How to calculate SWL of Scaffolding - Genuine SWL Formula

How to Calculate SWL - Safe Working Load of Scaffolding

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Introduction:

Calculating Scaffolding SWL is a very complex process, there are lots of SWL formula for scaffolding is available on google based on different engineering formula, here we will know how to calculate safe working load of a scaffolding by a genuine formula of scaffolding SWL.

The Safe Working Load (SWL) of scaffolding depends on various factors, such as strength of material, design & purpose of scaffolding.

Safety Factors for Scaffolding SWL:

Safety factors also called safety margin is a value multiplied in safety formulas to ensure more safety then usual value, in scaffolding SWL formula safety factor can be consider between 2-4.

How to calculate scaffolding SWL:

Scaffolding SWL Formula -

SWL= material strength × cross- section area × safety factors.

Let's Break all terms in this SWL formula:

SWL - Safe Working Load.

Material Strength - Strength of material depends on the material by which scaffolding components are manufactured.

Cross-section - Cross section is the circular length of scaffolding tube.
Safety factor - here we will consider safety factor 4.

Scaffolding SWL calculation example:

Strength of scaffolding tube - 50 MPa (Mega pascal).

Cross - Section of Scaffolding tube - 500 mm^2 (Millimeter per square).

Safety Factor - 4.

SWL= 50 MPa × 500 mm^2 × 4 
         = 100,000 N (Newtons).

SWL in Kg = 100,000 N × 0.10197 (kg)
                    = 10,197

SWL in Ton = 10,197 / 1000
                      = 10.197 MT (Metric Ton).

Conclusion:

Scaffolding SWL calculation need a complex SWL formula, only an authorized & certified engineer by considering all factors related to scaffolding, here we have discussed a general formula how to calculate SWL of scaffolding.