5-14-15: Richardkrebs
Ply AND "I" beams use a similar technique to separate the outer layers where any bending causes compression in one layer and tension in the other
Why are we debating this???
Richardkrebs you described your plinth as a "form of I Beam".
05-13-15: Richardkrebs
My TT uses 2 x 30mm thick Acrylic sheets, separated and fused to a lead spacer. By separating the two structural plates a form of 'I' beam is produced since shear between the two plates is strongly resisted.
This is a similar idea to that used in the light weight wooden 'I' beam floor joists.
An I Beam consists of a Web with a flange top and bottom.
Your plinth that you describe has only a Web and no flanges.
An I Beam without flanges is structurally weak, has no axial strength and will flex. Here is a link to help you understand how I Beams work..
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I-beamThere is no debate. The plinth that you built is laminated sheets of acrylic and lead and is not an I Beam, nor is it even a form of I Beam as you have claimed.