Defining Metal Scaffolding
The reason scaffolding came to rise has to do with the general construction needs human civilisation has had for generations. This means constructing tall buildings and structures. It was often noted that scaffolding became an option as soon as Ancient Egypt started working on its pyramids. At the time, the scaffolding was made of timber. If you need some Tube fitting services then please see here.
This type of scaffolding was a common sight for years and continued up to 1922. After this, the process became far more efficient with the use of metal tubes to complete the process.
It is now the right option for most businesses because it works. It has become a standard requirement across the industry including tube scaffolding. This has been true due to its lightweight nature and how easy it is to put together whenever necessary. You don’t require bolts or nuts during the process and that is key with robust scaffolding.
The benefit of steel scaffolding has to do with increased durability and strength. There is a specific amount of elasticity that is associated with this type of solution and that is what makes it unique. Steel can manage significant loads and ensures equipment can be moved around as intended without hindrance. This is ideal because the scaffolding is put under significant stress regularly.
When things are not as demanding, it is okay to look at aluminium scaffolding as a potential option.
Metal scaffolding is great for those who want to get higher spots that are remote. It has diagonal bracing that provides increased stability immediately.
The basic elements include:
- Transforms
- Ledgers
- Standards
The concept behind this is to have vertical tubes (standards) that run from one end of the structure to the other as a way to hold it up. This ensures any weight on the ground is spread out.
With the ledgers, these are horizontal tubes that are linked to the standards as a way to increase the structure’s stability.
With the transforms, these are horizontal tubes that are set up perpendicular to the ledgers. This adds even more strength to the structure.
Applications of Metal Scaffolding
Metal scaffolding is seen in various lines of work including repairs, maintenance, and of course construction. IT is a great way to get to higher spots easily.
This type of scaffolding comes in a multitude of forms.
With suspended scaffolding, it is suspended from the top (roof) of the building. This is ideal for those who are looking to avoid setting up a proper base and/or don’t have the ability to create something like this due to restrictions from the top. This can happen with buildings that have tighter space near the top.
With rolling scaffolding, the goal is to focus more on a support system. This is based on having a strong base that is going to including castor wheels that allow the scaffolding to move around as needed. This is ideal for those who are going to be working long distances horizontally. This makes it easier to move the scaffolding due to the castor wheels underneath.
The materials include:
- Boards/Decking
- Couplers
- Tubes
In general, most tubes are made of aluminium or steel. The steel that is used for this solution is known as hot-rolled steel. However, there are times when other types of materials are used including glass fibre and/or filament-wound tubes because of potential electrical risks near live overhead electric cables.