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Tension rods are an integral component in civil engineering and whether it’s building truss bridges, suspended buildings or anything in between, high-quality tension rods are critical to the proper functioning and safety of suspended structures.

When discussing the application and use-case of tension rods, it’s best to consider them in the context of the broader tension rod system. A correctly manufactured and robust, durable tension rod is designed with respect to the broader system and takes into account the bridge structure, the load-bearing requirements and the other elements of the tension rod system.

Here at FAMOUS STEEL, we offer customised solutions for companies looking to build structures that stand the test of time. Our forged tension rods are some of the high quality available on the market, and we’re frequently the supplier of choice for classic bridge restoration all over Australia.

What are bridge tension rods?

Forged tension rods are long stainless steel or carbon steel rods that are stressed from tension or compression, or sometimes in combination, to support dynamic loads. With these rods, you can transfer large forces with a minimum quantity of material over large distances. Tension systems work with their tensile strength and must adhere to stringent quality control requirements to ensure the overall structure’s strength.

Components of tension rod systems:

Tension rod systems comprise tension rods, anchors, fork connectors, and anchor discs. The main load-bearing component in this system is the tension rod. Critical to building bridges, tension rods bear load in a unique way, allowing constructions that span a great distance without vertical supports. As such, they need to be made from the highest quality steel with stringent attention to detail.

Tension rod:

Tension rods are long steel components with a left-hand and a right-hand thread to engage with the left and right forks. You can torque the rod for engagement and adjust the length of its flattened section with the help of a wrench.

Couplers:

Couplers join tension rods to create larger structures for longer bridges. You can also adjust the length of the tension rod system with the use of a coupler. A coupler has two locking nuts.

Anchor discs:

The span of your system can be extended with anchor discs. In the case of cross bracing, you can use this as a central connection point. A single anchor disc can connect up to eight bars.

Clevis Ends:

Clevis ends, also known as fork connectors, are the connection point between the tension rod and the anchor plate. Here at GS Forgings, all our clevis ends are drop forged for strength. They’re a critical part of the overall structure’s strength, and must be as well-made as possible.

Connection plates:

The pivotal connection point in a tension rod application, connection plates are the physical anchoring point between the structure and rod system. Designed as fins to be welded to steel structures, or with T-plates for through-bolting to concrete structures.

Importance of tension rods in a structure:

Different projects demand specific requirements for tension rods and fork connectors. When selecting a tension rod, you must do so with project-specific information and specifications.

The most important properties to consider when ordering tension rods are toughness, ductility and strength. The strength in the tension rods is for obvious reasons. If tension rods and connectors are ductile, they will effectively redistribute the stress concentrations according to your requirements. A tough product will limit fractures and crack propagation, ensuring both longevity and safety.

Most tension rod failures occurring due to manufacturing short cuts, or attempted cost cutting of the construction firm resulting in less than ideal quality, or disproportional load capacity. The correctly manufactured tension rod system will have components that are designed as part of a greater whole, and to equally exact specifications far in excess of failure points. In cold climates, weaknesses and inconsistencies are magnified and as such, it’s even more important to ensure that high-level manufacturing with tight tolerances is undertaken, to ensure the safety of the overall structure.

Ensured quality with FAMOUS STEEL.

Our tension rods are manufactured to meet relevant Australian standards. We use state of the art forging technology and equipment to ensure our products are Customised tension rods that match your project.