Steel vs Aluminum Scaffolding Systems – How Do They Compare?

Proscaf Steel:

The Proscaf Steel Scaffolding System is a very popular and commonly used scaffolding system in NZ and AU. Proscaf Steel is a ringlock system and is the most efficient system scaffold on the market. Proscaf Steel has industry leading diagonal braces and therefore it can achieve more than most systems on the market. Proscaf steel can be used for a huge variety of projects from day-to-day façade scaffolding projects to heavy duty propping and cantilever scaffolding.

So, what’s the difference between Proscaf Steel and Aluminum?

Proscaf Steel and Proscaf Aluminum almost look identical and work together seamlessly. However there are a few differences and applications that Proscaf Aluminum excels in. We cover this off below.

Proscaf Aluminum:

Proscaf Aluminum is a highly versatile system and integrates seamlessly with Proscaf Steel. The main difference is the weight of the system. Proscaf Aluminum is 46% lighter than Proscaf Steel which provides many benefits.

Before we dig in, we want to address a common misconception about Proscaf Aluminum. Aluminum scaffolding is not like aluminum scaffold towers. Unlike mobile towers which are modular and are used to access one area, Proscaf Aluminum is extremely versatile and can handle large loads.

When compared to steel, aluminum has a coefficient of elasticity equal to one third. In essence, its elastic deformation under a load is three times greater than steel. This means that Proscaf Aluminum has more flex than steel systems, giving the impression that it is weaker. This is not the case because while steel has a higher rigidity, the strength to weight ratio of steel vs aluminum is 2.8:1. Proscaf Aluminum has a thicker internal wall dimension than Proscaf steel to achieve its high weight rating. The outside dimensions of the system are the same as Proscaf Steel which means it is compatible with Proscaf Steel

Ideal Applications of Proscaf Aluminum:

SCAFFOLDING FOR RESIDENTIAL HOUSING

The typical residential house scaffold only stands onsite for 4-6 weeks. The largest cost of the project to the scaffolder is labour in the erection and dismantle. Proscaf aluminium is 46% lighter than most steel systems: a scaffolder carrying 20kg of equipment means 2 x 3.07m steel ledgers or 5 x 3.07 aluminium ledgers. A recent case study proved that the installation and dismantle time on a single-story new build is reduced by 28% using Proscaf Aluminium. The time saved in transport and movement of Proscaf Aluminium has been proven to be a more economical system for scaffolding short-term projects.

SUSPENDED SCAFFOLDING

Proscaf Aluminum is designed to be able to be used for suspended/ hanging scaffold projects. Proscaf Aluminum is a 6061-T6, marine grade aluminum. The strength to weight ratio of this grade of aluminum is twice that of steel allowing scaffold contractors to build suspended platforms with a lower tare weight. The extra-strong spigots are double bolted, suiting suspended scaffolding projects. The impressive strength to weight ratio of Proscaf Aluminum makes it suited for the maintenance of structures like wharfs and bridges that have weight restrictions.

CANTILEVER SCAFFOLDING

Proscaf Aluminum is unique for its ability to cantilever using the load-bearing diagonal brace. With industry high compression and tension loads, complex projects can be achieved. Applications are for industrial and energy projects where irregular structures present challenges for standard modular equipment. The anti-corrosion and non-sparking elements of Proscaf element are also a benefit in these applications.

WEIGHT SENSITIVE JOBS

  • Proscaf aluminum is perfect for weight sensitive projects.
  • Rooftop platforms
  • Remote projects requiring lengthy cartage.
  • Projects only accessible by helicopter. Scaffold on islands etc.
  • Commercial building maintenance.
  • Silo & boiler maintenance.
  • Marine & superyacht painting work.

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