Preassembled craneable scaffolds have been successfully installed on an Australian bridge project, 2 hours south of Sydney. Local scaffolding company, BuiltRite Scaffolding, were able to utilise Proscaf Craneable Formwork Access Scaffolds, which were floated out on barges and craned into position to overcome traditional construction barriers.

The Nowra Bridge spans the Shoalhaven River, and its expansion project is a significant undertaking that will provide many benefits for the community. The new four-lane bridge will replace the old one, which is no longer adequate for the community’s needs. In addition, the upgraded intersections will make it easier for people to get around, and the additional lanes on the Princes Highway will help to reduce traffic congestion.

Gaining access to the piles for steel fixers and form workers to construct the concrete and steel piers that support the bridge structure can be a challenge. Traditionally, this would have required individual scaffold structures to be built in situ at each pier location. Not only is this time intensive to install each scaffold, but the number of components required increases, as well as the risks to crews working over water.

BuiltRite utilised Proscaf for a better solution.

Craneable Formwork Access Scaffolds

Proscaf Craneable Formwork Access Scaffolds were constructed off-site and floated out on barges to be craned into position, providing scaffolding access to the bridge piles. This avoided the traditional construction challenges of building individual scaffold structures at each pier location. Each 11-tonne system could be relocated and positioned in approximately 2 hours, rather than the installation and tear down per pier throughout construction. The solution utilised less than 25% of the material than that which would have been required if traditional scaffolds had been built to access the piers.

The preassembled structure meant that it could be easily moved and transported, making it ideal for installation in difficult or inaccessible locations with off-site erection.

Installed by BuiltRite Scaffolding, the access scaffolds saved 75% of the time that would have traditionally been needed to build scaffolds at each pier location. This sped up the client’s program and allowed them to continue with bridge construction ahead of schedule.

With preassembly occurring onshore, workers were exposed to a much lower risk factor than being built in situ on the piles near water hazards. This practice reduces the chances of an accident occurring as there is no need to work at height on the scaffolds on temporary barges or dangerous platforms.

BuiltRite were able to impress their client, noting, “They were very impressed especially as the method greatly lowered the risk to scafolders, and also sped up the scaffold part of their work program by a factor of 4”.

The solution was a positive development for BuiltRite Scaffolding as it allowed them to speed up their work program and overcome traditional construction barriers. It is also a safer option for scaffolders, as they work in a preassembled structure that is less likely to result in an accident. Finally, it is a more efficient option for the client as it reduces the time required to build scaffolds at each pier location. A win for BuiltRite, their client, and the scaffolding crews on the tools.

How are craneable scaffolds possible?

Not all scaffolding systems are created equal. Many industry professionals are familiar with traditional tube and clip scaffolding, Cuplock, or Kwikstage systems. While tube and clip has its advantages of flexibility, its disadvantages are concerning to many as they:

• Are prone to deformation with replacement parts needed regularly.
• Heavy reliance on fasteners is at risk of failing over time.
• Include coupler elements that are a type of connection reducing the bearing capacity due to the eccentric connection it forms.
• Potentially can transmit loads and internal forces to the couplers, reducing sliding resistance.

These disadvantages reduce the overall capacity and flexibility a traditional tube and clip scaffold can achieve. However, by its very nature, Proscaf has eliminated these risks and enhanced the capabilities of scaffolding structures through:

• Components with higher strength than most systems and load-bearing features exceeding weight ratings of heavy-duty and beyond.
• The high-quality, 8-slotted rosettes have a boltless connection design that allows for extensive structure creation.
• Purposeful and dedicated components that enhance scaffolding abilities like cantilevers or bridging applications.

Proscaf is an innovative scaffolding system where the fundamentals of scaffolding have been perfected. Proscaf possesses the features and benefits to deliver a superior level of performance, with critical components designed to enhance scaffolding applications. Proscaf is engineered to go beyond the usual limitations of tube and coupler systems, delivering an exceptional standard of quality without compromising safety or function – proving Proscaf as a highly capable solution for any scaffolding company.

Interested in Proscaf? Rent or Buying Options

Whether you’re in the market for new scaffold or always on the lookout for innovations in the industry – we’ve got your back.

We understand that switching to Proscaf is a big decision, so we want to work with you to find the best solution for your needs. We offer a range of options for you to try before buying or renting! Please have a chat with us to organise an inspection on an open day or talk to us about our dry hire options and flexible purchasing offerings.

And don’t for one second believe you’ll be in the dark once you choose Proscaf. Our team are here to support you in the scaffolding industry. We offer:

• A design and engineering service for challenging, unusual, or bespoke structure solutions so you can get the most out of your scaffolding.
• A complete technical data package to simplify complicated structures in the design stage or on the go.
• For a range of catalogues and brochures on use cases, see our downloads section.
• Compliance to local building codes across the world through our ISO:9001 procedures and rigorous testing regime.
• Demonstrations and hands-on training with our technical team to assist you and your crew with installation.

If you’re ready to switch systems or want to know a little bit more, then give us a call or contact us at [email protected] for an obligation-free consultation.