Scaffolding Codes
Scaffolding Codes
(OP)
I have nearly finished a beam analysis program specifically for Temporay Works.
I have used the British codes and tube and I would now like to configure it for the USA
Can anybody tell me:
Are there specific codes in USA for steel and timber for Temporary Works?
Is scaffold tube the same ie. 48.3 o/d * 4.0 wt.?
If you could also tell me the permissible bending moment of tube, that would be very helpful.
The titles of any good books on the subject.?
John Watson
I have used the British codes and tube and I would now like to configure it for the USA
Can anybody tell me:
Are there specific codes in USA for steel and timber for Temporary Works?
Is scaffold tube the same ie. 48.3 o/d * 4.0 wt.?
If you could also tell me the permissible bending moment of tube, that would be very helpful.
The titles of any good books on the subject.?
John Watson





RE: Scaffolding Codes
Here in South Africa the 'scaffold tube' that is used is made from so-called 'high-yield steel', and the yield strength is 340 MPa (similar to BS Grade 50) from most manufacturers. However, you should remember that the couplers used will often cause a buckling of the tube at the load points long before this yield point is reached in simple bending.
Your BS5975 'Falsework' code of practice (esp Appendix B) may also be of help.
RE: Scaffolding Codes
As for more details on the beam analysis program. I gather I am not allowed to advertise and I don't think that I can contact you direct so I can only suggest that you do a search to find my site.
Briefly the program will have lift off supports, an editable database for soldiers, ladder beams etc and the facility to use or check the moment provided by a double coupler.
Are you using BS5973 and 5975 in SA ?
RE: Scaffolding Codes
I do not think that it would be correct to use only one value for the bending moment limit in your program. Try a simple test : Clamp a horizontal tube between two uprights using your standard fittings and load it with planks carrying bricks etc. On a short span the tube will probably fail by crumpling at the fittings. On longer spans the deflection limits what can practically be used.
However, as a general guide, you can probably assume a yield stress of 200 to 270 MPa in the mild steel cold-formed tube before buckling occurs at the support points. For allowable-stress design methods, you would factor this by say 1.6 (non-critical apps) or 2.5 (life-critical apps) for temporary works design.
Here in SA we have a very simple and somewhat old-fashoined scaffold code of practice, so I prefer to use the BS codes for serious temporary works structures.
RE: Scaffolding Codes