Board Retaining Coupler: Strong and Secure Solutions for Scaffolding Systems
Board retaining couplers—also known as plank clamps or toe-board clamps—are specialized scaffolding fittings that secure working platforms, planks, and toe-boards to horizontal ledgers or walers. At Avanza Steel, our board retaining couplers are precision-drop forged from high-grade mild steel, hot-dip galvanized for corrosion resistance, and rigorously tested to a 15 kN load rating. They ensure platform stability, protect edge-working personnel, and integrate seamlessly with both H-frame and Cuplock systems.
What Is a Board Retaining Coupler?
A board retaining coupler clamps onto a scaffold ledger or waler flange and provides a ledge or lip to hold MS planks, jaali walkways, or timber boards in place. Unlike generic right-angle couplers, these units feature a lower “shelf” bracket that prevents boards from sliding off under load or vibration.
Key Advantages:
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Enhanced Platform Safety: Prevents plank displacement under foot traffic and dynamic forces.
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Quick, Tool-Free Installation: Snap-on design clips to a 48.3 mm flange and locks via an integrated M12 captive nut.
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High Reuse Cycles: Hot-dip galvanized finish and precision threads endure 200+ assembly/disassembly cycles.
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Universal Compatibility: Fits standard MS planks (230–300 mm width) and Jaali walkways (300–350 mm).
Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
Material | Drop-forged MS (IS 2062 Grade A) |
Finish | Hot-dip galvanized per ASTM A153 (≥ 85 µm Zn) |
Clamp Capacity | 48.3 mm flange thickness |
Board Width Supported | 230–350 mm |
Load Rating | 15 kN static load (tested to BS EN 12811) |
Bolt/Nut | M12 captive nut, Grade 8.8 |
Weight | 550-600 |
Compliance
| IS 2750, BS EN 12811, ISO 9001:2015 |
Technical Specifications
Applications & Use Cases
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Temporary Working Platforms
Ensure planks remain in place under foot traffic and tool loads during façade works, painting, and glazing.
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Edge Protection Systems
Secure toe-boards to prevent tools or debris from falling off elevated decks, enhancing site safety.
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Industrial Maintenance Walkways
Attach mesh or perforated walkway boards in factories and refineries, providing non-slip surfaces.
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Event Scaffolds & Grandstands
Rapid-deploy platforms for seating and staging where board stability is critical under dynamic loads.
Installation & Best Practices
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Clamp Preparation
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Inspect the clamp’s jaw and shelf for deformation; confirm the captive nut spins freely.
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Attachment to Ledger
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Snap the coupler over the 48.3 mm horizontal ledger or waler flange; ensure full engagement of the upper jaw.
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Securing the Board
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Position the board on the lower shelf; hand-tighten the M12 nut until the board is firmly clamped but not crushed.
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Alignment & Spacing
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Space clamps at ≤ 1 m intervals along the plank length; add extra clamps under heavy equipment or materials.
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Inspection Before Use
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After installation, apply a lateral force of 500 N to the board; no movement should occur.
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Maintenance & Lifecycle
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Post-Use Cleaning: Brush off cement and debris; rinse with clean water and dry.
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Inspection Cycle: Every 50 uses, inspect the shelf for wear and the jaw faces for corrosion undercut.
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Thread Care: Apply light machine oil to the captive nut thread to ensure smooth operation.
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Storage: Hang clamps on dedicated racks in a covered area to prevent moisture ingress.
Avanza Steel recycles retired clamps in-house, aligning with our zero-waste manufacturing ethos.
Secure your working platforms with Avanza Steel’s reliable board retaining couplers:
👉 Download the full Product Brochure for detailed part codes, dimensional drawings, and load charts.
👉 Contact our team at avanzasteel@gmail.com or +91 33 4000 7575 to request a site-specific quote, arrange a factory tour, or schedule an on-site technical consultation.