View our Carbon Neutral Certification.

The Importance of Being Carbon Neutral

In the UK, businesses account for over 85% of total Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions - making corporate action the number one priority in helping stop climate change before it becomes irreversible. Which is why we engaged Carbon Neutral Britain, to measure and offset our total organisation emissions. It has never been more important for businesses to step up and take account of the environmental impact associated with their operations.

Carbon Emissions Report and Reduction Initiatives

Undertaking a Carbon Emission Report has identified the areas within the business which produce the most emissions and highlighted areas where we can implement initiatives to improve. By undertaking annual emissions reports we’ll be able to track our progress in achieving emission reductions across the business over time.

Our GHG emissions report was carried out in accordance with the International Organisation of Standardisation (ISO) 14064:1-2018 and GHG Emissions Protocol Accounting and Reporting Standards, with the report focussed on three scopes of emissions:

Scope 1 (Direct Emissions): Activities owned or controlled by the organisation that release emissions straight into the atmosphere.

Stationary and Mobile Source Emissions (equipment and quantity combusted), Company Owned and Leased Vehicles (vehicle type and distance travelled), Refrigerant Gas Losses (refrigerant type and new / disposed units) for the organisation only.

Scope 2 (Energy Indirect): Emissions being released into the atmosphere associated with the consumption of purchased electricity, heat, steam and cooling. These are indirect emissions that are a consequence of the organisation’s activities - but occur at sources that the business does not own or control.

Energy (electricity, imported heat, steam in kwh) from the office and vehicles, using the location based method.

Scope 3 (Other Indirect): Emissions that are a consequence of business activity, which occur at sources which are not owned or controlled, which are not classed as scope 2 emissions.

Home working Energy (Days), Water (consumption and waste volume), Waste (landfill, recycled and composted weight), Business Travel (type and distance), Staff Commuting (average distance and type), Hotel Stays (UK, Europe or Worldwide days), Inbound/Outbound delivery (weight/volume, type and source), Transmission and Distribution losses associated with electricity usage (kwh) and Well To Tank emissions from combustion fuels (volume combusted).

Verified Off Setting Projects

Through the Carbon Neutral Britain Climate Fund™, Fixmart Ltd has offset its total carbon emissions through internationally certified carbon offsetting projects. Certified via the Verra - Verified Carbon Standard (VCS), the Gold Standard – Voluntary Emission Reductions (VER) or the United Nations - Certified Emission Reductions (CER) programmes. The projects have also been selected based on their direct and indirect impact around the world - not just in offsetting, but also in supporting education, employment and clean water, as well as having net positive impact on the local wildlife and ecology.

Our Green Promise

We are continually exploring new ways to improve our environmental performance and believe that we can achieve more by working with our stakeholders. Therefore, we encourage our employees, customers and suppliers to join us in our commitment to environmental sustainability.

Together we can make a difference!

View our Walraven Lined Heavy Duty Pipe Clamps Brochure

Key Features of Walraven Heavy Duty Pipe Clamps

Easy to fit:

• Two-part clamps with two locking bolts (and anti-loss washer)
• Wide opening
• No sharp edges or corners

Robust manufacture and high safe working load:

• 360 degrees CO2 welded connection nut
• Solid locking and steel quality
• Performance tested

For indoor and outdoor use:

• Suitable for corrosive environments (C1–C4 in accordance with ISO 12944-2)
• Applied surface treatment to withstand a salt spray test of at least 1000 hours (max. 5% red rust) according to ISO 9227
• Part of the Walraven BIS UltraProtect® 1000 system

Key Difference Between Walraven Lined and Unlined Heavy Duty Pipe Clamps

The difference between the two types of Walraven heavy duty clamp, is the EPDM rubber lining, which directly affects vibration, noise, pipe protection, and allowable movement.

An NPS of 75 is excellent, with 79% of respondents giving us either 9 or 10 out of 10! A company’s NPS is rated between -100 and +100, with anything above 70, regarded as world class! Plus, we received some fantastic customer feedback along the way.

What is a Net Promoter Score, and How is it Calculated?

NPS measures how likely customers are to recommend a company or a service to a friend or colleague.

Customers are asked the standard NPS question, "On a scale from 0-10, How likely are you to recommend the company to a friend or colleague?" NPS responses are then classified into three groups depending on their score:

• 9 – 10: Promoters
• 7 – 8: Passives
• 0 – 6: Detractors

A company’s NPS is then calculated as the percentage of 'Promoters' minus the percentage of 'Detractors'.

Customer Feedback

It’s not all about NPS! As in addition we asked our customers what they liked about us and what we could improve…

Completed anomalously, by far the most common response to what we could improve was ‘nothing’. However, we realise that to maintain such a high score we can’t rest on our laurels and must continue to develop, in order to carry on providing such an outstanding service.

When asked what customers liked about us ‘customer service’, ‘delivery’ ‘speed of response’, ‘stock availability’, ‘reliability’, ‘communication’, ‘product range’ and ‘pricing’ all scored highly, with the ‘website’ and ‘ease of ordering’ mentioned too.

Don’t take our word for it, below are just some of the direct quotes provided by customers:

“Extremely responsive and consistently helpful throughout. Overall, the level of service has been outstanding. Their reliability, clear communication, and willingness to support have made them the best service provider we have worked with to date.”

“Good range of products in stock. Fast delivery. Free delivery.”

“Incredibly professional staff, service, trusted partner”

“Very quick and reliable service, products are always in stock and always next day delivery.”

“Very helpful and very quick with quotes. If there is a problem very quickly dealt with.”

“Honest, straightforward and reliable. With a quality of products, you can reply on.”

“Cariss and the rest of the team are amazing, their service is second to none, we use them daily and are very happy all round.”

“Great stock of items, quick deliveries and great facility to collect items after hours.”

“We value Fixmart’s competitive pricing, reliable delivery service, and strong product availability. The team is always helpful and responsive, making the ordering process straightforward and efficient. Communication is clear, and the overall service is dependable, which makes Fixmart a trusted supplier for our projects.”

“Efficient communication, quick turnaround, competitive prices.”

“Good stock availability. Helpful, friendly staff. Stock delivered when promised.”

“I have one point of contact that deals with me, Derry knows everything about our orders and when something does go wrong (we are all human) it is fixed within minutes.”

“Quick response to emails. Local to some of our engineers. Good selection of fixings & fittings.”

“Next Day delivery and 99% of the time have what you ordered.”

“Always fast and efficient service and provide us with everything we need.”

“Quick delivery, good stock of items, very helpful staff.”

“The prices and availability of stock and the help from the sale team.”

So, we’d like to take the opportunity to say a big thank you to all the customers that took part and provided such positive feedback in our NPS survey!

If you work in the MEP or HVAC sectors, and are looking for a supplier that provides a world class service, why not give us a try with your next project? Simply contact our team for a quote: 01322 274226 / sales@fixmart.co.uk or request a Credit Account.

We will be undertaking our annual stock take from the 22nd to 23rd of December, although our office will be staffed and operational during this time for any customer enquiries and to take orders for delivery in January.

However, please note Friday the 19th December will be the last opportunity to place orders for delivery or collection before the New Year. With final deliveries for this year being made on Monday 22nd December.

From Wednesday the 24th December until Monday the 5th January we are closed.

Our office and collection point will re-open at 7:00am on Monday 5th January with deliveries commencing on Tuesday 6th January. 

Please contact us on: 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk with any queries.

We look forward to trading with you in 2026 and are here to assist you until our closure for the holidays!

PS. Remember to request your 2026 calendar with your next order, simply quote 'CAL26'

Our NLG brochure provides a summary of the range and what you need to securely tether some common tools used in construction. You will need to select a method for tethering the tool and then the required lanyard to link your tool to a secure anchor point.

Download our NLG Brochure here:

Download our simple Studding Guide, with tips on how to quickly spot bad grade studding.

Tips to Spot Bad Grade Studding

To prevent installation issues, we recommend using studding with at least a 60º pitch. Although not always obvious at first glance, there are some simple ways to check if the studding you’re using makes the grade:

1. Is the thread pitch depth more pronounced?
2. Does the rod’s central core appear narrower?
3. Does the thread feel sharper?
4. Does a hex nut feel a bit loose?
5. Check the weight, does the rod feel lighter?

Good V’s Bad Grade Studding

In addition to our guide, here’s a simple summary of good v’s bad Grade Studding.

For Further Studding Queries

If you have any queries regarding which what constitutes ‘good’ or ‘bad’ grade studding’, please contact our team on 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk. Alternatively, you can check out our Studding and Accessories range here.

On our Finishes page you will find a summary and related products for many common finishes including; Pre-Galvanised (PG), Hot Dip Galvanised (HDG), Stainless Steel (SS), Zinc Magnesium (ZM), Bright Zinc Plated (BZP), Zinc and Yellow Passivated (ZYP), Self Colour Steel, Aluminium and Brass.

Pre-Galvanised (PG)

Pre-Galvanised (PG) is a common finish used for construction products and is a typical industry standard for channel sections. Pre-galvanizing is a process where the steel is coated with zinc before being cut into pieces for manufacture. This protects the main body of the steel, but the edges exposed during cutting won’t be fully treated. For example, our Pre-Galvanised channel sections are manufactured from continuously hot dip zinc coated flat steel sheets which conform to BS EN 10346:2009.

Pre-Galvanised Advantages:

• Relatively low-cost option with reasonable corrosion protection.
• Easy to work with.
• Readily available.

Pre- Galvanised Disadvantages:

• Corrosion protection not as effective as other finishes such as Hot Dip Galvanised.

Hot Dip Galvanised (HDG)

A Hot Dip Galvanised (HDG) finish should be considered for use in external applications and more demanding environments as it offers greater corrosion protection than a Pre-Galvanised finish. Hot-dip galvanizing is a process where steel is coated with a layer of zinc to prevent corrosion. This is achieved by immersing the steel in a bath of molten zinc. Hot Dip Galvanising occurs after manufacture, so achieves a thicker zinc coating than those products which are simply Pre-Galvanised. Plus, for Hot Dip Galvanised channel sections all edges and channel slots will also be zinc coated. The zinc coating reacts with the steel to form a metallurgical bond, creating a durable and protective layer.

Hot Dip Galvanised Advantages:

• Relatively low-cost option.
• Offers good degree of corrosion protection.
• Readily available.

Hot Dip Galvanised Disadvantages:

• Dull look, not as aesthetically pleasing as the other finishes.

Stainless Steel (SS)

A Stainless Steel (SS) finish offers good tensile strength and corrosion resistance, but is typically more expensive than other options. Stainless Steel can also handle low (cryogenic) and high temperatures. The most common grades of Stainless Steel are A2 (304) and A4 (316), which offer a good form of corrosion resistance making them suitable for outdoor applications. However, A4 (316) grade has a higher corrosion resistance than A2 (304) and should be chosen for; food processing, marine and chemical environments.

Stainless Steel Advantages:

• Offers high degree of strength and corrosion resistance.
• Can be used in marine and chemical environments.
• Aesthetically pleasing finish.

Stainless Steel Disadvantages:

• Higher cost option (although depending upon conditions can be a very cost effective by reducing maintenance and replacement).
• Due to strength can be harder to work with when installing.

Zinc Magnesium (ZM)

A Zinc Magnesium (ZM) finish is produced via a hot dip galvanising molten bath with a zinc-based composition, which includes Aluminium and Magnesium. Thanks to its composition a Zinc Magnesium finish provides excellent surface and cut-edge corrosion protection, even in hostile environments such as high temperatures, humidity and those prone to salt or chemical corrosion. In particular a Zinc Magnesium finish provides superior corrosion protection for electrical equipment, making it ideal for data centres. Where a hot dip galvanised steel finish is porous, a Zinc Magnesium finish is uniform and impermeable. A Zinc Magnesium finish also has a self-repairing property that causes a protective film to form around surface edges, weld seams and scratches.

Zinc Magnesium Advantages:

• Offers excellent corrosion resistance.
• Can be used in marine, electrical and chemical environments.
• Aesthetically pleasing finish.

Zinc Magnesium Disadvantages:

• Supply – currently not as freely available as other finishes such as Hot Dip Galvanised.

Bright Zinc Plated (BZP)

Bright Zinc Plated (BZP) is a common finish often used to provide a protective, corrosion resistant coating to steel. Especially steel which is used in the production of fixings and fasteners. Bright Zinc Plating is achieved via a process of electrodepositing Zinc onto steel components. As well as providing corrosion protection to the base steel, a Bright Zinc Plated finish generally looks nice and shiny too.

Bright Zinc Plated Advantages:

• Low-cost option.
• Aesthetically pleasing finish.
• Easy to work with.

Bright Zinc Plated Disadvantages:

• For indoor use, as low corrosion resistance.

Zinc and Yellow Passivated (ZYP)

A Zinc and Yellow Passivated (ZYP) finish refers’ to a zinc plating process that also includes a yellow chromate conversion coating deposited on to the steel. This offers greater corrosion protection than the standard Bright Zinc Plated process, and gives the finished steel its distinctive yellow appearance. Zinc and Yellow Passivated is an ideal choice of finish for marine, automotive or outdoor applications, with more corrosive environments.

Self Colour Steel

Self Colour Steel hasn’t been treated after it has been cast or formed. As steel is an oxidising material which will corrode over time, if the steel will be exposed to corrosive elements it’s recommended to protect the steel using a primer paint.

Aluminium

Aluminium is lighter and more malleable than steel, with a high weight to strength ratio. Aluminium is therefore often used in applications where minimising weight is important, such as car manufacture, aerospace and medical equipment. An aluminium finish is aesthetically pleasing, with high corrosion resistance, plus good thermal and electrical conductivity. Also, aluminium isn’t magnetic, making it ideal for use in sensitive applications such as electronics. Aluminium is an ideal material for fixings and fasteners.

Brass

Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, with low conductivity, non-magnetic and corrosion resistant properties. It is malleable and often sets the standard for machinability. Brass also has a low melting point which makes it relatively easy to cast. These factors make brass ideal for manufacturing fixings and other intricate parts. Unlike mild steel, brass does not become brittle at low temperatures. However, brass does tend to be more expensive than other finishes.

Contact Our Team for Further Advice on Finishes

If you’re still unsure of what fixing, fastener or channel support finish to use on your next project, contact our team via 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk.   

Alternatively click here for our Common Finishes page.

You can check out our Unistrut channel and bracketry range in our handy brochure.

Unistrut Channel and Bracketry

Unistrut is the original metal framing system, eliminating the need for welding and drilling. Easily adjustable and reuseable, Unistrut’s many components allow for an infinite number of support configurations to be created. The Unistrut system is primarily used to create support frameworks for M&E and HVAC services, including ducting, air handling units, pipework and electrical cabling.

Unistrut provides a wide range of channel solutions in different sizes, types, and finishes, along with compatible brackets and fixings that can be combined to build customised support systems. Channel support systems are a mainstay of construction, with Unistrut often setting the market standard as one of the leading brands, and just like Hoover for ‘vacuum cleaners’, the Unistrut name has become synonymous for ‘channel framing systems’.

Unistrut are also proud that their channel and bracketry is made in the UK.

Read more on the history of Unistrut here.

Contact Our Team for a Unistrut Quote

Below is just a selection of our Unistrut channel and bracketry range, contact our team for a quote or further details via 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk

You may have already come across one of the many ‘brand’ names on the market such as Atkore Defender or Arcelor Mittal Magnelis. However, essentially each brand has a similar Zinc Magnesium coating which delivers some distinct advantages over traditional Hot Dip Galvanised channel.

Key Benefits of Zinc Magnesium Channel Over Hot Dip Galvanised:

• Longer Corrosion Protection – The magnesium acts as a corrosion inhibitor for the base metal.
• Self-healing Coating – Cut edges, scratches and perforations are recovered by a protective film.
• Uniform and Impermeable – Creating a far smoother and aesthetic finish.

Our Zinc Magnesium Channel also effectively prevents the formation of Zinc Whiskers, a significant concern in data centers. These whiskers can detach, become airborne, and potentially lead to short circuits in electronic equipment.

Installing a Zinc Magnesium channel saves time and labour for both you the installer and your client.

• Installation: little or no need for galvanising paint to re-coat cut or scratched channel.
• Maintenance: reduced ongoing repairs, is a distinct advantage for the client, and is something to mention when tendering.

Download our Zinc Magnesium Channel Flyer

What is a Zinc Magnesium Finish?

Our Zinc Magnesium (ZM) finish is produced via a hot dip galvanising molten bath with a zinc-based composition, which includes 2.5% Aluminium and 3% Magnesium applying a layered coating to the base metal.

• Material Standard: BS EN 10025-2:2019 / BS 6946:1988
• Material Specification: S280GD + ZM
• Minimum Yield Strength: 280N/mm²
• Hot Dip Galvanising to: BS EN 10346:2015
• Minimum Average Coating Thickness: 25μm

When Should a Zinc Magnesium Finish be Considered?

Thanks to its composition a Zinc Magnesium finish provides excellent surface and cut-edge corrosion protection, even in outdoor and hostile environments such as extreme temperatures, humidity and those prone to salt or chemical corrosion. A Zinc Magnesium finish also has a self-repairing property that causes a protective film to form around surface edges, weld seams and scratches.

In particular a Zinc Magnesium finish provides superior corrosion protection for electrical equipment, making it an ideal choice for data centres. 

Zinc Magnesium Channel Offers Enhanced Corrosion Protection Against:

• Chemicals
• Extreme Temperatures
• Humidity
• Salt
• Weather

Making Zinc Magnesium Channel an Ideal Support Solution For:

• Data Centres
• Factories
• Offshore
• Power Distribution
• Treatment Works
• Research Facilities
• Roof Tops
• Underground

So, whether your next channel installation is Marine, Industrial, Electrical, Industrial, Chemical or Agricultural, using a Zinc Magnesium channel instead of Hot Dip Galv is likely to be your best option.

Contact us for a Zinc Magnesium Channel Quote 

We offer a range of Zinc Magnesium Channel and Bracketry options, plus other channel sizes and pre-cut lengths, available to order.

Check out our main types of product finishes here.

Contact our team on 01322 643470 / sales@fixmart.co.uk for further detail or a quote!

As a MEP and HVAC fixing specialist there have been major updates to key sections, such as increased pipe support blocks, support frames, plus updated fixings and anchors. With QR codes throughout, allowing you to quickly download the latest datasheets from our website.

With updated product information and images our focus has been on trying to make the catalogue more user friendly. The index too includes common alternative names, so you can easily find the products you need.

How to get your copy!

The quickest way to get the new catalogue is to download it here, as it can then be easily shared with your wider team. Whether your team is onsite or in the office, having access to the latest catalogue means they can quote the correct codes to help ensure the right products are ordered. 

Our account managers will also be hand delivering catalogues via their site visits and we will be sending them out with orders. To request your copy, contact our Sales Team on 01322 274226 or via sales@fixmart.co.uk

Torqx Pipe Support Blocks

The Torqx range of pipe support blocks provide trusted solutions, fulfilling the increasing needs of specifiers, contractors, and installers: 

• Torqx FSC® Hardwood Blocks
• Torqx Phenolic Blocks
• Torqx Mineral Wool Blocks
• Torqx Calcium Blocks

Supporting the weight of the pipe and their contents (compressive load) pipe support blocks are important because they:

• Isolate the pipework from the pipe support to provide thermal insulation
• Reduce heat transfer
• Reduce thermal bridging
• Provide a continuous vapour barrier on cold / chilled systems

Here we provide a comparison of Torqx FSC® Hardwood Blocks, Torqx Phenolic Blocks, Torqx Mineral Wool Blocks and Torqx Calcium Blocks to offer an insight into their key differences. Giving you a summary of their properties, advantages and disadvantages, so you can make an informed choice depending on your project requirements.

Torqx FSC® Hardwood Blocks

Certified by the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) Torqx Hardwood Blocks are made from a sustainable wood source. They have a foil facing finish to provide an integral vapour barrier.

Hardwood blocks have been used by pipe installers for many years, however with fire and insulation standards becoming increasingly important they are no longer the default option they used to be. BS 5970:2012 the code of practice for selecting thermal insulation systems for pipework, ductwork and associated equipment, advises that due to their poor insulation properties hardwood blocks should only be used when it can be proven an alternative insulation block cannot meet the load requirements. The real benefit for using hardwood blocks is still their superior compressive strength and rigidity allowing them to withstand much higher loads and pressures without deformation compared to alternatives.

Advantages:

• Low cost
• Strong with high load bearing strength
• Durable, making them easy to store and transport
• Environmentally friendly, when made from a sustainable wood source

Disadvantages:

• Substandard insulation properties
• Non-fire-resistant

Applications:

For projects where compression strength and durability are prioritised over insulation or fire resistance.

You can view our Torqx Hardwood Blocks.

Torqx Phenolic Blocks

Made from load-bearing phenolic foam they provide excellent thermal insulation, with energy saving benefits for heated or chilled systems (by restricting heat loss / gain). They can be used with Low Temperature, Hot Water (LTHW) as well as Chilled Water Systems (CHW) pipework between -50°C and 110°C. Torqx Phenolic Blocks have a half metal sleeve applied as standard for sizes 48mm diameter for added strength. Although Phenolic foam is a combustible material it holds a fire classification of BL-S1, d0, with low smoke emission. The blocks also have a foil facing finish to provide an integral vapour barrier.

Advantages:

• Industry leading thermal insulation at a competitive cost
• Space saving as a comparatively thinner material can be used to achieve the same thermal performance
• Fire Classification: BL-S1, d0 (combustible but improved resistance with low smoke emission)
• Operating Temperature Range: -50°C to 110°C making them suitable for LTHW and CHW systems in compliance with the BS EN ISO 10211: 2007
• They are a closed cell insulation, that provides high moisture resistance (minimum 90%)
• 100% CFC and HCFC free, zero Ozone depletion potential & low global warming potential

Disadvantages:

• Lower fire resistance compared to Mineral Wool Blocks
• Requires careful handling to avoid damage
• Lower compressive strength compared to Mineral Wool and Hardwood Blocks

Applications:

Ideal for energy-efficient systems (heated/chilled) where thermal insulation is critical and only moderate fire resistance is required. Widely specified and used for HVAC and process pipework.

You can view our Torqx Phenolic Blocks.

Torqx Mineral Wool Blocks

Torqx Mineral Wool Blocks are manufactured from high density non-combustible 200Kg Stone Wool. They offer good thermal insulation with a high load bearing capacity. They can be used for most temperatures in pipework from 0 – 660°C, so are suitable for LTHW, CHW, plus Hot Temperature, Hot Water (HTHW) systems. Torqx Mineral Wool Blocks are A1 rated for their reaction to fire as they cannot contribute to a fire at any stage, including a fully developed fire. However, they aren’t suitable for use in sub-zero temperatures. They have a foil facing finish to provide an integral vapour barrier.

Advantages:

• A1 Fire Rating (non-combustible), according to EN 14303:2009 (EN 13501-1)
• Suitable for high-temperature systems (up to 660°C)
• Mineral wool can be recycled, so is more environmentally friendly
• Good thermal conductivity

Disadvantages:

• More expensive than other options
• Less efficient thermal insulation compared to Phenolic Blocks
• Not suitable for sub-zero temperatures

Applications:

Best suited for high-temperature pipework where fire resistance and environmental considerations are important. Most widely specified and used for Industrial, Process and HVAC pipework.

View our Torqx Mineral Wool Blocks.

Torqx Calcium Blocks

Torqx Calcium Blocks are made from non-combustible calcium silicate which offers thermal efficiency for hot process applications (0.07W/mK). Calcium silicate pipe support blocks are widely used in industrial and commercial pipe systems due to their high compressive strength (density 265kg/m3), resistance to fire and thermal insulation properties. Suitable for LTHW, CHW and HTHW systems with a very high temperature resistance of up to 1000°C.

Advantages:

• Non-Combustible
• Impressive temperature resistance up to 1000°C
• Lightweight with superior compressive strength

Disadvantages:

• Thermal conductivity not as efficient as other options (except Harwood blocks)
• Need to be handled reasonably carefully to prevent damage

Applications:

Typically specified for high-temperature pipe systems, such as power plants, refineries, and chemical processing plants. Due to their fire-resistant properties, calcium silicate blocks are also often used in fire-rated pipe support systems.

View our Torqx Calcium Blocks.

Key Considerations for Selecting Torqx Pipe Support Blocks

Required Level of Insulation:

• Ensure your pipe insulation support block provides adequate thermal resistance to meet project specifications.
• The thickness of the insulation block can also play a role in achieving the desired thermal performance. If space is an issue, then Phenolic Blocks can achieve the same thermal performance with a thinner material.

Compressive Strength:

• Consider the load-bearing capacity of the blocks, especially for larger pipes or where high mechanical loads are expected.
• Stronger blocks may be needed for systems with high-pressure clamps or heavy pipes.

Reaction to Fire / Fire Resistance:

• For areas particularly prone to fire hazards, choose blocks that meet fire safety standards, including reaction to fire and fire resistance ratings.
• Non-combustible or fire-retardant materials may be necessary, depending on regulations and project requirements in order to stop the spread of flames, smoke, and toxic gases in the event of a fire.

Pipe Material and Contents:

• The type of pipe material and its contents (temperature, volume, and substance) can influence the insulation material and thickness needed.

Coverings and Vapour Barriers:

• Determine if the insulation blocks include outer coverings, such as foil layers, which act as additional vapour barriers and enhance thermal performance.

Insulation Thickness:

• Ensure the block's thickness maintains the required insulation level around the pipe clamp.
• Larger pipes may require increased thickness and strength.

Support and Protection Features:

• Consider whether the blocks include features like split shells to improve compressive strength and protect the insulation support from damage.
• The style of clamps used can also affect the choice of blocks.

Environmental Considerations:

• Evaluate the block's suitability for the installation environment, such as exposure to moisture, chemicals, or temperature extremes.
• Look for products that are recyclable or environmentally friendly.

Final Recommendations on Torqx Support Blocks

Each type has specific advantages, so the final choice depends on the project's specific requirements, such as operating conditions, budget, and safety standards.

1. Thermal Insulation: Phenolic Blocks are the best choice.

2. Fire Resistance: Calcium and Mineral Blocks outperform the others.

3. Strength and Durability: Hardwood Blocks excel in load-bearing but compromise on insulation.

4. Temperature Range:

• Sub-zero systems: Phenolic Blocks
• High-temperature systems: Calcium or Mineral Wool Blocks

5. Cost: Hardwood Blocks are the most economical but may not meet project specifications for insulation or fire resistance.

When specifying or choosing pipe support blocks, prioritise their suitability for the operating environment. Along with their load bearing capacity, thermal efficiency and fire resistance requirements. Additionally, choosing a product that’s sustainable, recyclable or environmentally friendly, will align with the industry's shift toward eco-conscious solutions.

By considering these factors, you can ensure the type of Torqx Pipe Insulation Block you chose will best meet your project requirements.

Contact our team on 01322 643470 / sales@fixmart.co.uk for further detail or a quote!

Pipe Block and Clamp Wizard

Note once you've chosen the pipe support block for your project - you then need to select the correct clamp to suit... Try our handy Pipe Block and Clamp Wizard to find yours:

Fixmart a CFA Approved Distributor. View our other accreditations here.

Being an Approved Distributor and Associate Member of the Construction Fixings Association demonstrates that we adhere to their high standards of Customer Service, Technical Support and Commercial Integrity.

Nominated by Fischer Fixings UK Ltd, we are a CFA Approved Distributor for their products.

We were pleased to successfully pass the audit with 0 non-conformities and the auditor commenting:

'Fixmart have continued to operate their management system that is supporting effective and efficient company operations. There is also clear evidence of governance and commitment from the company directors to ensure the management system operates to meet intended outcomes.

I would like to thank Debbie and the team at Fixmart for their preparation, assistance, and support to complete this ISO certification audit.'

We are certified and strictly adhere to ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015 and BS ISO 45001:2018 to ensure that our quality, environmental and safety management processes consistently deliver the high standards our customers expect.

ISO 9001:2015 – Quality Management Systems

ISO 9001 is the international standard that defines the requirements for a Quality Management System (QMS). At its core is the principle of continuous improvement. Having an effective QMS allows us to manage our processes and systems to achieve customer and other stakeholder requirements. By ensuring processes are controlled and performed in a consistent manner allows us to maintain the safety, reliability and quality of our products and service.

ISO 14001:2015 – Environmental Management Systems

ISO 14001 provides a framework which allows us to identify and control how our activities, products and services impact the environment. It’s the world’s foremost environmental management standard, and puts environmental management at the heart of our operations, helping us meet environmental regulations, improve efficiency and environmental performance.

ISO 45001:2018 – Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems

ISO 45001 is the globally recognised occupational health and safety standard with its focus on risk prevention, innovation and continual improvement. The standard is designed to protect our most important asset our people, ensuring we provide a safe and healthy workplace, which helps prevent work-related injury and ill-health.

Ask your account manager for your copy or download it here:

https://www.fixmart.co.uk/download/ductwork-ventilation-brochure 

The products in the brochure range from Ductwork Manufacturing, Ductwork Installation, HVAC Tapes & Protection Films, HVAC Sealants & Paints, Channel & Bracketry, Fasteners, Anchors, Supports, PPE, Drill Bits, Blades and Storage.

We specialise in providing durable, efficient, and high-quality fixings and consumables for ductwork installation and manufacture. Our products are designed to meet the rigorous demands of modern HVAC systems, ensuring ease of installation, long-lasting performance, and compliance with industry standards. Our internal fabrication team also has the capability to custom make a variety of items to order including bespoke support frames and brackets.

We don’t just offer products but outstanding service too, easing the pressure that you and the site team can experience with finding stock and receiving deliveries. You can rely on us to get the right product to the right place at the right time!

With almost 50 years industry experience, we have built relationships with many top tier ductwork and HVAC clients over that time.

Here is just a selection of our Ductwork and Ventilation products we can supply from stock:

• Ductwork Flange
• Ductwork Stiffener
• Acoustic Duct Foams
• Access Doors
• Ductwork Insulation
• Spiral Ductwork
• Flexible Ductwork
• Duct Clamps
• Fixing Bands
• Rivets
• Screws
• Anchors
• Nuts
• Washers
• Wire Rope and Locks
• Gasket Tapes
• Foil Tapes
• Duct Protection Films
• Duct Sealants
• Studding
• Channel & Bracketry
• H Frame Feet
• PPE
• Tools and Accessories
• Armorgard Ductrack and Site Boxes

Browse our products online or contact our team on 01322 643470 / sales@fixmart.co.uk for a quote!

We will be undertaking our annual stock take from the 19th to 23rd of December, although our office will be staffed and operational during this time for any customer enquiries and to take orders for delivery in January.

However, please note Wednesday the 18th December will be the last opportunity to place orders for delivery or collection before the New Year. With final deliveries for this year being made on Thursday 19th December.

From Tuesday the 24th December to Wednesday the 1st January we are closed.

Our office and collection point will re-open at 7:00am on Thursday 2nd January with deliveries commencing on Friday 3rd January. 

Please contact us on: 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk with any queries.

We look forward to trading with you in 2025 and are here to assist you until our closure for the holidays!

Simply identify the iconic London structure each month and submit your entry for your chance to win...

Submit your entry here.

The more months you answer correctly the greater your chances of winning the prize draw.

The quarterly draws will be held:

Simply quote 'CAL25' when placing your next order for a free calendar to be added to your delivery.

Call: 01322 274226 or Email: sales@fixmart.co.uk   

Terms & Conditions:

Working at height regulations, require precautions to be in place on roof-tops to minimise the risk of trips and slips. Torqx Step Over Platforms have been designed in accordance to BS 4592-0:2006+A1:2012 relating to flooring, stair treads and handrails for industrial use.

Torqx Step Over Platforms Features and Benefits:

• Flexibility – services can be spanned in either direction, unlike channel-based platforms.
• Robust – provides stability and bi-directional strength, with a safe working load of 200kg.
• Long Service Life – with excellent corrosion resistance, requiring minimal maintenance.
• Slip Resistant – the quartz grit top coating provides an excellent anti-slip walking surface.
• Non-Penetrating – the anti-slip and anti-vibration feet, effectively distribute loads.
• Meets British Standards – designed in accordance to BS 4592-0:2006+A1:2012.

Torqx Step Over Platforms are pre-assembled for easy installation. They consist of; GRP grating, your specified steel frame and plastic support feet. For heavy duty applications the 110mm plastic feet can be replaced with 250mm rubber feet. These load spreading feet allow for weight to be evenly distributed on rooftops.

Comes as Standard - 110mm Plastic Feet with a 5mm foam pad on their base, which has anti-vibration and anti-slip properties. Base size: 110mm (L) x 100mm (W) x 60mm (H).

Heavy Duty Option - 250mm Rubber Feet (331202582 x 4) with 41x21mm aluminium strut pre-inserted. Made from durable recycled rubber they offer both vibration and noise absorption. Base size: 250mm (L) x 180mm (W) x 95mm (H).

Torqx Step Over Platforms Sizes & Weight Loads:

Simply select your required platform size, and inform us if the optional Heavy Duty Rubber Feet are required.

Download our Torqx Step Over Platforms brochure for more detail, including full clearance dimensions for each platform size.

Advantages for Using Torqx Step Over Platforms

Using Torqx Step Over Platforms on rooftops offer several advantages, particularly for enhancing safety, accessibility, and maintenance efficiency.

1. Improved Safety

• Avoid Hazards: workers can easily use Torqx Step Over Platforms to navigate over obstacles like ductwork, pipes, or cables, reducing the risk of tripping or falling.
• Stability: Torqx Step over platforms provide stable, anti-slip surfaces, improving footing in environments exposed to the weather.
• Fall Prevention: When paired with safety handrails and guardrails, step over platforms minimise fall risks in elevated work areas.

2. Accessibility and Efficiency

• Easier Navigation: Torqx Step Over Platforms enable smooth passage over obstructions, avoiding the need for workers to climb or make detours, making rooftop maintenance quicker and safer.
• Organised Access Routes: Torqx Step Over Platforms provides clear pathways, reducing confusion and optimising workflow for complex rooftop environments.

3. Protecting Rooftop Infrastructure

• Prevents Damage: By guiding foot traffic over obstacles instead of around them, Torqx Step Over Platforms reduce the risk of damage to pipes, cables, and roof membranes.
• Load Distribution: Torqx Step Over Platforms distributes weight evenly, preventing localised damage or wear on sensitive rooftop areas.

4. Compliance with Safety Regulations

• Meets Standards: Torqx Step Over Platforms can help companies comply with health and safety standards such as Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations.
• Reduced Liability: Ensuring proper rooftop access decreases the risk of workplace injuries and potential for legal liabilities.

5. Durability and Reliability

• Robust Materials: Made from steel brackets and GRP grating, Torqx Step Over Platforms can withstand harsh weather conditions.
• Pre-assembled: Torqx Step Over Platforms are simple to install, and require limited maintenance.

In summary, Torqx Step Over Platforms are a practical solution for improving safety, efficiency, and the longevity of rooftop installations, making them a valuable addition to any rooftop workspace.

Contact our team with your Torqx Step Over Platform or bespoke walkway enquiries via sales@fixmart.co.uk or 01322 274226.

Example Channel Technical Data

Bespoke Frames Technical Data

Plus, for bespoke framing solutions we can provide a detailed design specification which includes loads and fixtures, demonstrating how a frame will react under resultant forces.

Importance of Having Technical Perfomace Data for Channel 

Support frames play a critical role in every building services installation, ensuring both the stability of the systems they hold and the safety of the building's occupants. Typically, the construction of building service support frames involves combining channel lengths, brackets and other components from various untested sources into one cohesive installation. However, as the industry focuses more on minimising risks and improving standards, there is a growing trend for contractors to provide a design specification for their support frames.

This shift means engineers need reliable information and load data for the components and connections they incorporate into their designs for verification against the specification. It is therefore crucial that the products used during construction match or exceed the performance of those specified. This consistency is vital for maintaining integrity and safety, ensuring the installed support frames will meet all the required performance standards.

Technical channel data is available to download from our website here.

Alternatively for bespoke support frame solutions contact our team for technical advice on 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.u

• Channel 3M & 6M
• Channel Nuts & Channel Accessories
• Bracketry
• Studding & Studding Accessories
• Hex Set Screws & Nuts
• Washers
• Anchors & Concrete Screws
• Wedge Nuts / Lindapter Fixings
• Pulsa Range
• General Fixings
• Suspension Products
• Mounts & H Frames
• Drill Bits
• Holesaws
• Saw Blades
• Sealants
• Adhesives & Paints
• Armorgard
• Site Lighting
• Access Equipment
• Fire Extinguishers
• Protective Sheets/ Films
• PPE

Download your copy here.

Summary of BS 8539

Download Our Step by Step Guide to Change a Specified Anchor.

 

The Golden Thread of information is a term used to describe accurate, trusted, complete and comprehensive records, documented in digital format throughout a project lifecycle.

Other Common Names for Anchor Tests

• Pull Tests
• Proof Tests
• Suitability Tests
• Allowable Load Tests

ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 are three important standards that address different aspects of quality management, environmental management, and occupational health and safety management respectively. Below is a summary of the ISO standards we are accredited for:

ISO 9001 is the international standard that specifies requirements for a quality management system (QMS). It is the most widely recognised quality management standard globally and provides a framework for organisations to demonstrate their ability to consistently provide products and services that meet customer and regulatory requirements. Here's why it's important:

• Customer Satisfaction: ISO 9001 helps organisations focus on customer satisfaction by ensuring that their products and services consistently meet customer needs and expectations.

• Process Improvement: It encourages organisations to adopt a process approach to quality management, leading to improved efficiency and effectiveness.

• International Recognition: Certification to ISO 9001 enhances an organisation's credibility and demonstrates its commitment to quality to customers, stakeholders, and regulators worldwide.

• Continuous Improvement: ISO 9001 emphasises the importance of continual improvement, encouraging organisations to identify and address areas for enhancement to enhance overall performance.

ISO 14001 is the international standard for environmental management systems (EMS). It provides a framework for organisations to identify and manage their environmental impacts effectively. Here's why it's important:

• Environmental Responsibility: ISO 14001 helps organisations demonstrate their commitment to environmental sustainability by identifying and managing their environmental aspects and impacts.

• Legal Compliance: Compliance with ISO 14001 ensures that organisations meet legal and regulatory requirements related to environmental management.

• Resource Efficiency: Implementing ISO 14001 can lead to resource efficiency and cost savings by reducing waste, conserving energy and water, and improving resource utilisation.

• Stakeholder Confidence: Certification to ISO 14001 enhances stakeholder confidence by demonstrating an organisation's proactive approach to environmental management and sustainability.

ISO 45001 is the international standard for occupational health and safety management systems (OHSMS). It provides a framework for organisations to proactively improve occupational health and safety performance, prevent workplace injuries and illnesses, and create safe working environments. Here's why it's important:

• Employee Welfare: ISO 45001 helps organisations prioritise employee health and safety, leading to a safer work environment and reducing the risk of work-related injuries and illnesses.

• Legal Compliance: Compliance with ISO 45001 ensures that organisations meet legal and regulatory requirements related to occupational health and safety.

• Reduced Costs: By preventing accidents and illnesses, organisations can reduce costs associated with absenteeism, medical expenses, insurance premiums, and regulatory fines.

• Reputation and Stakeholder Confidence: Certification to ISO 45001 enhances an organisation's reputation and demonstrates its commitment to the health and safety of its workforce, customers, and other stakeholders.

In summary, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 are important standards that help organisations improve their quality, environmental performance, and occupational health and safety management respectively.

Our compliance with these standards not only enhances organisational efficiency and effectiveness but also demonstrates our commitment to all stakeholders, including our customers, employees, suppliers and regulatory bodies.

Potential Extra Cost Implications If Service Isn't Considered:

Multiple Deliveries 

Not everything is in stock and you aren't notified of back orders.

Cost Implication: Potential project delays and uncertainty whilst your site team await the required materials. The additional emissions are also bad for the environment.

Time Slots Aren't Met

Delveries arrive late or aren't booked in correctly, meaning they are turned away by the site banksman.

Cost Implication: Project delays or your site team take longer to unload as they need to go off site.

Products Don't Meet Expectations

Similar but unspecified or inferior products are delivered.

Cost Implication: Project delays, or worst-case scenario the products need to be replaced after installation, as they don't meet the required standard.

Wrong Items Are Delivered

You don't get the items and / or quantities you need.

Cost Implication: Potential project delays whilst you await redelivery, which will likely be dependant on having a supplier that both cares and is close enough to provide a solution.

Choose The Quote That Offers The Best Value

Wasted time and project delays all incur extra costs, not to mention additional stress for your site team! So rather than just going with what is initially perceived to be the cheapest quote, also consider the level of service each supplier delivers too. Ensuring they:

• Hold good stocks of key lines and are close to central London, for easy next day or same day delivery.
• Provide proactive communication, notifying you of any back orders prior to delivery.
• Have their own fleet of delivery vehicles, which are FORS registerd.
• Actively measure and record their order processing and delivery accuracy.
• Can provide quality assurance through ISO certification, plus technical support and datasheets.
• If something doesn't quite to plan, they do everything they can to put it right.

By choosing a supplier that can offer both competitive prices and great customer service you'll get the best value!

Read how Fixmart delivers on all the above with unbeatable customer service in our Company Profile

Alternatively contact our friendly team on 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk for a quick quote.

Introducing the Golden Thread:

The golden thread should contain the relevant information in order to show a building is compliant with applicable building regulations during construction and any refurbishment. The information contained in the golden thread can be used to identify, manage and mitigate building safety risks in order to prevent or reduce the consequences of fire or structural collapse throughout the life cycle of a building.

• While the concept has been gaining traction in recent years, the Building Safety Act in the UK has significantly thrust the golden thread into the spotlight.
• Implementing the golden thread often involves utilising Building Information Modeling (BIM) and other digital tools to create a central repository of information that is accessible to all stakeholders.
• Standardising data formats and communication protocols is also crucial for ensuring the smooth flow of information.

Benefits of the Golden Thread:

• Enhanced Reliability: With a clear and accessible golden thread, all stakeholders (client, architects, engineers, contractors and manufacturers) have access to the same up-to-date information, reducing errors, rework, and misunderstandings.
• Improved Transparency: The golden thread promotes transparency throughout the supply chain, fostering trust and accountability among stakeholders.
• Streamlined Collaboration: By eliminating information silos and facilitating efficient communication, the golden thread allows for smoother collaboration and faster decision-making.
• Reduced Risk: Accurate and readily available information about materials, regulations, and safety protocols allows for better risk management throughout the building process.
• Improved Sustainability: The golden thread can contribute to sustainable building practices by enabling better tracking of materials and resources throughout the building lifecycle.

Considerations for Successfully Implementing the Golden Thread for Your Project:

1. Technology and Infrastructure:

• Establish a Central Repository: Choose a digital platform, like BIM, to store and manage all relevant building information throughout the lifecycle. Ensure everyone has access and permissions are managed effectively.
• Standardise Data Formats: Agree on common data formats for various elements like materials, components, and systems. This allows seamless exchange and integration of information between different software and stakeholders.
• Invest in Training: Equip all stakeholders with the necessary skills and knowledge to utilise the chosen technology and understand the importance of keeping the golden thread updated.

2. Collaboration and Communication:

• Clearly Define Roles and Responsibilities: Each stakeholder, from the client to contractors and manufactures, must understand their contribution to the golden thread and their responsibility for maintaining accurate information.
• Establish Transparent Communication Channels: Foster open communication between all parties to address any issues or discrepancies proactively. Regular meetings and collaboration platforms can be helpful.
• Promote a Culture of Information Sharing: Encourage a mindset where information is seen as a shared resource, not a competitive advantage. Emphasise the benefits of transparency and collaboration for the entire project's success.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework:

• Align with Building Regulations: Ensure your golden thread implementation complies with any relevant building safety regulations like the Building Safety Act (UK).
• Develop Contractual Agreements: Clearly define information delivery requirements and responsibilities within contracts to solidify everyone's commitment to the golden thread.
• Consider Third-Party Verification: Utilise independent audits or verification processes to ensure the accuracy and completeness of information within the golden thread.

4. Continuous Improvement:

• Monitor and Evaluate: Regularly track and assess the effectiveness of the golden thread. Identify areas for improvement and adapt your approach based on feedback and changing requirements.
• Stay Informed: Keep abreast of evolving technologies and best practices for information management in the construction industry. Adapt your golden thread implementation as needed to leverage advancements.

Focussing on these areas to create a golden thread will help build a culture of information sharing and accountability within the entire supply chain. With building projects benefiting from improved transparency and reliability.

The Golden Thread Summary

Overall, the golden thread holds immense potential for transforming the building supply chain by fostering a more collaborative and efficient approach. As technology and practices evolve, the golden thread is poised to become integral for achieving safer and more sustainable building projects.

At Fixmart we are prepared to play our part in the sharing of information throughout the supply chain to maintain the golden thread and provide guidance to contractors on where their responsibilities lie. Being in the M&E market we already have experience of following similar guidance for BS 8539 in relation to the safe selection and installation of anchors in concrete and masonry. Which the new Building Safety Act expands upon, to firm up the responsibilities for each stakeholder. If you need further advice contact sales@fixmart.co.uk.

We will be undertaking our annual stock take from the 19th to 21st of December, although our office will be staffed and operational during this time for any customer enquiries and to take orders for delivery in January.

However, please note Monday the 18th December will be the last opportunity to place orders for delivery or collection until the New Year. With final deliveries for this year being made on Tuesday 19th December.  

Our office will be closed from Friday 22nd December until Monday the 1st of January.

Our office and collection point will re-open at 7:00am on Tuesday 2nd January with deliveries commencing on Wednesday 3rd January. 

Please contact us on: 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk with any queries.

We look forward to trading with you in 2024 and are here to assist you until our closure for the holidays!

As a MEP and HVAC fixing specialist there have been major updates to key sections, such as under Anchors and Hangers with ETA Approved; Rod Hangers, Concrete Screws and Through Bolts all added. Plus, our Ductwork Products and Pipe Supports ranges have increased.

There is also now reference to our in-house manufacturing and ability to produce both Hardwood Blocks and Calcium Blocks to order, as well as fabrication of trapeze brackets, support frames, pipe skids, gang hangers, cantilever arms and other pipe supports. The Gripple Fast Trak section has also been expanded to better reflect the benefits of this pre-fabricated trapeze bracket, which offers speed, flexibility and efficient use of space.

With updated product information and images our focus has been on trying to make the catalogue even more user friendly. With that in mind we also improved the index so you can easily locate products using common alternative names.

How to get your copy!

The quickest way to get the new catalogue is to download it here, as it can then be easily shared with your wider team. Whether your team is onsite or in the office, having access to the latest catalogue means they can quote the correct codes to help ensure the right products are ordered. 

Our account managers will also be hand delivering catalogues via their site visits and we will be sending them out with orders. To request your copy, contact our Sales Team on 01322 274226 or via sales@fixmart.co.uk

LED Festoon Lighting Kit - 110v, 10 x 5W LED lamps, 22m. Ideal for lighting walkways and scaffolding. Recommended for indoor use. IP44 Rated. Only £39.99

LED Globe Light - 30W LED bulb offers 360⸰ light distribution, with power take off socket. Lightweight and portable they can be; free standing, suspended by in-built hook, or mounted on a tripod. Only £41.95

LED A-Frame Light - 110v, 20W LED light. For all site lighting applications with an ABS / polycarbonate casing, 5m cable and power take-off. Only £49.99

LED Task Light - 110v, 20W LED light with tough nylon housing, ideal for task lighting on construction sites. Includes power take-off. Only £32.95

LED Rechargeable Work Light - 10W LED work light with sleek design and 3 light levels. Lightweight and portable. Only £16.99

110v Extension Leads - 14m cable, 16Amp / 1.5mm² plug and socket with protective end cover. Only £12.99

View our site lighting and power deals flyer here.

Wedge anchors are a type of expansion anchor that are commonly used to provide a secure fixing into concrete. They provide a permanently fixed threaded socket allowing bolts and threaded rods to be easily installed achieving consistent weight load values.

Wedge anchors are a testament to installers imaginations, as they are known by a myriad of other names on site, including but not limited to; Drop-in Anchors, Toothless Anchors, Non-drill Anchors, Knock-in Anchors, Hilti Shots, Bullets, Flush Anchors, Hammer Sets, Red Eyes and Red Heads…

They are relatively easy to install, but there are a few things you must do to ensure correct installation in order to achieve the specified weight loading and prevent installation failures.

How to Install Wedge Anchors Correctly – a Step by Step Guide

1. Choose the right wedge anchor

There are a variety of types, sizes and brands of wedge anchors available, so it’s important to choose the right one for your application, ie if installing into concrete that contains rebar, the embedment depth should be taken into account with a shorter length wedge anchor chosen (ie 25mm). There are also many brands of wedge anchor available, the main thing here is to chose a brand which provides the required technical data for correct installation such as Fischer or JCP, which we stock, or an alternative well-known brand.

There are three main types of wedge anchors to be aware of:

• Standard – for use in non-cracked concrete.
• Lipped - designed with a flange to help prevent penetrating too deep into the concrete.
• ETA Approved - for use in cracked concrete.

2. Position the wedge anchor appropriately

Wedge anchors are a friction anchor with a simple but effective mechanism, as when installed correctly they will expand, effectively forming a wedge between the anchors body and the concrete. This places ‘stress’ on the concrete so you must always follow the manufacturers recommended minimum spacing between anchors and edge distance to prevent installation failure.

3. Drill the correct sized hole

The hole that is drilled for a wedge anchor must be the correct depth and diameter. The depth of the hole should be equal to the embedment depth of the anchor. The diameter of the hole should be slightly larger than the diameter of the anchor's sleeve (ie a 10mm hole for a M8 wedge anchor). Both of these measurements should be specified in the wedge anchor's technical data for installation.

It’s important to use a stop-drill recommended by the manufacturer to give you the correct depth and diameter required for the wedge anchor. Ie select a branded stop drill to match your chosen wedge anchor.

4. Clean the hole

The hole that is drilled for a wedge anchor must be cleaned thoroughly before the anchor is inserted. As any dirt or debris in the hole can prevent the anchor from expanding properly. Use a blow-out pump or vacuum extraction drill-bit for this.

5. Insert the wedge anchor

Insert the wedge anchor into the hole by hand. Once the anchor is inserted, it should be tapped lightly with a hammer to ensure that it is seated properly and that it sits flush with the substrate.

6. Expand the wedge anchor

For manual setting it’s essential to use a correct weighted hammer, plus a setting tool recommended by the manufacturer, which is the correct size for the wedge anchor to be installed. ie use a Fischer M10x30 setting tool for a Fischer M10x30 Wedge anchor. This sounds simple but isn’t always followed on site, with makeshift tools used instead.

Manufacturers setting tools are often equipped with a witness mark which will be visible if the wedge anchor has been installed correctly. Anchor testers from brands such as Fischer and JCP will only test their installed anchors if the correct branded tools have been used, so if a witness mark is missing, they may refuse to do the test.

7. Apply the correct torque 

Insert the bolt or threaded rod to be fixed into the wedge anchor and then tighten to the manufacturer’s recommended torque. Too much torque can damage the anchor, while too little torque will not secure the anchor properly. Use a calibrated torque wrench to ensure the correct torque is applied.

8. Wear PPE 

Finally, an obvious one but as well as standard site PPE, always wear protective safety glasses and gloves when fixing into concrete.

Following the above steps, will help ensure that your wedge anchors are installed correctly, providing a secure fixing to the specified weight load.

Wedge Anchors Top Tip

Key take away - it’s best practice to use the correct branded stop drill and setting tool to match your selected brand and size of wedge anchor. This helps guarantee correct installation, preventing failures or refusals from manufactures to undertake an anchor test.

In addition to holding good stocks of wedge anchors, we can also arrange anchor tests for the fixings we supply (subject to terms and conditions). So, if you have any requirements for wedge anchors, contact our team for a quick quote or technical advice on 01322 274 226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk. 

CT1 Sealant and Construction Adhesive is waterproof, UV-resistant, and can be painted over. It is also resistant to chemicals, vibration, and fungal/bacterial growth. CT1 can be used indoors and outdoors, and it is safe for use around water.

See it in action here:

Most common uses for CT1 Sealant and Construction Adhesive:

• Bonding difficult materials. CT1 is a strong adhesive that can bond a variety of difficult materials, including glass, metal, and plastic. It is a good choice for use in industrial applications, where it can be used to bond materials that would otherwise be difficult to bond.
• Filling gaps and voids. CT1 can be used to fill gaps and voids in a variety of materials, including wood, metal, concrete, and brick. It is a good choice for filling gaps around pipes, wires, ductwork and other fixtures.
• Sealing baths, showers, and other wet areas. CT1 is water-resistant and can be applied underwater, making it the perfect sealant for baths, showers, and other wet areas. It will not shrink or crack over time, and it can also be used to seal cracks and gaps in tiles and grout.
• Attaching fixtures and fittings. CT1 is a strong adhesive that can be used to attach fixtures and fittings to a variety of materials, including wood, metal, glass, and plastic. It is ideal for use in kitchens and bathrooms, where it can be used to attach taps, shower heads, and other fixtures.
• Repairing damaged materials. CT1 can be used to repair a variety of damaged materials, including wood, metal, glass, and plastic. It is a good choice for repairing cracks, holes, and other damage in windows, doors, and other fixtures.
• Weatherproofing joints and seams. CT1 is weatherproof and can be used to weatherproof joints and seams in a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and concrete. It is a good choice for use on roofs, windows, and doors.

Additional features and benefits of CT1 Sealant and Construction Adhesive:

• Non-shrinking and non-cracking: CT1 will not shrink and stays flexible, so will not crack over time, even when exposed to extreme weather conditions.
• Can be structured and painted: Once CT1 has cured, it can be structured and painted with most water-based paints.
• Works in wet and dry conditions: CT1 can be applied to wet surfaces and even underwater.
• Resistant to chemicals, vibration, and fungal/bacterial growth: CT1 is resistant to a variety of chemicals, vibration, and fungal/bacterial growth.
• Safe for use around water: CT1 is safe for use around water and is not affected by chlorine or salt water.
• Conforms to food preparation standards: ISEGA Certified.
• Solvent free: so CT1 can be used for internal as well as external applications,

Overview of CT1 Sealant and Construction Adhesive

Overall, due to its properties CT1 Sealant and Construction Adhesive can be used for a wide variety of projects across a range of industries from construction, engineering, installation, repair & maintenance, roofing, marine and environmental.

CT1 is strong, weatherproof, and can be used to bond a variety of materials. So, if you’re looking for one sealant and adhesive that can do it all, then CT1 is an excellent option! Plus, although CT1 is typically more expensive than other sealants, because it can do the job of many sealants and adhesives, you can save money in the long run, as you won’t need to buy so many different types... If stored correctly CT1 will also stay fresh in the tube for use on the next job. So, if you typically end up with lots of half used tubes of various sealants and adhesives at the end of a project then CT1 could be the ideal choice for you. Finally, it’s made in Britain too.

Looking for quick delivery of CT1 Sealant and Construction Adhesive to London, the South East or the rest of the UK? Then contact our team on 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk. Simply order by 5pm for delivery the next working day.

Ask your account manager for your copy or download it here:

https://www.fixmart.co.uk/download/ductwork-ventilation-brochure

The products in the brochure range from Ductwork Manufacturing, Ductwork Installation, HVAC Tapes & Protection Films, HVAC Sealants & Paints, Channel & Bracketry, Fasteners, Anchors, Supports, PPE, Drill Bits, Blades and Storage.

See below a carousel of just a few of the products featured in the new Ductwork & Ventilation Brochure.

Concrete screws are commonly used in the MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) sectors as they provide a strong and secure hold that can withstand heavy loads and vibration. Also, unlike expansion anchors they are easier to install and can be used to fix into cracked concrete and even close to edges.

Concrete screws are ideal for a variety of purposes and can be used for fixing into concrete walls, floors, and ceilings to:

• Suspend pipes
• Mount electrical boxes and conduit
• Hang HVAC equipment, such as air conditioning units and ductwork
• Mount brackets

By using concrete screws in MEP and HVAC applications, contractors can ensure that their installations are strong, secure, and safe. Even though concrete screws typically have a higher cost, because they are so quick and easy to install, using concrete screws can generally still help to save time and labour costs for construction projects. Additionally, with concrete screws if installations need to be repositioned, this is relatively simple to do, when compared to other common fixing options such as expansion anchors.

Selecting the Right Concrete Screw

Before installing, contractors first have to select the right concrete screw for their application based on the project requirements and manufactures recommendations:

• Substrate Type: Different substrates, such as concrete, cracked concrete, brick, or block etc. require different types of screws. Make sure to choose a screw that is specifically designed for the type of substrate.

• Screw Head Type: Various concrete screw head types have different applications and allow for varying degrees of tightening. Types include:
  • Hex Head – for more heavy-duty applications as the hex head allows for firmer tightening and solid through-fixing of rails, wall plates etc.
  • Pan Head - ideal for fastening channel directly to the ceiling for the installation of pipes or ventilation ducts. Offer a flush fix against the surface of the attached material.
  • Rod Hanger - offer a fast alternative to traditional expansion anchors, and are suitable for hanging threaded rod from ceiling installations.
  • Stud Anchor – their male connection threaded screw is suitable for fixing pipe clamps, brackets and channel with maximum efficiency. Simplifying overhead installations.

• Strength / Weight Load: Consider the size and strength of the concrete screw required. Make sure to choose a screw that is rated for the item weight.

• Depth: Consider the depth of the pilot hole to be drilled and how thick the actual substrate is to be drilled. Some concrete screws require a deeper hole than others, which could impact the integrity of the substrate.

• Frequency: Consider the size and number of items to be hung, how close together will the concrete screw fixings need to be in order to distribute the weight of the item/s evenly.

• Specified Approvals: Has a certain approval rating been stipulated for the project, such as the concrete screws / anchors used must be ETA (European Technical Assessment) approved.

Check out our Concrete Screw range here.

Tips for Correctly Installing Concrete Screws

Once you’ve selected the concrete screw for your project having taken the above factors into account follow the tips below to help ensure a safe and secure install:

• Drill a pilot hole: Use a masonry bit to drill a pilot hole in the concrete to insert the screw. Make sure the hole is the correct diameter and depth for the concrete screw being used. Avoid any reinforcement and space the screws correctly.

• Clean the hole: Remove any dust or debris from the pilot hole using a blow-out pump before inserting the concrete screw. This will help ensure a strong, secure hold.

• Use the correct tool and tightening torque: Gently tap the concrete screw into the pilot hole, then use a tool with the stipulated torque setting for tightening but do not over tighten. If you overtighten the screw or use a tool which is too powerful, you risk breaking the concrete screw or impacting its performance.

• Check for stability: Once the item is hung, check to make sure the fixing is secure, level and stable.

• Manufacturer's instructions: Most importantly always follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing concrete screws (or for any other type of anchor), as they provide specific guidance which is important for:
  • Safety: to ensure the concrete screw is used in a safe and proper manner, reducing the risk of injury or damage to the surrounding area.
  • Product performance: The manufacturer's instructions will specify the correct way to install the concrete screw, which will ensure that it performs as intended and can support the weight it’s designed to hold.
  • Warranty: Most manufacturers offer a warranty on their products, but that warranty may be voided if the product is not installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Correct installation: The manufacturer's instructions will specify the correct size of pilot hole to drill, the depth to insert the concrete screw, and the proper torque for tightening the concrete screw. These details are critical for ensuring a proper fit and a secure hold.

By following these tips along with the manufacturer's instructions, MEP and HVAC contractors can ensure their installation is safe, secure, and performs as intended. Remember, although concrete is a strong and durable material, it can be brittle and prone to cracking. So, as well as following manufacturer’s instructions for installation, always take precautions when working with concrete and wear the correct PPE, such as safety glasses, gloves, and masks to prevent injury.

Summary of Concrete Screws Benefits

Concrete screws are a great alternative to using expansion anchors. Benefits include:

• Quicker and simpler installation as they can be drilled straight in.

• Can be used in cracked concrete and even close to edges.

• Less dust on site as they require smaller drill holes.

• Greater flexibility as they can easily be removed and repositioned.

• Peace of mind as they provide a solid anchor setting.

Concrete screws also comply with the 18th Edition BS 7671:2018 IET wiring regulations, which now require only metallic fixings to be used for cable installations.

Need an Anchor Test or Further Concrete Screw Advice?

We can arrange anchor tests in accordance with recommendations of BS8539. Once completed a detailed report is provided to show the conformance of the fixing to the required project load levels.

We can also undertake site visits to advise on the types of concrete screws or suggest alternative fixing solutions.

Contact our team on 01322274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk for further information.

Essentially ETA (European Technical Assessment) is a worldwide recognised framework which contains detailed reports and performance information for ETA approved anchors.

BS 8539 specifies that wherever possible, ETA rated anchors should be used for any fixing into concrete. ETA is an independent and harmonised set of tests and standards adhered to by anchor manufacturers. As such they are recognised mark of quality for construction fixings within the M&E and HVAC sectors.

BS 8539 provides a framework for managing the process of concrete anchor design, specification, installation, and testing. The key principle of BS 8539 is that anchors should be considered at the design stage with accurate specification for procurement, and ultimately that the selected anchors are installed correctly.

The packaging for ETA Approved Anchors will clearly show the ETA logo below (typically a black and white version will be printed on packaging)

ETA Approved Anchors

ETA Approved Anchors will have successfully undertaken the European Technical Assessment’s comprehensive testing programme against defined criteria to confirm their suitability for use in a specified application. ETA Approved Anchors performance data is then readily available in the form of a clear ETA report, which can be reviewed by specifiers, contractors and installers. The ETA will certify the quality, suitability, and performance of the approved anchor, its intended use, the substrates it can be used in, and how it should be installed.

This is a key advantage over anchors that have not been through the European Technical Assessment as it’s far harder to compare the data from one anchor to another when relying solely on unique performance tests carried out by the manufacturers, which aren’t independently certified.

Download our flyer covering our ETA Approved Anchor Range here.

Tests Carried Out on ETA Approved Anchors

An ETA test application for an anchor is split into 12 options which clearly outline what parameters the anchor is suitable for, such as a particular substrate/s it can be used in ie cracked or non-cracked concrete (see summary table below).

Option 1 anchors have passed the most complex tests and allow the widest range of applications including use in cracked concrete. Option 12 anchors have the narrowest range of applications and are only suitable for non-cracked concrete.

Table: Summary of ETA Options and essential characteristics for anchors performance:

Tests carried out on ETA Approved Anchors include, ones for suitability, aspects of installation, service conditions and durability such as:

• Tensile strength to determine the maximum load an anchor can withstand before it fails.
• Shear strength to determine the maximum load the anchor can resist when applied in shearing force.
• Pull strength test to determine the resistance of the anchor from pulling out from its fixing point.
• Different substrates, ie low and high concrete strength.
• Varying, repeated and sustained loads.
• Fixing close to the edge / locating in cracks.
• Drill diameter tolerance, installing in undersized or oversized drill holes.
• Installation torque.
• Spacing distances for fixings.
• Environmental conditions with elevated temperatures and humidity.
• Different materials and coatings may also be approved with specific tests.

Why Use ETA Approved Anchors?

When selecting an anchor, it’s important to consider the substrate they will be fixed to, as well as the weight and size of the item to be secured. As with this information it should then be an easy task to select the correct anchor required from the range of ETA approved products based on the performance data available.

Here are some of the main reasons why ETA Approved Anchors will be specified for a project:

• A guarantee that the anchor will not fail. Providing the approved anchor has been selected and installed as outlined in the ETA, the anchor is guaranteed not to fail. This gives the contractor peace of mind that the anchor is fit for purpose, plus means that the liabilities of the specifiers and installers are safeguarded and the installation will comply with BS8539.

• Detailed installation instructions are provided. ETA Approved Anchors are supplied with all the information provided (such as torque settings) to install the anchor correctly.
  • Note it’s paramount that anchors are installed correctly with the correct tools being used to avoid anchor failure.

• Performance values / data can be relied on. The ETA testing procedures are stringent with every aspect of anchor performance being evaluated, to ensure the results are accurate and standardised. Providing identifiable and traceable performance characteristics, so both specifiers and installers can be confident of the load the anchors can take.

• ETA Approved Anchors are also CE marked. This ensures the anchors actually supplied for the project will be of the same high standard to those which were tested.

• To make anchor selection easier. With ETA’s specifiers can use design software to guide their selection process to be confident that the most suitable anchor has been selected. This ensures economic design for anchor installation with an appropriate safety margin.

• No site testing is required. It is worth noting that providing the anchor has been selected and installed in the required substrate (by a competent operative, under supervision) according to its ETA document. The anchor will not need a site test, as it has already passed the rigorous ETA testing.

There are plenty of other non-ETA approved anchors on the market, with many being supplied with their own performance data, however without standardised testing and independent certification it’s hard to compare data. Making it difficult to guarantee that the most suitable anchor has been selected.

Why Are ETA Approved Anchors More Expensive?

As already mentioned in order for a manufacturer to gain ETA approval for their anchors, they will be submitted to a number of complex and harmonised tests which allows for the anchors performance data to be published, demonstrating a required level of quality.

However, manufacturers incur substantial extra costs to submit their anchors to the ETA testing, hence the higher value assigned to ETA approved anchors. The additional costs include undertaking the European Technical Assessment itself as well as the use of high-quality materials in order to meet the required standards.

Going through the ETA approval process also takes a significant amount of time, therefore currently manufacturers feel able to charge a premium for anchors with ETA approval.

ETA Approved Anchors for M&E and HVAC Sectors

In recent years there have been several major M&E and HVAC service installation failures resulting in injury and extensive damage. Such incidents can be extremely costly and detrimental to an installer’s reputation. Upon investigation the typical causes of service installation failure occur due to:

• An unsuitable anchor was selected due to inefficient or absence of performance data.
• An unspecified anchor is used by an installer, due to lack of awareness or misinterpretation of the anchors’ performance data.
• Incorrect installation, due to lack of awareness, incompetence, or absence of clear installation instructions provided with the anchors.

Using ETA Approved Anchors help to address these issues, so for peace of mind specifiers and installers will have to decide if it’s worth the risk of using non-ETA anchors. Overall, the safety benefits of using ETA Approved Anchors will outweigh their additional cost. Spending a little more at the outset on the correct anchors can save a lot of hassle and pain in the long run for M&E and HVAC installers.

Where to Buy ETA Approved Anchors

You can check out our range of ETA Approved Anchors below or download our Flyer here.

Alternatively contact our sales team on 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk to discuss your specific requirements.

We’re giving away free Portwest Helmet Liners* with every order over £500 (exclusive of VAT). 

Please note the Helmet Liners will only be available while stocks last…

Terms and Conditions Apply:

• One Helmet Liner available per order on any qualifying order over £500 (exclusive of VAT).
• Maximum of 5 helmet liners per customer over the duration of the promotion.
• Valid for orders placed from the 12th December and 6th January which are over £500 (exclusive of VAT).
• The Helmet Liner will be sent to you along with the delivery of your order.
• This offer cannot be used in conjunction with similar offers from Fixmart.
• Whilst stocks last and we reserve the right to withdraw the offer at any time.

Try our handy Wizard tool: https://www.fixmart.co.uk/pipe-block-clamp-wizard

The Wizard covers three quick questions:

1) What is your required type of insulation block?

Choose from: Phenolic Blocks, Hardwood Blocks, FSC Hardwood Blocks, Rockwool Blocks, Armafix (Armacell) Blocks, Foamglas Glocks and Calcium Blocks

2) What is your required thickness of insulation block?

Choose from common thicknesses from 15mm to 50mm.

3) What is the outside diameter of the pipe that the block will be used to insulate?

Choose from common pipe sizes from 15mm up to 273mm

By selecting your answers our Wizard will give you the product code and details for both your selected pipe insulation block and suggested clamp to suit.

Although the Wizard covers our most popular block and clamp sizes, if you can’t see what you’re looking for please contact our team via sales@fixmart.co.uk or 01322 274226, as other sizes are available on request.

We also plan to keep adding additional sizes to the Wizard tool to make it even more comprehensive.

We are often asked for advice on which pipe clamp to order for certain pipes, so the guide has been produced with this in mind to give users all the information they need to order the right pipe clamp for their next pipework installation. Including imperial and metric, nominal bore (nb) and outside diameter (od) pipe sizes, along with the suggested clamp details, image and stock codes for easy ordering.

The guide covers clamps for steel pipe, clamps for imperial PVC waste pipe, clamps for copper pipe and clamps for metric PVC pipe.

Download our Pipe Clamp Guide here!

Pipe insulation blocks fit around a pipe to both insulate and provide load bearing support where clamps are applied when installing pipework. The contact between the clamp and pipe can lead to heat loss and condensation, hence the purpose of insulated pipe supports is to separate the pipework from the pipe clamp. This mitigates heat loss and thermal bridging within the installed pipework. Plus, insulation blocks provide a vapour barrier against moisture which can protect pipes from corrosion.

Lagging can be applied to pipework for the insulation of heated or chilled systems too, so pipe insulation blocks will help maintain the insulation integrity where pipe clamps are applied.

Considerations When Selecting Pipe Insulation Blocks?

Pipe Insulation Blocks will typically be specified according to the overall pipe insulation needed, load bearing capability and required fire resistance. So, generally M&E installers won’t actually have a choice in the pipe insulation blocks used, as they will instead be stipulated by the main contractor / mechanical consultant, especially as the industry moves towards a more compliant and safety-first approach.

However, where M&E installers do have a choice of which pipe insulation block to use, it can be easy to base their decision on experience and price, overlooking other factors which should also be considered! Including:

• Required level of insulation
• Compressive strength
• Reaction to fire / fire resistance
• Environment where the insulation block will be installed
• Recyclable /ecologically friendly

Some of the above can be affected by the actual pipe material, plus their proposed contents to run through them, including the contents temperature and volume.

Other considerations include; do the blocks include coverings, as many types include an outer foil layer as an extra vapour barrier, plus how thick do the insulation blocks need to be to maintain the required thickness / level of insulation around the pipe clamp. Often the insulation thickness and load bearing strength required will increase as the pipe sizes increase, although this is often interdependent with the other considerations already mentioned. Where compressive strength is an issue for some types of blocks this can be compensated by using split shells to provide additional protection to the pipe insulation block, along with the style of clamp used.

Types of Pipe Insulation Blocks

Up until recently Hardwood blocks were the only option when it came to pipe insulation blocks and the choice was simply between blocks from a sustainable wood source, certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC®) and those which weren’t. However, as industry standards have become more robust and safety conscious, pipe support blocks insulating properties need to be far more efficient, with improved levels of fire resistance. And hardwood blocks just can’t match the new standards. Hence the recent increase in the types of pipe insulation blocks available such as Phenolic, Rockwool, Armacell, Calcium and Foamglas.

Hardwood Blocks

Hardwood blocks did a job for many years and but aren’t that thermally conductive (0.1W/mK), with BS 5970 actually outlining that they shouldn’t be used due to their poor insulation properties. Another big downside is their lack of fire resistance which has grown significantly in importance over the last few years. However, they are strong so still can be specified due to their strength. Although BS 5970 also mentions they should only be used when it can be proven alternative insulation block cannot be engineered to meet the load requirements. Available in thicknesses of 15mm 20mm, 25mm, 30m, 35mm, 40mm and 50m. View our Hardwood Block range.

Advantages of Hardwood Blocks:

• Low cost
• High load bearing strength
• Sturdy, so easy to store and transport

Disadvantages of Hardwood Blocks:

• Below expected insulation standards
• Non fire resistant

Phenolic Blocks

Made from load-bearing phenolic foam they provide great thermal insulation (0.021W/mK) offering energy saving benefits for heated or chilled systems as they restrict heat loss / gain. They can be used with Low Temperature, Hot Water (LTHW) as well as Chilled Water Systems (CHW) pipework between -50°C and 110°C. Phenolic blocks are medium cost option which offers support for compressive loads (density of 35-40 kg/m3). Although Phenolic foam is a combustible material it holds a fire classification of BL-S1, d0, which is a huge step up from hardwood blocks. They have a foil facing finish to provide an integral vapour barrier. Available in thicknesses of 15mm 20mm, 25mm, 30m, 35mm, 40mm and 50mm (other larger sizes available to order). View our Phenolic Block range.

Advantages of Phenolic Blocks:

• Leading low thermal conductivity value at a reasonable cost
• Can handle LTWH systems in compliance with the BS EN ISO 10211: 2007

Disadvantages of Phenolic Blocks:

• Doesn’t offer the same level of fire resistance as Rockwool blocks
• Need to be handled reasonably carefully to prevent damage

Rockwool Blocks

Manufactured from high density mineral wool that is non-combustible and has a high load bearing capacity. They can be used for most temperatures in pipework from 0 – 250°C, so are suitable for LTHW, CHW, plus Hot Temperature, Hot Water (HTHW) systems. Standard Rockwool blocks are A2 rated for their reaction to fire. However, they aren’t suitable for use in sub-zero temperatures. They have a foil facing finish to provide an integral vapour barrier. Offer reasonably low thermal insulation of approx. 0.049W/mK. Available in thicknesses of 20mm, 25mm, 30m, 35mm, 40mm and 50mm. View our Rockwool Block range.

Advantages of Rockwool Blocks:

• Non-combustible, leading A2 rated for reaction to fire
• Suitable for use with hot pipework up to 250°C
• Rockwool is approximately 97% recyclable

Disadvantages of Rockwool Blocks:

• One of the more expensive options
• Thermal conductivity not as efficient as Phenolic blocks  
• Not suitable for sub-zero temperatures

Armacell Blocks

ArmaFix Ecolight Blocks are innovative pipe supports made using 100% recycled PET plastic bottles with a good load bearing capacity (Density of 95-105kg/m3). They offer a combination of low thermal conductivity (0.033W/mK) value and leading water vapour resistance. With no extra external foil vapour barrier required like with Rockwool, Phenolic or Foamglas blocks. Suitable for LTHW, CHW systems with temperatures between -5 - +80°C. Armafix Ecolight blocks holds a fire classification of EN 13501-1 for the reaction to fire. Available in thicknesses of 13mm, 19mm and 25mm. View our Armacell Block range.

Advantages of Armacell Blocks:

• Low thermal conductivity value and leading water vapour resistance
• 100% recycled

Disadvantages of Armacell Blocks:

• One of the more expensive options along with Rockwool
• Maximum pipe temperature and resistance to fire not as high as Rockwool

Foamglas Blocks

Made from Cellular Glass, a light weight yet rigid and durable insulation material, that’s composed of millions of completely sealed glass cells. They have a superior compressive strength (density 165kg/m3) and are non-combustible. Foamglas blocks are suitable for LTHW, CHW and HTHW systems with an impressive temperature resistance of -260 to 430°C. They have a foil facing finish to provide an integral vapour barrier. Offer a reasonably low thermal insulation of 0.048W/mK. Available in thicknesses of 20mm, 25mm, 30m, 35mm, 40mm and 50mm. View our Foamglas Block range.

Advantages of Foamglas Blocks:

• Non-Combustible
• Impressive temperature resistance between -260 to 430°C
• Superior compressive strength

Disadvantages of Foamglas Blocks:

• Thermal conductivity not as efficient as Phenolic blocks
• Lack of availability across common pipe sizes

Calcium Blocks

Made from calcium silicate offering thermal efficiency on hot process applications (0.07W/mK). Suitable for LTHW, CHW and HTHW systems with a very high temperature resistance of up to 1050°C. Calcium silicate is non-combustible with a superior compressive strength (density 265kg/m3). Available in thicknesses of 20mm, 25mm, 30m and 40mm (other larger sizes available to order). View our Calcium Block range.

Advantages of Calcium Blocks

• Non-Combustible
• Impressive temperature resistance up to 1050°C
• Superior compressive strength

Disadvantages of Calcium Blocks:

• Thermal conductivity not as low as others (except Harwood blocks)
• Lack of availability across common pipe sizes
• Need to be handled reasonably carefully to prevent damage

Which Pipe Insulation Block is Best?

As discussed throughout this post, the best pipe insulation block for M&E installers to use is dependent upon its application. From the type of pipe, contents of the pipe, required level of insulation, compressive strength needed to the level of fire resistance stipulated and the environment where the blocks will be installed.

Hopefully the summaries above will give M&E installers or specifiers a good indication of the type of pipe insulation block they should use. However before making a final choice, we’d always recommend reviewing product technical data to ensure the selected block is fit for purpose.

For further information check out our Pipe Insulation Blocks range. Alternatively contact our sales team on 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk

• Rapid Sliding Wall Brackets (RSWB)
• Telescopic Screw Gun Box Brackets (TSGB)
• Caddy Strap Box Supports
• Expanding Support Brackets
• Metal Noggins

Is there a Difference Between a RSWB and TSGB Metal Brackets?

Although there are the different versions and names essentially, they all do the same thing in replacing the traditional wooden noggin, so whether you use a ‘Rapid Sliding Wall Bracket’ (RSWB) by Walraven or a ‘Telescopic Screw Gun Box Bracket’ (TSGB) produced by nVent Caddy you’ll be quickly installing services into stud walls and floor joists.

What are RSWB and TSGB Metal Brackets?

They are extendable brackets specifically designed for fixing electrical boxes, conduit, trunking and pipes, which only require a screw gun to install. They’re suitable for metal or timber and are a lot quicker than traditional methods, as they eliminate the need to measure, cut, level and fix a wooden noggin in order to provide the support. Although they are not designed as load-bearing brackets, essentially the brackets can be used as supports for anything that you can screw into them. 

Why are RSWB and TSGB Brackets Better than a Wooden Noggin?

Obviously, there is the time and hassle of cutting pieces of wood to create a noggin on site. But also think of the space required for the cutting, the mess produced and the additional materials and tools needed, when a few Rapid Sliding Wall Brackets (RSWB’s or TSGB’s) and a screw gun could do the same job.

Although Rapid Sliding Wall Brackets have a reasonable simple design, they do have a number of very handy features and benefits:

• Notched and marked for easy bending and positioning. Which allows for fast and precise mounting of services, including to the required depth.
• Pre-drilled holes along their full length, make it quick and simple to fix any kind of clip to the brackets.
• Fully adjustable so are easy to fit into non-standard stud spacing.
• Easily positioned in any direction, plus you can even overlap several brackets.
• If any services need to be moved, the brackets are simple to unscrew and reposition.

How to Install RSWB and TSGB Metal Brackets?

Both Rapid Sliding Wall Bracket (RSWB) and Telescopic Screw Gun Box (TSGB) are supplied in two connected halves for easy transportation and storage.

Step 1: Cut Pipe to the Required Length

The best method for ensuring a neat clean cut is to use a ‘Tube’ Cutter or Pipe Slice, simply place the chosen cutter around the pipe and tighten / clamp into position via the cutting wheel and roller. Although pipe cutters can come in different sizes the principle is the same, rotate the cutter around the pipe until it loosens, retighten the cutter and then continue to rotate and retighten until the pipe is cut.

The cutting wheel will produce a small lip on the inside of the pipe, so it’s good practice to remove this with a deburring tool (often included on larger cutters) to prevent any undesirable turbulence or sediment build up.

Step 2: Clean the Pipe and Fitting

For a quality soldered joint it’s imperative the pipe and fitting is clean and shiny, to achieve this you can use a steel brush, pipe cleaning and polishing strips, steel wool or an emery cloth to remove the oxide surface layer. For cleaning fittings there are specialist steel brushes, alternatively pipe polishing strips and emery cloths can easily be rolled up to fit inside and rotated for a thorough clean.

Step 3: Apply Flux to the Pipe and Fitting

After cleaning, apply a thin layer of flux using a flux brush to where the joint will be formed on the pipes and fittings before sliding together. As solder can’t be applied directly inside the joint the flux will help draw the solder into the joint through capillary action to ensure a strong connection between pipe and fitting. Some flux such as Fry Powerflow offer good penetration of surface oxide so no pre-cleaning is actually required. If flux isn’t applied then the solder will only form a superficial layer at the entrance of the joint which can lead to leaking pipes in the future. If too much flux is applied then excess flux can get inside the pipe which can lead to pitting and pin hole leaks.

Step 4: Prepare the Soldering Area

Clear the area allocated for soldering as much as possible, plus to help reduce the risk of fire use a heat mat to protect any remaining flammable materials. It’s good practice to cut, clean, flux and assemble a group of pipes and fittings to be soldered. As having the pipes already in position allows for easy soldering of one joint after another, whilst cutting down on disturbing the joints before they’ve cooled.

Step 5: Heat the Pipe Joint / Fitting

Soldering copper pipe requires high intensity heat, apply heat evenly around the fitting, using a self-lighting brazing torch. You can use either Propane Gas or MAPP Gas, with MAPP Gas producing a hotter flame, that is better for soldering larger diameter pipes.

It’s best to start heating from the bottom of the joint as the heat will rise, plus if you start at the top when the solder melts it will run down and have nowhere to go as the bottom of the joint might not be hot enough to draw it in.

Applying the right amount of heat comes with practice, if there isn’t enough heat the solder wont flow into the joint, if the joint is heated for too long the flux will burn, start to smoke and blacken, again preventing the solder from flowing into the joint.

Step 6: Apply the Solder to the Pipe Joint

First choose a lead-free solder that complies with BS EN ISO 9453:2020 and is compatible for use with potable water applications.

Lay the solder on the joint in between heating until the solder begins to melt. Then liberally apply the solder once it begins to melt easily, reheating to help pull the solder into the joint. If you notice an area that needs more solder, whilst still warm brush a little more flux onto it which should melt and flow into the gap, allowing you to reheat and apply more solder. To ensure a joint is completely filled, quickly run the tip of the solder around the seam of the joint. Bending the solder to create a hook, will allow easy reach of the underside of the joint.

When there is a silver band that’s flush with the pipe surface around the entire joint enough solder has been applied. However, take care not to apply too much solder, as this can cause a solder bubble on the lower part of the joint, although this doesn’t necessarily affect the joint it doesn’t leave the desired clean finish. So where possible clean off any drips.

Note if soldering several fitting joints close together, such as a T or angle fitting be aware that the heat intended heat for one joint can soften the solder on an already completed joint. To help prevent joints from coming apart, keep the adjacent joints being soldered in a horizontal position.

Check out our Soldering and Brazing range along with our PPE range, alternatively you can contact our sales team on 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk to discuss your specific requirements.

Sealants may have similar qualities to adhesives in that they join two surfaces, however they are quite different. Sealants’ primary purpose is to create a seal and this can be either markedly strong or quite weak. Different sealants will also offer varying degrees of durability and flexibility. These differences in performance coupled with the other specific tasks they can perform, means it may not be quite as straight forward as it seems to choose the right sealant for the job.

Sealants are used across numerous industries although here we will focus on those that can be used by MEP and HVAC installers.

Considerations:

Cost – although more expensive premium sealants will generally be more flexible, easier to work with and last longer. So, investing in a quality product first time may actually save money in the long run.

Ease and Conditions of Application – Sealants can differ in their application in terms of ease and conditions required. So, choosing the correct one can prevent poor application and seal failure.

Flexibility / Hardness – Various uses require different levels of hardness and movement in the seal. Ensure enough movement is allowed to suit your application. Low modulus sealants will be softer to the touch and provide greater movement. Where higher modulus sealants are stiffer and can absorb heavier loads.

Adhesion – some sealants have better adhesion than others, so it’s always worth checking product datasheets to check adhesion properties and ensure compatibility with the substrates used in the application.

Durability – consider what the seal will be exposed to such as abrasion, is there high movement / expansion, will the sealant need to be UV resistant or weather proof to maintain both its colour and effective seal.

Safety Measures - some sealants have more toxic compounds than others, so will require different levels of safety measures on application. For example, if working in confined spaces a water-based sealant will be best to use as these tend to have fewer toxic compounds also known as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s).

Aesthetics – sealants are available in different colours, although many are also paintable once cured. If aesthetics are important make sure the sealant chosen can be painted over or is available in the required colour.

Resistance / Purpose – do you require the seal to be resistant to heat, noise, UV, chemicals or mould. Or indeed meet specific regulations for ductwork and pipe installation. If so, this will dictate the types of sealants required.

• Intumescent Sealants – will be tested for resistance to fire and smoke under BS EN 1634 in order to provide a fire-retardant seal. Intumescent sealants will usually have acoustic properties too. 
• Acoustic Sealants – will generally be rated to BS EN ISO 140-3 for sound insulation. They should stay relatively soft after application to help reduce sound transmission.
• Sanitary Sealants - will typically be certified under BS EN 15651-3 where sanitary joints are required, such as for washrooms, tiled areas, refrigeration units or areas of high humidity to prevent mould growth.
• Duct Sealants – should be tested to BS EN 13141-1 covering the ventilation of buildings or DW/144 the standard specification for ductwork manufacture and installation, including air leakage.
• Pipe Sealants – will generally be certified by Water Regulations Approval Scheme (WRAS) and / or BS 6920 covering non-metallic materials that will come in contact with drinking water.

Main Types of Sealants

There are many types of Sealants available with different formula’s, generally some will be more solvent-based whilst others are water-based. Water-based sealants are a good choice when a sealant is needed with low VOC’s, they are easy to work with, and don’t have the odour or clean-up issues that can be associated with solvent-based sealants.

The most common sealants used in the building industry are Silicone.

Silicone Sealants – have one of the higher life expectancies of the different sealant types, plus they offer good adhesion, are completely waterproof, provide decent temperature resistance and protect against UV fading. They also generally retain their flexibility over time. However, they are typically more expensive than other types and aren’t paintable. Silicone sealants are split into three main types with different cure and modulus; High Modulus Acetoxy, Low Modulus Neutral and Low Modulus Acetoxy.

Cure:

• Acetoxy - are fast curing but give off a vinegary odour.
• Neutral – generally take longer to cure but are almost odourless.

Modulus:

• Low Modulus – are softer to touch with greater elasticity which allows for more movement. Typically used for external applications.
• High Modulus – are harder and more rigid once cured, allowing for less movement. Generally best for internal applications.
• Mid Modulus – are a more recent addition to the market and offer a compromise between the more common low and high modulus sealants in terms of their elasticity and usage.

Acrylic Sealants – formed from water-based acrylic resins an environmentally friendly material with fewer VOC’s, which is also odourless. They are suitable for filling joints around wood, aluminium and UPVC, although offer less flexibility than other types. They are easy to apply, paintable and typically a lower cost option. Although if applied externally conditions must be dry and preferably warm.

MS Polymer Sealants – decent all-rounders especially where surfaces may experience vibration or strain. They offer flexibility, great durability and excellent adhesion to non-porous surfaces. They will bond to damp surfaces too and are paintable.

Polyurethane Sealants – can be difficult to apply and expensive to buy, but offer first rate water resistance and permanent elasticity under all climate conditions. They are one of the toughest sealants and particularly valued for their abrasion resistance. They provide excellent adhesion to metal and fibreglass. Low modulus Polyurethane sealants are also inert once fully cured with any harmful solvents having evaporated.

Polysulphide Sealants - can be used where a tough, flexible watertight seal is required for joints subject to movement, such as expansion joints. They can be applied in cold conditions and are available in both a; one-part system and two-part system. Two-part systems includes both a base and accelerator which need to be mixed before applying.

Although only a brief summary we hope the above will help choose the right sealant for the job. You can view our sealants range here, which includes general, premium, intumescent, duct and pipe sealants. Alternatively for further information contact our Sales team on 01322 274226 or via sales@fixmart.co.uk.

In this blog we take a look at the benefits of prefabricated support frames as they can be ideal for many Mechanical Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) and Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) applications for the support of cables, pipework, ductwork and air handling units (AHU’s). We are certainly seeing an increasing trend with our customers implementing prefabrication on projects wherever it’s viable.

Benefits of Prefabricated Support Frames

Reduction in the number of skilled workers required onsite

Although installation of support frames will still be a skilled job, the required design, cutting, shaping, assembly and welding etc. can all be done off site with designated areas in the manufacturing hub allowing each team to focus on completing their specific task.

Speed of installation

The prefabricated support frames can be delivered to site ready to install, reducing the amount of time required onsite.

A more efficient use of resources

If installing frames on site, workers may need to spend time walking around site to find materials, plus set up areas for cutting and welding as they go. Prefabrication makes the process for producing and installing support frames more efficient.

Reduce the risk of delay

If workers are creating support frames as they go the lack of just one component can bring the installation process to a halt whilst that component is sourced. With prefabrication all components can all be delivered to the manufacturing hub where stock and usage can be more accurately monitored and predicted.

Save space on site

With space often at a premium on site, removing the need for designated cutting or assembly areas, plus far less stock sitting around can be a distinct advantage in maintaining a tidy and safe environment.

Improved health and safety onsite

Since the need for cutting, drilling, welding and assembly onsite is limited, health and safety should be improved. Offsite manufacturing hubs’ can be set up with greater control over such tasks to maintain health and safety there too. In addition to reducing risk of injury the amount and variety of PPE required onsite can be greatly reduced too.

More secure stock holding

The delivery of components for the frames to an off-site manufacturing hub, means less small components are required on site for prolonged periods of time, reducing the risk of loss. Manufacturing hubs can also hold greater stocks, requiring less frequent deliveries.

Less waste

When frames are prefabricated off site, cutting can be done more efficiently, plus any left-over components can be stored or used on other projects, rather than going to waste.

Standardised design and quality

The design and assembly of prefabricated frames being undertaken by specialists off site gives greater control over the standardisation of the support frames, often improving the overall quality achieved.

Reduced costs

All the above, from more efficient installation to improved use of resources can help in reduce the costs involved with installing support frames.

Considerations for Prefabrication

Of course, prefabrication of support frames will not be suitable for every project. As there are a number of factors to consider too, such as:

• Project size, is the project large enough to warrant off site prefabrication?
• Are there any challenges onsite that would prevent standardised support frames from being used, ie will frames need to be frequently adapted to be successfully installed?
• Availability of an off-site manufacturing hub, with the required labour and components? Alternatively, a trusted support partner can be used to supply the completed prefabricated frames.
• Is there a clear plan for delivery of the prefabricated frames from the manufacturing hub to site? As prefabricated frames will need to be unloaded and transported to their designated area onsite. With sites often having restrictions on deliveries and with prefabricated frames obviously being somewhat bulkier than their individual components, this will need to be accounted for.
• Response to challenges on site, as it’s not always possible to fully envisage what will come up on fast-moving construction sites? Workers may therefore still have to deal with unforeseen obstacles, that will impact on the installation of the prefabricated frames.

Prefabricated Support Frames Summary

In summary prefabrication of support frames is an excellent way to improve efficient use of resources which can also deliver both time and cost saving benefits. With prefabrication being a natural solution to many of the issues facing the construction industry it’s understandable why many big names are embracing it, and it’s likely to just be a matter of time before it becomes the norm on projects across the UK.

For more details on how we can help with prefabrication from supplying the required components to simple prefabricated brackets and frames, contact our team at sales@fixmart.co.uk or on 01322 274226.

We review the MEP and HVAC products for their potential benefits to customers including:

• Improved site storage and transportation
• Time, labour or cost saving
• Safety on site, such as minimising dust
• Sustainability and reduced carbon footprint
• Ability to meet new regulations

Single-tier support frames

A simple-single tier channel support system can be constructed to support cable containment, pipework, or ducting from ceilings or walls.

Multi-tier (trapeze) support frames

Multi-tier support frames are ideal if you wish to run several building services from the same installation ie placing electrical containment below ductwork. Or even adding a second tier of support from an existing tier, where weight load permits.

Rooftop support frame

​Channel, brackets and fixings can be combined with support feet to create either simple or complex rooftop frames for carrying a series of mechanical and electrical containment or mounting air handling units on flat roofs.

With a channel support framework constructed it is possible to attach all manner of fixings for the suspension or support of pipework, ducting or cable containment. In most cases the fixings are universal and compatible with Unistrut as well as other generic channel and bracketry systems.

Common Types of Channel, Brackets and Fixing Accessories

Channel

It is worth acknowledging that channel is also often commonly referred to as strut. Channel can be plain or slotted, with slotted channel having pre-drilled holes to allow for easy fixing. Channel comes in a wide range of lengths and profiles, but the most common profiles are 41x41mm and 41x21mm. Channel typically comes in 3m lengths although 6m lengths and pre-cut channel lengths are also available. Pre-cut channel is a handy option to save time on site as you can order it pre-cut to the length required for your project. Back to back channel which as the name suggests is two lengths of channel joined back to back, is commonly used to create trapeze supports.

Channel Brackets

Brackets come in many types and sizes such as splice plates, angle brackets, z brackets, u brackets, flat brackets, beam clamps, bracing brackets amongst others. From the simple to the complex the range of brackets on offer allow for an installer to assemble almost any channel support system they can conceive.

Channel Nuts

Channel nuts are specially designed to sit in the channel recess and used to fasten either studding or bolts with hex nuts and square plates.

Spring Channel Nuts

Similar to a regular channel nut but with a spring attached on the reverse of the nut which, when inserted into the channel recess holds the channel nut in position until you are ready to fix it into place.

Channel Nut Assemblies and Washer

Pre-assembled channel nut, and washer which are held together with a plastic insert to save time on installation. Similar to a spring channel nut, the pre-assembled channel nut and washer are held in position ready to fix into place. Having the components combined can really save time when installing, especially if working at height.

Square Plates

Square plates are a specific type of washer for use with channel support systems. They fit across the open side of the channel and when bolted to the nut give greater strength, allowing for other items to be bolted on.

Hex Bolts and Nuts

Used to fix to channel, hex bolts come in various head sizes and lengths, with hex nuts available to suit the various bolt sizes. Often hex bolts are used with channel although studding is equally effective.

Studding (Threaded Rod)

One of the most common fixings to be used with channel for supporting building services is studding. Studding and channel can be used to create simple suspended frames for runs of pipework, cable containment and ducting. Studding lengths can be cut on site as required or ordered in specific pre-cut stud sizes. In either case, the studding is threaded into the channel nut or spring nut, then with a square plate, washer, and hex nut is tightened to provide a solid fixing. Other items can then be attached to the studding such as pipe clips, duct clamps or cable tray.

Studding adaptors and connectors are also available to allow easy connection of additional studding lengths.

Channel Sockets

Channel sockets are designed with a narrow profile to fit inside the channel recess, to quickly drive hex bolts and nuts in order to provide a fixing.

Fixings that can be Used with Channel Supports

There are a number of specialised attachments designed specifically for use with channel or studding for the quick and easy installation of M&E and HVAC building services such as:

Pipe Supports

Pipe Clips

Pipe Clips are available to suit common pipe sizes and types such as steel, copper and PVC pipes. They come with a tapped boss to allow for easy connection to a hex bolt or studding for pipe installation and management. Select from a range of pipe clips such as unlined, black rubber lined, green rubber lined, hinged or heavy-duty depending on the pipes being installed.

Channel Pipe Clamp

Pipe clamps, with specifically designed lugs to match 41mm channel, can quickly and easily be secured directly into channel without additional tools. They make the job of attaching pipework to support systems much simpler. The two pieces simply clamp onto the pipe using a threaded adjusting bolt to provide a good fit.

Channel Clips

Channel clips are an extremely simple fixing to effortlessly fit onto channel with a 41mm profile width. Made from a strong lightweight Polyamide Alloy their one-piece design helps absorb shock and vibration. They are ideal for use with plumbing, electrical, air conditioning and refrigeration pipework.

Cushion Pipe Clamps

Cushion pipe clamps can be quickly mounted into channel and are ideal for multiple runs of small copper pipes. They are similar to channel pipe clamps but come with a cushioned insulated insert which is particularly needed for things like refrigerant tubes, or any pipework which need to be insulated, or protected from vibration.

Ductwork Supports

Spiral Duct Clamps

Spiral Duct Clamps are available to suit common duct sizes. They come with a tapped boss to allow for easy connection to a hex bolt or studding. The clamps include a noise insulating rubber lining which is formed around a steel band to prevent it sliding off when the spiral is slid through the clamp.

Electrical Containment Supports

Studding Hangers

Studding Hangers allow for the easy suspension of 75mm wide cable tray from M4-M12 studding. The hangers simply clip onto the studding length providing a simple support that the cable tray can be fixed to.

Overhead Tray Hangers

Overhead tray hangers are a simple bracket for supporting lengths of cable tray from 75mm to 225mm wide. The brackets are simple to fix to a studding length using a hex nut and washer.

Marco Fast Fix Universal Strut Clip

Marco Fast Fix Universal Strut Clip can be used to easily attach wire cable basket to channel. The strut clip simply clamps the cable basket to the channel and can be secured in place with one turn of a screwdriver for speedy installation.

Support Feet for Channel

Roof top channel support systems require feet to form the base of the channel frame work. Whether constructing H frames or more complex configurations.

H Frame Feet

Channel lengths simply slot into the feet to provide a stable framework protecting the rooftop surface. Often the feet will also offer some kind of vibration and noise absorption too.

Fix-It Foot

Commonly used alongside channel support frames for runs of pipework and cable tray as well as supporting condenser units and other equipment.

If you have any queries on creating channel support systems, for supporting pipework, runs of cables or ductwork contact our team on 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk. We can also provide advice on connecting your channel supports to concrete or metal decking using concrete screws, wedge anchors, through bolts, wedge nuts or specialist Lindapter decking fixings.

For many standard installations of pipework, ductwork and cable containment traditional 41x41 channel is not actually required as the weight of these installations can often be supported by a lighter channel, such as RapidRail®. Using a lighter channel can offer several benefits.

Benefits of Using RapidRail®

• Lighter channel is easier to handle and install, especially when working at height / overhead. It also reduces the risk of injury or accidents when working in tight spaces.
• Easier to carry, store and transport, as well as being lighter RapidRail® is also supplied in shorter 2m lengths (compared to 3m and 6m for traditional channel).
• RapidRail® uses approx. 1.7kg less steel per metre (compared to traditional 41x41 channel) which is better for the environment and a greater consideration during the current steel crisis.

RapidRail® has also been designed with quicker installation in mind, offering some simple but useful features:

• Continuous perforation, with pre-drilled holes to allow for easy M8 and M10 fixings.
• Handy graduated measurement scale on one side for easy cutting to size.
• A range of profiles such as WM15 with a unique perforation that allows for hanging on both sides.
• As well as being lightweight and easier to handle to speed up installation, RapidRail® also has a range of fast-fix preassembled accessories designed to make installation even simpler and faster.

RapidRail® has been given a RAL quality mark which means it has been independently tested and certified as a system to guarantee quality, reliability, and safety in construction.

RapidRail® Pre-assembled Fast-Fix Accessories

Due to the lightweight nature of RapidRail® and the fast-fit accessories available, it has been proven to save up to 40% on installation times, meaning that it can reduce labour costs and help to meet tight deadlines. The key to the time saving is the fast-fix pre-assembled accessories, as instead of using lose bolts, nuts and washers the pre-assembled Slide Nut with Washer and Hammerfix Stud Nut are simple to just push in and twist into place. They are also easy to adjust and slide into the required position before tightening to provide a solid fixing.

For example, a Hammerfix Stud Nut can be used to install a pipe clamp in just 20 seconds, see how in this short video: 

What is Sikla siFramo?

Advantages of using Sikla siFramo:

• 50% lighter than traditional steel sections
• Easily create frame configurations that are the equivalent to engineered solutions
• Adjustments can be made easily on site, if requirements change
• Frames can be dismantled and re-used, helping to eliminate waste
• No need for Hot Works
• Quicker to cut as although strong the sections are made from thin gauge steel 
• One type of re-useable screw for all connections
• EN 1090-1 Compliant Products and Production Control

Sikla siFramo uses less steel

For further details on Sikla siFramo

Types of Channel Brackets

Splice Plates

• Splice Plates
• Splice Plate 2-Hole
• Splice Plate 3-Hole
• Splice Plate 4-Hole
• Splice Plate 5-Hole
• T Plate

Flat Brackets

• Flat L Bracket
• Flat T Bracket
• Flat Plus Bracket

Angle Brackets

• 90° Brackets
• 90° Brackets 2-Hole
• 90° Brackets 3-Hole
• 90° Brackets 4-Hole
• 90° V Plates
• 45° Brackets
• 45° Brackets 4-Hole
• Acute Angle Brackets
• Obtuse Angle Brackets
• Adjustable Angle Brackets
• Wing Brackets

Z Brackets

• Z Brackets 41x21
• Z Brackets 41x41
• Z Brackets Back to Back Channel

 

U Brackets

U Brackets overlap the channel length being joined from both sides for a more secure connection.

 

• U Brackets 41x21
• U Brackets 41x41
• U Brackets Back to Back Channel

 

Joiners

• External Joiner 41x41
• Internal Joiner (41x21 & 41x41)

 

Cantilever Arms

Cantilever Arms create 90° angle supports which are handy to create brackets or fix items directly on to building walls such as cable trays, pipework, rectangular ductwork or other HVAC equipment such as air conditioner units. 

 

• Cantilever Arms Single Chanel
• Cantilever Arms Double Chanel

 

Beam Clamps

Beam Clamps are used to provide a secure fixing for channel to beams (girders). Window Beam Clamps provide an opening for the channel to fit into, whereas Toe and U Beam Clamps fix the channel directly to the beam. 

• Toe Clamp
• U Beam Clamp – Small (41x21)
• U Beam Clamp – Large (All Channel)
• Window Beam Clamp 41x21
• Window Beam Clamp 41x41
• Window Beam Clamp 41x82
• U Bolt Beam Clamp (41x21 & 41x41)
• U Bolt Beam Clamp (Back to Back Channel)
• Z Beam Clamp (All Channel)
• Internal Web Clamp 41x41

 

Base Plates

Base Plates create a handy ‘foot’ for channel to be fitted into to form a base for channel support frames.

 

• Base Plates 100mm
• Base Plates 200mm

 

Bracing Brackets

Gusseted Brackets Single or Double Socket can be used to provide a base for channel support frames. With Gusseted Bracing Brackets used to fix several lengths of channel to create right angle joints, or give additional support for frames joints. 

• Gusseted Bracket Single Socket
• Gusseted Bracket Double Socket
• Gusseted Bracing Brackets

 

Channel and Bracketry Fixings

In addition to channel and the brackets listed above, installers will also need a number of common fixings to create channel framing or support solutions.

• Channel Nuts
• Square Plates
• Hex Set Screws
• Hex Nuts
• Studding

 

For further information on channel brackets, channel or fixings please contact our team on 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk. Alternatively, you can check out our Bracketry range here.

Key updates

The 10^th issue of the catalogue has been updated to reflect our current stock range as of March 2022, with a particular focus on including brand logos to make it easier to identify the branded product ranges we offer. As a MEP and HVAC fixing specialist there have been major updates to key sections such as the extension of our pipe support blocks range to include; Rockwool, Armacell, Foamglas and Calcium blocks. As well as the addition of technical information, such as tensile loads for fixings and anchors.

With section titles, images and product information all updated, our focus has been on trying to make the catalogue more user friendly. With that in mind we also improved and increased the index so you can easily locate products using common alternative names.

We’re giving away £20 Amazon or Costa Coffee e-vouchers with every order over £1500 (exclusive of VAT). So, what are you waiting for, place a qualifying order today and request your preferred voucher! You can then choose to treat your staff, or simply put it towards your Christmas shopping…

Please note we’ll be ordering the vouchers in batches, so it may take a few days before the e-voucher is emailed to the person that placed the qualifying order.

Terms and Conditions Apply:

1.       One £20 e-voucher available per customer for each qualifying order over £1,500 (exclusive of VAT).

2.       Valid for orders placed between the 1st to 23rd December which are over £1,500 (exclusive of VAT).

3.       If the advertised e-voucher isn’t available, then an equal equivalent will be provided.

4.       The chosen £20 e-voucher will be sent for the attention of the person placing the qualifying order.

5.       We shall choose a voucher at our discretion if a preferred e-voucher is not stipulated.

6.       This offer can not be used in conjuction with similar offers with Fixmart.

7.       VAT will be accounted for at the time the voucher is redeemed and is the responsibility of the redeemer.

8.       We reserve the right to withdraw the offer at any time.

What is Threaded Rod

As you can guess from these names threaded rod, are rods that come in various lengths which are typically threaded along their whole length (ie all thread).

Similar in appearance to a hex set screw and available in a wide variety of types, lengths and finishes, threaded rod is one of the most versatile products available for providing a secure fixing and allowing other fixings like nuts, bolts to be fastened to it.

Uses for Threaded Rod

Threaded rods are widely used wherever a fastener of greater length and rigidity than a standard bolt is needed to secure two items together. They can be used to pin / secure wood or metal items together or to give additional strength to structures supported by concrete and other materials. Their threading makes it easy to attach nuts and other fixings to the rod as required.

Threaded rod is therefore perfectly suited for supporting or suspending items from roofs and ceilings such as pipework, cabling and ductwork, making it popular in construction. They can withstand very high levels of pressure and tension hence threaded rods are often used in MEP and HVAC applications to provide a secure fixing for support systems. Available in a wide variety of types, lengths and materials, threaded rod is also used in a number industries for fastening materials such as:

• General construction
• Electrical installation
• Mechanical and plumbing installation
• Heating and ventilation installation
• Engineering
• Plant room maintenance
• Manufacturing, production and processing facilities
• Automotive assembly and repair
• Agricultural
• Medical machinery
• Marine applications

Using threaded rod is simple for anyone who has worked with other types of large fixings as it performs much like standard bolts and screws. With the actual method for installing a threaded rod being very similar to that for installing a bolt or screw. Although there are a couple of differences as threaded rods will usually exceed the length of standard bolts and won’t have a head for hammering or driving.

Types of Threaded Rod

There are several types of threaded rod available on the market that will suit different applications and conditions.

Typically, threaded rod will be supplied with a right-hand thread (where a clockwise rotation will tighten). However, it can be supplied with a left-hand thread, for situations where vibration might cause a right-hand thread to loosen.

All thread (or fully threaded) is the most common type of threaded rod found in construction, as the thread allows for full engagement of nuts and other threaded fixings. They can also be embedded into materials, like concrete, as the threading provides good resistance. Other types of threaded rods include; ‘tap-end stud bolts’ and double-end stud bolts. Tap-end studs have unequal threads at each end, while double-end stud bolts have equal thread length at both ends.

Threaded rods will generally have a standard thread although there are fine threaded rods, whose threads are thinner and closer together than the standard (coarser) type. Fine threaded rods have a greater shear strength and tensile, making them less likely to loosen which may be a consideration where installations are subject to vibration.

Common Threaded Rod Finishes

Threaded rods are available in a wide range of finishes such as Bright Zinc Plated Steel, Galvanised Steel, Stainless Steel, Brass, Titanium, Aluminium and Nylon. With the steel options being the most commonly used in construction. One of the reasons why steel threaded rod is often used is that it is easy to work with, strong, reasonably priced and looks good once installed.

Bright Zinc Plated threaded rod is generally used for dry internal applications as it’s cheaper and aesthetically pleasing but only offers a little corrosive resistance provided by its Zinc coating. Galvanised and Stainless Steel threaded rods are better suited for applications where corrosion is more a consideration such as in humid, damp or wet conditions (ie plant rooms or out-doors) as they offer better corrosion resistance, with Stainless Steel offering the greatest resistance.

• Bright Zinc Plated (BZP) Threaded Rod
• A2 Stainless Steel Threaded Rod
• Galvanised Threaded Rod

​

Threaded Rod Sizes and Cutting

Threaded rod is usually supplied in one or three metre lengths, plus handy pre-cut studs are also available in a variety of sizes to suit most site needs.

If a specific length stud is required for your project you could choose to cut down the lengths of threaded rod yourself, with the best way being to use a dedicated threaded rod cutter (studding cutter). This will produce a clean, burr-free cut with less time and effort needed than other cutting methods. Plus, they can be used for cutting installed threaded rod in-situ and even for overhead work as they are reasonably lightweight.

Threaded rod can also be cut to length on a mitre or chop saw, provided that a suitable metal cutting disk is installed. Although this method isn’t as straight forward as you think, since threaded rod can be difficult to hold in place (especially if trying to cut multiple lengths) and any movement might damage the thread when cut. Also once cut the edge of the threaded rod will typically need to be chamfered or ground on a griding wheel to remove any rough edges. Any unfinished edges after cutting the threaded rod will hinder the fastening of nuts and other fixings, so the edges need to be smooth with a clean thread to enable easy fastening.

For any threaded rod ends that remain exposed then studding protection caps are an option. These plastic caps cover the end of the threaded rod to prevent sharp edges from being exposed, as well as protecting the thread of the rod from damage.

How to Connect Threaded Rod Lengths

If you need an extended threaded rod length and want to join several threaded rods the simplest way is to use studding connectors and you guessed it like threaded rod itself they also have a number of different names so can also be called; rod couplers, connector bolts, threaded rod end fittings etc. Studding connectors look like elongated nuts and are threaded on the inside which allow for two threaded rods to be inserted about halfway each to provide a secure fixing. Along with studding connectors you can also use studding adapters which have a male and female threads of differing sizes which is handy if you need to increase or reduce the size of your threaded rod for a required fixing.

How to Install Threaded Rod to Ceilings and Walls

Installing threaded rod to walls or ceilings, you may find that the threaded rod or fixing is already in place ie pre-inserted into concrete. If not, you will need to provide a fixing for the threaded rod yourself. There are a number of ways to provide a fixing for threaded rod in concrete, metal decking or purlins.

• Wedge anchors (also known as drop-in anchors / non-drill anchors) they provide a threaded socket for threaded rod in concrete. They are installed using a hand driven setting tool and are commonly used in mechanical, electrical and plumbing applications.
• Rod hangers offer a quick and easy alternative to wedge anchors. They have a self-tapping concrete screw tip at one end and a threaded socket at the other for threaded rod. As there is less drilling and no expansion, they offer several advantages over wedge anchors; they can be drilled straight in, repositioned, create less dust and can be installed closer to edges and in cracked concrete.
• Back plates can be simply fastened to walls and ceilings to provide a fixing for threaded rods for supporting building services.
• Rod hangers / Purlin clips for suspending threaded rod from vertical faces or purlin sections for supporting building services.
• Wedge nuts for use in many common metal decking types, they have a tapped hole for accepting threaded rod. Also known as v nuts due to their shape they simply insert and turn into the channel of the metal deck to provide a fixing.
• Lindapter fixings for use in common metal decking types, these fixings have been designed in conjunction with the specified decking manufacturer to fit the channel of the metal deck and provide a fixing for threaded rod.

Unsure Which Type of Threaded Rod You Need?

If you still have any queries regarding which threaded rod and accessories you need, please contact our team on 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk. Alternatively, you can check out our threaded rod and accessories range here.

Bright Zinc Plated and Galvanised steel are the most common types of fixing finish, are easy to work with and offer a lower cost option than stainless steel. Whereas although it has a higher cost and is potentially harder to work with, stainless steel offers the advantages of strength and increased corrosion protection, as well as providing a quality finish that’s aesthetically pleasing.

For ease we will focus on comparing BZP and HDG and then types A2 and A4 Stainless steel, before providing a summary of considerations for choosing each one.

BZP - Bright Zinc Plated

BZP stands for Bright Zinc Plated and is the most common finish for the majority of fixings and fasteners. Bright Zinc Plating is a process that is applied to standard steel or alloy fixings during their manufacture. Essentially a thin layer of zinc is applied to the fixings using an electric current. The applied layer of zinc then offers galvanising protection to the steel fixings to prevent rusting or oxidising. Although the BZP finish makes the steel fixings resistant to moisture, the layer of zinc is only thin so it won’t prevent rusting or oxidising if the fixings are used externally. Hence BZP is a good choice for indoor applications.

As BZP is a standard low cost finish, freely available for most types of fixing, specifying it can help keep all the fixings used on an installation uniform. A BZP finish also has the advantage of being aesthetically pleasing, with the fixings used looking bright and shiny.

HDG – Hot Dip Galvanised

HDG stands for Hot Dip Galvanised and refers to a process where the finished fixings and fasteners are dipped in a bath of molten zinc which bonds with the steel to provide a protective layer (thicker than BZP plating). Hot Dip Galvanising offers a cost-effective method to provide a strong weather resistant finish which protects steel from corrosion. It’s important to consider that when threaded fasteners are Hot Dip Galvanised, the size of the thread increases due to the protective layer of zinc. So, you’ll need to use a set of HDG fasteners for all parts of the fixing. HDG fasteners have an oversize tap which accommodates the extra layer of zinc allowing each fastener to fit together neatly. For example, the use of HDG nuts should be used with HDG bolts and HDG threaded rod.

Although duller in appearance and not as aesthetically pleasing as other finishes such as BZP, with its strong corrosion protection galvanised fixings offer the advantage of being low maintenance once installed and can be used for outdoor applications. One final consideration is that if the protective zinc layer is damaged such as when HDG products are cut, then a galvanising spray should be used to cover the exposed area in order to continue providing protection.

Choosing Between BZP and HDG

Both BZP and HDG add a protective layer of zinc to steel although typically a BZP Zinc plating will be 3 microns thick and the HDG protective Zinc layer will be 50 microns thick, hence the far stronger protection offered by galvanised fixings. So, when choosing between the two finishes, it’s reasonably simple; BZP fixings are great for indoor dry climates where only superficial protection is needed and an element of aesthetic value is desired. Whereas, HDG fixings should be used for outdoor applications open to the weather and also indoors where conditions may be damp or wet.

A2 and A4 Stainless Steel

Stainless Steel is known for its strength and resistance to corrosion. All Stainless Steel must contain at least 10.5% chromium, which helps the steel resist corrosion. When used for fixings and fasteners Stainless Steel is covered by the British Standard BSENISO 3506, in Parts 1, 2 and 4 (Part 1 covers bolts, screw and studs, Part 2 nuts and Part 4 tapping screws).

Stainless steel differs from standard carbon steel by the amount of chromium present. Unprotected carbon steel rusts readily when exposed to air and moisture. Stainless Steel contain sufficient chromium to form a passive film of chromium oxide, which helps prevent surface corrosion and corrosion from spreading into the steel’s internal structure.

Although both HDG and Stainless Steel fixings are decent options to protect against rust, Stainless Steel offers greater corrosion protection than HDG and is ideal for use in outdoor applications, especially where the finish is desired to be aesthetically pleasing. There are two main grades of Stainless Steel fixings; A2 Stainless Steel (Type 304) and A4 Stainless Steel (Type 316) which are both very rust-resistant grades of stainless steel. There is no evident visual difference between A2 and A4 stainless Steel fasteners as they are both polished using the same process, but they do have slightly different characteristics.

A2 Stainless Steel (Type 304)

A2 Stainless Steel contains 18% Chromium, and 8% Nickel to provide corrosion protection. A2 Stainless Steel is the most common type used for the manufacture of Stainless Steel fasteners and fixings. Aside from fasteners, A2 Stainless Steel is also used for many household products due to its resistant to sterilising solutions, foodstuffs and inorganic chemicals. A2 Stainless Steel fixings can be used by MEP and HVAC contractors in outdoor applications or where Galvanised fixings aren’t suitable. Although even A2 Stainless Steel can tarnish eventually over time.

A4 Stainless Steel (Type 316)

A4 Stainless Steel typically contain 18% Chromium, 10% Nickel, with an additional 2-3% Molybdenum too, which provides extra corrosive resistance than A2. Since it has the highest level of corrosion resistance, A4 Stainless Steel is often used in chemical or marine environments hence it can be referred to as ‘Marine grade’. A4 Stainless Steel products generally last a very long time due to their extra resistance to corrosion and tarnish.

Choosing Between A2 and A4 Stainless Steel

As you’d expect A4 Stainless Steel costs slightly more than A2 because of its enhanced properties. Although, the extra cost can be justified when used in the right conditions, with the higher corrosion resistance meaning over a long period of time the fasteners need less maintenance or replacement. Both types can be a cost-effective option, with A2 Stainless Steel fasteners being far the most commonly used in construction. However, when choosing which type of Stainless Steel fasteners to go for, essentially MEP and HVAC contractors should consider the environment they will be used in. A2 Stainless Steel fixings will be up to the vast majority jobs including those near to marine environments subject to specification. However, if you are using fixings in a specific marine or chemical environment which require industrial-strength corrosion resistance, then A4 Stainless Steel fixings should be used.

Which Type of Steel Finish is Best?

As you would have read above there are pros and cons for each… BZP and HDG steel fixings are generally cheaper and more readily available, with HDG fixings offering very good corrosion protection. Cost and availability can obviously be large factors in any decision, but other considerations where Stainless Steel comes out on top such as strength, corrosion protection and the end quality / aesthetically pleasing nature of the finish should be considered too. Ultimately there is no definitive answer and a lot will depend on the conditions the fixings will be used in and project specifications such as; budget, supply, continuity of finish, expected lifespan, ease for maintenance or replacement, indoor or outdoor, wet or dry conditions, possible contact with chemicals etc. By considering each of these elements the right type of steel finish can be chosen to suit the required project.

Steel Finishes Summary

BZP - Bright Zinc Plated:

Advantages:

• Low-cost option
• Aesthetically pleasing finish
• Easy to work with

Disadvantages:

• For indoor use, as low corrosion resistance

HDG - Hot Dip Galvanised:

Advantages:

• Relitively low-cost option
• Offers good degree of corrosion protection
• Easy to work with

Disadvantages:

• Dull look, not as aesthetically pleasing as the other finishes

A2 Stainless Steel:

Advantages:

• Offers high degree of strength and corrosion resistance
• Aesthetically pleasing finish

Disadvantages:

• Higher cost option (although depending upon conditions can be a very cost effective by reducing maintenance and replacement)
• Due to strength can be harder to work with when installing
• Can tarnish over time

A4 Stainless Steel:

Advantages:

• Offers highest degree of strength and corrosion resistance
• Can be used in marine and chemical environments
• Less likely to tarnish over time
• Aesthetically pleasing finish

Disadvantages:

• Highest cost option (although depending upon conditions can be a very cost effective by reducing tarnishing, maintenance and replacement)
• Due to strength can be harder to work with when installing
• Supply – not so freely available, as for use in specific environments

Check out our main types of product finishes here.

You can view our full range of threaded fasteners here or for further information advice contact our Sales team on: 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk

Specialising in concrete / steel fastening systems, the Spit brand is widely recognised in the construction market throughout Europe. It offers solutions for all building professionals: electricians, plumbers, plasterers, metalworkers, facadiers, masons etc.

The Spit brand is one of the forerunners for concrete and steel fastening solutions and provides its users with maximum comfort and potential time-saving.

Pulsa 40E and Pulsa 40P+

The fastest, most durable and reliable tool for direct fixing of electrical cable management. These new and enhanced cordless gas nailers are for M&E applications and can be used for fixing into concrete, steel, masonry and timber.

They have an impressive 3,500 shots per charge so you can work more and charge less. Using one of the Pulsa 40 nailer’s can be up to 8 times faster than traditional methods of fixing.

As well as speed the Pulsa 40 also has a number of health and safety benefits with reduced hand / arm vibration and maximum dust protection. Using a Pulsa cordless gas nailer, means there is no more need to drill holes for fixings, which drastically reduces the risk of dangerous dust.

In addition to the cordless gas nailers themselves Pulsa also offer a range of fixings designed for use with the nailers to provide quick and simple fixing solutions for pipework, cabling and conduit. Many of which comply to the 18^th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671:2018), such as:

Pulsa Metal Clip Elec - Compliant to the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671:2018), these are an aesthetic metal cable tie base solution for up to 9mm wide cable ties, that’s quick and easy to install.

Pulsa Metal Clip Elec - Snap Off - Compliant to the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671:2018), these are similar to the Metal ClipElec, however this version has a handy snap off safety tab for holding in position before firing.

Pulsa Metal Ceiling Cable Tie Clip - Compliant to the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671:2018), these simple right-angled steel clips are for the installation of suspended light duty components with metal cable ties.

Pulsa Steel Single P-Clips - Compliant to the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671:2018), P-Clips can be installed quickly for fixing cable, conduit and pipework.

Pulsa Threaded Rod Hanger Clip - Compliant to the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671:2018). An alternative to traditional drop-in anchors to quickly and easily hang M8 and M10 studding, chains or suspension cables.

What Are Rockwool Blocks?

Rockwool blocks are insulated pipe supports designed to improve energy efficiency. The effective insulation they provide, helps prevents thermal bridging and heat loss or gain to the pipework through the pipe support bracket.

They can be used to support and insulate a wide range of pipework such as Low Temperature Hot Water (LTHW) and Chilled Water (CHW) systems.

What's so Special About Rockwool Blocks?

The biggest benefit of using Rockwool Blocks over Phenolic and Hardwood Blocks is their suitability for use with pipework temperatures up to 250°C and their superior fire classification.

Rockwool Pipe Support Blocks are manufactured from high density mineral wool that is non-combustible and has a high load bearing capacity. So, Rockwool’s recent introduction of these insulated pipe support blocks adds a new dimension to the pipe support market and are a welcome addition to the existing Phenolic and Hardwood Blocks on the market.

Main Benefits of Rockwool Blocks:

• Superior fire classification as manufactured from non-combustible stone wool.
• Energy efficient – minimising thermal bridging.
• Foil faced to maintain vapour control.
• High point load resistance and effective load bearing capability.
• Robust and lightweight suitable for handling on site.

Rockwool Block Technical Details:

Rockwool Pipe Support Blocks are pre-formed and pre-cut into cylindrical sections with a foil facing finish to provide an integral vapour barrier.

• Reaction to fire: Non-combustible stone wool.
• Service temperature: Stone wool: 0-250°C Aluminium foil: ≤ 80°C.
• Specific heat: 0.84 KJ/KgK.
• Water vapour diffusion resistance:(µ)>10,000.

Are Rockwool Blocks Easy to Install?

Yes, they are very easy to install. Simply open the pre-cut block and place around the pipe, then seal in place with the aluminium foil self-adhesive overlap. This provides a continuous vapour barrier around the block.

What Sizes are Rockwool Blocks Available In?

Rockwool Blocks are available in thicknesses which the market is already used to with Phenolic and Hardwood Blocks. We are working with Rockwool to make sure Rockwool Blocks are available to suit the most common pipe sizes for each thickness of block:

• View 20mm Thick Rockwool Block Sizes
• View 25mm Thick Rockwool Block Sizes
• View 30mm Thick Rockwool Block Sizes
• View 40mm Thick Rockwool Block Sizes
• View 50mm Thick Rockwool Block Sizes

How Do Rockwool Blocks Compare Against Phenolic and Hardwood Blocks?

Rockwool Blocks can be used as an alternative to Phenolic and Hardwood Blocks to provide an insulated pipe support. Below is a summary of how each block type compares.

Rockwool Blocks – Superior fire classification and high load bearing capability. They are robust and lightweight, suitable for handling on site. Note a thicker density block may be needed to deliver the same degree of insulation as Phenolic Blocks.

Phenolic Blocks – Lightweight and provide great insulation. Typically, they will be the lowest cost option. Their maximum temperature is 180°C, which is 70°C less than Rockwool Blocks. Note they can sustain some damage (degree of crushing) if handled roughly on site or during installation.

Hardwood Blocks – A traditional and very sturdy pipe support with very high load bearing capability. Note if supplying blocks from a sustainable wood source (FSC) they can be expensive. They also have a lower fire resistance than Phenolic or Rockwool Blocks.

How Can I Order Rockwool Blocks?

You can view and order our Rockwool Block range online here.

Alternatively, for further information on Rockwool Blocks or to order directly, contact our Sales Support team on: 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk

Cordless drills, drivers, saws, cutters, grinders, planers and more, powered by nickel-cadmium batteries, are so ubiquitous it is difficult to remember a time when you had to confine your work to places within cord range of an electric socket, and yet it is scarcely more than a century since the first modern power tools came into existence.

The development of electric motors towards the end of the 19^th century led quickly to the use of those motors to power a variety of tools across all trades, initially fixed bench tools, and then quickly thereafter, portable tools with names like Makita, Black & Decker, De Walt, and Bosch being among the best-known power tool brands.

Makita's Origins

The Makita Electric Works was originally founded in March 1915 by Mosaburo Makita in Nagoya, Japan. It began as a workshop, repairing electric lighting, motors, and transformers. The company began exporting generators to Russia in the 1930s and during World War II moved to the much smaller city of Anjō to avoid air-raids.

A major milestone in the Makita journey came in 1958 with the development of a portable electric planer. The success of this product in international markets, particularly exports to Australia, led Makita to rebrand itself as a power tool company and take a listing on the stock exchange.

First Rechargeable Drill

In 1969, whilst the USA was putting a man on the moon, Makita were making their own kind of history with far more reaching consequences for power tools. Although the 6500D rechargeable drill was not cordless, the cord was attached to a battery pack making it a completely portable drill powered by a rechargeable battery. This meant the user was freed from having to be close to a power socket. A real step forward for battery powered tools.

Makita Goes International

The success of the 6500D meant Makita expanded its power tool range worldwide, through the 1970s, setting up business in France, the UK, Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, as well as establishing more exports and being listed on a number of foreign stock exchanges including in the USA.

Ni-Cad Battery Power Tools and Further Expansion

In 1978, Makita produced its first battery powered drill using a rechargeable nickel-cadmium battery mounted in the handle. The 6010D in its distinctive green moulded plastic case became ubiquitous on work sites through the eighties, joined by other cordless power tools. Indeed, their battery powered screwdrivers were essential kit for many, and ‘Makita’ became, for a time, the generic name for this type of power tool.

In the early eighties Makita introduced an air compressor and nail gun and continued their global expansion into territories like Singapore, Spain, and the USA, as well as actually beginning manufacturing power tools in many of these territories.

The Nineties and Ni-MH Batteries

Makita acquired German chain-saw manufacturer Sachs Dolmar, and continued expanding into new territories including New Zealand, China, Poland, Czech Republic, Argentina, Chile, and Greece.

Adopting new technology and keeping the product up-to-date is an essential part of any successful business venture. As newer, more powerful, nickel metal hydride batteries became available the older Ni-Cd battery looked increasingly poor in comparison. Makita responded by producing the 6213D cordless drill which used the new battery technology and also, thanks to a change in design could be set down upright ready to use. That may seem a small change, but those that can recall the previous Ni-Cd battery drills, will understand what a tremendous time-saver this actually was when working on site and how this was another positive step forward in power tool design.

Makita Into the 21^st Century

During the first decade of the new millennium, Makita established a presence in Romania, Switzerland, Finland, Russia, Slovakia, Ukraine, Peru, Bulgaria, India, Columbia, Vietnam, and in the continent of Africa. They also acquired the ‘nailer’ business of Kanematsu and also, rather curiously, sponsored a Japanese tour by US rock band “Mr Big”, although this appears to be a one-off.

The main milestone product was Makita’s first lithium-ion powered drill the TD130D and the new Li-Ion technology spread through the entire power tool range in short order, providing unprecedented power and battery life for a small lightweight power pack.

During the last decade, Makita made their presence known in Thailand, Slovenia, Malaysia, Belgium, and Kazakhstan, and in 2015 the company celebrated its 100^th birthday.

Looking to the Future of Makita and Power Tools

Although this post has largely focused on cordless drills, Makita offers a huge range of power tools, both mains powered and cordless, across pretty much every conceivable application including a complete range of cordless saws, drills, nailers, wrenches, range finders, grinders, routers, sanders, and planers, as well as gardening tools, vacuum cleaners and dust management tools. Who can say where technology will take us in the next hundred years? Potential new technologies include solid state batteries or lithium-sulphur, which could be the next big developments for power tools.  

One thing is for sure though with the history of research and innovation that Makita has, you can reasonably expect them to be at the forefront of each new development in power tool battery technology. Plus, they can be relied upon to continually seek to improve the design and performance of Makita power tool range.

Need Power Tool Advice? Contact our Team

If you need  technical advice or wish to discuss your requirements simply contact our team on 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk

Alternatively you can check out our Power Tool Range here.

Download our handy guide now. Click Here

Many types of decking require specific fixings that have been designed for use with them, such as the specialised decking fixings produced by Lindapter. However, it’s hard to source the correct fixing unless you know what type of decking you're working with! This is where our new handy guide comes in 😊

We’ve stripped away a lot of the detail on the decking types which you won’t necessarily need, in order to make it quick and easy for you to identify a type of decking.

To identify a particular type of decking you need to combine three factors:

1. Profile Pattern

Check the pattern stamped on the inside of the decking profile. This will typically be a simple combination of symbols which is then repeated. These patterns have been designed by the manufactures to help identify their decking.

2. Fixing Recess Dimensions

The majority of decking types have a fixing recess with specific dimensions that the relevant fixing is designed to fit, in order to provide a secure fixing. Measure the width at the bottom of the fixing recess and if possible, its height too.

3. Profile Shape.

By looking at the profile as across section you can distinguish its shape. Is it wide or narrow, shallow or deep?

Armed with these three pieces of key information you can use our guide to help quickly identify the decking type and the suitable fixings to use.

First things first, you won’t win any prizes for guessing that the name ‘Lindapter’ is a contraction of a surname and the word ‘adapter’. Henry Lindsay was the owner of that surname, and he was an engineer working for Crofts (engineers) of Thornbury, Bradford, specialising in power transmission for woollen and cotton mills in Yorkshire and Lancashire. As is so often the case with important new inventions, Lindsay observed the difficulties involved in securing equipment to wrought iron or cast-iron structures in the mills and concluded there had to be an easier method than laboriously drilling holes, especially when the installation might only be temporary.

The Lindsay Bolt Adapter

Lindsay’s idea was, like many of the best ideas, astonishingly simple and almost obvious, and yet had been overlooked up to 1934 when he set up Henry Lindsay Ltd. in Queen’s Road, Bradford, with his wife Bertha and son Lawrence. The Lindsay, malleable iron hook-bolt adapter, turned an ordinary bolt into an effective clamp which could be securely fastened to iron beams allowing equipment to be attached securely without the need for time consuming and expensive drilling, and with the added benefit of being demountable. It didn’t take long for the name Lindsay and the word adapter to be contracted into the portmanteau ‘Lindapter’.

Development Of Lindapter And WWII

Patents were applied for and granted; the US patent 2,161,259 for a “hook adapter” was granted on June 6^th, 1939. In September of the same year Britain declared war on Germany. With industry ramped up to the maximum possible output the demand for Lindapter products soared and the company was involved with a number of wartime projects including Bailey Bridges (portable prefabricated bridges used for speedy temporary river crossings), Mulberry Harbours (temporary portable harbour structures used in the Normandy Landings), and Operation PLUTO (Pipe-Lines Under The Ocean) which was intended to supply fuel to the Allied invasion force.

Lindapter Post War

Following World War II there was, of course, much to do. Restructuring for peacetime production and developing new products. A 1948 product catalogue proudly declared, “Lindsay bolt adapters magnify the vast utility of the ordinary bolt”, adding “Designing simplified. Forging eliminated. Drilling avoided. Strength maintained. Erection expedited.” It then went on in 52 pages to detail in part colour, the many products which Lindapter now produced to make the working lives of builders and engineers that much simpler.

Henry Lindsay had been born in 1873 so was already into his 70s by the end of the war. In 1954 he died, leaving the task of taking Lindapter forward towards the 21^st century to his son Lawrence.

The company had initially kept up the power transmission side of the engineering business, capitalising on Henry’s expertise built up over his years working for Crofts, however, as the Lindapter side of the operation grew it eclipsed the former.

Bringing The Lindapter Story Up To Date

The last half century has seen Lindapter move premises several times to accommodate their increasing range and production requirements and switching emphasis to working with steel rather than cast and wrought iron, however, one thing which has remained is their location in Henry Lindsay’s hometown of Bradford.

Today’s product range would run to rather more than the 52-page catalogue offered in 1948, with products being divided into groups such as Girder clamps, Hollo-bolts & Lindibolts, Decking fixings, Cavity fixings, Support fixings, Floor fixings, Rail fixings, and Lifting points. Lindapter, continue to innovate and develop their product range with two of the latest product launches being their Type AMD and Type COM decking fixings.

For more than 80 years Lindapter products have been used on a wide variety of major projects. Including the Eiffel Tower in France, the Halley V research Station on the Brunt Ice Shelf, in Antarctica, the 11^th century Falkenburg Castle, in Germany, London’s Tower Bridge, and the 73 story Wilshire Grand Center, in Los Angeles.

It’s a pleasure to work with Lindapter, a British company with a respected reputation that has remained true to its roots, and yet can compete on the world stage, supplying some of the biggest projects around.

Lindapter Fixings

For details of the Lindapter products we can supply, contact our team on sales@fixmart.co.uk or 01322 274226

View our Lindapter range: www.fixmart.co.uk/brand/lindapter

Please note that Tuesday 22nd will be our last day of taking orders for next day delivery. For any urgent delivery requirements please contact our team who will be happy to help.

We look forward to trading with you in 2022 and are here to assist you until our closure for the holidays, simply contact us on: 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk

Enjoy the holidays and happy New Year from all the Fixmart Team!

This recess allows for a fixing such as a specific Lindapter decking fixing or wedge nut to be inserted by hand into the v channel rotated 90° and wedged into position to provide a secure fixing for threaded rod or a bolt. Wedge nuts have a tapped hole and typically will offer a range of thread sizes from M6 up to a maximum of M12.

Wedge nuts get their name from the way they wedge against the sides of the v channel and are also known as v nuts or vee nuts after the v channel that they fit into.

Each type of steel decking has different dimensions for their v channel and will have distinct profiles and pattern markings to help contractors identify the type of metal decking used and the fixing required to suit. Wedge nuts also therefore come in various sizes to suit the specific v channel of the most common decking types. Below is a brief summary of some common wedge nuts, their dimensions, thread and suitable decking types:

Standard Wedge Nut

Mini Wedge Nut

Mini-Mini Wedge Nut

To help identify between the three main sizes of wedge nuts the standard and mini-mini wedge nuts both have pointed corners and the medium sized mini wedge nut has round corners. The reason behind this is that if a contractor comes across a type of wedge nut that has already been used with the decking on site, by having the middle version with round corners and the size difference between the other two, it makes it straight forward for a supplier to advise the contractor of the type of wedge nut that they need.

For further details on how to identify types of decking and the relevant wedge nut or alternative decking fixing to suit you can download our handy Decking Identification guide here.

Specialist variations of wedge nut are also on the market such as Uni-Wedge BN2. The Uni-wedge provides a fixing in the same way as a wedge nut by wedging into the steel decking’s v channel. However, with a Uni-wedge there are three thread holes (M6, M8 and M10) included rather than just one, in order to provide greater flexibility. Also, once Uni-Wedges have been slotted into the v channel they are secured in place by the incorporated grub screw using a 4mm allen key.

In addition to wedge nuts, manufacturers such as Lindapter and Walraven have produced their own range of decking fixings to suit specific metal decking systems in order to suspend cables, pipework, ductwork and other building services. So, if contractors are in any doubt, they should contact a decking fixing manufacturer such as Lindapter or suppliers like ourselves for advice. Contact Us.

Useful Links:

View our range of Wedge Nuts

View our range of Decking Fixings

Download our Decking Fixings guide

Cam-out is where the driver strips or smooths the shaped recess in the screw head, making future use difficult. Cam-out is caused when excessive torque (power) is applied which is more likey to happen when a power tool is used to drive the fastener.

SLOTTED                                                             

Dating back to the 1500s this is the oldest type of drive. It's still a common design but it's now used in less applications where a power tool will be used to drive the fastener due to their tendancy to cam-out. 

PHILLIPS

Also known as turnscrews, they have a cross slotted design which is less likely to cam-out than the standard slotted type. Named after Henry F. Phillips the owner of the company which purchased the design from John P. Thompson, who invented it in 1932.

POZI

Similar to Phillips with a self-centering design and modified shape for improved engagement between bit and fastener which increases torque. They have extra parallel flutings which provide greater resistance to cam-out and help prevent the ejection force during tightening or loosening. Also known as Pozidriv which is an acronym of 'positive drive'.

ALLEN or INTERNAL HEXAGON

Also known as Hex drive, these are a compact fitting driver with six contact surfaces between fastener and driver. However they are prone to cam-out when used with power tools.

SQUARE

Also known as a Robertson drive after their invention by P. L. Robertson in 1908. Their square head provides greater contact between the bit and fastener, making them markedly more resistant to cam-out.

TORX

Developed in 1967 by Camcar Textron, this trademarked type of screw drive is characterized by a 6-point star shaped pattern. Hence they are also known as star drive or 6-lobe bits. The use of Torx screws is becomming increasingly popular in construction industries as they are more resistant to cam-out and excellent for when a fastener needs to be tightened to high level of torque.

PIN TORX

Similar to Torx these drives are used with tamper proof security screws. Often referred to as 6-Lobe Pin drives as the Torx screws have a central pin inside their 6-lobe recess preventing removal with standard Torx tools.

EXTERNAL HEXAGON

For use with hex head fasteners with no recess in their head. External hexagon drivers fit directly over the hex head of fasteners providing greater surface contact and making cam-out less likely.

We learnt a lot from the first lockdown and have a number of processes in place to protect you and our staff. We are striving to continue to deliver the same great service you have come to expect from Fixmart and to ensure you can safely get the supplies you need for essential projects.
 
We’re here to support you:

• We have great stocks of key lines to keep your projects going.
• We have a workforce that are staying safe but are still available talk to, give advice, process orders and raise quotations.
• We are still delivering via our van and courier network, plus our collection point is open too.
• We’re safety conscious and have clear health and hygiene protocols in place to protect you and our staff, in line with government advice.
• We understand you need us to flexible and adaptable given the current daily challenges you face.

We’re here to help! Please don’t hesitate to contact your account manager directly. Alternatively you can contact our Sales Support Team and place orders via email: sales@fixmart.co.uk, phone: 01322 274226 or online: www.fixmart.co.uk.

Thank you for your continued custom, and if there is any change to the way we need to operate due to a change in government advice we will of course update you.

Yours sincerely, 

Steve Boyt

Sales Director

Ps you can continue to monitor all our COVID-19 Updates on our website

If you think for a moment about joining two wires, there are a number of ways you can do it. You could twist them together by hand, you could solder, clamp the wires between two plates a nut and bolt, or thread the ends of the wire and use a double ended nut. The former methods make keeping the wire under tension difficult, while the latter require tools and skill. For something like repairing a wire fence in a field full of livestock, what would be ideal is a simple device that can join two wires and add the right amount of tension and, ideally, use only one hand. Enter one of the most brilliant yet simple inventions of the 20^th century.

An Idea is Born

In 1985, wire salesman Hugh Facey found himself talking to a customer on a wet, Welsh hillside. The customer was bemoaning the very problem of joining wires on fencing, no doubt a common challenge when attempting to shepherd a large flock of sheep. The farmer didn’t particularly want to spend hours tying makeshift knots in wires and trying to get the tension right. Nor did he want to fiddle with spanners and bolts, especially in winter. As so often happens, need is the mother of invention and Facey went back to his offices in Sheffield with an idea burning in his mind. It took a couple of years’ worth of careful development and planning to get the Gripple joiner exactly right, but the result speaks for itself.

So What Is a Gripple?

What he came up with was, at once, astonishingly effective, and breathtakingly simple. It solved every problem the farmer had identified at a stroke. The name, in case you were wondering, comes from the fact that it both grips, and pulls the wire. The Gripple joiner is a small (you could hold several in your hand) self-contained device containing a tiny magic spell. OK, that’s a lie, it’s two spring loaded ball bearings set at just the right angle that when the wire moves into the device it is gripped tightly. Once two wires are in you can increase the tension without using any tools. If you overtighten there is a small release mechanism allowing you to loosen it again.

Expansion and Further Applications

Without going into an inordinate amount of detail, you may surmise that the product was a success. In fact, before the first prototype had even been tested, there was a commitment from an Australian company ‘BHP’ to market the product in Australia, resulting in, among other things, Gripple wire joiners being used to repair and maintain the three-and-a-half-thousand-mile Great Dingo Fence. It is also unsurprising that invention of a simple one-handed item for joining wires was never going to be limited to just connecting wire fences together on sheep farms. Gripple added products to the range including joiners for larger wires, two-ply barbed wire, and then for steel cable.

By the end of the nineties Gripple products were being used more and more in the building services sector for suspending M&E, HVAC services, such as pipework, cabling and ductwork. The fact that Gripple kits are so light weight plus the speed of installation make Gripple solutions a huge time-saver for the construction industry. Gripple have continued to add to their range with new innovative products from specialist end fixings to Fast Trak, all with speed and simplicity for the installation of building services in mind. Gripple products can be found in such locations as New York’s Yankee Stadium, the Atlantis Hotel in Dubai, and indeed in Hillsborough college in their home-town of Sheffield.

A Forward Thinking Company

brilliantly simple yet effective invention that came about because of a chance conversation followed by a lot of hard work and persistence. Nor is it the fact that it was invented in the UK and remains a British business success story in a city like Sheffield which has seen its fair share of industrial setbacks. The thing we were really impressed by when researching the product some time ago was the way the company is set up. Although Gripple Ltd. and another company Loadhog Ltd. , founded in 2003, are fairly conventional set-ups, Hugh Facey wanted to ensure that employees would feel proprietorial about the company they worked for and would benefit long term from the association.

In 2011 he set up GLIDE (Growth Led Innovation Driven Employee) Co. Ltd. The set-up of this led to the policy that all employees must buy at least £1,000 of shares within one year of joining a GLIDE member business. By encouraging those who works for GLIDE Co. Ltd. to invest in a stake in the success of the company it means everyone is more positively motivated towards that success, and equally, everyone is rewarded fairly for the effort they put in.

So, with the company having celebrated its 30^th birthday in 2019, and expanding into new countries and territories, with innovative new products and new applications for old products being developed on an ongoing basis, it looks like Gripple is here to stay which can only be a good thing.

How can contractors identify decking types?

So how can contractors identify the type of steel decking and fixing they need? Each decking type has a slightly different profile and patterned markings with specific measurements for their fixing recess. So, if you know what to look for you can identify the type of decking used on site and request the suitable decking fixing for it. You can download our handy Decking Identification guide here.

Once a contractor has identified the type of composite decking used, it is then a reasonably straight forward task to find the fixing to suit as many fixings manufacturers will state which decking profiles their fixings are suitable for.

Lindapter decking fixings

Lindapter, are probably the most well known in the market having developed a range of fixings to suit the specific profile recesses for the most common composite decking types. Established in 1936, Lindapter focus on producing innovative fixings for use with steelwork which allow for quick installation and reduced costs, whilst preserving the integrity of the steelwork (by eliminating the need to drill or weld the steel). This makes Lindapters ideal for suspending cables, pipework and HVAC systems from many of the most common decking types. 

Lindapter decking fixings have been designed in conjunction with the various decking manufacturers to ensure obligatory requirements are meet from ease of installation to static load. Each type of Lindapter decking fixing is intended to fit a specific decking profile dovetail recess. Below is a brief summary of the Lindapter range of fixing and the specific composite decking they are suitable for:

• Lindapter Type COM

Type COM Lindapter decking Fixings are designed for ComFlor® 60 and ComFlor® 80 profiles manufactured Tata Steel and consist of a locking plate and wedge. When correctly positioned within the profile recess the Type COM fixing can be tightened using threaded rod or bolt and hex nut. Note this is the first M10 fixing availble for ComFlor® 60 and ComFlor® 80 decking profiles.

• Lindapter Type AMD

Type AMD Lindapter decking Fixings are designed for AMD60 and AMD80 profiles manufactured by Anglian Metal Deck Ltd (AMD) and consist of a locking plate and wedge. When correctly positioned within the profile recess the Type AMD fixing can be tightened using threaded rod or bolt and hex nut.

• Lindapter Type TR60

Type TR60 Lindapter decking fixings are designed for TR60+ and TR80+ profiles manufactured by Structural Metal Decks and consist of a locking plate and wedge. When correctly positioned within the profile recess the Type TR60 fixing can be tightened using threaded rod or bolt and hex nut.

• Lindapter Type MF

Type MF Lindapter decking fixings are designed for use with MetFloor® 60 & Metfloor® 80 profiles manufactured by Composite Metal Flooring (CMF®) and consist of a bracket and wedge. When correctly positioned within the profile recess the Type MF fixing can be tightened using threaded rod or bolt and hex nut.

• Lindapter Type MW2 – Multiwedge 2

Type MW2 - Multiwedge 2 Lindapter decking fixings are designed for Multideck 60 and Multideck 80 profiles manufactured by Kingspan Structural Products and consist of bracket and multinut. When correctly positioned within the profile recess the Type MW2 fixing can be tightened using threaded rod or bolt and hex nut.

• Lindapter Type AW – Alphawedge

Type AW – Alphawedge Lindapter decking fixings are designed for Ribdeck E60 manufactured by Hare Decking, formerly Richard Lees Steel Decking and consist of a locking plate and wedge. When correctly positioned within the profile recess the Type AW – Alphawedge fixing can be tightened using threaded rod or bolt and hex nut.

• Lindapter Type SD2 – Slimdek 2

Type SD2 – Slimdek 2 Lindapter decking fixings are designed for the ComFloor 225 profile manufactured by Tata Steel Europe. The SD2 – Slimdek 2 offers a fully flexible suspension position by clamping to the decking profile by tightening its cam nut. Lindapter V-nuts can then be used to provide a secure fixing in conjunction with SD2 – Slimdek 2.

• Lindapter Type VN V-nut

Type VN V-nuts are designed to fit the profile recess of several composite floor deckings. Including: R51 (SMD), ComFlor® 51 (Tata Steel®), Holorib® (Hare Decking), Superib® (Hare Decking), Multideck® 50 (Kingspan®) and MetFloor® 55 (CMF®). Simply screw the v-nut onto threaded rod or bolt insert into the profile dovetail recess and rotate 90° allowing for the tapered edges to wedge against the sides of the profile recess. For this reason, V-nuts are also commonly known as wedge nuts.

The importance for contractors to correctly identify the type of decking they are working with

The importance for contractors to identify the type of composite decking they are working with is clear. As they need to be able to request the correct fixings to fit into the decking profile recess so they are able to create a secure fixing to install building services. Not having the correct type of fixing could cause delays and have a knock-on effect to other phases of the project, which as time is money in construction can prove costly. In addition to wasted labour there is also the potential of financial penalties for the installer.

Likewise, if under time pressure the installer cuts corners by using the wrong type of fixing or drills holes in the decking and floor above to provide a fixing. They are then in danger of undermining the integrity of the floor or more seriously the fixing for installing the building services could collapse, which would incur their own financial penalties.

If contractors are in any doubt, they should contact decking fixing manufacturers such as Lindapter or suppliers like ourselves for advice.

Useful Links:

• Download our Decking Fixings guide

• View our range of Decking fixings

• View our Lindapter range

To protect yourselves and others please also wear a mask and follow social distancing guidance whilst at the collection point. 

Below we look at the standard range of channel fixings and their functions, as well as a few more specialised equivalents.

Channel Nuts

• Plain Channel Nuts

Channel nuts are a simple and effective specialised nut for use with channel struts. They are designed with a rectangular shape which can be inserted between the channel edges and then turned 90° to fit against the inturned edges of the channel. Additionally, the nuts have a serrated groove which locks against the channel edges giving a secure locking fit. Plain nuts are ideal for the majority of applications, especially where cost is an issue, or where assembly can be done in advance, or access is easy.

• Spring Channel Nuts (for precise and easy placement)

In certain circumstances, for example when assembling channel at height, or where you need both hands for other things, you want a channel nut which will stay in place. Spring channel nuts are perfect for this as you don’t need to hold them whilst inserting the stud or bolt. Sometimes colloquially referred to as Zebs, in honour of the Magic Roundabout character Zebedee whom they resemble, these nuts are available with a long spring for 41mm x 41mm channel, or a short spring for the 21mm deep channel. The spring holds the nut in place leaving your hands free to hold other parts of the structure and tighten the bolt. It also ensures the nut won’t fall out which can save a lot of time when working up a ladder or on a platform.

Square Plates

As well as channel nuts you will use a lot of square plates when assembling channel support systems. They are a specialised washer which is 40mm x 40mm to fit neatly across the open channel struts. The stud is then tightened onto this, with a suitable hex nut and washer, into the channel nut behind providing a secure base for attaching other accessories.

• Choice of thicknesses

The standard thickness for square plates is 5mm, although thinner 3mm square plates such as Unistrut’s thin plate will suffice for the majority of applications. The thinner plates cost less, as they use less metal.

• Flat or lipped?

Square plates can be flat or have a lip which wraps around the edges of the channel which strengthens the structure by gripping the open edges. This can be particularly useful where there might be additional strain on the strut which might otherwise tend to force the edges apart.

• Choice of hole size

Square plates are available with a range of hole sizes corresponding to the thread sizes available in channel nuts. The threads range from M6 to M16 although M8 and M10 are the most common sizes in use. The larger thread obviously allows for a larger stud which provide greater strength to the connection of your fixing.

Hex Bolts and Nuts

Hex bolts and nuts are combined with channel nuts and square plates to create a fixing from the channel length from which to secure building services.

Select a suitable hex bolt, or stud and hex nut, to lock down the plate and provide a connection for attaching other accessories. As already mentioned, the bolt / stud thread should correspond with the channel nut you are using.

Pre-assembled Channel Nut and Square Plates

For some channel assembly jobs, where speed is of the essence, it may be preferable to select a nut and plate assembly which uses a plastic spring that holds everything in place until you are ready to tighten the stud.

• Channel Nut Assemblies

Although this type of nut assembly costs more than spring nuts it is the easiest to use, especially with slotted channel where the spring can sometimes get caught in the slots. As such, the time saved could more than offset the extra costs.

• Hammerfix for Rapid Rail also includes a threaded rod as a fixing connection

Rapid Rail is a small form-factor channel system which is designed to be quicker and easy to install than standard channel. Rapid Rail Hammerfix assemblies are among the fastest to install of any channel fixing. Insert and turn a quarter turn, the whole assembly stays in place, and then tighten the hex nut onto the stud.

Common Fixings for Securing Channel Lengths

Of course, in most cases channel support systems do not stand alone but are fixed to walls / ceilings using suitable anchors such as:

• Wedge Anchors and Through Bolt Anchors

Two standard types of concrete anchors are wedge anchors and through bolt anchors. Both require a hole to be drilled of the correct size and depth to accommodate the wedge and bolt / stud. When the bolt is tightened it forces the anchor to expand in the hole creating the fixing. This type of anchor is cheap and effective although it does require some preparation and cannot be repositioned.

• Concrete Screws

Concrete screws are specially designed self-tapping screws for driving directly into concrete. They merely require a starter hole, so they take less time to install and cause less dust and noise on site. They can also be repositioned and because there is no expansion, they can also be used closer together. The initial cost is greater but in many situations the time saved in installation may actually make them the lower cost option overall.

Channel Sockets

Channel sockets are commonly used when fixing channel to ceilings and walls to provide a firm fixing. Because channel lengths (struts) are 41mm wide and their open edges turn in on themselves, a channel socket rather than a regular hex socket is required. Channel sockets have a narrower wall than regular hex sockets and are designed to fit inside the channel section recess, to quickly drive both hex bolts and nuts.

Channel End Caps

Although a great deal of channel is used for purely practical applcations there may be aesthetic or health and safety reasons for using plastic end caps to produce a clean, smooth and stylish finish. Certainly, in any application where people may come into contact with the ends of any channel struts, these should be finished off with end caps. 

For advice or further information on channel fixings, brackets and channel please contact our sales team on 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk

Kind Regards

Steve Boyt

Sales Director

Please note in the interest of safety for our customers and staff we are now operating a no contact collection policy. You can still collect pre-ordered goods but please call 07585225472 on arrival, one of our team will then bring your goods out to you.

Collections must pre-ordered with our sales office at least one hour prior to collection, with collections available between 7:00AM and 5:00PM Monday to Friday.

> Call 01322 274226, email sales@fixmart.co.uk or use our website to place your collection order.

We want to update you on our situation as we continue to remain open for trade to support you and other customers, who are working on critical and essential projects, through these challenging times.

We are faced with escalating challenges in our supply chain from product shortages to exchange rate fluctuations on a large number of our main product lines. Whilst we are actively seeking to overcome these, in order to fulfil customer demand and ensure continuity of supply we are having to source products from non-preferred suppliers which has led to some sharp cost increases across the board. 
 
Whilst we remain committed to supporting you and your projects we have no option but to implement a 3.5% price increase on all products as of tomorrow, 1st April. Please do not hesitate to contact your account manager if you require further information on 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk.
 
Meanwhile I would like to take this opportunity to express my sympathy for anyone that has been affected by Coronavirus, plus my deep, heartfelt thanks and gratitude for your custom.

We're all in this together - stay safe.
 
Yours sincerely, 

Steve Boyt

Sales Director

Despite the uncertainty we are striving to continue to deliver the same great service you have come to expect and enjoy from Fixmart whether you place your order via email: sales@fixmart.co.uk, phone: 01322 274226 or online: www.fixmart.co.uk.

At Fixmart we are committed to helping you through these difficult times and you can continue to rely on us to provide the support you need:

• We have great stocks of key lines to keep your projects going.
• We have a remote workforce that are staying safe but can still talk to you, give advice, process orders and raise quotations.
• We are still delivering via our van and courier network.
• We’re flexible and adaptable - We understand you need us to be given the challenges you face.
• We’re safety conscious and have clear health, safety and hygiene protocols in place to protect you and our staff, in line with government advice.

We’re here to help! Please do not hesitate to contact your account manager directly or call us on 01322 274226.

Thank you for your custom.

Kind Regards,

Steve Boyt

Sales Director

Unfortunately we will no longer be able to accept verbal orders over the Trade Counter after Friday 20^th March.

This is due to the current impact of the COVID-19 pandemic with the welfare of our customers and staff being of paramount importance. 

If you wish to collect goods from our Trade Counter from Monday 23^rd March please ensure they have been pre-ordered with our sales office at least 1 hour before collection. 

You can order online at www.fixmart.co.uk, via email: sales@fixmart.co.uk or by phone: 01322 274226

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause but would appreciate your understanding in these challenging times. 

Kind Regards

Steve Boyt

Sales Director

Following the current escalation of the COVID-19 pandemic, I feel it’s important I provide you with an update on how we plan to mitigate risk and prepare ourselves for whatever lies ahead.

One of our core values is Customer First and that remains at the heart of our contingency planning. We are constantly evaluating our plans on how we can continue to operate and deliver on our promises with the welfare of our staff and wider community being of paramount importance.

All of our staff are aware of the guidelines on how best to protect themselves and others against this virus and have been asked to follow Government advice if they feel unwell. We have introduced extra hygiene measures as precautionary and preventative steps to protect those involved in our business. 

If, at any point we feel our service to our customers could be negatively impacted due to COVID-19 we will communicate this openly and directly with you. However, we are confident that we are sufficiently equipped to deal with potential disruptions.

We will actively be reducing face-to-face contact with our clients and site visits even though this is an important part of our service. However, we will be looking to actively keep in contact with our clients using alternative means such as video and conference calls.

I value your custom and want to assure you that we’re still very much open and trading and look forward to continuing to support you with your fixing requirements. Please refer to our website at Fixmart.co.uk for on-going updates. 

My thoughts are with those that have been affected by this virus already and wish you all the best in these difficult times.

Please continue to refer to our website for on-going updates on this situation.

Kind regards

Carl Ghinn

Managing Director

BRIGHT ZINC PLATED (BZP)

Bright Zinc Plated steel provides moderate corrosion resistance but will not prevent rusting or oxidising in an outdoor environment. It is silver in colour being somewhat shiny in appearance. Steel is a good material for strength and commonly used for bolts, nuts and washers.

STAINLESS STEEL

An excellent finish for resisting corrosion and therefore suitable for fixings in an outdoor environment. Also available in a marine grade with extra corrosion resistance which makes it suitable for use in surgical proceedures and underwater intallations.

BRASS

Used in electrical, heating and plumbing industries, brass has a high thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance and is ideal for exterior use. It is also used for fasteners in decorative applications particularly when used in wood such as furniture and door fittings. 

HOT DIP GALVANISING (HDG)

Hot Dip Galvanising is a thicker zinc coating giving good long term corrosion protection and can be used outdoors. The finish is a dull matt grey. Fasteners with this coating are generally bolts, nuts, washers and anchoring fasteners.

ZINC AND YELLOW PASSIVATED (ZYP)

Zinc and Yellow Passivated is an electroplated finish that is yellow in colour giving some extra corrosion protection over against bright zinc. Mainly used for screws and anchoring fasteners.  

CHROME

A smooth shiny silver polished coating used for decorative purpose or to ease cleaning and provide corrosion resistance. Screws and dome covers to conceal screw heads are common examples of this coating.

NICKEL-PLATED STEEL

Nickel plating involves adding a thin layer of nickel onto the base material. Used to provide wear and corrosion resistance or for decorative purposes. The coating is widely used in electronic components and machine parts such as springs.

ELECTRO ZINC

This form of plating applies a thin layer of zinc to metal parts. Its process uses a current of electricity to deposit the zinc. It is a thinner coating than hot dip galvanizing and not for outdoor use. 

ALUMINIUM

A lightweight material that is corrosion resistant and may be used as an alloy to increase its strength. Commonly used as a material for rivets, which can be used for joining plastic and wood as well as sheet metal.

NYLON

Tough and lightweight with good anti-vibration properties and giving a high amount of insulation and corrosion resistance, nylon is often used in the electronics industry. Washers are among the fasteners available in nylon.

PHOSPHOR BRONZE

An alloy of copper and tin with phosphorus which increases corrosion and wear resistance. Primarily used for electrical products and has high elasticity and hence high fatigue resistance.

Nick was delighted to win a Makita LXT (DTW 190Z) 18V 1/2" Impact Wrench, Battery and Charger.

NUTS

Which size of socket or wrench do you need for Hexagon Nuts? See our table below.

HEXAGON NUT

Six sided nut also known as a fullnut. Where these have a reduced height they are known as half nuts or lock nuts.

NYLON INSERT LOCK NUT

These have a nylon insert which gives a good grip and seal when fastened.

Also known as Nyloc Nuts.

DOME NUT

Provide a decorative finish and protective cover for threaded rod and bolts.

Also known as Cap Nuts

SERRATED  FLANGE NUT

With an added flange these give good grip and resist vibration.

Also known as face nuts, spin locks or serrated tooth nuts.

SHEAR NUT

Provides a permanent fastening with the nut shearing off to leave a tamper proof cone when tightened.

BOW NUT

Used for loading and as a restraint, the SWL information is forged on the side of each piece.

Also known as lifting eyes.

CHANNEL NUT

Provide a quick way of connecting channel with bracketry. They are available with spring to help hold in place while positioning.

Also known as zebs or zebedees.

WEDGE NUT

For use in the 'V' channel of metal deckings. The tapped whole accepts threaded rod or bolts.

Also known as vee nuts.

WASHERS

Washer hole sizes correspond to the bolt or fixing diameter that they fit. 

PLAIN WASHER

With a hole in the middle these are used to distribute the load of bolts and nuts when tightened.

PENNY WASHER

Having a much larger outside diameter these spread the load more than other types.

Also known as repair or mudguard washers.

NYLON WASHER

Tough and lightweight they can provide insulation and cushioning with their anti-vibration properties.

RUBBER WASHER 

Used in applications where a tight seal or some give is required. They are durable and water resistant.

SPRING WASHER

When the fastener is tightened against it the split closes and helps prevent loosening.

SHAKEPROOF WASHER - INTERNAL

Have intenally placed teeth that resist vibration and lock when tightened on.

SHAKEPROOF WASHER - EXTERNAL

Have externally placed teeth that resist vibration and lock when tightened on.

SQUARE PLATE WASHER

Provide a larger bearing surface than round washers. Often used in conjunction with metal channel support systems.

LIPPED SQUARE PLATE WASHER

The shape gives extra strength when used with channel support systems.

RUBBER ANTI-VIBRATION SQUARE WASHER

Flexible, durable and water resistant these provide excellent anti-vibration properties.

Carbon Balancing is facilitated by the World Land Trust, a conservation charity, through the preservation of high conservation value forests in the UK. They do important work by purchasing the land of ecologically important standing forests which are due for clearance.

Carbon Balancing compensates the environmental impact of our packaging as for every tonne used, one tonne of CO₂ will be captured in new UK woodlands, certified under the government ’Woodland Carbon Code'. You can read more about this here.

Being a part of the scheme has enabled the capture of 7333 kilogrammes of CO2e from October to December 2019 and allowed Forest Carbon to plant 30 trees, creating a new woodland area of 184m² at Lone Tree Thrimby, Penrith, England. View our Woodland Carbon Capture Certificate.

We used over 11 tonnes of packaging in 2019, so it's great to be involved in a scheme which helps us offset the impact on the environment.

Please note that Monday 23rd will be our last day of taking orders for next day delivery.

We look forward to trading with you in 2020 and are here to assist you up until our closure for the holidays, simply contact sales on 01322 274226 or sales@fixmart.co.uk

All the Fixmart Team would like to wish you a Happy New Year!

There has been a long transition period but many manufacturer’s have now adopted and applied the new standards. Here we cover the main updates from the EN 388:2003 to EN 388:2016 standards.

• The first 4 positions will be numbers the same as the previous EN 388:2003 standard.
• Now in 5th position will be the new ISO TDM cut result (represented by a letter).
• A ‘P’ will be shown in 6th position, if the optional impact protection test has been passed.

If a test isn’t applicable then a X may be displayed instead of a rating.

Other Differences:

• EN 388:2016 uses a new type of abrasive paper. Due to this change, some abrasion levels of protective gloves may change when tested to the updated standard.
• EN 388:2016 addresses flaws in the previous cut test methodology.

Cut (TDM-100 Test)

The new EN ISO13997 Cut TDM-100 Test improves the accuracy of cut performance data. For gloves that achieve a rating higher than 'A' under the new standards you may see an 'X' displayed for the Cut (Coup Test) as this test isn’t typically applicable for gloves achieving a rating between 'B and F'.

Gloves that achieve a 'B to F' rating in the TDM test will generally have returned a result in the the Coup test where the test blade becomes blunted. Hence the TDM result provides a more accurate measurement and superceds the Coup test result.

When buying gloves the new 'A-F' rating should be referenced but a direct comparisons to the old 1-5 cut levels can be difficult. For example under the new ISO13997 test, gloves previously rated as cut level 5 from EN 388:2003, could now be classified as a level 'C/D' or in some cases even a 'B'. However as glove manufacturers apply the new standards remember that if a type of glove met your needs before, its performance hasn’t changed, but only the method of testing.

Cut (TDM-100 Test) Summary of A-F Rating

COUNTERSUNK FLAT

Driven into a countersunk hole these give a flush finish to the surface into which the screw is driven.

Also known as a Flat Head

COUNTERSUNK RAISED

Primarily used for decorative purposes, they are commonly used in socket boxes.

  Also Known as Oval Head

ROUND HEAD

A tall domed head that sits above the surface into which the screw is driven.

BUGLE HEAD

Specifically designed for drywall applications, the head penetrates the plasterboard without breaking it.

PAN HEAD

A low profile domed head that sits above the surface into which the screw is driven.   

MUSHROOM HEAD 

A wide and slightly domed head that sits aove the surface into which the screw is driven.

           Also known as a Truss Head.

WAFER HEAD

Flat dome head with flange that enlarges the contact surface.

FLANGE HEAD

The flange below the head enlarges the contact surface. 

HEX HEAD

Hexagonal head used mainly with larger fasteners such as bolts.

HEX FLANGE HEAD

As with the Hex Head and has a flange under the head which enlarges the contact surface.

HEX FLANGE HEAD WITH BONDED WASHER

Has an additional bonded washer which gives a weather tight seal.

CAP HEAD

A cylindrical head which sits above the surface that may be smooth or knurled. These have an internal hex socket drive.

    Also known as socket screws.

BUTTON HEAD

A medium flattened domed head with an internal hex socket drive.

WOOD SCREWS

Screws with a tapered point and may have a smooth unthreaded portion of shank. Primarily used for pulling two pieces of wood together although they can be used in other soft materials.

Head Types: Countersunk, Pan or Roundhead

Driver Types: Pozi or Slotted for Brass only

Finishes: BZP, ZYP, Brass

CUTTER WOOD SCREWS

These have two slots cut into the thread preventing splitting when used close to edges. They have quick and easy penetration with no need for a pilot hole.

Also known as: Reisser Cutter Screws 

Head Types: Countersunk with ribs on underside to counterbore

Driver Types: Pozi

Finishes: Yellow Tropicalized

CONCRETE SCREWS

For use in concrete, masonry and brick. They are self tapping and do not require a nylon plug and comply with the 18^th Edition BS 7671:2018 IET Wiring Regulations.

Also known as: Concrete Screwbolts or Ankerbolts

Head Types: Countersunk, Pan, Hex Head, Hex Flange Head

Driver Types: Socket or Wrench, Torx Drive

Finishes: Zinc Plated and Clear Passivated

CONCRETE SCREWS WITH CORROSION RESISTANT COATING

For use in concrete, masonry and brick. They are self tapping and do not require a nylon plug and comply with the 18^th Edition BS 7671:2018 IET Wiring Regulations.

Also known as: Concrete Screwbolts or Ankerbolts

Head Types: Countersunk, Pan, Hex Flange Head

Driver Types: Phillips, Socket or Wrench

Finishes: Electroplated and Passivated Zinc with blue colour identifier 

DRYWALL SCREWS

For Fixing Plasterboard to wooden battens or metal studding.

Also known as: Plasterboard Screws                       

Head Types: Bugle Head

Driver Types: Phillips

Finishes: Black Phosphate or BZP

CUP SQUARE HEX BOLTS AND NUTS

Mainly used for clamping timber and has a domed head with a square section underneath.

Also known as: Carriage Bolts and Nuts

Head Types: Domed Head

Driver Types: Socket or Wrench

Finishes: Zinc coated and Passivated

COACH SCREWS

Used for fastening metal or timber to timber. Threaded for use in timber they can also be used in masonry with a nylon plug.

Also known as: Lag Bolts

Head Types: Hex Head

Driver Types: Socket or Wrench

Finishes: Zinc plated and Passivated

Driver Types: Hex Allen or Wrench

Finishes: Zinc Plated and Passivated

MACHINE SCREWS

Fully Threaded for use with a nut or in a tapped hole.

Head Types: Countersunk, Pan or Raised Countersunk Head

Driver Types: Pozi or Slotted for Raised Countersunk Head only

Finishes: BZP, Brass or Nickel Plated

COMBI DRIVE TRAY BOLTS AND NUTS

These bolts come with a serrated flange nut and are used for easily joining cable tray sections without the need of washers.

Also known as: Tray Bolts       

  Head Types: Mushroom Head             

  Driver Types: Pozi & Slotted Combination

  Finishes: BZP                                             

ROOFING BOLTS AND NUTS

Mostly used for joining metal to metal and have a cross slotted mushroom head and square nut.

Also known as: Gutter Bolts   

Head Types: Mushroom Head          

Driver Types: Slotted or Spanner

Finishes: BZP or Galvanised

SELF-TAPPING SCREWS

Fully threaded and self tapping for use in sheet metal and also soft materials such as plastic and fibreglass. They also provide a measure of resistance to vibration.

Also known as: Sheet Metal Screws  

 Head Types: Countersunk, Pan or Flange Head

 Driver Types: Pozi

 Finishes: BZP

SELF-DRILLING SCREWS

Screws with a drill point which not only self taps but removes excess swarf too. Mainly used for sheet metal and cladding.

Also known as: Teks Screws or Tec Screws

Head Types: Countersunk, Pan, Wafer and Hex Washer Head           

Driver Types: Pozi or Square Drive or socket for Hex Washer Head

Finishes: BZP

SELF-DRILLING SCREWS WITH BONDED WASHER

These have a bonded washer which provides a weather tight seal. For roofing and cladding applications.

 Head Types: Hex Washer Head            

 Driver Types: Socket or Wrench

 Finishes: Hex Washer Head

HEX BOLTS

Partially Threaded for use with a nut or in a tapped hole.

     Head Types: Hex Head

     Driver Types: Socket or Wrench

     Finishes: BZP

HEX SET BOLTS

Fully threaded for use with a nut or in a tapped hole.

Also known as: Hex Set Screws or Hex Screws

Head Types: Hex Head            

Driver Types: Socket or Wrench

Finishes: BZP, Galvanised, Stainless Steel and Brass

SOCKET SCREWS

Used in applications where there is limited clearance as they have an internal hex drive.

Head Types: Countersunk, Cap or Button Head              

Driver Types: Hex Allen Key

Finishes: BZP, Stainless Steel

TAMPER RESISTANT SCREWS

Screws with a 6 lobe pin recess. They require a specific matching driver to remove. Available as machine or self tapping screws.

Also known as: Security Screws

   Head Types: Countersunk or Button Head            

   Driver Types: 6 Lobe with Pin Hole

   Finishes: Stainless Steel

NON REMOVABLE SCREWS

The Pozi driver recess is designed not to turn in an anti-clockwise direction so as they cannot be removed.

Also known as: One way screws

Head Types: Countersunk Head  

Driver Types: Pozi – One Way

Finishes: BZP

GRUB SCREWS

These machine screws have no head allowing them to be fully driven into threaded holes.

Also known as: Socket Set Screws  

Head Types: No Head          

Driver Types: Hex Allen Key

Finishes: Stainless Steel

If you can't find product name you've been given, please complete our FAQ form here and we’ll be in touch. This will also help us to grow the list of alternative names for future reference!

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

A

Angle Cleats	90° Brackets
Ankerbolts	Concrete Screws
Allthread	Studding Lengths
Aluminium Tape	Foil Tape

B

Bang In Anchors	Wedge Anchors
Beam Clamps	Flange Clamp
Big Feet	H Frame Set
Blue Screws	Tapcon Screws

C

Cable Tie Mounts	Self-Adhesive Mounts
Caddy Bar	Telescoping Electrical Box Supports
Carriage Bolts and Nuts	Cup Square Hex Bolts and Nuts
Clipelec	Pulsa Clip-Elec Cable Tie Bases
Concrete Drill Bits	SDS Plus Hammer Drill Bits
Concrete Screwbolts	Concrete Screws
Connector Blocks	Terminal Blocks
Corrosion Resistant Concrete Screws	Tapcon Screws
Cut Stud	Pre Cut Studs
Cutter Wood Screws	Reisser R2 Cutter Screws

D

Debris Puffer	Blow Out Pump
Dome Head Screws	Button Head Screws
Drop In Anchors	Wedge Anchors
Drop Rods	Studding Lengths
Duct Tape	Cloth Tape

E

F

Filbow Clamps	Sprinkler Clamps
Flat Plates	Splice Plates
Full Nuts	Hex Nuts

G

G Clamp	Flange Clamp
Gaffer Tape	Cloth Tape
Girder Clamp	Flange Clamp
Girder Clamp for Unistrut	U Bolt Beam Clamp
Grip Fill	Strong Grip Adhesive
Gripple Wire	Catenary Wire
Gutter Bolts & Nuts	Roofing Bolts & Nuts

H

Half Moon Bracket	Split Ring for Spiral Ductwork
Hanger Bolts	Dowel Screws
HDR Fixing	Anchorbolts
Hex Screws	Hex Set Screws Grade 8.8
Hex Set Bolts	Hex Set Screws Grade 8.8
Hilti Hush Screws	Concrete Screws Hex Flange Head
Hilti Shots	Wedge Anchors
Hex Head Driver Bit	Magnetic Socket Driver
Husk Screw	Concrete Screws Hex Flange Head
Hush Screws	Concrete Screws Hex Flange Head

I

J

Jack Point Screws

Self Drill Point Screws

K

Knock In Anchors	Wedge Anchors
Knock In Eye Bolt	Wire Hangers

L

L Brackets	90° Brackets
L Cleats	90° Brackets

M

Mag Drill Cutter	Broaching Cutter
Mastic	Duct Sealants
Metal Drill Bit	HSS-G Drill Bits - Stanadard
Mez(z) Clamp	Duct Clamps
Mez(z) Foam	Foam Gasket Tape
Mud Guard Washer	Penny Washer
Multi Holed Strap	Fixing Bands

N

Non Drill Anchors

Wedge Anchors

O

One Way Screws

Sentinal Non Removeable Screws

P

Plasterboard Screws	Drywall Screws
Plasterboard Fixing	Speed Plug Redi-Driva
Plastic Sheeting	Builders Clear Polythene
Plate Washers	Square Plates
Pop Rivets	Aluminium Rivits
Prestic	Butyl Tape
Press Stick	Butyl Tape

Q

R

Rail Nuts	Channel Nuts
Ram Nuts	Rubber Multi-Purpose Fixing
Rawbolt	Loose Bolt Shield Anchors
Rawl Bolt	Loose Bolt Shield Anchors
Red Eye Shots	Wedge Anchors
Red Heads	Wedge Anchors
Red Spray Paint	Line Marker Aerosol Paint
Repair Washer	Penny Washer
Ring Bracket	Spiral Duct Clamp
Rod Connectors	Studding Connectors
Rubber Compression	Rubber Multi-Purpose Fixing
Rubber Foot With Strut	Fix-It-Foot
Rubber Rawl Nut	Rubber Multi-Purpose Fixing

S

Screw Cap	Cover Cap
Socket Set Screws	Grub Screws
Security Screws	Tamper Resistant Screws
Set Pins	Hex Set Screws Grade 8.8
Sheet Metal Screws	Cross Recess Self-Tapping Screws
Single Point Hanger	Hanger Brackets - Single Compartment
Slide Nut	Rapid Rail Slide Nut with Washer
Solvent Cement	UPVC Solvent Based Pipe Cement
Speed Plugs	Speed Plug Redi-Driva
Split Washer	Spring Washers
Springless Nut	Plain Channel Nuts
Strap Band	Fixing Bands
Strangle Band	Flexible Ductwork Band Clips

T

Tank Cutter	Holesaws
Toothless Anchors	Wedge Anchors
Threaded Bar	Studding Lengths
Threaded Rod	Studding Lengths
Tray Bolts	Tray Bolts Combi Drive and Nuts
Tek Screws	Hex Flange Head Self Drilling Screws
Top Plates	Square Plates
Tubes of Mastic	Duct Sealants

U

Uni Feet	Base Plate
Uni Nut	Plain Channel Nut
Unistrut	Channel
Unleaded Solder	Lead-free Solder

V

W

Wood Screw Cover Cap

Cover Cap

X

Y

Z

Zebedee	Channel Nuts
Zebs	Channel Nuts
Zeb Nut	Channel Nuts
Zip Screws	Countersunk Wood Screws

Adam was delighted to win a Makita LXT (DCS 552Z) 18V Metal Cutter with Battery and charger plus a 136mm Blade.

If you liked our video why not give online ordering a try?

If you're an Existing Fixmart Trade Account customer request online access to your Trade Account here. We'll send you login details within 24hrs.

If you're New to Fixmart you can still order online, simply register for a standard web account and pay by credit card at the check-out or apply for a Trade Account here.

Need more information? Find out more on the benefits of online ordering below:

Finding products, stock availability and easy ordering

Once set up with online access, simply login to access your bespoke pricing.

• Instantly check prices and stock availability.
• Use the intuitive site search to easily find what you need - For eample search for common products names used on site such as ‘Zebs’ which will highlight channel nuts as the product you need.

In your Account Area you’ll find several other useful functions to help you quickly find and order the items you need, such as:

• Frequent Items – provides a list of the top items most frequently purchased on your account. Just enter the quantity you require and add them to your basket.

• Quick Buy – If you know the item code, simply enter it here along with the quantity required. You can even enter a product title and then select what you require from the options provided.

• Repeat Orders – Handy if you place regular stock orders, merely view ‘Your order history’ and click reorder. You can then easily edit your basket by adding or removing items or adjusting the quantities required.

Instant email confirmation and order status

On placing your order you’ll receive instant confirmation via email. You can also keep track of each order in your order history to monitor its status from it being; placed, despatched and completed.

For completed orders you can also easily download your invoice or chose to share it via email.

Quote option / sign off

Do you need to raise a quote for sign off before ordering? Then use our quote option which allows you to simply create, store, download and email quotes for sign off.

Create a new quote then add items via the site search as you would to a basket or alternatively add items to your basket and then save it as quote to conveniently retrieve later.

Our quote option also allows you to include a delivery option so the final total will accurately match the PO raised, which prevents you having to go back for additional approval.

Once confirmed, convert your quote to an order at a click of a button.

Account management

With an online account you’ll have greater control with a central hub to monitor your online orders:

1) Update your details at a touch of a button

• Easily add or remove delivery addresses
• Update your contact details
• Change your password

2) You can also view your online order history by delivery address for fast and efficient monitoring

Sign up for online ordering

Existing Fixmart Trade Account customers

Expanding anchors

One of the cheapest options in terms of unit cost, expanding anchors are inserted into a pre-drilled hole of the correct diameter. When the bolt or stud is screwed in and tightened up, the anchor expands against the sides of the hole making a solid fixing.

Advantage – relatively cheap and simple.

Disadvantage – expansion requires sound concrete, and the fixing cannot be repositioned.

• Wedge anchors

Wedge anchors are cheap and simple to use and can be combined with a bolt or stud to provide effective fixing. As the stud is tightened it forces the wedge to open up into the hole in the same way as a rawlplug.

• Through bolt anchors

A high-performance one-piece expansion bolt ideal for heavy duty through anchors into concrete and brick. On tightening, the bolt expands the collar at the end to provide the fixing.

• Shield anchors

Shield anchors can be used with any bolt, stud, or other threaded fixings of the right size. The tightening of the bolt pulls a wedge which forces the surrounding shield to open up into the hole.  

• Sleeve anchors

A through fixing with an elongated expansion sleeve for use with brick as well as concrete.

All these anchors are available in a range of lengths and thread sizes.

Resin anchors

For certain applications, a resin anchor system is needed. Although more expensive, this system is ideal when an exceptionally secure fixing is required, such as where the fixings are overhead or in any situation where a failure would be catastrophic. The resin capsule is inserted into a predrilled hole and the thread is then screwed into it. This gives a very high strength fixing which benefits from not expanding into the surrounding material meaning it can be used in wet or cracked materials and close to edges.

Advantage – very strong reliable anchor, doesn’t expand.

Disadvantage – high cost.

Concrete screws

While rather more expensive to buy than expanding anchors, concrete screws offer several advantages over traditional concrete fixings. Since they are self-tapping with only a small pilot hole required, they are a lot faster to install, and there is considerably less dust produced. They also require less skill to use correctly and can be used close together or close to edges since they do not significantly expand in the material. Another advantage to concrete screws is that, unlike resin or expansion fixings, they can be repositioned. In a great many installations, the additional cost of the product will be more than offset by cost savings for time and manpower.  

Advantage – easy and quick to install and reposition.

Disadvantage – high cost.

Current Role

I phone our Suppliers daily to ensure delivery dates are correct to enable Fixmart to fulfil our delivery requirements for our Customers. I play a key part in keeping the busy team fed by ordering the weekly shopping for provisions and also the daily lunches. I also keep a list of staff birthdays which brings an element of cheer into the working day on such occasions.

What is important to you?

My family as they are always there for me and I am always there for them.  I spend most weekends with my family enjoying family meals and spending quality time with my six grandchildren.

Pet peeve

My pet peeve is people who use their mobile phones whilst driving and drink/drivers.

See our site visits page for some example channel supports and frames that have been used to install building services.

Support frames and brackets for suspending building services from ceilings and walls

Channel support systems can be constructed and fixed along ceilings or walls to carry cabling, pipework, ducting or other building services to keep them safely out of the way for aesthetic and practical reasons. There are a wide variety of fixings for anchoring the channel to any materials such as concrete, metal decking, drywall etc. with an assortment of channel brackets to permit any required configuration.

• Single tiered support frames

A simple single tier channel support system can be constructed with Unistrut channels connected with the appropriate Unistrut brackets and fixed using studding or wire suspension in order to support cable containment, pipework, or ducting.

• Multi-tiered support frames

Multi-tiered support frames are ideal if you wish to run several building services from the same installation ie placing ductwork below / alongside electrical containment. The beauty of channel systems is the flexibility and reconfigurability whether you are building a multi-tiered support structure straight off or adding to an existing support system. If existing Unistrut channels are in place you may wish to continue with using Unistrut channel, brackets and fixings, although most channel brands are designed to be Unistrut compatible.

Rooftop frames for supporting building services

Channel, brackets and fixings can be combined with support feet to create rooftop frames for carrying a series of mechanical and electrical containment, plus mounting air handling units on flat roofs. Frames can consist of just several lengths of strut a couple of brackets and support feet to create simple H-frames to more complex designs for supporting heavier loads. Choosing hot-dip galvanised, or stainless steel will provide lasting corrosion proofing in even the most hostile environments and keep maintenance to a minimum. With space at a premium for new building projects it can often make sense to use the roof-top to store HVAC and M&E equipment. Although you will need to consider vibration reduction, and access, products such as mounting pads, and step overs are available to complete your roof-top support installation.

Unistrut Channel Support Products

In order to create your required support frame solutions Unistrut have a wide range of channel, brackets and fixings to choose from.

• Channel

Channel struts come in a wide range of lengths and profiles, but the standard size has a profile of 41mm x 41mm which stems from a historic compatibility issue when the system was first invented around a century ago. The next most common sizes are 41mm x 21mm and 41mm x 62mm as well as back to back version of these. There are many more type or lengths available, with some suppliers providing a channel cutting service for bespoke lengths.

• Channel Brackets

Brackets come in many types and sizes, for example angled brackets have many configurations, including adjustable angles, allowing more or less any set-up of channel struts that an installer can conceive to be assembled.

• Channel Nuts and Square Plates

Any channel support system is held together by its fixings such stud, bolts, square plates and specially designed channel nuts. From the original Unistrut fixings, to the present day, channel nuts have a unique design to allow them to easily be inserted into channel and grip its edges to provide a firm fixing.

Finishes

Depending on where and how the channel will be used, there are several different finishes available. The regular finish is pre-galvanised steel which although offers a high degree of protection, hot-dip galvanised is superior because the galvanising is done to the finished strut, fixing, or bracket. Stainless steel is even better and should be considered where there will be high exposure to the elements, or extremes of temperature, or where the installation will not be easy to access to maintain once in place or where a certain aesthetic quality finish is required. So, with a number of options for finishes available it is worth considering the requirements for your project.

Unistrut compatibility

Having talked a fair bit about Unistrut channels, it is important to remember that most other channel products are designed to be compatible with the market leader. In certain applications particularly where Unistrut is not already specified, it may be economically prudent to choose another compatible brand of channel.

Current Roles

Procurement Manager – I started my career in Purchasing in 2003 and still enjoy the challenges that it brings on a daily basis like meeting suppliers and sourcing new and innovative products to enhance our range. I included Quality Assurance in my remit in 2006, as this became an integral part of the Purchasing Process and Fixmart were ISO 9001 accredited in 2007. We included ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001 (now ISO 45001) two years later and since then I have managed Quality, Environmental and Health & Safety under the role of IMS Representative. This gives me a busy schedule to provide Quality products and a Safe and Healthy environment for all Fixmart colleagues and their Trading Partners.

Fixmart Culture

There are probably just two words that describe the culture here at Fixmart, fast and happy. These two features are ones that mark the whole team that I enjoy working with.

Favourite Building

When asked a while ago what my favourite building was in London and why, my immediate response was The Evelina Children’s Hospital next to Westminster Bridge. Why? Because it provides for another team of dedicated staff who always put others, especially the children, ahead of themselves

Being rather like a grown-up Meccano set, the range of applications is limited only by your vision and objectives. Typically, strut-work is used to suspend or support M&E and HVAC services in a simple and cost-effective way. Often an installation is predominantly functional, although channel-ends caps can be used to help provide a neat finish if needed. Struts can be configured in an almost infinitely variable number of configurations, thanks to an assortment of straight, right-angle, acute, obtuse, and even adjustable angle brackets. Channel supports can be used to build racking, or a framework for work-benches, or anything where a robust and simple framework is required. Here we look at the use of channel in construction with a guide to the ins and outs of channel lengths and brackets.

Overview of the Channel Brands on the Market such as Unistrut

What are other names used for Channel?

The main component of any channel support system is the channel which is often referred to as strut. Lengths of strut are formed from a long sheet of metal folded into a U shape which gives it a high degree of rigidity and allows other bracketry and struts to be connected using the specially designed channel nuts and suitable bolts or studs. The overall support system is usually called channel support system, strut systems, strut-work, racking system, or just struts or channel. Channel systems are also often known by proprietary brand names, in particular Unistrut and others such as Swiftrack. The leading brand name in the field is Unistrut, as the name strut which is commonly used on construction sites comes from shortening Unistrut channels, and many unbranded channels will be marketed as Unistrut compatible. Certainly, the standard sizes of struts, such as 41mm x 41mm cross section will usually be compatible with other brands. Even if the precise profiles are not identical, mixing channel lengths from two manufacturers is unlikely to cause too much difficulty to a reasonably competent construction worker. That said, you may prefer to stick with the one brand for a consistent look and smooth installation on site. Let’s look at what to take into account when choosing Unistrut compatible channel systems.

Things to Consider When Selecting Channel and Brackets

• Profile dimensions

The standard profile is 41mm x 41mm made from 2.5mm steel. From this starting point you can also get a smaller profile strut which is still 41mm wide, but is 21mm high, and larger profile variants which are 62mm and 83mm high.

Other options include back to back in the above sizes, and lighter weight 1.5mm steel.

• Plain or slotted

Next, you will notice that the various sizes are available in plain or slotted versions. The slots are not added to reduce weight, although of course, they do slightly, but to make it easier to bolt struts to walls, ceilings, or other base materials as part of the construction project.

• Finish (Pre-Galvanised, Hot-Dip Galvanised, Stainless Steel, Aluminium)

Depending on the application, balanced against costs, you may want to have a greater or lesser degree of corrosion or rust resistance. The lowest cost option for steel struts is ‘pre-galvanised’ in which the various components are made from galvanised steel sheet. This is less resistant to corrosion than ‘hot-dip galvanisation’ which is the same process as pre-galvanised but applied to finished components rather than to the base sheet metal. The advantage of this process is that all cuts and bends are specifically treated, with the resulting benefit that the strut is far less likely to corrode or rust if exposed to moisture or other corrosive effects, for example, if placed on a roof-top of a building. For the maximum rust resistance and overall look, nothing much beats stainless steel. This is the best choice for applications which need to last a very long time and/or where access to replace the installation will be difficult, or where there is a greater likelihood of corrosion for example in a maritime location or where extremes of temperature are likely, or where the struts may become pitted by damage from wind-blown sand or grit. If overall weight is an issue then using aluminium struts may be the best answer. Equivalent aluminium struts are about a third of the weight of steel but are relatively strong for their weight. Aluminium is also fairly resistant to corrosion, although not as inert as stainless steel.  

• Channel End Caps required for visual and health and safety

Although a great deal of channel is used for purely practical applications there may be aesthetic or health and safety reasons for using end caps and facias to produce a clean, smooth, and stylish finish. Certainly, in any application where people may come into contact with the ends of any channel struts, these should be finished off with end caps if only from a safety point-of-view. The cut ends of channel can have sharp edges so catching a passing finger could prove extremely unpleasant. In any application where the strut-work is at human height, it may be a legal requirement to finish with end caps and is certainly a wise choice. Struts may also be capped with facia plates in a variety of finishes for a classy look to the job.

• Load requirements

The load being carried by channel support applications can vary depending upon the building services being supported; air-conditioning ducts, electrical cabling, pipework etc. and the spacing between the support brackets. It is important to ensure that the struts being used, and the structure being built are suitable for the job in hand. Full technical specifications are available for all products so if you are in any doubt just ask.

• Combinations (ie dimensions or single / back to back channel)

As well as single struts in various profiles, most of these can be supplied in back-to-back form, both with or without slots, for when additional strength is required. Struts can also be supplied in 3m and 6m lengths, or pre-cut to order.

• Specification

Choosing the right specification for your job is important. Just as you don’t want to spend more than is necessary on the top-quality corrosion resistance for a simple indoor installation where access and conditions are ideal, likewise you don’t want to penny pinch where there is a need for long life in a harsh environment. Unistrut specifications can give you a very clear idea of the lifespan expected for pre-galvanised, hot-dip galvanised, and all other materials. The London Underground system uses Unistrut because they need to know the service intervals for their support systems and by using the right materials, they can keep maintenance in difficult access areas such as tunnels to a minimum. Full details can be provided, and advice on the best choice for your application, on request.

• Numerous brackets available to create required framing/support solutions

Connecting everything together to form the structure requires brackets. There are plenty to choose from to do pretty much anything you are ever likely to want to do. Straight splice connectors and T-plates allow for straight line connections. Flat brackets allow you to turn corners, and angle brackets add another dimension. Fixed angles are available in various acute, 90o and obtuse angles, and there are also adjustable angles and several other types besides. The chances are, if you think you need it, then it is available. If you do have a very special requirement then it is well worth getting in touch to see if it can be prefabricated for you.

Ensure the Right PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) is Used When Handling Channel Sections

• Look at the protective equipment needed when working with channels

Assuming that basic things such as a hard hat and work boots is standard on site, there isn’t a great deal of additional PPE required for installing and working with channel systems. If you need to cut struts to length on site, and when drilling walls to mount slotted struts, then eye protection will be needed. If you are likely to need to cut a lot of struts to fixed lengths then it is well worth looking at pre-cut lengths.

• Channel Gloves

One specific area where you will benefit from product-specific PPE is gloves. Specifically designed with channel support systems in mind, these gloves have a comfortable stretch fit with a foam nitrile coating which offers protection and improves grip, meaning you are less likely to drop fiddly channel nuts during installation.

Andy was happy to win a Makita LXT (DK1493WX) 10.8V Li-ion 2-Piece Kit with Combi Drill and Impact Driver.

To submit your entry, simply share the competition post and write your answer in the comments AND click ‘like/follow’ on the Fixmart page. 

Our Thornton’s Easter Egg prize also includes a small box of ten exquisite Continental chocolates.

How many Easter Eggs can you spot in the box?

Terms and Conditions:

• Entrants do not have to purchase any goods from Fixmart to enter the competition.
• The competition is open to all UK residents except Fixmart Staff, contactors and consultants.
• The prize is a Thornton’s Easter Egg with no cash alternative.
• Only one entry per person across all three social platforms: Linkedin, Twitter and Facebook.
• To submit your entry – Like/Follow the Fixmart page AND submit your answer in the reply/comments.
• The winner will be selected at random from all correct answers.
• Entries can be made between Tuesday 2nd April 2019 and Midnight Friday 12th April 2019.
• Winner will be notified via direct message on the social media platform they have entered the competition, on Monday 15^th April 2019 (Linkedin, Twitter or Facebook).
• We intend to announce the winner through posts on social media.
• The winner will receive their prize by post once the address to send to has been provided.

Find us on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook! Good luck with your entry...

A brief history of Unistrut

The story of Unistrut goes back to 1924 when its creator Charles Attwood founded the company Deceleco Inc. Attwood developed a system of metal struts combined with brackets and nuts which allowed for systems to be built in a range of configurations without welding. This made installation simple and safer, as well as making the components reusable. The standard 2 x 4 stud, in use at the time, led Attwood to adopt a one-and-five-eighths of an inch profile for his metal channels, which gives rise to the standard 41mm x 41mm profile still in use today. This product was versatile and revolutionary offering an almost unlimited range of potential applications. This utility, combined with in-house production that ensured quality led Attwood’s Unistrut system to become a worldwide success and, despite many imitators, is still the market leader.

Many Applications

The beauty of Unistrut is the wide range of applications on which it can be used. The most common application is for providing support for M&E and HVAC systems, but any situation where a strong light and easily assembled framework is required could be dealt with using strutwork. Cable management is another major area for Unistrut channel support systems. Crucial to this flexibility is the ability to attach further accessories to the channel.  

Trusted Worldwide Known Brand

Having been established for nearly a century and being the worldwide market leader, Unistrut has earned a reputation for quality that is unrivalled.

Many other Unistrut compatible brands on the market

Having begun with that standard 41mm x 41mm profile all those years ago and using the specially adapted nuts with their grooves that fit snugly into the channel edges, has meant that any other product entering the same market needs to conform to the Unistrut profile. Any builder seeking to switch supplier for whatever reason will still need to be sure their new strut will work with existing kit. Consequently, most other manufacturers make sure their channel and nuts conform to Unistrut’s main profile specifications.

Unistrut products often specified for projects

Because Unistrut offers arguably the widest range and best quality specs for channel support systems, they are often the default specification for major construction projects. In particular, London Underground specifies Unistrut for their projects. One major reason for this is that Unistrut provides full anti-corrosion specifications and, for applications such as cable management through tunnels, this is a high priority. Knowing exactly how long struts can be left before being replaced allows London Underground to schedule routine maintenance with confidence.

Unistrut has also been specified for projects including Heathrow Terminal 5 and the Holmesdale Tunnel on the M25; and it’s not just in the UK either. Unistrut are supplying cable ladder and cable trays to the Kashagan oil field in Kazakhstan, for example.

Continued Research and Development

Unistrut was bought in 1995 by Tyco, and in 2010 it became part of Atkore International, but the key to Unistrut’s continued success is ongoing development and consistent quality. By constantly refining and upgrading their product range and specifications they stay one step ahead of the competition.

Additional resources

Making use of support solutions design software for planning a new project, for example, means that you can quickly calculate the components needed and be sure of keeping costs to a minimum while still meeting desired specifications.

Bespoke components

Unistrut offers an unrivalled range of components to suit almost every conceivable situation. Even so, there may be specialised parts which you can envisage but which are not available as standard. Unistrut can provide bespoke components for their systems as indeed they have done for London Underground, with a range of curved sections designed to fit the tight spaces between tunnel walls and trains. So just because a part is not part of the range, does not mean I cannot be made.

Technical Advice and readily available product performance data

Being able to get full specifications and technical advice from the manufacturers can make a huge difference to a project. When installing channel support systems in hostile environments such as maritime or desert, or in installations which will be exposed to extremes of heat or cold, you will want the right level of anti-corrosion treatment and to know the predicted lifetime of a particular product to make it easier to plan routine maintenance.

Product Range

Support Systems

• Channel (types and finishes)

As well as the standard 41mm x 41mm, channel is available is deep, 62mm, and shallow, 21mm, versions, as well as back-to-back versions of these, both slotted and plain. Most components are available in a range of materials and finishes including pre-galvanised and hot dip galvanised, the latter being superior as the item is galvanised after finishing. There are also stainless-steel channels and other options like aluminium, fibre-glass, and plain steel. Each is suitable for different applications.

Unistrut also has different form factors than the standard 41mm FF and can supply other options beyond back-to-back, e.g. side-to-side, and side-to-back. And don’t forget, if you can envisage it, Unistrut can probably supply it as a bespoke item.

• Brackets

As with channel, there is a wide range of flat and angled brackets in a range of materials and finishes for different purposes. The variety of bracketry allows for almost any configuration of channel that you can imagine being constructed.

• Fixings

Channel nuts are available with or without springs, as well as some specialised nuts and pre-studded nuts which come preassembled and are designed for extreme ease and speed of installation. Threads range from M6 to M16 with M8 and M10 being the most common in use.

Cable Containment

• Cable Tray

Unistrut cable trays are supplied in light, medium, and heavy-duty versions, as well as all the covers, brackets and connectors , needed to make a neat and efficient installation. Full specifications are available as with all Unistrut products.

• Cable Ladder

For large runs of cable, Unistrut cable ladder provides a quick prefabricated solution. In three main depths 100mm, 125mm, and 150mm. These are supplied in straight lengths, flat curves, T and X junctions, and curved inside and outside risers along with the couplers and accessories to connect everything up. As with all Unistrut products, there are different finishes for different applications and full specifications are available to make sure you are using the right products for your job.

What is a channel support system?

Channel support systems are used to carry building services such as cables, pipework, ducting, or anything else that needs to be supported and kept out of the way. Channel support systems can be used to suspend services from ceilings, walls, or on rooftops and below the flooring. Support systems consist of a range of component parts such as channels, brackets, and nuts, which can be assembled in an almost unlimited range of configurations.

What are the channel support components?

The framework is built up from various components which allow you to achieve pretty much any layout you desire. The most basic parts of a channel support system are plain and slotted channel in various lengths and cross sections, channel brackets in different angles and sizes, and the fixings or channel nuts to connect everything together.

Channel lengths

Channel lengths usually come in standard 3m and 6m lengths but can also be provided cut to size for swifter construction on-site. There is a wide range of profiles available for different applications. Standard sizes are usually 41 x 21mm and 41 x 41mm single or back-to-back channel, although larger sizes are available such as 41 x 62mm and 41 x 83mm. There are also heavy-duty and ultra-lightweight options and most types come as either plain or slotted, which has pre-cut slots for faster fixing. Depending upon the desired finish channel lengths are offered in pre-galvanised, hot-dip galvanised or stainless steel.

Channel brackets

Connecting up the channel lengths requires a range of bracketry which includes everything from straight flat connectors to a selection of different angled brackets, base plates, beam clamps, and bracing brackets.

Fixings (square plates and channel nuts)

Fixing all this together involves using channel nuts. These are specifically designed for the channels. Plain nuts are inserted and turned 90 degrees to fix in place. Alternatively, spring channel nuts hold the nut in place and make assembly less fiddly. Square and lipped plates are also available to suit various sized bolts or threaded rod.

Use channel with feet for frames (H frames)

Channel support systems are often mounted on ceilings, walls or floors. However, it is also possible to create free-standing support systems by using rubber support feet and channel lengths to construct simple H frames or even more complicated frame designs. For example, a series of H frames will typically be used on rooftops to support building services where it is not permitted to drill into the roof to gain a fixing. This protects the integrity of the roof membrane and prevents unwanted leaks.

What are the common uses for channel support systems?

Typically used for electrical cabling systems, HVAC ducting, plumbing, and other pipework. It can also be used to create lightweight storage systems, tool or equipment racks, workbench supports, or to lift anything up and out of the way which might otherwise occupy valuable floor space. Check out our Site Visits page to see some example channel support systems in action.

My Role

Accounts Manager - first and foremost, customers need to be cared for and suppliers kept happy, all whilst ensuring a healthy cash flow is maintained. My work is predominantly in connection with managing the Sales Ledger and production of the monthly Management Accounts. It’s a busy role and on a daily basis I will make sure business expenses are accurately recorded and invoices are paid, so there is never a dull moment.

The Culture at Fixmart

There is a certain friendliness, care and respect for the staff, set from the top, that tends to permeate through the whole organisation and has stayed the same even as we’ve grown.

Important Possession

Like most people, my phone has become increasingly important to me, providing a crucial source of communication and keeping me connected with my job, family and friends.

Favourite Food

A roast lamb dinner!