Category Archive: Construction

What to consider before purchasing a mobile aluminium scaffold tower?

When you and your team are working on construction projects, you must select the right scaffold. While you come across many options in the market, you must consider many factors. After assessing everything thoroughly, the scaffold will be functional and reliable. So, in this article, we shall cover the essential considerations for aluminium mobile scaffold towers.

What must you consider while buying an aluminium mobile scaffold?

While buying an aluminium mobile scaffold, many factors have to be considered. The scaffold must be safe to use and suitable for your needs. In this section, we have covered four of the most important things that you should consider. 

#1. Give Prominence to Quality Material

When you’re about to purchase an aluminium mobile scaffold, first check the material’s quality. As Aluminum is known for its strength, and resistance to corrosion, it’s ideal for scaffold components. High-quality aluminium is also durable and capable of withstanding heavy loads. Conversely, be cautious about components made from low-grade aluminum. These are susceptible to bending and corrosion with time. To confirm the quality, you must also seek material specifications in detail. After all, your investment is worthwhile only when the material is good. The scaffolding components will also tend to last longer with good quality metal. 

#2. Verify Compliance With Safety Regulations

Another factor to consider when purchasing is safety. Once you source the right components, they should meet the safety standards. Most of the time, the manufacturers comply with regulations such as OSHA and EN1004. These standards ensure that the components are tested for strength. Way ahead, you must seek a scaffold that has guardrails and secure locking mechanisms. They must further have non-slippery platforms so that workers don’t fall accidentally. The mobile scaffold must also have wheels that can be locked. This will prevent movement when tasks are carried out. Above all, you must check for labels and certifications from regulatory bodies. 

#3. The Most Current Production Techniques

As technology evolves, it has led to the production of reliable aluminium scaffolds. So, while choosing a mobile scaffold, ensure that it’s built using the latest methods. Modern scaffolds are beneficial due to precision engineering. Advanced welding techniques also ensure greater stability. With certain methods, the overall design of the scaffolds is further optimized. Innovations have also been making scaffolds safer and more durable. By considering the latest techniques, you can eventually make sure that the modern demands are met. Additionally, when you come across aluminium mobile scaffold towers, observe extruded tee pieces. These will enable it to connect columns firmly for better security.

#4. Choosing The Best Scaffold Tower For Your Project

Whenever you’re choosing the scaffold, the choice depends on project requirements. Hence, you have to evaluate the height requirements. If you’re executing a large-scale project, then you may need a tall scaffold. But, for tasks like painting and cleaning, a usual scaffold is sufficient. Besides, the design and the layout must also align with the working environment. Apart from ensuring easy access, the scaffold must offer sufficient workspace. In addition, consider mobility features if the scaffold has to be moved often. Workers must also be able to lock wheels securely. On the other hand, check the load-bearing capacity and avoid overloading the structure. Most importantly, the scaffold must be easier to assemble and dismantle. 

Besides the above considerations, you must never forget to check the load-bearing capacity. You must also ensure that the structure can sustain the weight of workers and the tools. Workers must also be able to adjust the scaffold for easy storage and transportation. Moreover, when you’re choosing a reputed manufacturer, check for warranty. If the warranty period is long, then you don’t have to worry about the quality of the aluminum mobile scaffold tower.

Conclusion

Finally, if you’re seeking a lightweight mobile scaffold, then why not choose AAIT Scaffolds? While we have served many industries through the years, we are committed to delivering quality. Our scaffolding solutions will also meet the various needs. You can use them for maintenance tasks, construction projects, and event staging. Most importantly, we ensure timely delivery of scaffold components through efficient logistics. 

What is a Bracing System? – construction bracing – AAIT

When your team is busy with the execution of a project, it’s essential to offer some support to the structure. In case the structure is kept as it is, then it can collapse suddenly due to winds. People may also observe excessive swaying or deformation under stress. Lack of stability can then impact the structure’s or building’s integrity. Here’s when bracing systems can be useful. So, in this article, we shall cover more about construction bracing systems and their types.

What Is A Bracing System?

When workers are constructing modern buildings, they may use a bracing system. Such a system is designed to resist lateral forces due to the wind. It thereby prevents the structure from collapsing from different angles. Most often, the frames comprise members made from structural steel. This is because the material is known for compression and tensile strength. But, setting up a bracing system can be challenging. When team members are placing the bracing, it can perhaps impact the building’s appearance. Workers will also be unable to set up doors and windows post bracing installation. 

What are the types of bracing systems?

In today’s era, you will come across many bracing types. Let’s check out the types you will usually find.

Single Diagonals

When a member is placed diagonally between two vertical elements, then it is called single diagonal bracing. Such kinds of bracing are used for small-scale projects. It provides stability due to the effective transmission of the lateral forces to the foundation.

Cross-Bracing

Under this system, workers will place two members diagonally to form an ‘X.’ Therefore, they can expect effective load distribution and an improvement in structural stability. Moreover, the resistance against lateral forces will increase when the bracing is used in high-rise buildings.

K-Bracing

In this type of construction bracing, workers place two beams diagonally. But, individuals ensure that the beams meet at the middle of a vertical member. Such a system is thus effective in preventing the deformation of the structure. Besides, workers prefer this bracing system when they have to maintain flexibility and strength.

V-Bracing

V-bracing involves placing braces diagonally to form a V shape. This means that both the braces meet at a common point of the vertical member. While this configuration offers lateral support, it also presents a large open space. It is further useful when workers have to perform tasks with minimal obstructions.

Eccentric Single Diagonals

This type of bracing system is a variant of a single diagonal system. Instead of connecting to the centre, the diagonal members are placed offset. So, when workers embrace this bracing, it enhances the efficiency of load distribution. In the long run, the structural integrity is also maintained through this bracing system. Individuals prefer this bracing only when the conventional bracing system is not ideal.

What Is The Purpose Of Construction Bracing?

Bracing is beneficial due to different reasons. Let’s check the reasons ahead. 

Controls buckling of the beams

As soon as workers use bracing in certain bridges, it can prevent buckling. During the construction phase, wet concrete can cause buckling due to the applied stress. But, when bracing is set up, it can restrict lateral movement. Lateral torsional buckling will also be prevented with proper installation. Moreover, with steel bracing, the main beams will also not bend to a certain extent.

Load Distribution

Workers usually use bracing to distribute the vertical bending effect. The overall system also ensures that the impact of the wind is shared with all beams. Hence, a single beam doesn’t have to sustain the entire load. Additionally, bracing systems can offer support along the radius. This ensures safety whenever the flanges tend to become curved. The overall effects also resist the moment of forces at diverse flanges.

Dimensional Control

Whenever bracing is set up, it can control the deviations in dimensions. Deviations, conversely, may occur when the horizontal distances between girder flanges vary. This can, in turn, lead to issues during the construction phase. But, when workers introduce bracing, it can curb deviations. Having said that, the bracing shouldn’t be overloaded at any instance.

Bracing Plans: What Are They?

When you come across construction bracing plans, these are detailed documents that present the layout of the systems. Usually, the plan depicts the location of braces and the connection details. These details are required for effective support to the structure. But, to ensure quality, the contractor has to work closely with experienced draughtsmen.

Let’s now look at what you must consider for maximum performance. 

• While setting up braces, workers must set them up perpendicular to one another. But, they must be positioned parallel to the exterior walls for a timber frame.
• During the installation process, the lines should be kept uniformly and with some space. 
• While constructing timber-framed floors, the braces must transmit lateral loads. Moreover, the load must be transmitted along construction lines. 
• When workers are busy with the setup, they must consider bracing components on the lines. 
• To confirm the capability of bracing systems, individuals must carry out proper load analysis. However, the analysis can vary depending on the climatic conditions and the building’s height. 

Eventually, the team must ensure that the bracing plan is compliant with the local building codes. Compliance with structural standards also needs to be maintained ahead. 

Conclusion

Finally, you can contact AAIT Scaffolds when you’re planning to erect scaffolding. While the company is leading in the realm of scaffold supplies, it offers diverse services to every client. Even when we have to meet specific needs, we assure you we offer exceptional quality. With time, we also don’t fall back in offering support during project execution. Once you visit our official website, you can know more through the online catalog. Beyond everything else, we are also known to be a construction bracing supplier in the USA. 

How to Install Scaffolding: Tips to Erect Scaffolding

In the realm of construction, it’s always important to set up a scaffold properly. Once installed, the scaffold offers a stable platform for the workers to perform different tasks. Way ahead, when the scaffold is adjusted, it can allow the workers to reach hard-to-access places. But, do you actually know the steps for erecting a scaffold? Well, if you don’t know how to get started, then scroll through the article. As you read ahead, you will know more about scaffolding installation. 

1-Selecting a suitable scaffold

Choosing the right type of scaffolding is important to ensure scaffold safety. The structure should also be selected for maximum efficiency. So, to help you decide, here are some scaffolds ideal for diverse projects. 

Supported Scaffolds increase

Such scaffolds are used for every type of project. Apart from building maintenance, these can be used for new construction projects. While the entire structure is built with horizontal and vertical columns, it offers scaffold platform stability. These also offer support when bridges are undergoing repairs. In factories, this scaffolding also allows crews to inspect structural elements. 

Suspended Scaffolds increase

Most of the time, contractors use suspended scaffolds for large structures. A hoist system is used for the scaffolding installation. Once erected, this scaffold enables workers to move freely across different sections. Moreover, these are useful when there’s a need for a stable platform at heights. They are also commonly used for installing or cleaning windows on tall buildings. 

Cantilever Scaffolds 

These scaffolds have poles that can be fixed firmly to the walls. Hence, it offers support for accessing materials beyond the wall edge. You may come across this scaffold when tasks are performed on sloped surfaces. Cantilever scaffolds are also ideal for accessing the facades of buildings. This structure is used for tasks like repairing, cleaning, or painting the exterior. Individuals can also work at the upper levels of the building once the scaffold is set up. 

2-Obtaining the Necessary Permits  

Before you proceed with scaffolding installation, it’s important to procure permits. In such a case, you have to present an application for building permits for scaffolding. This document will depend on the location and what kind of scaffold needs to be set up. Moreover, it’s also important to ensure to stay compliant with certain regulations. The structure is also determined by what type of access workers need. But, to confirm whether the scaffold has met the standards, you should get in touch with an expert.

3-Assembling the Scaffold

• Once the contractor decides to erect the scaffold, the base has to be initially laid.
• Usually, workers use metal braces to connect the horizontal poles. Later, vertical columns are secured at regular intervals using bolts. 
• Diagonal braces are also placed properly to make the structure sturdy. 
• Workers will then place a platform over the vertical poles and secure them with brackets.
• While carrying out the above tasks, workers use a ladder. Once a ladder is used, it helps to ascend or descend the structure. 
• Above all, the workers must make sure that a flat surface is supporting their motion. 
• Eventually, the bolts and connectors are tightened so that the structure doesn’t collapse. 

4-Setting up the Base Plates and Casters

• During this step of the scaffolding installation process, two individuals place the base plate and hammer the ground anchors.
• Soon after the base plates are laid, the castors and anchors are placed carefully. But, to ensure that the caster is locked in its position, a pin is used.
• Once the position is set, the worker checks the balance with a spirit level. 
• Now, the base plates are secured with a ground anchor. It’s essential to anchor the base plates into solid surfaces. This step will not make them loose even when there’s heavy weight.
• Towards the end, the castor wheels are attached to every corner. Post securing all the corners, the vertical posts are positioned with great care.  

5-Adding essential components

Adding toeboards, and guardrails along with the platforms is the next step to consider. Such parts can be bought from a reputed scaffolding equipment supplier. While these components offer stability, it enables workers to move around the structure. 

• As far the platforms are concerned, they must be capable of sustaining around 300 kilos.
• Before selecting platforms, you should make sure that they aren’t cracked. In case you come across any cracks, then consider a replacement. 
• Now, guardrails should be installed at a minimum height of 42 inches.
• Make sure you secure the guardrails firmly using bolts. Additionally, you may need some more guardrails while working at heights as much as 10 feet.
• Later, toe boards must be used to prevent tools from slipping off the platform’s edge. While the board has to be a minimum 4 inches high, the gaps shouldn’t be more than 1 inch. 
• To ensure maximum safety, the toe boards have to be secured with bolts. 

6-Performing safety checks 

• Soon after scaffolding installation, the structure is inspected for stability.
• While workers check the structure, they ensure if any parts are loose or missing.
• They must also observe the parts and check whether they are corroded.
• Before disassembling the scaffold, the workers must eventually inspect as per the OSHA standards.
• As everyone proceeds with the dismantling stage, they use a ladder for inspection.
• The structural integrity must also be verified before disassembling the scaffold. 
• Once individuals commence with the dismantling, they should avoid jumping to different levels.
• The workers must either ascend or descend carefully with the help of a ladder.
• Additionally, they also check if all the planks are dismantled with a minimum of three clamps per side.
• In the future, the workers will also have to ensure that guardrails are upgraded. This helps to meet the changes in regulations.  

FAQ

1. How do you erect scaffolding step by step?
When you’re planning to erect the scaffold, you need to prepare the foundation. Later, you have to choose a suitable scaffold, and fix the vertical and horizontal columns. Post this step, you also need to set up the guardrails. But, before erecting the scaffold, you have to obtain permits.

2. How is scaffolding built step by step?
While you build a scaffold, you have to prepare the site, and choose a suitable scaffold. A bit later, you have to obtain permits and proceed with assembling the structure. After this, you have to add the various sections and install the base plates properly.

3. What is the 3 to 1 rule for scaffolding?
As per the 3 to 1 rule, the  total height for working must be thrice the distance of the base side. But, this side of the base must be narrowest. 

4. How to attach a scaffold to a building?
Many methods are used for attaching a scaffold. While some workers may use mechanical anchors, others may use compression ties. They may also move ahead with compression welding to secure the scaffold firmly. 

5. How to install scaffolding for beginners?
Many steps are involved while securing a scaffold. These include assembling the parts, placing the  planks, attaching the guardrails, and inspecting the temporary structure.

6. How to erect a scaffold tower?
Workers can erect a scaffold tower by first setting up the foundation. They then have to assemble the parts and also fix the guardrails. In the end, the saffold is inspected to ensure safety and stability.

Conclusion

Finally, we hope that you are now aware of how a scaffold is erected. To sum up everything, here’s what we have to say.

• These are important for maintenance and construction projects. 
• They also serve as a secure platform when efficiency and safety are the prime concerns. 
• Workers should also use supreme-quality equipment to prevent sudden accidents. Guidelines must also be followed so that the tasks are performed effectively. 

Still searching for a leading scaffolding equipment supplier? Well, why not consider approaching AAIT Scaffolds? While we are committed to timely delivery, we never drift our focus on quality. As you plan to execute the construction project, you can source components from our inventory in Houston. 

What’s the Difference Between Scaffolding and Shoring?

In the construction industry, scaffolding and shoring are the different systems that ensure safety during various phases. Even when both support construction activities, they serve distinct purposes. But, you must know the difference between shoring vs scaffolding. So, to drive away the confusion, read this article to know more about the structures. 

What does one mean by Scaffolding and Shoring?

In simple terms, scaffolding is a temporary structure that offers workers support to reach heights. While these create a stable platform, it enables workers to perform tasks efficiently. Individuals can also move ahead complex structures smoothly with the structure. In contrast, the main purpose of shoring is quite different.

As workers use shoring, it provides support for unstable structures. This ensures stability and supports loads that are beyond the capacity. Once set up, shoring maintains the structure’s integrity and enables people to carry out tasks efficiently. Eventually, shoring reinforces areas like foundations or walls. 

What is the primary purpose of both the structures?

Now, there’s an easy way to understand the difference between shoring vs scaffolding. If the main purpose of using a platform is to stand and carry out tasks, then it’s a scaffold. But, if the formwork supports the existing structure, then it is referred to as shoring. The applications of the structures will help you understand the difference better. 

For instance, if the scaffolding is used in the refinery industry, then workers can access heat exchangers, pressure vessels and more with ease. Scaffolds are also erected in the petrochemical industry for accessing hard-to-reach points in the facilities. 

When shoring is used in the construction domain, it can offer the requisite support when the building is undergoing renovation. Individuals can then work on tasks to improve certain sections. Shoring can also serve as a temporary structure when a stage has to be built for an event. 

Although both the temporary structures serve a certain intention, a scaffolding component can be a shoring component. On the contrary, workers may use the shoring frame as a scaffold component. They may also use a shoring tower temporarily while building a shoring system. 

Which scaffolding is commonly used at sites?

While builders are looking for temporary support for the project, here are some types of scaffolding they might use.

Double Scaffolding
Such scaffolds are known as independent scaffolding. While erecting this scaffold, metallic pipes are used to connect two rows of poles. This structure is useful in stone masonry because it’s tough to drill holes in stone walls. 

Cantilever scaffolding
This scaffolding is generally used when it’s not practically possible to place supports. Hence, during its installation, workers support it from one end and let the other end extend over a space. Moreover, these scaffolds are used during bridge constructions, and while maintaining the building’s facade. 

Suspended scaffolding
Suspended scaffolding is yet another temporary support that hangs from a building. Such a kind of scaffold is used when workers can’t reach areas with ease. On the other hand, workers may use this scaffold when ground-based supports are not practical to set up. 

Trestle scaffolding
This type of temporary support offers mobility for workers from one place to another. As these are used indoors, the tripods or movable ladders offer support. Hence, people install trestle scaffolding when they have to perform maintenance tasks. 

Apart from the ones stated above, you will also come across steel scaffolding because they are strong. Contractors may also pre-assemble scaffolding when there’s less time to complete the project. Feel free to connect with a leading scaffolding equipment supplier to figure out the best scaffold. 

Which shoring is commonly used at sites?

At a construction site, you may come across many shoring techniques. Let’s go through the types of shoring.

H-frame shoring
H-frame shoring consists of vertical and horizontal members forming a frame that is placed against a structure to provide support. It is commonly used in trenching and excavation to prevent the sides from collapsing. When steel I or H beams are placed firmly in the ground, workers spend time drilling them. They then support the piles once they are drilled. 

Secant pile shoring
When workers consider this shoring, they form a wall. This is useful, especially when there’s insufficient space for the open excavation. While the individuals are busy, they use primary and secondary piles. They may also be involved in installing overlapping reinforced concrete piles. This creates a continuous wall to support the entire evacuation.

Contiguous pile shoring
When water seepage is not a concern, this kind of shoring is considered. In this technique, the piles are usually placed one after the other. As a result, a continuous wall is formed around the area. Apart from offering stability, the shoring prevents soil collapse during evacuation.

Sheet pile shoring
Just like H-beam shoring, sheet pile shoring has many steel beams for support. While workers start setting up the beams, they use a vibro hammer. The technique is generally employed in areas with soft soils. You will certainly come across this shoring in deep evacuations, and trenching projects. 

Diaphragm walls
Under such kinds of shoring systems in construction, workers use concrete walls meant for deeper excavations. This involves the construction of tunnels, basements, and more. Moreover, the walls are formed by setting up panels one after another. The interlocking of panels offers structural stability during the construction phases. 

Can scaffolding also be used as a shoring solution?

Although shoring differs from scaffolding, people use scaffolding in some cases. The structure is used instead of shoring. Individuals may use scaffolding when support is needed for structural repairs. The overall structure can also be used to support vertical elements that may collapse. In addition, scaffolding can be used to support floor slabs or add a new level. 

FAQs 

1. What is the difference between shoring and scaffolding?
Scaffolding always differs from shoring. While a scaffold offers access to different heights, shoring offers support for unsafe structures.

2. Can scaffolding be used as shoring?
Scaffolding can be used as shoring in some cases. But, the main difference between the two lies in configuration, purpose and the design. 

3. What are the 3 types of scaffolding?
Supported, aerial and suspended scaffolding are most commonly erected at construction sites. But, such types are used for diverse purposes. But, to use a suitable scaffold, you must know more about them. 

4. What is the difference between shoring and formwork?
When the construction work needs support, a formwork is erected. But, in case unsafe structures have to be supported, then shoring is established. 

5. What is shoring in construction?
As workers proceed with the construction tasks, they need to support a trench, building or a structure. This technique is called shoring and it prevents the structure from collapsing. 

Conclusion

Finally, you must approach a scaffolding equipment supplier if you wish to set up a scaffold. At AAIT Scaffold, we can offer scaffolding accessories and numerous equipment. While we serve our clients to meet their diverse needs, we assure utmost quality. With efficient logistics, we also make sure that the components are delivered within a time span in Medley and Houston.