You are on page 1of 36

AS 1576.

21991

Australian StandardR

Scaffolding

Part 2: Couplers and accessories


Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001
This Standard was prepared by Committee BD/36, Scaffolding. It was approved on behalf of
the Council of Standards on 21 August 1991 and published on 7 October 1991.

The following interests are represented on Committee BD/36:


A.C.T. Administration, Office of City Management
Aluminium Development Council
Australian Federation of Construction Contractors
Confederation of Australian Industry
Department of Industrial Affairs, Qld
Department of Labour and Industry, Tas.
Department of Labour, S.A.
Department of Labour, Vic.
Department of Occupational Health Safety and Welfare, W.A.
Master Builders Construction and Housing Association, Australia
Metal Trades Industry Association of Australia
National Association of Scaffolding and Formwork Contractors
Workcover Authority, N.S.W.
Work Health Authority, N.T.

Review of Australian Standards. To keep abreast of progress in industry, Australian Standards are subject to
periodic review and are kept up to date by the issue of amendments or new editions as necessary. It is important
therefore that Standards users ensure that they are in possession of the latest edition, and any amendments thereto.
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

Full details of all Australian Standards and related publications will be found in the Standards Australia Catalogue
of Publications; this information is supplemented each month by the magazine The Australian Standard, which
subscribing members receive, and which gives details of new publications, new editions and amendments, and of
withdrawn Standards.
Suggestions for improvements to Australian Standards, addressed to the head office of Standards Australia, are
welcomed. Notification of any inaccuracy or ambiguity found in an Australian Standard should be made without
delay in order that the matter may be investigated and appropriate action taken.

This Standard was issued in draft form for comment as DR 90077.


AS 1576.21991

Australian StandardR

Scaffolding

Part 2: Couplers and accessories

First published as part of AS 15751974.


Revised and redesignated in part as AS 1576.21991.

Incorporating:
Amdt 11992
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

PUBLISHED BY STANDARDS AUSTRALIA


(STANDARDS ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA)
1 THE CRESCENT, HOMEBUSH, NSW 2140
ISBN 0 7262 7099 7
PREFACE

This Standard was prepared by the Standards Australia Committee on Scaffolding, to


supersede (in part) AS 15751974, Tubes, couplers and accessories used in metal
scaffolding, which will be withdrawn on June 30, 1992.
This edition incorporates the following major changes from the previous edition:
(a) Minimum material requirements are given for aluminium.
(b) Changes to the general design requirements for couplers.
(c) The design and performance requirements for adjustable legs has replaced those
requirements for adjustable baseplates.
(d) A limit has been placed on the distortion of a tube when tested with a coupler.
Requirements for steel tube and aluminium tube are incorporated in AS 1576.3.
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

E Copyright STANDARDS AUSTRALIA


Users of Standards are reminded that copyright subsists in all Standards Australia publications and software. Except where the Copyright Act allows
and except where provided for below no publications or software produced by Standards Australia may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system in
any form or transmitted by any means without prior permission in writing from Standards Australia. Permission may be conditional on an appropriate
royalty payment. Requests for permission and information on commercial software royalties should be directed to the head office of Standards
Australia.
Standards Australia will permit up to 10 percent of the technical content pages of a Standard to be copied for use exclusively inhouse by
purchasers of the Standard without payment of a royalty or advice to Standards Australia.
Standards Australia will also permit the inclusion of its copyright material in computer software programs for no royalty payment provided
such programs are used exclusively inhouse by the creators of the programs.
Care should be taken to ensure that material used is from the current edition of the Standard and that it is updated whenever the Standard is amended or
revised. The number and date of the Standard should therefore be clearly identified.
The use of material in print form or in computer software programs to be used commercially, with or without payment, or in commercial contracts is
subject to the payment of a royalty. This policy may be varied by Standards Australia at any time.
CONTENTS
Page

SECTION 1 SCOPE AND GENERAL


1.1 SCOPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1.2 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1.3 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1.4 MARKETING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
SECTION 2 MATERIALS
2.1 PROPERTIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.2 STEEL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.3 ALUMINIUM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
SECTION 3 DESIGN REQUIREMENTS
3.1 GENERAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
3.2 COUPLERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
3.3 ACCESSORIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
SECTION 4 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS
4.1 COUPLERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
4.2 ADJUSTABLE LEG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
4.3 ADJUSTABLE BASEPLATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
4.4 CASTOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
4.5 PUTLOG BLADE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
4.6 FLANGE CLAMP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
APPENDICES
A SLIP TEST FOR RIGHTANGLE AND SWIVEL COUPLER . . . . . . . . . . . 11
B DISTORTION TEST FOR RIGHTANGLE AND SWIVEL COUPLER . . . 13
C STRENGTH TEST FOR SWIVEL AND PUTLOG COUPLER . . . . . . . . . . . 15
D SLIP TEST FOR PUTLOG COUPLER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
E SLIP TEST FOR ENDTOEND COUPLER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
F SPLICING TEST FOR PARALLEL COUPLERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
G TEST FOR ADJUSTABLE LEG AND ADJUSTABLE BASEPLATE . . . . . . 23
H TEST FOR CASTOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
I TEST FOR PUTLOG BLADE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
J STRENGTH TEST FOR FLANGE CLAMP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
K SLIP TEST THROUGH RIGID AND SWIVEL FLANGE CLAMPS . . . . . . 30
L SLIP TEST OF RIGID AND SWIVEL FLANGE CLAMPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001
AS 1576.21991 4

STANDARDS AUSTRALIA

Australian Standard
Scaffolding

Part 2: Couplers and accessories

SECTION 1 SCOPE AND GENERAL

1.1 SCOPE This Standard specifies requirements for couplers and accessories for light, medium
and heavy duty scaffolding, in accordance with AS 1576.1.

1.2 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS The following documents are referred to in this Standard:
AS
1111 ISO metric hexagon commercial bolts and screws
1112 ISO metric hexagon nuts, including thin nuts, slotted nuts and castle nuts
1237 Flat metal washers for general engineering purposes (metric series)
1444 Wrought alloy steelsStandard and hardenability (H) series
1576 Scaffolding
1576.1 Part 1: General requirements
1594 Hot-rolled low carbon steel plate, sheet and strip
1734 Aluminium and aluminium alloysFlat sheet, coiled sheet and plate
1866 Aluminium and aluminium alloysExtruded rod, bar, solid and hollow shapes
1874 Aluminium and aluminium alloysIngots and castings

3678 Hot-rolled structural steel plate floor plate and slabs


3679 Hot-rolled structural steel bars and sections
1.3 DEFINITIONS For the purpose of this Standard the definitions given in AS 1576.1 and those
below apply.
1.3.1 Adjustable baseplatea baseplate embodying an adjustable leg.
1.3.2 Adjustable castora castor incorporating a height-adjusting device that fits inside the
standard or vertical member of a scaffold.
1.3.3 Adjustable lega threaded bar or tube with nut, designed to fit inside a standard to support
the load from a standard, and which is for levelling purposes, in conjunction with a baseplate,
forkhead or castor.
1.3.4 Couplera fitting which joins two tubes.
1.3.5 End-to-end couplera coupler for joining two tubes end-to-end.
1.3.6 Flange clampa load-bearing clamp for connecting a tube to the flange of a structural
member. Flange clamps may be rigid or swivelling.
1.3.7 Forkheada U-shaped housing to support and locate a standard over a bearer or a bearer
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

over a standard. A fork head may be fixed or adjustable.


1.3.8 Joint pinan internal end-to-end coupler for joining two tubes.
1.3.9 Parallel couplera load-bearing coupler for making a lap or spliced joint between two tubes.
1.3.10 Pintlea projection at the top of the castor used to locate the vertical members of the
mobile scaffold frame.
1.3.11 Putlog couplera coupler for fixing a putlog to a ledger.
1.3.12 Putlog blade a fitting that is fixed to the end of a putlog permitting it to be located and
supported in a joint of a wall.
1.3.13 Right-angle couplera non-swivel load-bearing coupler, other than a putlog coupler, for
connection two tubes at right angles.
1.3.14 Sleeve coupleran external end-to-end coupler for joining two tubes.
1.3.15 Swivel couplera coupler for connecting two tubes at any angle.

COPYRIGHT
5 AS 1576.21991

1.4 MARKETING Each coupler and accessory, excluding baseplate and spanner, shall be marked
with the manufacturers name or trademark.
NOTE: Manufacturers making a statement of compli ance wit h this Austr alian Standard on a product, or on packaging or
promotional materi al related to that product, are advised to ensure that such compli ance is capable of being verif ied.
Independent cert if ication is avail able from Standard Australi a under the StandardsMark Product Certi fi cati on Scheme.
The StandardsMark, shown below, is a registered certi fi cati on trade mark owned by Standards Austr alia and granted under
li cence to manufacturers whose products comply wit h the requir ements of suitable Austr alian Standards and who operate
sound quali ty assurance programs to ensure consistent product quali ty.
Furt her informati on on product cert if ication and the suitabili ty of this Standard for cert if ication is available fr om Standards
Australi as Quali ty Assurance Services, 1 The Crescent, Homebush, N.S.W., 2140.
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

COPYRIGHT
AS 1576.21991 6

SECTION 2 MATERIALS

2.1 PROPERTIES Where the properties of any material are in doubt, the material shall be
subjected to such test or tests necessary to determine the properties concerned.

2.2 STEEL Steel couplers and accessories shall be manufactured from steel complying with
AS 1444, AS 1594, AS 3678 and AS 3679, as appropriate.

2.3 ALUMINIUM
2.3.1 Cast components. Components formed by sand or permanent gravity-mould casting methods
shall comply with AS 1874 and with the minimum mechanical properties given in Table 2.1.
Pressure die casting shall not be used as a method of manufacture and the 700 series alloys shall
not be used.

TABLE 2.1
MINIMUM PROPERTIES FOR CAST COMPONENTS
Tensil e strength Elongati on
Casting Method MPa %
Sand cast 205 3
Permanent mould 220 5

2.3.2 Wrought components Components made from wrought alloys shall comply with AS 1866
for extrusions and AS 1734 for sheet and plate, and shall comply with the minimum mechanical
properties given in Table 2.2.
TABLE 2.2.
MINIMUM PROPERTIES FOR WROUGHT COMPONENTS
Method of Tensil e strength 0.2% proof Elongati on
manufacture MPa stress, MPa %
Extr usion 262 241 8
Plate 303 213 8
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

COPYRIGHT
7 AS 1576.21991

SECTION 3 DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

3.1 GENERAL All couplers and accessories shall be manufactured for fixing to tube for which they
have been designed to be used.
3.2 COUPLERS
3.2.1 General requirements Couplers shall comply with following: .
(a) All couplers shall be designed and constructed so that
(i) when assembled but before being tightened, no part can become inadvertently detached; and
(ii) when tightened, the coupler cannot be inadvertently released.
(b) Couplers when used as designed shall not damage the scaffold tube.
(c) The thinnest section of the body or flap of any coupler shall not be less than 4 mm thick.
(d) Threaded blind holes shall not be used. The design of a coupler shall be such that the engaged length
of any threaded components can be readily determined when assembled.
Where couplers incorporate nuts and bolts to effect tightening, they shall comply with the following
requirements:
(A) A tightening bolt shall comply with AS 1111 and shall have a shank not less than 11 mm diameter
and threaded overall diameter not less than 12 mm diameter.
(B) Nuts shall comply with the material requirements of AS 1112 and shall be not less than 11 mm thick.
Nuts shall be made captive on the bolt.
(C) Washers shall comply with AS 1237 and shall be not less than 1.6 mm thick. Washers shall be fitted
beneath the nut, or be integral with the nut.
(D) Except when the geometry of the fitting is such that when tightened the bolt is positively held in
position, a nib or recess shall be provided on the coupler to prevent the bolt from being displaced
from the coupler when being tightened.
(E) Hinge pins shall be steel of not less than 8 mm diameter, and shall be adequately riveted over or
otherwise suitably prevented from becoming displaced.
3.2.2. Swivel couplers In addition to complying with the requirements listed under Clause 3.2.1., swivel
couplers shall have a steel swivel pin not less than 200 mm2 in area. The swivelling faces shall be smooth
and in contact. This requirement shall not, however, prohibit a metal washer being interposed between the
faces of the coupler, provided that the coupler is no less efficient by the use of the washer. The heads of
the pin shall be well formed and free from any riveting defects.
NOTE: Because of wear of the swivel pin through use, swivel couplers should not be used to support direct loads such as those
transmitted by standards.
3.2.3 End-to-end couplers
3.2.3.1 General End-to-end couplers shall be self-centering, and shall accept an equal length of each of
the tubes.
Compliance with the above requirement shall be achieved by means of a positive stop. Such stop shall
provide an even surface and effective bearing area for the end of the tube which shall have been cut
squarely. The bearing surface shall not, under normal loadings, distort the end of any tube with which it
is in contact.
3.2.3.2 Internal types Each spigot of an internal type (joint pin) shall extend not less than 73 mm on the
internal surface of each tube they connect with. The spigot shall be capable of being expanded within a
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

tube with it is engaged.


3.2.3.3 External types External types (sleeve couplers) shall have a length of contact not less than 73 mm
on each tube they connect, and shall provide an effective grip between the tube and the coupler. They shall
have not less than two tightening bolts, one on each half of the fitting.
The requirements of Clause 3.2.1(A) may be varied for end-to-end couplers so that bolts less than 12 mm
overall diameter may be used provided that the nuts comply with Clause 3.2.1(B). Washers are not
required where the fitting provides a good bearing surface for the nut.
3.3. ACCESSORIES
3.3.1 Baseplate A baseplate shall be a minimum area of 22 500 mm 2, a minimum length or width of
100 mm and a minimum thickness of 6 mm. Securely attached to the centre of the upper surface shall be
a shank not less than 50 mm long nor less than 16 mm diameter or equivalent cross-sectional area, which
shall be a loose fit to allow insertion of its full length inside the tube. The upper surface of the baseplate
shall provide a smooth and even bearing for the end of a scaffold tube and shall be such as not to damage
or distort the tube or itself be damaged or distorted under working load.

COPYRIGHT
AS 1576.21991 8

3.3.2 Adjustable legs Adjustable legs shall comply with the following requirements:
(a) They shall have an extension not exceeding 600 mm.
(b) When fully extended, a 150 mm length of the spindle shall remain in the tube an this engagement
shall be mechanically ensured by a permanently fixed stop. When the difference between the outside
diameter of the spindle and the inside diameter of the scaffold standard is greater than 5 mm, a
washer or spacer shall be fixed at the top of the spindle to reduce the difference in diameter to 5 mm
or less. The nut shall incorporate a spigot or socket which shall have a maximum diametrical
clearance of not more than 3 mm and a depth of not less than 3 mm (see figure 3.1).
(c) The length of the thread in the adjusting nut shall be not less than 0.875 times the nominal thread
diameter.

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 3.1 ADJUSTABLE LEG SPINDLE

3.3.3 Platform bracket A platform bracket shall be designed for the loads given in AS 1576.1 and so
that it cannot be accidentally displaced or rotate when in use. A stop not less than 38 mm high shall be
permanently fixed to the outer end of the horizontal member to prevent dislodgment of planks.
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

3.3.4 Castors Castors shall comply with the following requirements:


(a) All castors shall be clearly marked with the working load limit as assembled.
(b) The pintle of a castor shall be not less than 150 mm long. The pintle may be in the form of an
internal spigot or external socket with a diametrical clearance between internal or external diameter
of tube not exceeding 3 mm.
(c) The castor shall not fall out of the end of the scaffold tube when the assembly is lifted off the
running surface.
(d) The diameter of the wheel shall be not less than 125 mm and the eccentricity of the axle relative to
the pintle shall not exceed 65 mm.
(e) Wheels shall be either plain or fitted with resilient tyres. Tyres shall be of adequate section and
properly fixed on to the wheel centre. Pneumatic tyre wheels shall not be used.
(f) A castor shall be provided with an effective wheel brake which cannot be accidentally released.
(g) The static collapse load shall be not less than 3 times the working load limit.

COPYRIGHT
9 AS 1576.21991

3.3.5 Fork head Fork heads shall be concentric with the supporting member.
The fork shall be formed from not less than 75 mm 6 mm steel plate to give plate to give a recess not
less than 75 mm deep.
3.3.6 Putlog blade In addition to the requirements of Clause 3.2.1, the following requirements shall
apply to putlog blades:
(a) The fitting shall contain a suitable stop to prevent the end of the tube from encroaching into the blade
area.
(b) The blade section shall be constructed of minimum 75 mm long 45 mm wide 6 mm thick steel
with the stop so positioned that the blade has at least 75 mm long bearing surface. The bearing
surface may be tapered at the end to a thickness of not less than 5 mm and shall be not less than
60 mm long before tapering commences.
3.3.7 Spanner The spanner for tightening couplers shall have a handle not less than 200 mm nor more
than 250 mm long.
3.3.8 Flange clamps The thinnest section bolt, nut and pin of a flange clamp shall comply with the
requirements of Clause 3.2.1.
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

COPYRIGHT
AS 1576.21991 10

SECTION 4 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS

4.1 COUPLERS
4.1.1 General The coupler shall be capable of being reassembled onto the scaffold tube for which it has
been designed to be used, after each test.
Swivel couplers shall freely swivel after each test.
Distortion of the tube or tubes due to the test with the couplers shall not exceed the following
requirements:

Local distortion =

1.03
4.1.2 Right-angle coupler When tested in accordance with Appendix A, in each position of the coupler,
a right-angle coupler shall not slip more than 6 mm at its contact face or rotate more than 50 mm as
indicated by the pointer.
When tested in accordance with Appendix B, in each position of the coupler, the right-angle coupler shall
not distort more than 50 mm as indicated by the pointer.
4.1.3 Swivel coupler When tested in accordance with Appendix A, in each position of the coupler, a
swivel coupler shall not slip more than 6 mm at its contact face or rotate more than 100 mm as indicated
by the pointer.
When tested in accordance with Appendix B, in each position of the coupler, the swivel coupler shall not
distort more than 175 mm, as indicated by the pointer.
When tested in accordance with Appendix C, the swivel coupler shall not fail.
4.1.4 Putlog coupler When tested in accordance with Appendix C, a putlog coupler shall not have a
visible gap between the tubes, or the loaded tube slip on the coupler.
When tested in accordance with Appendix D, the putlog coupler shall not slip on the tube.
4.1.5 End-to-end coupler When tested in accordance with Appendix E, an end-to-end coupler shall not
slip on or in the tube.
4.1.6 Parallel coupler splicing test Parallel couplers used to splice tubes when tested in accordance with
Appendix F shall not slip more than 6 mm at their contact face.

4.2 ADJUSTABLE LEG When tested in accordance with Appendix G, an adjustable leg shall not fail.

4.3 ADJUSTABLE BASEPLATE When tested in accordance with Appendix G, an adjustable


baseplate shall not fail.

4.4. CASTOR When tested in accordance with Appendix H, a castor shall not fail.

4.5 PUTLOG BLADE When tested in accordance with Appendix I, a putlog blade shall not show
permanent set.

4.6 FLANGE CLAMP Flange clamps are used in pairs to connect a metal scaffold tube to tapered
flange or universal beams and shall comply with Clause 4.1.1.
When tested in accordance with Appendix J, neither flange clamp shall show any permanent set.
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

When tested in accordance with Appendix K, the clamped scaffold tube shall not slip more than 6 mm
at its contact face in relation to the flange of the beam.
When tested in accordance with Appendix L, neither flange clamp shall slip more than 6 mm at its contact
face along the flange of the beam.

COPYRIGHT
11 AS 1576.21991

APPENDIX A

SLIP TEST FOR RIGHT-ANGLE AND SWIVEL COUPLER


(Normative)

A1 SCOPE This Appendix sets out the method for determining the slip of right-angle and swivel
coupler on metal scaffold tube.

A2 PRINCIPLE The coupler is fixed to two scaffold tubes at right angles. A predetermined force is
applied to one of the tubes. The amount of slippage of the coupler on the other tube is measured, and the
permanent rotation of the loaded tube is also measured.

A3 APPARATUS The following apparatus is required:


(a) Test apparatus as shown in Figure A1.
(b) Scaffold tube for which the coupler has been designed to be used with.
(c) Torque wrench.

A4 PROCEDURE The procedure shall be as follows:


(a) Fix the coupler on new or as-new galvanised steel scaffold tube as shown in Figure A1. The
clamping bolt on the coupler shall be in the uppermost position.
(b) Tighten the coupler with a torque wrench to a torque of 54 N.m.
(c) Subject the coupler to a force of 6 kN for 1 min. The force shall be applied in the same manner as
the test force. The force is to permit the coupler to bed in. All readings shall be taken after this force
has been released.
(d) Retighten the coupler with a torque wrench to a torque of 54 N.m.
(e) Scribe a mark on the vertical tube immediately above the coupler. Read the pointer position on the
measuring rod.
(f) Apply a force of 12.5 kN for 1 min.
(g) Remove the force, scribe a new mark immediately above the coupler and measure and record the
amount of slip and the amount of rotation (from the measuring rod).
(h) Turn the coupler over so that the clamping bolt referred to in Step (a) is now the lowest position.
(i) Repeat Steps (b) to (g).
(j) Turn the coupler so that the part of the coupler which was previously attached to the horizontal tube
is now attached to the vertical tube. The coupling bolt attaching the coupler to the horizontal tube
to be in the uppermost position.
(k) Repeat Steps (b) to (g).
(l) Turn the coupler over so that the clamping bolt referred to in Step (j) is now in the lowest position.
(m) Repeat Steps (b) to (g).

A5 REPORT The report shall include the following information:


(a) Type of coupler.
(b) Manufacturers identification of coupler.
(c) Detailed and numbered drawing of the coupler.
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

(d) Detailed description, drawing or photograph of the force-transmitting apparatus.


(e) Location of testing facility.
(f) Date and time of the test.
(g) Names, positions and qualifications of personnel carrying out or supervising the test.
(h) Names, positions and qualifications of witnesses, if any, to the test
(i) Each page of report shall be signed and dated by the person responsible for the test.
(j) The test force applied to the scaffold tube.
(k) The amount of slip and vertical rotation, in millimetres, for each coupler position.
(l) Whether the coupler passed or failed the test.
(m) A reference to this test method, i.e. AS 1576.2, Appendix A.

COPYRIGHT
AS 1576.21991 12

NOTE: Coupler shown is swivel coupler.


DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE A1 SLIP TEST APPARATUS FOR RIGHT-ANGLE AND SWIVEL COUPLER


Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

COPYRIGHT
13 AS 1576.21991

APPENDIX B

DISTORTION TEST FOR RIGHT-ANGLE AND SWIVEL COUPLER


(Normative)

B1 SCOPE This Appendix sets out the method for determining the distortion of right-angle and swivel
coupler on metal scaffold tube.

B2 PRINCIPLE The coupler is fixed to two scaffold tubes at right angles. The coupler is supported at
the sides and back to prevent it moving down the tube. A predetermined force is applied to the other tube
and the distortion is measured after the force is removed.

B3 APPARATUS The following apparatus is required:


(a) Test apparatus as shown in figure B1.
(b) Scaffold tube for which the coupler has been designed to be used with.
(c) Torque wrench.

B4 TEST SPECIMEN The test specimen, i.e. right-angle, or swivel, coupler shall have been previously
tested in accordance with Appendix A.

B5 PROCEDURE The procedure is as follows:


(a) Fix the coupler on new or as-new galvanised steel scaffold tube as shown in Figure B1. The clamping
bolt on the coupler shall be in the uppermost position.
(b) Tighten the coupler by a torque wrench to a torque of 54 N.m.
(c) Subject the coupler to a force of 6.0 kN for 1 min. The force shall be applied in the same manner
as the test force. This force is to permit the coupler to bed in. All readings shall be taken after this
force has been released.
(d) Retighten the coupler with a torque wrench to a torque of 54 N.m.
(e) Apply the following force for 1 min:
(i) For a right-angle coupler . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 kN.
(ii) For a swivel coupler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 kN.
(f) Remove the force and measure and record the amount of distortion. This is measured by the pointer
on the measuring rod.
(g) Turn the coupler over so that the clamping bolt referred to in Step (a) is now in the lowest position.
(h) Repeat Steps (b) to (f).
(i) Turn the coupler so that the part of the coupler which was previously attached to the horizontal tube
is now attached to the vertical tube. The coupling bolt attaching the coupler to the horizontal tube
to be in the uppermost position.
(j) Repeat Steps (b) to (f).
(k) Turn the coupler over so that the clamping bolt referred to in Step (i) is now in the lowest position.
(l) Repeat Steps (b) to (f).

B6 REPORT The report shall include the following information:


Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

(a) Type of coupler.


(b) Manufacturers identification of coupler.
(c) Detail and numbered drawing of the coupler.
(d) Detailed description, drawing or photograph of the force-transmitting device.
(e) Location of testing facility.
(f) Date and time of the test.
(g) Names, positions and qualifications of personnel carrying out or supervising the test.
(h) Names, positions and qualifications of witnesses, if any, to the test.
(i) Each page of report shall be signed and dated by the person responsible for the test.
(j) The test force applied to the scaffold tube.
(k) The amount of vertical deflection, in millimetres, for each coupler position.
(l) Whether the coupler passed or failed the test.
(m) A reference to this test method, i.e. AS 1576.2, Appendix B.

COPYRIGHT
AS 1576.21991 14

NOTE: Coupler shown is swivel coupler.


DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE B1 DISTORTION TEST APPARATUS FOR RIGHT-ANGLE AND SWIVEL COUPLER


Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

COPYRIGHT
15 AS 1576.21991

APPENDIX C

STRENGTH TEST FOR SWIVEL AND PUTLOG COUPLER


(Normative)

C1 SCOPE This Appendix sets out the method for determining the strength of a swivel and putlog
coupler on metal scaffold tube.

C2 PRINCIPLE The coupler is fixed to two scaffold tubes at right angles. A predetermined force is
applied to one of the tubes.

C3 APPARATUS The following apparatus is required:


(a) Test apparatus as shown in Fig C1.
(b) Scaffold tube for which the coupler has been designed to be used with.
(c) Torque wrench.

C4 PROCEDURE The procedure is as follows:


(a) Fix the coupler on new or as-new galvanised steel scaffold tube as shown in Figure C1 for a swivel
coupler and Figure C2 for a putlog coupler.
(b) Tighten the coupler by a torque wrench to a torque of 54 N.m.
(c) Apply the following force for 1 min:
(i) For a swivel coupler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 kN
(ii) For a putlog coupler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.3 kN.
(d) Remove the force and record whether
(i) the swivel coupler failed; or
(ii) the putlog coupler had any visible gap between the tubes, or the loaded tube can be moved by
hand.

C5 REPORT The report shall include the following information:


(a) Type of coupler.
(b) Manufacturers identification of coupler.
(c) Detailed and numbered drawing of the coupler.
(d) Detailed description, drawing or photograph of the force-transmitting device.
(e) Location of testing facility.
(f) Date and time of the test.
(g) Names, positions and qualifications of personnel carrying out or supervising the test.
(h) Names, positions and qualifications of witnesses, if any, to the test.
(i) Each page of report shall be signed and dated by the person responsible for the test.
(j) The test force applied to the scaffold tube.
(k) Results of test as follows:
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

(i) Whether the swivel coupler failed.


(ii) Whether for the putlog coupler there is any visible gap between the tubes or if the loaded tube
can be moved by hand.
(l) Whether the coupler passed or failed the test.
(m) A reference to this test method, i.e. AS 1576.2, Appendix C.

COPYRIGHT
AS 1576.21991 16

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE C1 STRENGTH TEST APPARATUS FOR SWIVEL COUPLER

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE C2 STRENGTH TEST APPARATUS FOR PUTLOG COUPLER


Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

COPYRIGHT
17 AS 1576.21991

APPENDIX D

SLIP TEST FOR PUTLOG COUPLER


(Normative)

D1 SCOPE This Appendix sets out the method for determining the slip of a putlog coupler on metal
scaffold tube.

D2 PRINCIPLE The coupler is fixed to two scaffold tubes at right angles. A predetermined force is
applied to one of the tubes. The amount of slippage of the coupler on the tube is measured.

D3 APPARATUS The following apparatus is required:


(a) Test apparatus as shown in Figure D1.
(b) Scaffold tube for which the coupler has been designed to be used with.
(c) Torque wrench.

D4 TEST SPECIMEN The test specimen, i.e. the putlog coupler, shall have been previously tested in
accordance with Appendix C.

D5 PROCEDURE The procedure is as follows:


(a) Fix the coupler on new or as-new galvanised steel scaffold tube as shown in Figure D1.
(b) Tighten the coupler by a torque wrench to a torque of 54 N.m.
(c) Scribe a mark on the vertical tube immediately above the coupler.
(d) Apply a test force of 1.25 kN for 1 min.
(e) Remove the force, scribe a new mark immediately above the coupler and record whether the coupler
slipped on the tube, and, if so, the amount of slip in millimetres.

D6 REPORT The report shall include the following information:


(a) Type of coupler.
(b) Manufacturers identification of coupler.
(c) Detailed and numbered drawing of the coupler.
(d) Detailed description, drawing or photograph of the force-transmitting device.
(e) Location of testing facility.
(f) Date and time of the test.
(g) Names, positions and qualifications of personnel carrying out or supervising the test.
(h) Names, positions and qualifications of witnesses, if any, to the test.
(i) Each page of report shall be signed and dated by the person responsible for the test.
(j) The test force applied to the scaffold tube.
(k) Whether the putlog tube slipped in the coupler, and, if so, the amount of slip in millimetres.
(l) Whether the coupler passed or failed the test.
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

(m) A reference to this test method, i.e. AS 1576.2, Appendix D.

COPYRIGHT
AS 1576.21991 18

FIGURE D1 SLIP TEST APPARATUS FOR PUTLOG COUPLERS


Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

COPYRIGHT
19 AS 1576.21991

APPENDIX E

SLIP TEST FOR END-TO-END COUPLER


(Normative)

E1 SCOPE This Appendix sets out the method for determining the slip of an end-to-end coupler on or
in metal scaffold tubing.

E2 PRINCIPLE The coupler connects two scaffold tubes. A predetermined force is applied to the
coupler. Any slippage of the coupler on the tube is observed.

E3 APPARATUS The following apparatus is required:


(a) Test apparatus as shown in Figure E1.
(b) Scaffold tube for which the coupler has been designed to be used with.
(c) Torque wrench.

E4 PROCEDURE The procedure is as follows:


(a) Fix the coupler to be tested on new or as-new galvanised steel scaffold tube as shown in Figure E1.
(b) Tighten the coupler by a torque wrench to a torque of 54 N.m.
(c) Scribe a mark on the tube immediately above the coupler.
(d) Apply a test force of 2.3 kN for 1 min.
(e) Remove the force, scribe a new mark on the tube immediately above the coupler and record whether
the coupler slipped on or in the tube, and, if so, the amount of slip in millimetres.

E5 REPORT The report shall include the following information:


(a) Type of coupler.
(b) Manufacturers identification of coupler.
(c) Detailed and numbered drawing of the coupler.
(d) Detailed description, drawing or photograph of the force-transmitting device.
(e) Location of testing facility.
(f) Date and time of the test.
(g) Names, positions and qualifications of personnel carrying out or supervising the test.
(h) Names, positions and qualifications of witnesses, if any, to the test.
(i) Each page of report shall be signed and dated by the person responsible for the test.
(j) The test force applied to the scaffold tube.
(k) Whether the end-to-end coupler slipped on or in the tube, and, if so, the amount of slip in
millimetres.
(l) Whether the coupler passed or failed the test.
(m) A reference to this test method, i.e. AS 1576.2, Appendix E.
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

COPYRIGHT
AS 1576.21991 20

FIGURE E1 SLIP TEST APPARATUS FOR END-TO-END COUPLER


Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

COPYRIGHT
21 AS 1576.21991

APPENDIX F

SPLICING TEST FOR PARALLEL COUPLERS


(Normative)

F1 SCOPE This Appendix sets out the method for determining the slip of two parallel couplers used
to splice metal scaffold tube in a tension condition.

F2 PRINCIPLE Two parallel couplers connect two parallel scaffold tubes. A predetermined force is
applied. Any slippage of the couplers on the tubes is observed.

F3 APPARATUS The following apparatus is required:


(a) Test apparatus as shown in Figure F1.
(b) Scaffold tube for which the coupler has been designed to be used with.
(c) Torque wrench.

F4 PROCEDURE The procedure is as follows:


(a) Fix the couplers to be tested on new or as-new galvanised steel scaffold tube as shown in Figure F1.
(b) Tighten the coupler with a torque wrench to a torque of 54 N.m.
(c) Subject the coupler to a force of 6 kN for 1 min. The force shall be applied in the same manner as
the test force. The force is to permit the coupler to bed in. All readings shall be taken after this force
has been released.
(d) Re-tighten the couplers by a torque wrench to a torque of 54 N.m, and mark the coupler position on
all tubes.
(e) Scribe a mark on the tubes immediately above both couplers.
(f) Apply a test force of 12.5 kN for 1 min.
(g) Remove the force, scribe new marks on the tubes immediately above both couplers and record, in
millimetres, the amount of slip of the couplers on the tubes and any change in gap between the tubes.

F5 REPORT The report shall include the following information:


(a) Type of coupler.
(b) Manufacturers identification of coupler.
(c) Detailed and numbered drawing of the coupler.
(d) Detailed description, drawing or photograph of the force-transmitting device.
(e) Location of testing facility.
(f) Date and time of the test.
(g) Names, positions and qualifications of personnel carrying out or supervising the test.
(h) Names, positions and qualifications of witnesses, if any, to the test.
(i) Each page of report shall be signed and dated by the person responsible for the test.
(j) The test force applied to the scaffold tube.
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

(k) The amount of slip in millimetres of each coupler on each tube.


(l) Whether the couplers passed or failed the test.
(m) A reference to this test method, i.e. AS 1576.2, Appendix F.

COPYRIGHT
AS 1576.21991 22

FIGURE F1 TEST APPARATUS FOR SPLICING TEST FOR PARALLEL COUPLERS


Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

COPYRIGHT
23 AS 1576.21991

APPENDIX G

TEST FOR ADJUSTABLE LEG AND ADJUSTABLE BASEPLATE


(Normative)

G1 SCOPE This Appendix sets out the method for determining the strength of an adjustable leg and
an adjustable baseplate. An adjustable leg is converted to an adjustable baseplate for testing purposes to
gauge the effect of an eccentric load on the leg.

G2 PRINCIPLE The adjustable leg or baseplate has one end fitted inside a scaffold tube with the
maximum extension of thread shank projecting. A predetermined force is applied to the assembly. The
strength of the adjustable leg or baseplate is measured as a function of the movability of the adjusting nut
and straightness of the shank after the load is removed.

G3 APPARATUS The following apparatus is required:


(a) A device capable of applying a compressive load between two platens as shown in Figure G1.
(b) A 300 mm minimum length of scaffold tube with ends square to tube axis.
(c) A steel plate tapered to a slope of 1 in 10.

G4 PROCEDURE The procedure is as follows:


(a) Set the adjusting nut of the adjustable leg or baseplate to the maximum working extension of the
shank. Check the straightness of the shank in three positions 45 degrees apart and record any
deviation.
(b) Fit the tube over the adjustable leg or baseplate and place the assembly on the tapered plate between
the testing machine platens.
(c) Measure and record the distance between the underside of the adjusting nut and lower machine
platen.
(d) Apply a force of 60 kN for a period of 15 min.
(e) Remove the force, measure and record the distance between the underside of the adjusting nut and
lower machine platen.
(f) Measure and record the straightness of the shank in the same positions as before the test.
(g) Determine and record the ease with which the adjusting nut can be turned by hand for the full depth
of the nut upwards and downwards from the test position.

G5 REPORT The report shall include the following information:


(a) Manufacturers identification of adjustable leg or baseplate.
(b) Detailed and numbered drawing of the adjustable leg or baseplate.
(c) A detailed description, drawing or photograph of the force-transmitting apparatus.
(d) Location of testing facility.
(e) Date and time of the test.
(f) Names, positions and qualifications of personnel carrying out or supervising the test.
(g) Names, positions and qualifications of witnesses, if any, to the test.
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

(h) Each page of report shall be signed and dated by the person responsible for the test.
(i) The test force applied to the scaffold tube/adjustable leg or baseplate assembly.
(j) The vertical deflection of the adjusting nut, the change in straightness of the shank, and the ease with
which the adjusting nut can be turned by hand for the full depth of the nut upwards and downwards
from the test position.
(k) A statement whether the adjustable leg or baseplate has failed or not failed. Failure is determined by
(i) the change in straightness of the shank if it exceeds 2 mm; or
(ii) the inability to turn by hand the adjusting nut for the full depth of the nut upwards and
downwards from the test position.
(l) A reference to this test method, i.e. AS 1576.2, Appendix G.

COPYRIGHT
AS 1576.21991 24
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

NOTE: Adjustable bases to be tested with their normal baseplate.

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE G1 TEST APPARATUS FOR ADJUSTABLE LEG OR BASEPLATE

COPYRIGHT
25 AS 1576.21991

APPENDIX H

TEST FOR CASTOR


(Normative)

H1 SCOPE This Appendix sets out the method for determining the strength of a castor.

H2 PRINCIPLE A predetermined force is applied to the castor and the permanent set, if any, is
measured and reported.

H3 APPARATUS A device capable of applying a compressive load between two platens and retaining
the castor during loading.

H4 PROCEDURE The procedure is as follows:


(a) Fit the castor between the testing machine platens and apply the brake.
(b) Apply for a period of 15 min a force of 1 1/2 times the rated load during which time the castor shall
not develop a permanent set. Following this, for a period of 15 min, apply a force of 3 times the
rated load during which time the castor shall not collapse.
c) Remove the force and measure and record any permanent set.

H5 REPORT The report shall include the following information:


(a) Manufacturers identification of castor.
(b) Detailed and numbered drawing of the castor.
(c) A detailed description, drawing or photograph of the force-transmitting apparatus.
(d) Location of testing facility.
(e) Date and time of the test.
(f) Names, positions and qualifications of personnel carrying out or supervising the test.
(g) Names, positions and qualifications of witnesses, if any, to the test.
h) Each page of report shall be signed and dated by the person responsible for the test.
i) The test force applied to the castor.
(j) The amount of permanent set.
(k) Where the castor passed or failed the test.
(l) A reference to this test method, i.e. AS 1576.2, Appendix H.
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

COPYRIGHT
AS 1576.21991 26

APPENDIX I

TEST FOR PUTLOG BLADE


(Normative)

I1 SCOPE This Appendix sets out the method for determining the strength of a putlog blade.

I2 PRINCIPLE The putlog blade is attached to a putlog tube. A predetermined force is applied to the
tube adjacent to the fitting. The permanent set, if any, is measured and reported.

I3 APPARATUS The following apparatus is required:


(a) Support arrangement as shown in Figure I1.
(b) Scaffold tube for which the putlog blade has been designed to be used with.
(c) Torque wrench.

I4 PROCEDURE The procedure is as follows:


(a) Fix the putlog blade on new or as-new galvanized steel scaffold tube as shown in Figure I1.
(b) Tighten the bolt on the putlog blade with a torque wrench to a torque of 54 N.m.
(c) Support the tube and putlog blade as shown in Position A in Figure I1.
(d) Apply to the tube, as close as practicable to the connection of the putlog blade, a force of 4.5 kN for
1 min.
(e) Remove the force and measure and record any permanent set.
(f) If there is no permanent set support the tube and putlog blade as shown in Position B in Figure I1.
(g) Repeat Steps (d) and (e).

I5 REPORT The report shall include the following information:


(a) Manufacturers identification of putlog blade.
(b) Detailed and numbered drawing of the putlog blade.
(c) A detailed description, drawing or photograph of the force-transmitting apparatus.
(d) Location of testing facility.
(e) Date and time of the test.
(f) Names, positions and qualifications of personnel carrying out or supervising the test.
(g) Names, positions and qualifications of witnesses, if any, to the test.
(h) Each page of report shall be signed and dated by the person responsible for the test.
(i) The test force applied to the tube.
(j) The distance of the point of application of the test force from the inboard end of the putlog blade.
(k) The amount of permanent set for Position A and for Position B.
(l) Whether the putlog blade passed or failed the test.
(m) A reference to this test method, i.e. AS 1576.2, Appendix I.
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

COPYRIGHT
27 AS 1576.21991

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE I1 TEST APPARATUS FOR PUTLOG BLADE


Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

COPYRIGHT
AS 1576.21991 28

APPENDIX J

STRENGTH TEST FOR FLANGE CLAMP


(Normative)

J1 SCOPE This Appendix sets out the method for determining the strength of a pair of rigid or swivel
flange clamps.

J2 PRINCIPLE Two flange clamps are attached to a scaffold tube and tapered flange or universal
beam. A predetermined tensile force is applied and permanent set, if any, is measured and reported.

J3 APPARATUS The following apparatus is required:


(a) A device capable of applying a tensile load as shown in Figure J1.
(b) Test apparatus as shown in Figure J1.

J4 PROCEDURE The procedure is as follows:


(a) Fix the clamp in the test apparatus as shown in Figure J1.
(b) Tighten the clamp with a torque wrench to a torque of 54 N.m.
(c) Subject the clamp to a tensile load of 30 kN for 1 min.
(d) Remove the force and record whether the clamps showed any permanent set.

J5 REPORT The report shall include the following information:


(a) Manufacturers identification of clamp.
(b) Detailed and numbered drawing of the clamp.
(c) Detailed description, drawing or photograph of the force-transmitting device.
(d) Location of testing facility.
(e) Date and time of the test.
(f) Names, positions and qualifications of personnel carrying out or supervising the test.
(g) Names, positions and qualifications of witnesses, if any, to the test.
(h) Each page of report shall be signed and dated by the person responsible for the test.
(i) The test force applied to the clamp.
(j) Whether the clamp passed or failed the test.
(k) A reference to this test method, i.e. AS 1576.2, Appendix J.
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

COPYRIGHT
29 AS 1576.21991

FIGURE J1 TEST APPARATUS FOR RIGID AND SWIVEL FLANGE CLAMP


Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

COPYRIGHT
AS 1576.21991 30

APPENDIX K

SLIP TEST THROUGH RIGID AND SWIVEL FLANGE CLAMPS


(Normative)

K1 SCOPE This Appendix sets out the method for determining the slip of a metal scaffold tube through
a pair of rigid or swivel flange clamps.

K2 PRINCIPLE Two flange clamps, rigid or swivel, attach a scaffold tube to a tapered flange or
universal beam. A predetermined axial force is applied to the tube. The amount of slippage of the tube
relative to the beam flange is measured.

K3 APPARATUS The following apparatus is required:


(a) Test apparatus as shown in Figure K1.
(b) Scaffold tube for which the flange clamps have been designed to be used with.
(c) Torque wrench.

K4 PROCEDURE The procedure is as follows:


(a) Fix a pair of clamps, rigid or swivel, to hold a new or as-new galvanised steel tube to a flange of
a steel beam. The surface of the beam shall be clean and free of mill scale, rust or paint. For swivel
clamps, the tube shall be fixed in the same orientation as for the rigid clamps.
(b) Tighten the clamp bolts with a torque wrench to a torque of 54 N.m.
(c) Apply to the tube an axial force of 6 kN for 1 min. The force is to permit the flange clamps to bed
in. All readings shall be taken after this force has been released.
(d) Retighten the flange clamps with a torque wrench to a torque of 54 N.m.
(e) Scribe a mark on the tube in line with one edge of the beam flange.
(f) Apply to the tube an axial force of 12.5 kN for 1 min.
(g) Remove the force and scribe a new mark on the tube in line with the same edge of the beam flange
as in Step (e). Measure and read the amount of slip.

K5 REPORT The report shall include the following information:


(a) Type of flange clamp.
(b) Manufacturers identification of flange clamp.
(c) Detailed and numbered drawing of the flange clamp.
(d) Detailed description, drawing or photograph of the force-transmitting apparatus.
(e) Location of testing facility.
(f) Date and time of the test.
(g) Names, positions and qualifications of personnel carrying out or supervising the test.
(h) Names, positions and qualifications of witnesses, if any, to the test.
(i) Each page of report shall be signed and dated by the person responsible for the test.
(j) The test force applied to the scaffold tube.
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

(k) The amount of slip, in millimetres, of the tube.


(l) Whether the flange clamps passed or failed the test.
(m) A reference to this test method, i.e. AS 1576.2, Appendix K.

COPYRIGHT
31 AS 1576.21991

FIGURE K1 TEST APPARATUS FOR SLIP OF TUBE THROUGH THE FLANGE CLAMPS
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

COPYRIGHT
AS 1576.21991 32

APPENDIX L

SLIP TEST OF RIGID AND SWIVEL FLANGE CLAMPS


(Normative)

L1 SCOPE This Appendix sets out the method for determining the slip of flange clamps along the
flange of the beam.

L2 PRINCIPLE Two flange clamps, rigid or swivel, attach a metal scaffold tube to a tapered flange
or universal beam. A predetermined transverse force is applied to the tube. The amount of slippage of both
flange clamps along the beam flange is measured.

L3 APPARATUS The following apparatus is required:


(a) Test apparatus as shown in Figure L1.
(b) Scaffold tube for which the flange clamps have been designed to be used with.
(c) Torque wrench.

L4 PROCEDURE The procedure is as follows:


(a) Fix a pair of clamps, rigid or swivel, to hold a new or as-new galvanised steel tube to a flange of
a steel beam. The surface of the beam shall be clean and free of mill scale, rust or paint. For swivel
clamps, the tube shall be fixed in the same orientation as for the rigid clamps.
(b) Tighten the clamp bolts with a torque wrench to a torque of 54 N.m.
(c) Apply to the tube a transverse force of 6 kN for 1 min. The force is to permit the flange clamps to
bed in. All readings shall be taken after this force has been released.
(d) Retighten the flange clamps with a torque wrench to a torque of 54 N.m.
(e) Scribe marks on the beam flange in line with the top of the flange clamps.
(f) Apply to the tube a transverse force of 12.5 kN for 1 min.
(g) Remove the force and scribe new marks on the beam flange in line with the top of the flange clamps.
Measure and record the slip of each clamp along the beam flange.

L5 REPORT The report shall include the following information:


(a) Type of flange clamp.
(b) Manufacturers identification of flange clamp.
(c) Detailed and numbered drawing of the flange clamp.
(d) Detailed description, drawing or photograph of the force-transmitting apparatus.
(e) Location of testing facility.
(f) Date and time of the test.
(g) Names, positions and qualifications of personnel carrying out or supervising the test.
(h) Names, positions and qualifications of witnesses, if any, to the test.
(i) Each page of report shall be signed and dated by the person responsible for the test.
(j) The test force applied to the scaffold tube.
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

(k) The amount of slip, in millimetres, for each flange clamp.


(l) Whether the coupler passed or failed the test.
(m) A reference to this test method, i.e. AS 1576.2, Appendix L.

COPYRIGHT
33 AS 1576.21991

FIGURE L1 TEST APPARATUS FOR SLIP OF FLANGE CLAMP ALONG A FLANGE


Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

COPYRIGHT
Accessed by Clough Engineering on 05 Sep 2001

You might also like