Diaphragm arch
Encyclopedia
A diaphragm arch is a transverse wall-bearing arch
forming a partial wall dividing a vault
or a ceiling
into compartments.
When used under a wooden roof, it has the advantage of providing a partial firebreak
. It was first used in Roman Syria, during the 2nd century AD.
Arch
An arch is a structure that spans a space and supports a load. Arches appeared as early as the 2nd millennium BC in Mesopotamian brick architecture and their systematic use started with the Ancient Romans who were the first to apply the technique to a wide range of structures.-Technical aspects:The...
forming a partial wall dividing a vault
Vault (architecture)
A Vault is an architectural term for an arched form used to provide a space with a ceiling or roof. The parts of a vault exert lateral thrust that require a counter resistance. When vaults are built underground, the ground gives all the resistance required...
or a ceiling
Ceiling
A ceiling is an overhead interior surface that covers the upper limit of a room. It is generally not a structural element, but a finished surface concealing the underside of the floor or roof structure above....
into compartments.
When used under a wooden roof, it has the advantage of providing a partial firebreak
Firebreak
A firebreak is a gap in vegetation or other combustible material that acts as a barrier to slow or stop the progress of a bushfire or wildfire. A firebreak may occur naturally where there is a lack of vegetation or "fuel", such as a river, lake or canyon...
. It was first used in Roman Syria, during the 2nd century AD.