Top Uses of Aluminium Flag Poles

Modern aluminium flag poles can now be found all over the world, where they are used in a variety of situations, some of these are:

Government

Federal, regional and local and Government agencies all have flag poles that fly the Commonwealth flag. This includes public buildings such as libraries, memorial cemeteries, central parks and town halls.

Schools and Universities

Public schools and universities all have assembly areas where formal flag raising ceremonies can be held at such times as Anzac Day and Graduation ceremonies

Scouts and Guides

Scouts and guides, as well as many other youth organizations, use flag poles and the Australian flag for the centrepiece of many of the events and ceremonies

Private Homes

Flag poles can still be seen on or in front of buildings in some of the larger and older family homes especially those of armed service veterans and their families

Sports Clubs

Bowling clubs, Sports clubs, sports stadiums and golf courses, usually have flag poles and the Australian flag flying especially during events and competitions

Hospitals

The public and many private hospitals have an outside area reserved for contemplation and ceremonies or display the Australian flag of flag pole attached to the buildings in a prominent position

Armed Services

All the armed services of Australia including the air force and army, as well as the police services, have flag poles in prominent positions and often are the center point of parade grounds and in front of their offices.

Large and Small Corporations

Many Australia corporations proudly display the Australian on aluminium flag poles, both in Australia and in their overseas establishments in recognition of their country and its people

Flag Pole Sizes

There are several factors that are used to determine the size of the aluminium flag pole you will require. These are the size of the flag you wish to hang from your flag pole and its location.

There are no set rules governing the height of a flag pole, but most local bodies require you to obtain a permit if they are over a certain height

For an aluminium flag pole in front of a single story structure the size of flag pole should normally be three to four times the height of the structure.

The flag size you choose to use should be at least one quarter the length of the flag pole so a flag pole that measures 1800 by 900 should be hung from at least a 6 meter high aluminium flag pole

Flag Pole Terminology

A Finial is the cap or ball topper of a flag pole

The Halyard is the rope system used to raise and lower a flag

The Collar is the base ring of some types of aluminium flag poles

The beauty of aluminium flag poles is that they age gracefully and do not have the problems of rusting or splitting like timber or steel flag poles. They can be custom made to suit any application, are lightweight and easy to erect.

Aluminium flag poles are now the most common type of flag pole in Australia as they are relatively inexpensive, they do not split or corrode and require little maintenance. They can be found in all government of state properties and places where people assemble around Australia.

What are the common uses of Aluminium Planks?

Aluminium planks and scaffolding is now one of the most popular types of scaffolding used in most applications. This is because it’s relatively inexpensive, light and durable. Aluminium scaffolding and planks allow workers to reach hard to get at areas such as ceilings and rooftops, gutters for building repairs, painting and restoration work. It’s much safer and more convenient than using a stand-alone ladder.

What is a scaffold?

Scaffolds are elevated platforms designed to support workers, their tools and materials while they are working. They are usually, temporary structures that are used during construction or renovations and then removed after the job is completed.

A scaffold must be of sturdy construction with proper types of connections where the poles join to make the series of frames that combine with the aluminium planks that should be secured using heavy duty bolts and couplings. Bolts and couplings used are available in many forms depending on the size and shape of the desired framework of the scaffold.

What are Aluminium Planks?

Aluminium planks are very sturdy parts of a scaffold that form a solid, safe level platform that workers can stand on. They are designed to prevent workers and their equipment from falling and reducing the possibility of accidents.

Standard aluminium planks come in a large range of sizes, lengths and weights, they are designed to accommodate from one to three people at a time. They can also be ordered in special sizes to suit different applications. They are usually suspended or supported by strong scaffolding using the appropriate bolts and fixtures and can be adapted to almost any configuration or shape as required.

Aluminium Planks and Scaffolding have these Advantages

·         Stable and Secure

Made with reinforced joints and edges, aluminium planks are very strong and can take heavy weights when needed, they are very ridged, stable and made to resist deforming or bending under most conditions

·         Light Weight

Aluminium is much stronger than most other materials that could be used for scaffolding and planking allowing it to be easily erected as needed and then dismantled and moved around a building site as required

·         Artists

Many large art objects such as statues, paintings and murals are made using scaffolding and aluminium planks. They allow the artist to easily and freely move around to complete their creations

·         Cost Effective

Using aluminium planks is usually more viable than using steel or timber planking because of its cost. It also requires much less manpower to erect and dismantle. In fact, it usually only requires one person to set up or dismantle most alumunium scaffolding. This represents a huge saving in labour costs

·         Less Maintenance

Because aluminium does not rust or corrode if left in the weather and unlike timber does not break down, deform or crack with the effects of sunlight and moisture, aluminium is ideal for both outdoor use in extreme conditions and inside or under cover. It does not require painting or any special protective measures, unlike steel or timber

Aluminium planks are very versatile and are favored for scaffolding on building sites and for restoration work because they are very light weight for the amount of load they can carry. They also have the advantage of being non-corrosive and able to resist most weather extremes.

How Aluminium Ladder is different from Fiberglass Ladder?

There’s some debate about which is the best all round ladder, whether you use your ladder for business inside as would be done in a warehouse, are a contractor, just use it around the home or farm, it’s important to have a good quality, safe and sturdy ladder. Whether you chose an aluminium or fiberglass ladder is not always a straightforward decision, so here we discuss the differences, reason’s for and against each.

The Trademans’s Choice, an Aluminium Ladder

Often called the trademan’s choice aluminium ladder are a good all-round type of ladder. They are strong, light, easy to move, carry and set up. They are great to place on the back or rack of a van or ute and most can accommodate platforms and other accessories as required.

They are usually more affordable than fiberglass models of similar dimensions. Many people opt for them who are only occasional users as they have a long life expectancy if looked after.

Fiberglass ladders The Electrician and Labourer’s Choice

People like electricians who work around electricity and conductive metals, usually chose a fiberglass ladder because of its insulating properties as fiberglass does not conduct electrical currents so is safer around electrical wires and live power lines.

Mostly aluminium ladders are unsuitable for this type of work as they are good conductors and offer no protection in the event of an electrical short.

Building Labourer’s find favor with fiberglass ladders as they are generally stronger and can take heavier weights. This allows for them to be used with heavier accessories and for carrying heavy weights up and down safely.

Fiberglass ladders are also able to withstand higher temperatures in areas where the conditions are very hot such as smelters and blast furnaces.

Weather Resistant

Aluminium ladders are non-corrosive and able to stand most weather conditions, but fiberglass ladders are usually considered better if you intend to leave them outside in adverse weather conditions than aluminium ladders which should be stored indoors.

Things to consider about Aluminium Ladders verse Fiberglass Ladders

•          Aluminium ladders are non-corrosive so safe in salty or wet conditions
•          Fiberglass ladders tend to be better in outdoor conditions, although constant V exposure can break down their outer layers and cause discolouration
•          Aluminium ladders are generally cheaper than fiberglass ladders
•          Some types of fiberglass ladders are heavier than aluminium ladders, although this is not always the case
•          The strength of a ladder is dependent on its design and the amount of cross bracing it has as well as the size of the treads and runners that make it
•          With any ladder, it’s important that it carries the Australians Standard label that guarantees that it’s made to conform to the minimum Australian safety standards. If an aluminum or fiberglass ladder does not have this certification, then it’s unwise to buy or use it

When deciding whether to buy an aluminium ladder or fiberglass ladder, it’s wise to consider the use you will have for it. For general use, the aluminium ladder is usually considered adequate, their lightweight, easy to use, move around and store. These types of ladders come in a large range of styles and sizes to suit most applications. If you are around heat or electricity the fiberglass is a good choice.

What are the common uses of aluminium checker plate?

Aluminium checker plate usually has a distinctive raised pattern of five bars that are arranged in alternating patterns, it also comes with other patterns such as diamond patterns. It can be found in a range of thicknesses from 1.5mm up to 6mm for heavy industrial uses. 2mm is the most common thickness as this can be shaped and formed using everyday DIY tools found in home workshops.

Because of aluminium checker plate’s easy workability, machinability and the fact it’s not affected by the elements, looks attractive and is very durable, it’s a very popular material for many projects, including truck footplates, trays and beds, boat decks and floors, trailers, ambulance floors and external decking and stairways. In fact, there are hundreds of everyday uses for aluminium checker plate. It’s used in the aero industry because it’s very strong and light as well as being relatively inexpensive.

Some other uses for aluminium checker plate

Aluminium is very low maintenance and easily cleaned, the raised pattern provides an anti-slip factor to all walking surfaces, so aluminium checker plate is widely used in industrial applications. It doesn’t need to be coated or protected from inclement weather conditions and can withstand extreme cold as well as hot conditions.

Aluminium checker plate is used for loading bays, bridges, companionways and ladder treads as well as disability access ramps and areas that need protection against heavy usage such as corners and doors used by trolleys and heavy equipment.

With its easy clean properties and being nonabsorbent it’s ideal for use in hospitals, commercial kitchens and any situations that require a surface that is easy to ensure a high standard of hygiene is always maintained. Aluminium checker plate can be cleaned with mild soaps and water high pressure hoses or even steam cleaned to ensure it’s completely clean.

Aluminium checker plate is often installed in gyms and fitness center walls to safeguard against damage from heavy weight lifting and exercise equipment and even used in shopping centers to protect walls and other areas from shopping carts and heavy suitcases.

Escalators and moving walkways are often fitted with aluminium checker plate for safety and appearance with many uses being to be found in schools and public buildings.

Aluminium checker plate is a highly versatile material with a wide variety of uses, applications and options. From transport, factory, commercial, residential to schools, shops and elevators.

Architectural Uses

Architects are increasingly incorporating aluminium checker plate into the designs because of its unique properties and ability to be formed into any shape required. It’s proven to be very versatile and long wearing with a low initial cost and easy maintenance features along with structural strength and an agreeable appearance. This allows for its use in many modern buildings such as offices and schools, residential and commercial buildings including shopping malls and high rise buildings.

Aluminium checker plate is now seen in all areas of the community because of its low cost, weather resistant properties and strength. It does not need to be painted or protected as it’s naturally corrosion proof and vermin proof. Any DIY home handy people can easily work aluminium checker plate with normal tools such as hacksaws, electric drills, grinders and welders to produce professional looking work at home.

5 common uses of aluminium extrusions

Aluminium extrusions are all around us, it simplifies fabrication and assembly as it gives strength and rigidity. It’s corrosion resistant, light weight and good looking. Aluminium extrusions can be left as is, polished to a high shine, painted, colour coated or anodized.

The following are five common uses for aluminium extrusions:

1.      Architecture

Because an extruded aluminum section is both lightweight and stiff it’s ideal in situations where you need load bearing capabilities, but weight is also an important factor such as canopies and frames as well as fences, balustrades, railings, shelving, roofing and building facades. Its other advantage is exposure to the elements is not a major concern.

2.     Automotive and Marine

Aluminium extrusions are used in vehicles from, wiring and electrical components to body panels and ornamentation. It’s used to keep the weight down in trailers and SUV assemblies, engine blocks and motorbike frames as well as wheels and anywhere a light, corrosion resistant, strong material is needed. Many push bikes are also made using suitable strength aluminium extrusions especially in the frames and tyre rims.

Aluminium extrusions are often used in boats as they resist saltwater and the marine environment while being light and strong.

3.     Display Equipment

Because they are light weight and attractive aluminium extrusions are used in creating display stand and the construction of shelving. The sections can be interlocking for quick assembly and they are easier to move around than other products. Aluminium extrusions can be finished in a wide range of colours and ways to provide and attractive, but durable appearance.

4.     Framing

Extruded aluminium is an ideal material for making picture frames in and size required. It’s also used for frames to hold solar panels and glass windows in all types of windows from buses and boats to aircraft and high rise buildings, frames to hold plant in hydroponics and other agricultural applications.

5.     Industrial

Aluminium is now the number one material of choice in many industries because it’s relatively cheap and easy to work with. Aluminium extrusions can be used to fabricate almost anything; it can easily be cut, drilled, trimmed or extended, welded or riveted together.

It’s commonly used to make work benches and tables as well as for making guards around machines and fitted with clear Lexan panels that allow for safe viewing while giving protection. Conveyor belt rollers and ladders, work platforms and stairways are just a few of the areas where aluminium extrusions are commonly used.

Many aircraft are built with aluminium extrusions making up their frame as well as protective skin, the seats and floors, because it’s so light, but very strong and stable.

Once you start to consider which things around you are made using aluminium extrusions it becomes clear that it is one of the most commonly used industrial materials in the world and it would be unthinkable for the world to suddenly have to do without this extremely versatile product.

Aluminium extrusions can be found all around us, from the seats and tables in your local café, the treads on an escalator, to the frames on the windows of the tallest buildings and jet planes. It’s used in all industries as well as agriculture and fisheries, hospitals, schools and in our homes.

How To Keep Your Table Settings Tidy?

Having a nice tidy table setting can help to make a place and the meal look appealing. Simple table arrangements and elegant aluminium seating complemented with color coordinated table ware and surroundings can set the scene.

Keeping a table setting tidy is easy if you follow a few basic rules:

·        Have a nice practical centerpiece, even if just condiments, matching salt and pepper shakers and a small bouquet or a bottle of wine

·        Always set the fork on the left, the knife on the right side and a salad plate or soup bowl in the center

·        Using layers of textures and colors can create a rich pleasant tablescape

You don’t have to spend a fortune on crockery, cutlery and glass wear to make an elegant and impressive table setting, often simple is best. These ideas may help you keep your table settings tidy and inviting:

·         Glass and China

When you accessorize the right way you don’t need to worry about matching everything, contrast and variety can work for you; the mismatched theme is very popular and very budget friendly.

·        Stack your china, begin using a dinner plate, add a salad plate and then a bowl

·        Offering a small group of glasses adds a stylized look to your setting, several different sized wine glasses and a sparklingly clean water glass can be impressive.

·         Silver ware/Cutlery

Try being creative with your cutlery!  Place it neatly in a serviette or tie them together using string or a ribbon for a special original touch.

·         Table Linen

There is a huge array of stylish and affordable table linen available so it’s easy to keep a special draw filled with contrasting and interesting table linen. This is so you can easily mix and match contrasting textures and colors to give a , but unique look to your table settings.

·         Cloth Napkins

An impressive part of any table setting is cloth napkins, but if washing and ironing them is too much to consider, try using disposable banquet type paper napkins which come in an endless variety of styles and colors.

·         Place mats

These come in materials that are easily cleaned and many shapes so you can make a tidy setting with little fuss in a few seconds, you can create a tidy, but an original setting that can be complemented with aluminium seating arrangements.

·         Centerpieces

A centerpiece is a focal point of your table and it’s advisable for personal comfort to allow a minimum of 14 inches on all sides of a centerpiece to give dinners room to move.

Some interesting and acceptable centerpieces include:

•          A vase of flowers
•          A live potted plant
•         Candle holders with unscented candles
•          A bottle of fine wine
•          Crystals or interesting river rocks
•          Abstract art and homemade decorations
•          Condiments in interesting bottles

Making tidy table settings are not only a good idea for dining tables, but you can set your breakfast counter or coffee table so they become a tidy and attractive area to entice and relax visitors and family during meals.

Keeping your table settings tidy can be accomplished by choosing to adopt a simplistic approach and taking advantage of the huge variety of tablescape opportunities now available to provide textures and colours in table settings and aluminium seating that is comfortable and affordable.

5 uses of Aluminium Scaffolding

Aluminium scaffolding is now an important part of almost all construction jobs. Because it is so light, yet very strong as well as being extremely portable, many people prefer it over steel or wooden alternatives. It’s easy to erect and large framed sections can be lifted without overexertion from workers, reducing the chances of injury and the down time this usually causes.

Aluminium reacts with the elements and becomes coated with an oxide that serves to protect it from further corrosion; although it can be painted it is not necessary. Aluminium is fire resistant and can last indefinitely outside in most conditions.

Even in areas where other materials have been usually or traditionally used such as bamboo, aluminium scaffolding, because of its uniform size, simple fastening systems and ease installation is now becoming the favorite choice of most construction companies.

Uses for Aluminium scaffolding are:

1.      Construction industry

The most common use for aluminium scaffolding is in the construction industry, with many companies finding that using it is safe, effective and efficient. There are options to hire or lease it as required or it can be purchased outright, with a lot of large construction companies having their own team of Scaffolders who erect and remove scaffolding as required.

2.     Painting and restoration

Painters often erect aluminium scaffolds when needing a good solid platform to reach difficult areas. They have the advantage they are much more stable than ladders and can easily be moved as needed.

Aluminium scaffolds can be used outside or inside, they are often free standing, although they can be attached to buildings or other structures to help make them more ridged.

Sometimes aluminium scaffolds are built with wheels to make them mobile; this is especially useful when painting very high ceilings in large buildings.

When restoring buildings, aluminium scaffolds can be made to carry strong or large objects and weights as well as workers involved in the restoration project. Often they are erected complete with sun shades or a roof to shelter workers and equipment from the elements.

3.     Artistic Projects

Many artists find aluminium scaffolds are ideal for helping when creating statues and sculptures as well as a platform to use while painting murals or large signs.

4.     Performances

Many performing artists including rock bands as well as political parties, use aluminium scaffolding to create elevated stages and to hold speaker stacks as well as stage lighting. This is because it is so quick and easy to install, then take down at the end of a performance and transport to a new venue.

5.     Bridge Building

Using heavy duty aluminium scaffolding for bridge building and repair is now common as these types of jobs need to be done as quickly and safely as possible. It provides a temporary work area and can be made to span large gaps or built to almost any height safely.

Because aluminium scaffolding is so durable, it can be used underwater or places with freezing temperatures.

Aluminium Scaffolding is very versatile and can be used anywhere workers need to have a strong, safe platform to construct, repair, restore or paint anything that cannot be reached while standing on the ground. Scaffolding is much sturdier that using ladders and easy to move around and adapt as needed.