Sectional Scaffolding
Sectional scaffold is the most widely used and recognized scaffold system. The system is comprised of frames that come in various widths and heights, but the most common is 5′ wide. These frames are then held together with cross braces that again come in a variety of lengths, but the 7′ and 10′ lengths are the most common. This scaffolding system can be used to create large area platforms, rolling towers, exterior wall access, even access to church steeples.
Tube & Coupler
Tube & Coupler scaffolding system was originally designed to be used in places where the area to be scaffolded has obstructions in the way. This system can be arranged in a wide variety of sizes and shapes to fit around any obstruction. The system is comprised of lengths of tubes (4′, 6′, 8′, 10′, 13′, & 16′) that are connected together by right angle clamps known as ridged clamps. There are also swivel clamps that are used to connect diagonal bracing to prevent swaying. Tube & Coupler scaffolding has virtually been replaced by Systems Scaffolding due to the intense amount of labor required to erect and dismantle the system.
Systems Scaffolding
Systems Scaffolds are a type of scaffold that combine the versatility of Tube & Coupler scaffolding with the speed and ease of sectional scaffold. System Scaffold components resemble tube & coupler, but with special connectors that are used for joining different components together. The vertical members come in specific heights, but they all have a connection ring welded at a uniformly spaced interval. These vertical members are then connected together with horizontal members (runners & bearers) that are made in specific lengths and have fittings at each end for attachment to the rings on the vertical members. This system is very flexible in its use and has typically been used in the industrial setting.
Swing Stages
Swing Stage/Suspended Scaffolds are commonly used due to their ease of use and the ability of this type of platform to provide access to areas which otherwise would be very difficult to reach. Suspended scaffolds are platforms that are supported by hanging wire ropes. They can be hung either from one wire rope, such as a bosun chair or work cage, or from 2 wire ropes with a longer work platform between them. The platform is moved up and down by using a hoist that climbs the hanging wire ropes.