DURA PROFILE Assembly Guide
Assembly methods used with conventional materials can also be used
with Dura Profile. The most common connections are made by using a
combination of mechanical fasteners with high quality adhesives.
In almost all cases Dura Profile can be fabricated as easily as other
materials. The selection of the appropriate method will depend on the:
- distribution of loads within the assembled structure.
- necessity to disassemble the structure at a later stage.
- construction of the Dura Profile and the environment in
which the assembled structure will be used.
I-Beam Joint
Mechanical Fasteners
Bolting
This is the most common method of jointing Dura Profile. Stainless
steel nuts and bolts are used, with washers larger than usual to reduce
local compressive stresses. It is good practice for the bolt to be a tight
fit in the hole as this substantially reduces local stresses. The minimum
edge distance for bolt-holes is 3.33 x the bolt diameter. In certain
circumstances fibreglass nuts, bolts & washers can be specified to suit
some chemical environments.
Screwed Connections
Fabricated Beam
Stainless steel self tapping screws can also be used successfully in
many applications involving mechanical connections when high-
strength fasteners are not required. Self-tapping screws may also be
used in combination with adhesives.
Riveted Connections
Stainless steel and aluminium riveting is a very effective method of
joining Dura Profile. Pop-rivets are commonly used in conjunction with
back washers to help distribute and minimise local stresses. The
assembly should be designed so that the rivets are not in tension.
Captive Inserts
Captive inserts are a fast, blind-fixing system suitable for use with all
materials. They are of particular use when there is no reverse access
and can be installed at any stage of fabrication.
Channel Joint
Adhesives
Adhesives distribute stress more evenly and are used successfully to
join Dura Profile and for sealing joints and surfaces. Exceptional bonds
can be obtained as long as the joint is designed to avoid excessive
peeling stresses, the surfaces are properly prepared and the correct
adhesive is used. Epoxies and toughened acrylics are suitable for use
with Dura Profile.
Preparation
To achieve an optimum bond, the surfaces must be degreased with a
suitable solvent. The bonding areas must be abraded until the surface
gloss is removed, then cleaned of dust and degreased again. The
Channel Joint
adhesive should be mixed and applied according to the
manufacturer’s recommendations. The bond area should be clamped
or mechanically fastened to maintain bond pressure and to ensure that
there is no movement until the adhesive has fully cured.
Tube Joint
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