Scaffolding couplers, AKA scaffolding clamps, join two steel pipe fasteners. These are called scaffolding joints. The scaffolding couples are mounted on scaffolding pipes, and they help to hold the struts in place.
Scaffolding couplers also support the interior to internal struts and internal to external struts. They come in handy during the proper installation of the scaffoldings.
They overcome the defects of the scaffolding structures like initial folds or bending. They further help in stabilising the scaffold structure.
Scaffold couplers are available in different sizes for different materials and pipe widths.
Types of Scaffolding Couplers
There are three main types of scaffolding couplers- right angle, swivel coupler, and sleeve coupler. The right-angle coupler is the most used of the three.
- Right Angle Coupler
It is also called a fixed coupler. The right-angle coupler joins the scaffold tubes at 90 degrees. They join the ledger and the standard steel pipes.
It is further divided into two types- pressed steel type and drop forged type.
High steel plates press the double coupler to form a pressed steel type coupler.
The drop-forged type involves the forging of high-strength steel round bars. It includes elements of covers, bases, bolts, and nuts.
The drop-forged type is further divided into two categories i.e. quick thread and normal thread. Quick thread is preferred more because of enhanced strength due to wider screws.
- Swivel Coupler
Swivel coupler AKA universal coupler is implied in diagonal bracing. It enhances the rigidity of the scaffold structure.
It can connect the scaffold structure at any angle. It is highly durable, and its robust mounting provides it the adjustability to fit towers of any size.
- Sleeve Coupler
It provides an end-to-end connection to the scaffold coupler. A sleeve coupler is often called a box clamp. It is resistant to bending.
It is hot dip galvanised, which increases the life of sleeve couplers. It is suitable for all weather conditions, owing to its strong strength.
With sleeve couplers, scaffold tubes can be connected vertically, horizontally, or diagonally.
Characteristics of Couplers
- Iron is utilised to curate scaffolding couplers. It adds toughness and strength to the coupler. Cast iron’s inability to fracture eliminates any possible accident hazards.
- Scaffolding couplers offer a large fitting area that provides a ground for the surface bounding of steel pipe and fastener. Thus, improving the overall mechanical properties of the structure.
- Using galvanised iron acts as a double anti-corrosion layer. This further enhances the life of couplers and the structure.
- Scaffolding structures are light in weight. Thus, providing a fast assembly. This in return, requires less labour.
Precautions While Making Scaffold Structures
- Proper Safety Equipments
It is crucial to employ personal protective equipment (PPE) while working on a scaffold structure. Not using a PPE kit, especially in construction industries, leads to accident hazards.
Wearing hard material helmets prevents catastrophic injuries. Along with it, the workers ought to wear non-slip footwear.
- Training
The workers need to have proper training in the construction and operation of the scaffold structures.
The appropriate technique is required to climb the scaffold structure. It is tricky to assemble and disassemble the said structure.
It is also beneficial to know the load capacity of scaffold couplers.
- Maintenance
There should be a proper place for storing the scaffold structure. Additionally, debris should be removed before storage.
The scaffold structure should be clean at all times. This prevents rust. People well versed with safety regulations need to make regular inspections.
Summing Up
Make sure to be properly educated before working on the scaffold structure. Otherwise, it can pose a threat to life.
Murari Engineering offers the best deals on scaffolding couplers. We are the leading producers of scaffolding structures in Punjab. We do not compromise on quality, and our products go through a quality check before coming to the market.