, it will be appreciated that in alternative embodiments the lathe steadies 2 and 3 and profiling assembly 9 may be held stationary and the blank 5 may be moved longitudinally by traversing the chucks 4 along the tracks. 30 The column blank 5 is typically made from a fibre reinforced cement composition that falls generally within the ranges set out in the table below.

WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 - 13 Dry Ingredients Acceptable range (% by dry weight) Cement 15 - 50% Siliceous material 25 - 80% Fibrous material 0 -20% Additives 0-40% Throughout this specification, unless indicated otherwise where there is reference to wt%, all values are with respect to a cement formulation on a dry materials weight basis prior to addition of water and processing. Preferably, the siliceous material in the formulation is ground sand, also known as 5 silica, or fine quartz. Preferably the siliceous material has an average particle size of 1 50 microns, and more preferably 20-30 microns. The fibrous materials used in the formulation can include cellulose such as softwood and hardwood cellulose fibres, non wood cellulose fibres, asbestos, mineral wool, steel fibre, synthetic polymers such as polyamides, polyesters, polypropylene, 10 polyacrylonitrile, polyacrylamide, polymethylpentene, viscose, nylon, PVC, PVA, rayon, glass, ceramic or carbon. Cellulose fibres produced by the Kraft process are preferred. The other additives used in the formulation can be fillers such as mineral oxides, hydroxides and clays, metal oxides and hydroxides, fire retardants such as magnesite, 15 thickeners, silica fume or amorphous silica, colorants, pigments, water sealing agents, water reducing agents, setting rate modifiers, hardeners, filtering aids, plasticisers, dispersants, foaming agents or flocculating agents, water-proofing agents, density modifiers or other processing aids. The thin walled columns produced on the profiling assembly typically have a post 20 profiling wall thickness to diameter ratio of less than around 0.050. Thicker walled columns made using prior art methods typically have a wall thickness to diameter ratio of greater than 0.050. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the wall thickness to diameter ratio in columns of this type necessarily varies depending on the outer diameter of the column.

WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 - 14 The use of the illustrated profiling assembly allows column wall thicknesses to be reduced by around 5mm compared with columns produced using prior art methods. It will be appreciated that this reduction in material results in more lightweight columns. Moreover, it is emphasised that this reduction in column weight significantly reduces 5 occupational health and safety (OHS) issues related to the handling of the columns. While the wall thickness has been reduced, it is noted that the columns produced on the profiling assembly described above are capable still capable of withstanding moderate longitudinal compressive loading and also circumferential tensile loading. In many load-bearing applications, the columns do not require in-fill or additional posts. 10 Moreover, they can be erected on-site without formwork, thereby saving construction time, labour and materials. It will be appreciated that the maximum tolerable longitudinal compressive load is dependent on the length of the column. However, indicative values for several column lengths are provided below. In terms of tensile strength, it is noted that columns of up to 15 at least 4.5m in length conform to the relevant standards required to allow for filling with wet concrete. Therefore, in applications where the columns are required to support larger compressive loads, the columns may be filled with concrete. Columns according to the invention can also be made in a variety of shapes, including a "Classic" shape as indicated in Figure 4 and a "Tapered" shape as indicated 20 in Figure 5. Technical information relating to column geometry and material properties is provided in the tables below by way of example only. Unless indicated to the contrary, the data relates to columns manufactured using the profiling assembly described above, on column blanks formed from FRC, using the Hatscheck process.

WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 - 15 Wall Wih Column Type Length Inner Diameter Outer Thickness Weight (M) (mm) Diameter (mm) ) (kg) Prior Art "Classic" 2.75 176 200 12 32.7 column Prior Art "Classic" 4 176 200 12 47.6 column New Lightweight 2.75 176 195 9.5 25.6 "Classic" Column New Lightweight 4 176 195 9.5 37.2 "Classic" Column Prior Art "Classic" 2.75 233 260 13.5 47.3 column Prior Art "Classic" 4 233 260 13.5 68.8 column New Lightweight 2.75 233 250 8.5 32.2 "Classic" Column New Lightweight 4 233 250 8.5 46.8 "Classic" Column WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU20041001378 - 16 OD at top Column BMIN - 35mm BMIN = 45mm BaN = 70mm BaiN = 90mm of Height Ut Load Su orted Roof UIt Load _Suplo ed Roof Ult Load Suppo ed Roof UIt Load Supported Roof column (mm) (kN) Sheet Tiled (kN) Sheet Tiled (kN) Sheet Tiled (kN) Sheet Tiled (mm) Roof Roof Roof Roof Roof Roof Roof Roof 1 I5.6.8 UII 43 68[ T101- 143 (176) 3600-T12 5 @7 7 8 52 77 -13 5-2M Wk7mi3'3 52 477 33 4000 44UK6.6 28 44 66 2 44M 618M 28 4 4 616 :21 up to 3000 10.3 153 6.5 10.3 | 15.3 65 10.3 15.3 65 10.3 15.3 6.5 250 3600 8.8 13.0 5.6 8.8 13.0 56 B88 13.0 5.6 88 130 5.6 (33) 4000 76 113 48 76 11.3 4.8 7.6 11.3 4.8 76 11.3 4.8 5000 5.5 8.1 3.5 5.5 . 3. | 5.5 8.1 35 6000 41 61 26 41 61 26 41 61 26 41 61 26 Up to24000 271 40 2lo1c7-2 I1 32 7 48.5 20 8 ' 32 7 WA8 5I20 8 3 2

.

7 48.5 20.8 5000" :. 27 1 2 2|17 2 27 4 406 1 17 4 27,4 1t140.63 .174 27A. 40:6 17 4 F6000 " "21 3 -31 63 213.5 21.3 31 6 135 21.3 31. IM '13 5 21.3 31,61 . 135 425 (380) up to6000 296 439 188 38.2 56.6 24.2 39.0 57.7 24.7 390 57.7 24.7 Table 1A: Classic Architectural Columns - No Handrail Loading Supported Roof Areas & Ultimate Loads - Emax = OD/4 (see Fig. 7) '01 at t op Column BMIN = 35mm BMIN = 45mm BMIN = 70mm BMIN = 90mm of Height Uit Load Suported Roof Ut Load Supported Roof Ult Lead Suppoied Roof Uit Load Su orted Roof column (mm) (kN) Sheet Tiled (kN) Sheet Tiled (kN) Sheet Tiled (kN) Sheet Tiled (mm) Roof Roof Roof Roof Roof Roof Roof Roof 195 36001 up 10.7 3 1)15:8 658 I 1 10,71 - 1 6L8,2-- 157 18 6.8 7 158 6 4000 96 142 61 96 142 1 96 142 61 6 - 11I261 250 33) tI 14000 11 2 166 71 145 21.5 92 173 256 11.0 173 256 110 345 04)u to 4000 271 40-2 17- I3 62.0 22 2 -523 7 5l .3352 52.3 Th75 .3312 Table IC: Tapered Architectural Columns - No Handrail Loading Supported Roof Areas & Ultimate Loads - Emax = OD/4 (see Fig. 7) OD at top Column BMIN = 35mm BmiN = 45mm BmIN = 70mm BMIN - 90mm of column Height Ult Load Suppored Roof Ult Load Suppored Roof Ult Load Suppoied Roof II Load Su oiled Roof (mm) (mm) (kN) Sheet Tiled (kN) Sheet Tiled (kN) Sheet Tiled (kN) Sheet Tiled Roof Roof Roof Roof Roof Roof Roof Roof uip 000 69.. 1 22 4 69 102 04 69 102 4.4- 69 102 4.4 25 26007 5.7 85 36 57 8.5' 8 57 85 33 5P7 5 36 4000 12 1 76 3.2 6 "'l 76. .2 7 51 fE 76 32' 151 7 3~"2 .5000> 420 ' 51 ,.5, 40 ~ '52" _2.5' 4.0 529 2.5 i0 24519' '22. 60 31 416 2022 3~1 46 20 3.1 46 2.0 3 .6 2 345 up to 4000 27.1 40.2 17.2 32.7 48.5 20.8 327 48.5 20.8 32.7 40.5 20.8 ( 5000 25.8 38.2 16.4 25.8 38.2 16.4 25.8| 38.2 16.4 25.8 | 38.2 16.4 304) 6000 20.3 30.1 12.9 20.3 30.1 12.9 20.3 30.1 12.9 20.3 30.1 12.9 2425 i80 :up'to61000 2916 e149 'i18834 MI37.5 - 5655 236 8 3745 l553 b23185 m37.5255 238. Table 1D: Classic Architectural Columns -Handrail Loading Supported Roof Areas & Ultimate Loads - Emax = OD/4 (see Fig. 7) OD at top Column BMIN - 35mm BMIN - 45mm BmIN - 70mm BUIN = 90mm of column Height Ult LOad Su orted Roof Ult Load Suppo ed Roof Ulit Load Suppo ed Roof Ut Load Suppo ed Roof (mm) [mm) (kN) Sheat Tiled (kN) Sheet Tiled (kN) Sheet Tiled (kN) Sheet Tiled Roof Roof Roof Roof Roof Roof Roof Roof uta 30001 ki5 O2U neeik31i ii50 745330 I45 53 1 bS 53@7)4 @3 15i53.05 O i U4 %315 36005 W45 65 4 245 18554.4 6655285 521140110 W.64 G in549 1 6FS 54.0655 0529552.55ie 54.D 5695M55 E4.0M 569552 5U 250 33) 104000 82 - 1 52 82 12.1 5. 2 121 .2 8.2 121 52 345 ( i304) 'up-o 4000 -27.1 f40.2& 35502l3 n 51 9 2224 54A 369f9% 329193 547AiM6929 9 Table 1F: Tapered Architectural Columns -Handrail Loading Supported Roof Areas & Ultimate Loads - Emax = OD/4 (see Fig. 7) WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU20041001378 -17 of Column EMAX=OD/3 EMAX=OD/2+50mm column Height One Three Three Four Four One Three Three Four Four (mm) (mm) NI6 N12 NI6 N12 N16I N16 N12 N16 N12 N16 pif to fl66] io5 ini25 15 139 23S 37S 53 60 5643 1800 23Win R2 75 9 10S i 2S 36 36 49 95 2400 135 36 5i66 61 79 7 8 J 30 1 44 176 3000 8 2 48 65 S f1 25 2 39 -3600- 5 2510 9 54W 3 4000 4 11 344 3 4 1'% J20 21 3 u to900 119 169 206 188 227 44 56 85 84 111 1800 65 96 152 145 186 31 42 71 69 97 250 2400 51 76 125 124 165 26 36 65 63 90 (233) 3000 41 60 105 106 145 22 31 59 57 84 3600 33 49 90 91 127 19 27 53 52 77 4000 28 43 81 82 116 17 25 50 49 73 up to1800 148 199 2-E26 2 2, 14 5 73 107 102 157 2400 103 128 191A 191 270 47 62 95 90 142 3000 87 10 167 160 A249 42 58 95 84 136 3600 75 99 152 1484 228 38 54 85 7i 128 4000 67 86F 134 136 214 35 50 79 74 123 up to 1800 232 281 362 354 439 77 103 144 134 206 425 2400 177 209 274 277 384 68 92 131 121 190 380) 3000 156 185 248 249 359 63 87 125 115 183 4000 126 152 207 207 316 56 79 114 104 169 Table 2A: Ultimate Axial Compression Capacities (kN) for Pinned Base Footing (see Fig. 8) of Column EAX=D/3 E:=D/2+50nm 3 column Height One Tre hee Four Four One Three Three Four ou up 1N00 :64 112 166 165 19 3 47 5 73 16 2400 59 8- R2 1 136 177 29 39 69 67 94 25 2400 18 41 74 19 10 26 35 6 3 4 47 233)-) 3600 4 59 14 5 14'2 3 5n7 8 4000 6 6 17 ' 55 54 79 3400' 47 1 2i 6 14 9 i26 93.1453 da anna & a9 2 -- 43 41 5 13 22-, 2 .4 i 35- J up 30 1800 74 112 166 15 195 34 45 75 73 100 250 2400 59 88 140 136 177 29 39 69 67 94 (233) 3000 48 71 119 120 160 25 35 63 61 89 3600 40 59 104 105 143 22 31 58 57 83 4000 35 52 95 96 133 20 29 55 54 79 - up' 240M 1 139 W14 &20 M26 281 504 166 98l 93 -4 E 35 3600- "99 31230 14 15 24 45 - -6r 93x i!0,4 S 4000k-# 79'-91154 14 -235+ J 39U 54M 6 &|I0 W 1%03 42Z5 up to 3000 172 202 269 269 38 67 91 130 19 188 80) 4000 143 171 231 232 1342 160 84 120 1111 1177 _ Table 2B: Ultimate Axial Compression Capacities (kN) for Fixed Base Footing (see Fig. 9) WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 - 18 Min. Ultimate Fixing Grade Fixing Uplift Lap/Embe Force Per iM2 -2 50% 12 1 0 46 3 20 18 8 SE 400u 40 Grade 250 300 17 M12 4.6/S 300 27 8.8/S 550 50 Gade211 400 31 16 4/8 3450 50 8 7S900 10l4 N12 E00MPa 350 50 N16 500MIP- 550 90 Table 3: Uplift Capacity (kN) OD at top Column One One One One Three Three Four Four of column Height M12 M16 N12 N16 N12 N16 N12 N16 (mm) (mm) 4.6/S MIN 4.6/S MIN 600 30 4:7 3 5 7~0 8 10.5 H 3000 06 l9 J7 1 1 2] 39 8300 05 0 06 0. 1 2 ,4000 0.5 0.7 ]5 .3 1,21 2.9 600 5.0 8.5 6.0 10.0 13.2 25.0 20.8 35.0 900 3.3 5.7 4.0 6.7 8.8 16.7 13.9 23.3 250 1800 1.7 2.8 2.0 3.3 4.4 8.3 6.9 11.7 (233) 2400 1.3 2.1 1.5 2.5 3.3 6.3 5.2 8.8 3000 1.0 1.7 1.2 2.0 2.6 5.0 4.2 7.0 3600 0.8 1.4 1.0 1.7 2.2 4.2 3.5 5.8 4000 0.8 1.3 0.9 1.5 2.0 3.8 3.1 5.3 3U0 73 127 8 .7 7 5 5 - 1 2 800 - 42 4% 5-t4 2;ilN 9-. j, 5 2 . 7 8E; 12 6 10 3T, 174 436G]OD! d1AW W2lM5##42 6 e 5 44 04 400-00 11 1M9M A1M3M V 3M T" 3 5m 5?s1/1#40/l 600 9.7 16.8 11.8 20.8 34.7 53.8 42.3 70.8 900 6.4 11.2 7.9 13.9 23.1 35.9 28.2 47.2 425 1800 3.2 5.6 3.9 6.9 11.6 17.9 14.1 23.6 (8) 2400 2.4 4.2 3.0 5.2 8.7 13.5 10.6 17.7 (8) 3000 1.9 3.4 2.4 4.2 6.9 10.8 8.5 14.2 3600 1.6 2.8 2.0 3.5 5.8 9.0 7.1 11.8 4000 1.5 2.5 1.8 3.1 5.2 8.1 6.4 10.6 Table 4: Ultimate Horizontal Capacity (kN) for Fixed Base Footing Only (see Fig. 9) WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 - 19 It will be appreciated that the illustrated profiling assembly can be used to profile columns having diameters other than those listed in the tables above. It will also be appreciated that the assembly is particularly useful for profiling lightweight FRC columns, as the provision of multiple lateral supports adjacent the position of the 5 profiling tool minimises vibration during profiling. This in turn prevents fracture of the columns near the chucks and also improves the quality of the profiled surface in the finished product. The applicant has also found that the illustrated profiling assembly improves the finished quality of the profiled surface in heavier FRC columns. The columns formed on the profiling assembly have a surface finish conducive to a receiving 10 any one of a variety of coatings, such as paint, render, textured finishes and tiles. In all these respects, the invention represents a practical and commercially significant improvement over the prior art. Architectural columns produced using the above-described method are suited for use in a variety of applications. For example, they can be placed over electrical or 15 plumbing services to hide the services and thereby enhance the aesthetic properties of a building by giving the impression of a solid marble or concrete column. In addition, the columns can be used in a variety of other load-bearing and non-load-bearing applications. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that while the invention has been 20 described with reference to specific examples, it may also be embodied in many other forms.

Claims (101)

1. A fibre reinforced cement tubular body having a wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.050.

2. A fibre reinforced cement tubular body according to claim I wherein the body has 5 a wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.045.

3. A fibre reinforced cement tubular body according to claim 2 wherein the body has a wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.035.

4. A fibre reinforced cement tubular body according to any one of the preceding claims wherein an outer circumferential surface of the body is machined or profiled to 10 achieve the wall thickness to outer diameter ratio.

5. A fibre reinforced cement tubular body according to claim 4 wherein the body is machined or profiled on a lathe assembly.

6. A fibre reinforced cement tubular body according to claim 5 wherein the body is formed from a fibre reinforced cement blank manufactured on a mandrel using a 15 Hatschek process.

7. A fibre reinforced cement tubular body according to claim 6 wherein an initial wall thickness of the blank is substantially reduced and a surface finish of the blank is refined to form the body.

8. A fibre reinforced cement tubular body according to any one of the preceding 20 claims adapted for use as an architectural column.

9. A fibre reinforced cement tubular body according to any one of claims 1 to 7 adapted for use as a pipe, structural member or concrete forming element.

10. A lathe assembly for forming an elongate tubular body, said lathe assembly including: 25 an elongate base; a pair of chucks located at opposite longitudinal ends of said base, said chucks being configured to engage opposite longitudinal ends of the tubular body; WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 - 21 two or more lateral supports connected to said base to support the tubular body at two or more support locations between its ends; drive means for rotating the body about a longitudinal axis; and a profiling tool connected to the base and engageable to machine or profile an 5 outer circumferential surface of the tubular body.

11. A lathe assembly according to claim 10 wherein two or more of the lateral support locations are located at substantially the same axial position along the length of the body.

12. A lathe assembly according to claim 10 or claim 11 wherein two or more of the 10 lateral support locations are located at different axial positions along the body.

13. A lathe assembly according to claim 11 or claim 12 wherein two or more of the lateral support locations are spaced circumferentially around the body.

14. A lathe assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 13 wherein the lateral supports take the form of support rollers engageable with an outer circumferential 15 surface of the body.

15. A lathe assembly according to claim 14 wherein the support rollers and the profiling tool are adapted to move in unison along the length of the body, so as to remain in their relative axial locations during the profiling operation.

16. A lathe assembly according to claim 14 adapted to move the elongate body 20 longitudinally in relation to the support rollers and the profiling tool, such that the support rollers and the profiling tool remain in their relative axial locations during the profiling operation.

17. A lathe assembly according to any one of claims 14 to 16 wherein two of the support rollers are dependently movable into engagement with the body. 25

18. A lathe assembly according to claim 17 wherein the dependently movable support rollers are hingedly mounted to opposite ends of a first bell crank lever having an axis of rotation substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body. WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 - 22

19. A lathe assembly according to claim 18 wherein the first bell crank lever is hingedly connected to one end of a second bell crank lever having an axis of rotation substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body.

20. A lathe assembly according to claim 19 wherein the other end of the second bell 5 crank lever is rotatably connected to a first base plate.

21. A lathe assembly according to claim 20 wherein the first base plate is longitudinally movable along the elongate base.

22. A lathe assembly according to claim 20 or claim 21 wherein the first base plate is selectively fixedly connectable to the elongate base in any one of a plurality of axial 10 locations.

23. A lathe assembly according to any one of claims 19 to 22 wherein a pneumatic actuator is operable on the second bell crank lever to move the respective rollers into and out of engagement with the body.

24. A lathe assembly according to any one of claims 14 to 23 wherein two of the 15 support rollers are independently movable into engagement with the body.

25. A lathe assembly according to claim 24 wherein the independently movable support roller is mounted to one end of a hingeable arm.

26. A lathe assembly according to claim 25 wherein the arm has an axis of rotation substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body. 20

27. A lathe assembly according to claim 25 or claim 26 wherein the other end of the arm is hingedly connected to a second base plate.

28. A lathe assembly according to claim 27 wherein the second base plate is longitudinally movable along the elongate base.

29. A lathe assembly according to claim 27 or claim 28 wherein the second base plate 25 is selectively fixedly connectable to the elongate base in any one of a plurality of axial locations. WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 - 23

30. A lathe assembly according to any one of claims 25 to 29 wherein a pneumatic actuator is operable on the arm to move the respective roller into and out of engagement with the body.

31. A lathe assembly according to any one of claims 14 to 30 including three of the 5 support rollers, two of the support rollers being movable into engagement with the body independently of the third support roller.

32. A lathe assembly according any one of claims 14 to 31 wherein at least one of the support rollers is radially movable in response to imperfections in the outer circumferential surface of the body. 10

33. A lathe assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 32 wherein the profiling tool when in use is located axially adjacent one of the lateral support locations.

34. A lathe assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 33 wherein the profiling tool is longitudinally movable along the elongate base.

35. A lathe assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 34 wherein the profiling 15 tool is selectively fixedly connectable to the elongate base in any one of a plurality of axial locations.

36. A lathe assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 35 wherein the body is formed of fibre reinforced cement.

37. A lathe assembly according to claim 36 wherein the body is formed from a fibre 20 reinforced cement blank manufactured on a mandrel using a Hatschek process.

38. A lathe assembly according to claim 37 used to substantially reduce the initial wall thickness and refine the surface finish of the blank to form the body.

39. A lathe assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 38 wherein the body has a wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.050. 25

40. A lathe assembly according to claim 39 wherein the body has a wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.045.

41. A lathe assembly according to claim 40 wherein the body has a wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.035. WO 2005/032784 PCTIAU2004/001378 - 24

42. A lathe assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 41 wherein the body is an architectural column.

43. A lathe assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 41 wherein the body is a pipe, a structural member or a concrete forming element. 5

44. An elongate tubular body formed on a lathe assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 43.

45. An elongate tubular body formed of fibre reinforced cement on a lathe assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 43.

46. An elongate tubular body formed from a fibre reinforced cement blank on a lathe 10 assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 43, wherein the blank is manufactured on a mandrel using a Hatschek process.

47. An elongate tubular body according to claim 46 wherein the lathe assembly is used to substantially reduce the initial wall thickness and refine the surface finish of the blank to form the body. 15

48. An elongate tubular body according to any one of claims 45 to 47 having a wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.050.

49. An elongate tubular body according to claim 48 having a wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.045.

50. An elongate tubular body according to claim 49 having a wall thickness to outer 20 diameter ratio of less than around 0.035.

51. An elongate tubular body according to any one of claims 44 to 50 adapted for use as an architectural column.

52. An elongate tubular body according to any one of claims 44 to 50 adapted for use as a pipe, structural member or concrete forming element. 25

53. A method of manufacturing an elongate tubular body, said method including the steps of: supporting the body at or adjacent its ends for rotation about a longitudinal axis; WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 - 25 supporting the body laterally at two or more lateral support locations between the ends; rotating the body about the longitudinal axis; and machining or profiling an outer surface of the body using a profiling tool. 5

54. A method according to claim 53 wherein two or more of the lateral support locations are located at substantially the same axial position along the length of the body.

55. A method according to claim 53 or claim 54 wherein two or more of the support locations are located at different axial positions along the body. 10

56. A method according to claim 54 or claim 55 wherein two or more of the lateral support locations are spaced circumferentially around the body.

57. A method according to any one of claims 53 to 56 wherein the lateral support is provided by respective support rollers engageable with an outer circumferential surface of the body. 15

58. A method according to claim 57 wherein the support rollers and the profiling tool are moved in unison along the length of the body, so as to remain in their relative axial locations during the profiling operation.

59. A method according to claim 57 wherein the elongate body is moved longitudinally in relation to the support rollers and the profiling tool, such that the 20 support rollers and the profiling tool remain in their relative axial locations during the profiling operation.

60. A method according to any one of claims 57 to 59 wherein two of the support rollers are dependently moved into engagement with the body.

61. A method according to claim 60 wherein the dependently movable support rollers 25 are hingedly mounted to opposite ends of a first bell crank lever having an axis of rotation substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body.

62. A method according to claim 61 wherein the first bell crank lever is hingedly connected to one end of a second bell crank lever having an axis of rotation parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body. WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 - 26

63. A method according to claim 62 wherein the other end of the second bell crank lever is rotatably connected to a first base plate.

64. A method according to claim 63 wherein the first base plate is longitudinally moved along the elongate base. 5

65. A method according to claim 63 or claim 64 wherein the first base plate is selectively fixedly connected to the elongate base in any one of a plurality of axial locations.

66. A method according to any one of claims 62 to 65 wherein a pneumatic actuator is operatively applied to the second bell crank lever to move the respective rollers into and 10 out of engagement with the body.

67. A method according to any one of claims 57 to 66 wherein two of the support rollers are independently moved into engagement with the body.

68. A method according to claim 67 wherein the independently moved support roller is mounted to one end of a hingeable arm. 15

69. A method according to claim 68 wherein the arm has an axis of rotation parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body.

70. A method according to claim 68 or claim 69 wherein the other end of the arm is hingedly connected to a second base plate.

71. A method according to claim 70 wherein the second base plate is longitudinally 20 moved along the elongate base.

72. A method according to claim 70 or claim 71 wherein the second base plate is selectively fixedly connected to the elongate base in any one of a plurality of axial locations.

73. A method according any one of claims 68 to 72 wherein a pneumatic actuator is 25 operatively applied on the arm to move the respective roller into and out of engagement with the body. WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 - 27

74. A method according to any one of claims 57 to 73 wherein three of the support rollers are provided, two of the support rollers being movable into engagement with the body independently of the third support roller.

75. A method according any one of claims 57 to 74 wherein at least one of the support 5 rollers is configured to move radially in response to imperfections in the outer circumferential surface of the body.

76. A method according to any one of claims 53 to 75 wherein the profiling tool when in use is located axially adjacent one of the lateral support locations.

77. A method according to any one of claims 53 to 76 wherein the profiling tool is 10 longitudinally moved along the elongate base.

78. A method according to any one of claims 53 to 77 wherein the profiling tool is selectively fixedly connected to the elongate base in any one of a plurality of axial locations.

79. A method according to any one of claims 53 to 78 wherein the body is formed of 15 fibre reinforced cement.

80. A method according to claim 79 wherein the body is formed from a fibre reinforced cement blank manufactured on a mandrel using a Hatschek process.

81. A method according to claim 80 including the steps of substantially reducing the initial wall thickness and refining the surface finish of the blank to form the body. 20

82. A method according to any one of claims 53 to 81 wherein the body is machined or profiled to a wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.050.

83. A method according to claim 82 wherein the body is machined or profiled to a wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.045.

84. A method according to claim 83 wherein the body is machined or profiled to a 25 wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.035.

85. A method according to any one of claims 53 to 84 wherein the body is machined or profiled on a lathe assembly. WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 - 28

86. A method according to any one of claims 53 to 85 wherein the body is an architectural column.

87. A method according to any one of claims 53 to 85 wherein the body is a pipe, a structural member or a concrete forming element. 5

88. An elongate tubular body manufactured by the method according to any one of claims 53 to 87.

89. An elongate tubular body manufactured on a lathe assembly by the method according to any one of claims 53 to 87.

90. An elongate tubular body formed of fibre reinforced cement by the method 10 according to any one of claims 53 to 87.

91. An elongate tubular body formed from a fibre reinforced cement blank by the method according to any one of claims 53 to 87, wherein the blank is manufactured on a mandrel using a Hatschek process.

92. An elongate tubular body according to claim 91 wherein the method includes the 15 steps of substantially reducing the initial wall thickness and refining the surface finish of the blank to forn the body.

93. An elongate tubular body according to any one of claim 90 to 92 having a wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.050.

94. An elongate tubular body according to claim 93 having a wall thickness to outer 20 diameter ratio of less than around 0.045.

95. An elongate tubular body according to claim 94 having a wall thickness to outer diameter ratio of less than around 0.035.

96. An elongate tubular body according to any one of claims 88 to 95 adapted for use as an architectural column. 25

97. An elongate tubular body according to any one of claims 88 to 95 adapted for use as a pipe, structural member or concrete forming element. WO 2005/032784 PCT/AU2004/001378 - 29

98. A fibre reinforced cement tubular body substantially as herein described with reference to any one of the embodiments of the invention illustrated in the accompanying drawings and/or examples.

99. An elongate tubular body substantially as herein described with reference to any 5 one of the embodiments of the invention illustrated in the accompanying drawings and/or examples.

100. A lathe assembly substantially as herein described with reference to any one of the embodiments of the invention illustrated in the accompanying drawings and/or examples. 10

101. A method of manufacturing an elongate tubular body substantially as herein described with reference to any one of the embodiments of the invention illustrated in the accompanying drawings and/or examples.