Scaffolding materials include:

#1 Tubes

#2 Couplers

#3 Boards or decking

Tubes are normally made from steel or aluminum. The type of steel used is typically hot-rolled steel. In special circumstances where there is a risk from live overhead electric cables, filament-wound tubes of glass fiber in a nylon or polyester matrix can be used.

The main difference between steel and aluminum is the weight: steel is nearly 3 times heavier than aluminum.

The metal tubes are held together by scaffolding couplers. There are three basic varieties: right-angle couplers, putlog couplers, and swivel couplers. In addition, joint pins (spigots) or sleeve couplers can be used to join tubes end-to-end where necessary.

The floors of the scaffolding system can be made of wooden boards or decking made from steel or aluminum. Where wooden boards are used, their ends are protected by metal plates known as hoop irons or nail plates.

Metal Scaffolding Applications

Metal scaffolding is used during construction, maintenance, and repair. Metal scaffolding allows workers to access high and remote locations of any building.

Metal scaffolding can come in many forms, depending on the project at hand.

Supported scaffolding is the most common type of scaffolding. It’s built from the ground up and is commonly seen at most construction sites. It’s the easiest, most convenient, safest and most cost-effective scaffolding system. Extra support can be added if the structure is extremely high or if very heavy loads need to be transported.

Suspended scaffolding is typically suspended from the roof of a building. It’s a good option for situations where it’s not possible to construct a base, or where the access requirements are limited to the upper levels and the building of scaffolding from the ground up would be impractical.

Rolling scaffolding is similar in structure to supported scaffolding. The difference is that instead of incorporating a stable base, castor wheels are used to allow mobility. This provides a good option if work needs to be carried out across the length of the building. It’s essential to lock the wheels whenever there are workers or materials on the scaffolding to ensure the safety of all in the vicinity.