- Planning and Design:
- Space Assessment: Carefully measure the designated area. Consider wall height (up to 15 meters for lead climbing), width, and angle.
- Design Standards: For Europe, follow EN 12572-1, which specifies arrangement of belay points and maximum distances between them based on wall height
. In Australia, adhere to AS 2316.1, which details similar safety and structural requirements.
- Material Selection:
- Steel Grade: Opt for ASTM A36 or equivalent in Europe, which offers a balance of strength and flexibility.
- Section Choice: Select I-beams, square tubing, or channel sections based on your structural calculations. For instance, I-beams are preferable for taller walls due to their high load-bearing capacity.
- Frame Design:
- Software Use: Utilize AutoCAD or SolidWorks for designing and simulating load stresses.
- Connection Points: Design the frame with connection points for climbing panels about 8 inches apart, adhering to EN 12572-1 standards
.
- Fabrication:
- Cutting and Welding: Follow the design blueprints meticulously. Ensure all welding meets AWS standards.
- Inspection: Post-welding, conduct thorough inspections to check for structural integrity and compliance with standards.
- Surface Preparation and Painting:
- Corrosion Protection: Apply a zinc-based primer or galvanize the steel for enhanced corrosion resistance.
- Finish: Finish with a weather-resistant paint in a color that complements your gym’s aesthetic.
- Installation:
- Positioning and Anchoring: Use concrete anchors or heavy-duty bolts for securing the frame, especially for outdoor structures. The foundation must be capable of handling the load, following the guidelines of EN 12572-2
.
- Positioning and Anchoring: Use concrete anchors or heavy-duty bolts for securing the frame, especially for outdoor structures. The foundation must be capable of handling the load, following the guidelines of EN 12572-2
- Safety and Quality Checks:
- Inspections: Regularly inspect for any signs of wear or damage.
- Load Testing: Perform load tests to ensure the structure can bear the expected stress, following the EN 12572-1 standard of a minimum break load of 20.0 kN
.
- Maintenance:
- Routine Checks: Schedule routine visual inspections and functional checks every 1 to 3 months, with a main annual inspection as per EN 12572 standards
. - Repairs: Address any issues immediately to maintain structural integrity and safety.
- Routine Checks: Schedule routine visual inspections and functional checks every 1 to 3 months, with a main annual inspection as per EN 12572 standards
- Quality Assurance for Overseas Purchases:
- Vendor Research: Thoroughly research and vet potential suppliers. Look for vendors with a proven track record and positive reviews from previous clients.
- Certification Verification: Ensure the supplier has relevant certifications. For steel frames, look for certifications like ISO 9001 for quality management systems.
- Standards Compliance: Verify that the steel frame meets European EN 12572-1 and EN 12572-2 standards, or Australian AS 2316.1 standards, depending on your location
. - Material Specifications: Request detailed material specifications, including the grade of steel used, fabrication methods, and protective coatings.
- Inspection Reports: Ask for recent inspection and test reports. Consider third-party inspection services if available.
- Sample Inspection: If feasible, request a sample for personal inspection or hire a local expert to inspect it.
- Warranty and After-Sales Service: Ensure the supplier offers a warranty and reliable after-sales service. Understand the terms and conditions of the warranty.
- Shipping and Handling: Inquire about the shipping process, packaging standards, and handling procedures to prevent damage during transit.
- Customs and Import Regulations: Familiarize yourself with customs and import regulations to avoid unexpected costs or delays.
- Communication: Maintain clear and consistent communication with the supplier throughout the process, from order placement to post-installation.
- Ivy Wang
- December 28, 2023
- 4:46 am
- No Comments
Building a Steel Frame Structure for Climbing Walls
- 28/12/2023
- Ivy Wang
Ivy Wang
Hello, I'm Ivy. Co-founder of Leeta Climbing. When the business was founded, we were a factory that produced T-Nuts and stamping parts. After 10 years of development, our production line and supply chain became more and more sophisticated. Now, we can produce and supply all the metal products that you see in climbing gyms. Yes, that's right, all of them, from a small lead bolt to a large steel frame structure. This is our main battlefield. Over 80% of our customers are the same as you. They are climbing wall designers, builders, climbing gym contractors. I know the details you care about for your project. Our team is professional and easygoing. I believe you would like our products and us!
