November 25,2024
Why Is Aluminium Scaffolding Better Than Steel?
Aluminium scaffolding has become a durable, lightweight, and versatile option in the construction industry. Whether you're deciding between steel and aluminium or looking to understand the technical details of aluminium scaffolding, this guide provides comprehensive insights into its types, grades, advantages, and more.
1. What is Aluminium Scaffolding?
Aluminium scaffolding is a metal scaffold system made from lightweight, corrosion-resistant aluminium. It is widely used in indoor and outdoor projects for access, construction, maintenance, painting, and repair. Standard aluminium scaffolding systems include Ringlock, Kwikstage, Base Frame Systems, and Aluminium Scaffold Tubes and Fittings.
2. Types of Aluminium Scaffolding
Understanding the different types of aluminium scaffolding helps you select the best option for your project:
• Mobile Aluminium Scaffolding: Equipped with braked wheels, mobile scaffolds can quickly move around job sites and are ideal for indoor and outdoor projects.
• Aluminium Scaffold Tower: Built for higher elevations, these towers consist of vertical frames, horizontal braces, and sturdy work platforms. They are commonly used in tall structures.
• Aluminium Scaffolding: Compact and foldable, these scaffolds are lightweight and easy to store. They are suitable for small-scale projects with limited space.
3. Advantages of Aluminium Scaffolding
Why aluminium scaffolding is popular. Here are some reasons:
• Lightweight: Aluminium is three times lighter than steel, making it easier to transport and assemble.
• Corrosion-Resistant: Ideal for humid and coastal areas, aluminium resists rust and withstands various weather conditions.
• Durable: With proper care, aluminium scaffolding can last 20-50 years, requiring minimal maintenance.
• Quick Assembly: Lightweight parts allow for fast and efficient assembly and disassembly, saving labour costs and time.
• Versatile: Suitable for indoor and outdoor projects and effective in small spaces or for elevated tasks.
• Eco-Friendly: Aluminium is 100% recyclable, making it a sustainable choice.
4. Disadvantages of Steel & MS Scaffolding
Steel and MS (mild steel) scaffolding have several disadvantages compared to aluminium scaffolding:
• Heavier Weight: Steel scaffolding is significantly heavier than aluminium, making it harder to transport, assemble, and disassemble. This adds to labor time and costs.
• Corrosion Prone: Steel is more susceptible to rust and corrosion, especially in outdoor and humid environments. This requires regular maintenance and reduces its durability over time.
• Reduced Portability: The weight and bulk of steel scaffolding limit its portability, making it less ideal for projects requiring frequent movement or relocation of scaffolding.
• Higher Labor Costs: The heavier nature of steel scaffolding requires more manpower and time for setup and takedown, leading to higher labour costs.
• Less Flexibility: Aluminium scaffolding is easier to modify for different heights and configurations, while steel is more rigid and difficult to adjust.
• Higher Safety Risk in Electrical Work: Steel is conductive, making it unsuitable for projects near electrical installations, whereas aluminium scaffolding can be used in a wider range of environments with appropriate insulation.
5. Aluminium vs. Steel Scaffolding: Key Differences
When comparing aluminium and steel scaffolding, consider these factors:
| Feature | Aluminium Scaffolding | Steel Scaffolding |
| Corrosion Resistance | Naturally resistant to corrosion | Requires galvanizing and paint for resistance |
| Investment Cost | Moderate investment | Lower initial investment |
| Lifespan | Long-lasting | 5-20 years, depending on conditions |
| Reusability | Highly reusable | Reusable, but maintenance-intensive |
| Efficiency | Faster setup (2 men & 6 hours) | Slower setup (4 men & 8 hours) |
| Maintenance Cost | Lower, minimal upkeep | Higher maintenance cost |
| Strength | Higher, but sufficient for most access applications | Lower, more suited for heavy-duty tasks |
| Distortion | Slightly more flexible, reducing impact risk | Less distortion under load |
| Maximum Scaffold Height | Working Height - 1.3 Meter - 28 meter (Platform Height) | Not Fixed |
| Storage Conditions | Best stored indoors in a dry environment | Requires indoor storage, ideally dry |
| Load Bearing | Load Bearing Capacity - 250 KG/platform | Not Fixed |
6. What is Maximum Height for Aluminium Scaffolding?
The maximum height varies based on the base width and scaffold type:
| Specifications | Single Width/Narrow Scaffolding | Double Width/Wide Scaffolding |
| Maximum Platform Height | 2.3m – 13m | 2.3m-29m(with extra reach) |
| Load Bearing | 250kg/platform | 250kg/platform |
| Width | 0.72m | 1.32m |
| Length | 1.8m | 1.8m |
7. Aluminium Grades for Scaffolding
| Properties | 6063 T6 | Standard Values (EN 755) |
| Density | 2.7g/cc | 2.7g/cc |
| Hardness, Brinell | 95 | ~75-95 |
| Ultimate Tensile Strength | 241 Mpa | 205-250 Mpa |
| Tensile Yield Strength | 214 MPa | 150-215 Mpa |
| Elongation at Break | 12% | 8% - 12% |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 68.9 Gpa | ~68.9 Gpa |
| Poisson’s Ratio | 0.33 | 0.33 |
| Shear Modulus | 25.8 Gpa | ~25.5 - 26 Gpa |
| Shear Strength | 152 Mpa | ~150 Mpa |
8. Load Capacity of Aluminium Scaffolding
9. How to Install Aluminium Scaffolding
10. Maintenance and Cleaning Tips for Aluminium Scaffolding
When using aluminium scaffolding, select the appropriate type and grade for your specific project needs whether mobile scaffolding for flexibility, a scaffold tower for height, or a folding scaffold for compact spaces, aluminium scaffolding offers solutions for various construction tasks.
Commonly Asked Questions:
What are The Advantages of the Aluminium Scaffold System?
What are the Applications of Aluminium Scaffolding Systems?
What is the benefits of aluminium scaffolding?
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