Acrow props, also known as post shores, jack posts and a host of other terms tradies call them, are a vital piece of equipment to building large structures. However, if you’re new to the Acrow prop game, you might be wondering what they are and, more specifically, what they do.
Are they the right choice for your next large scale structure? Are they load bearing? What are their size variations? All these considerations are vital to deciding on Acrow prop hire cost as well as purchase cost.
So, we’ve decided to take a closer look at Acrow props, their history, how they are used as well as their best industry practises. Our Charleston masonry team will do whatever it takes to get the job done.
The prop story
Acrow props were first used in the United Kingdom. Designed by Swiss-born William de Vigeir, they were created to replace the outdated timber props (these props had to be cut to size for each individual project).
Conversely, Acrow props were able to provide temporary support that had adjustable vertical support, could be used to support structures across most heights and were, importantly, load bearing.
All these awesome components were achieved by utilising a diverse design, which uses locking pins as well as a heavy-duty screw thread. A number of holes in the inner tubes provide a rough height to be set, and the large diameter screw thread can be adjusted to fine-tune the acrow prop’s height – it is also formed on the tube’s outside, providing it with optimal strength.
At the Acrow prop’s bottom, it contains a forged steel plate, which helps provide stability and balance. At the Acrow prop’s top, there is a larger plate, which is utilised to prop up the material that requires support.
A typical load that one Acrow prop can handle depends on the Acrow Prop’s size, but typical Acrow props can handle around 3,300-3,500 kg in weight. Smaller probs, naturally, can handle a smaller load, but they can be strengthened with lacing, for additional vertical and horizontal security.
What is an Acrow prop’s application?
Acrow props are designed for shoring up supports. Their primary application is to support vertical heavy loads and their design makes them perfect for this application. They are just about as strong as it gets when it comes to holding up vertical loads, and they are able to provide added support in smaller spaces due to their slim design.
However, Acrow props should be avoided for mitigating sideways force and horizontal loads. The top and the base of the Acrow prop are quite small, and they may struggle to handle these loads if they are unsupported and the sideways force is heavy.
The best way to reduce this risk is through lacing, otherwise known as utilising scaffolding poles to connect each individual Acrow prop. This provides added strength for both vertical and horizontal loads.
They are typically utilised as temporary supports during the alteration or repair of buildings. One good example of how Acrow props are used in construction is to provide a load-bearing, horizontal support while masonry supports are removed or repaired. The masonry is then repaired while the props are placed under each side.
Ever since their early use in the UK many years ago, Acrow props have been a standard for load-bearing capabilities in construction. They are a sturdy way to support vertical loads when providing repairs and other construction services, and are always of the best Australian standards when hired or purchased from a local provider.
