Structural Stability of Super Cuplok Steel Scaffolding and Formwork Systems

Structural Stability of Super Cuplok Steel Scaffolding and Formwork Systems

Abstract

Steel Super Cuplok scaffolding / formwork system is developed by Boral Company in Australia. It is based on English cuplok steel scaffolding system and made from high strength cold-formed steel circular hollow sections rather than mild steel material as previous Cuplok system. The transom (or beam) of this system are named "ledgers" and columns are normally called "Standards" or "uprights". To allow the system to be quickly erected on construction site, two special connection joints of "cuplok" and "spigot" is induced as beam to column and column to column connections. The cuplok joints are located between ledgers and standards. The spigot joints are inserted within the standards. However, the both joints may have a lack to fit, which is caused the stiffness and looseness of the joints vary with site conditions, which have significant effects to respect structural analysis of the scaffolding systems.

This seminar is concerned about in-plane behaviours of the scaffolding system with only super cuplok joints to be presented. The structural modelling and analysis of the system will be performed. The influences of connection joints, such as Ledger to standard (cuplok), adjustable jack to standard, and jack to support (base-plate) are indicated. Two methods of structural analysis are performed. One is according to Section 4 of AS 4100 and computer program PRFSA is used for elastic buckling analysis. The other is call advanced structural analysis, which is according to Appendices D of AS4100, and computer program NIFA is applied herein. After structural analysis is done, the load capacities can be carried out to compare with experimental results, which are obtained from prototype test to be performed in structural workship of The University of Sydney previously.

Conclusions are given regarding the modelling of the super cuplok scaffolding system and the effects of structural joints on the stability and strength of scaffolding systems. Also some important clues are provided as a guideline for further studies.