Girder Couplers: What Are They and How Do They Work?

Girder couplers, also known as gravlock couplers, SK couplers, beam couplers, and girder couplers, are used to connect scaffold tubes to structural sections like beams and columns. They are designed to fix to sections with a maximum flange thickness of 45 mm.

Girder couplers must always be used in pairs, clamped on opposing sides of the structural section. This helps to ensure that the scaffold is properly secured and that there is no risk of it collapsing

How Do Girder Couplers Work?

Girder couplers work by clamping onto the flanges of a structural section. The flanges are the horizontal plates that extend from the top and bottom of the section. The couplers have grip the flanges and prevent them from slipping.

What is The maximum safe working load for girder coupler ?

Girder coupler capacity is different according to the position of if it as show in the next phots .

Y-axis (vertical), uniformly loaded: 30 kN per pair

Y-axis, eccentrically loaded (hanging load): 15 kN on leading coupler

Z-axis (horizontal), uniformly loaded (slip of tube through couplers): 6.5 kN per pair

X-axis (horizontal), uniformly loaded (slip of couplers along section): 10 kN per pair

Safety Tips

When using girder couplers, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

Here are some safety tips for using girder couplers:

* Always use girder couplers in pairs.

* Make sure that the couplers are properly tightened.

* Do not overload the scaffold.

* Inspect the scaffold regularly for damage.

* Replace any damaged couplers immediately.

?? Proper Installation and Maintenance:

Regardless of the type of coupler you are using, it is crucial to ensure proper installation and maintenance. Here are some key steps to follow:

1. Securely tighten the set screws on the coupler to firmly attach it to the scaffold tube.

2. Regularly inspect the couplers to ensure they are in good condition, free from any damage or wear and tear.

For more topics related to access scaffolding, please refer to the links below: ??

?? Fluid Concrete Pressure in Vertical Formwork

https://lnkd.in/d2ebe9qn

?? The Perils of Eccentric Loading in Scaffolding.

https://lnkd.in/d4TVBfVh

?? Access scaffolding design tips

https://lnkd.in/dhkwkxbh

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