Scaffolding is becoming increasingly popular as the need for residential and commercial buildings is increasing. A strong and well-constructed scaffold can additionally support an excellent construction project. As a result of these uses, the sector is seeing significant demand.
Progress in the scaffolding sector has persisted in promoting the availability of products that are high-performing, reliable, practical, and long-lasting to meet the demands of various building operations. The scaffolding varies from supplier to supplier. The tube and clamp scaffolding suppliers inspect the intended use, and provide tube and clamp scaffolding parts accordingly.
A huge market is covered with two types of scaffolding, viz., tube and fitting scaffolding, and system scaffolding. The choice of scaffolding has an enormous impact on the project. In that light, let’s walk through the usage and difference between tube and clamp scaffolding and system scaffolding.
What are tube and fitting scaffolding?
Tube and clamp scaffolding uses scaffold tubes, boards, and clamps (fittings) to construct a sturdy structure. The scaffold tubes are fixed to one another using couples, fittings, and clamps. After the creation of the entire framework, boards can be installed to create a safe work platform for the work crew. It is a labor-intensive scaffold type.
Components of the tube and fitting system
Tube and clamp scaffolding (also known as tube and coupler scaffolding) is a versatile form of scaffold made up of steel tubes and clamps. Right angle clamps link vertical tubes to horizontal tubes. To support the scaffold, diagonal tubes are occasionally linked to it with swivel clamps.
What is system scaffolding?
System scaffolding, also known as modular scaffolding, is made up of horizontal and vertical structural components known as standards and ledgers, as well as pre-engineered couplings and supports, or transoms. It can accommodate taller vertical heights and complex designs, which are easy to assemble and dismantle.
Components of the system scaffolding
The system scaffold is made up of standards, ledgers, scaffold tubes, scaffold couplers, transoms, base plates, diagonal braces, toe boards, and decks. These components sum up to creating versatile, strong, and safe structures.
Similarities between tube and fitting scaffolding and system scaffolding
Based on their applications, the similarities are-
- Bricklayer scaffolds
Both types of scaffolds are used in bricklayer scaffolds due to the requirement for lifts. The lifts are erected progressively with the brickwork at 1.5m intervals.
In the tube and fitting scaffolding, lifts are constructed after the completion of 1.5 brickwork elements.
In system scaffolding, the moveable hop-up brackets are employed to enhance flexibility. In this case, the lifts are constructed at 2m intervals.
- Facades stepping in and out of their height
Both types of scaffolds can be employed with stepping vertical facades. It is a typical procedure to jack up to the underside and base out again on top of facades.
In the case of the limited length of standard in the lower section, the tube and fitting scaffolding provide additional flexibility with transom width.
- Stairs
Both types of scaffolds are used to build stairs.
System Scaffold stairs are easy to build and may reach considerable heights.
Tube and fitting stairs take time to build but may be customized in width and height.
- Loading towers
Both types of scaffolds are used to construct loading towers.
System Scaffold loading towers are easy to erect and may reach considerable heights.
When beams are not used, tube and fitting loading platforms can have several legs and may require a check or supplemental fittings, especially in progressive loading bay applications.
- Suspended scaffolds
Both types of scaffolds are used to construct suspended scaffolds.
Splicing standards with a variety of additional couplers are used in tube and fitting scaffolding. Custom connections that improve the stress capacity at the joints are available for bigger suspended T&F scaffolds.
System scaffolds will require fewer components and will be assembled in a quicker time for smaller, more usual height suspended scaffolds.
The difference between tube and fitting scaffolding and system scaffolding
Based on their applications, tube and clamp scaffolding and system scaffolding can be differentiated as follows.
| Application | Tube and Fittings Scaffolding | System Scaffolding |
| New Build Concrete / Steel Frame Projects that need facade access for cladding activities.
In system scaffolding, this is not possible as it will require substantial modifications in ledger bracing, additional ties, etc. |
✅ | ❌ |
| Building on the existing facade with heavy brick or stone construction.
Greater accessibility to the existing facade with deemed suitable anchors enhances productivity with the use of system scaffolding. |
❌ |
✅ |
| Plan braced scaffolds.
The tube and clamp scaffolding can be erected with higher lifts, i.e., above 2m, and maintain access to higher heights. |
✅ | ❌ |
| Clear walkway access scaffolds.
Most system scaffolds have been built to be sufficiently rigid to eliminate the need for ledger bracing in regular operation, resulting in all lifts staying clear for access. |
❌ | ✅ |
| Scaffolds that require huge modifications to suit the site.
System scaffolds may be quickly and effectively adapted because of their modular structure, as long as the initial grid is preserved. Tube and fitting scaffolding, with its larger tubes, alternatively spliced connections, and multiple hand-tightened fittings can be difficult to adapt. |
❌ |
✅ |
| Facades step in and out frequently along the entire length.
Most scaffolds must have a close ‘hugging’ fit to the facade, as they are addressed to prevent the possibility of falling objects or humans through excessive gaps. This is provided by the tube and fitting scaffold. In the case of a system scaffold, there may be some gaps and require additional handrails and toeboards. |
✅ |
❌ |
Summing Up
The choice of type of scaffold is based on the intended use. Both types of scaffolds, i.e., system and tube and clamp scaffolds are versatile and provide extensive benefits. Both are economic and help build a reliable scaffold.
Scaffolds Supply is a System and scaffolding tube and clamp supplier in the USA. Our product comprises a range of scaffolding accessories required to erect a durable structure. Our products are certified and come with a galvanizing finish or electroplating. Our planks meet OSHA grades, and other aluminum tubes and clamp scaffolding parts are of premium quality.
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