Maximize your time savings with B-Line series strut and strut fittings
Stop fumbling with unnecessary, time consuming strut fitting assemblies. There is a better way! B-Line series pre-assembled strut fittings take the headache out of assembling spring nuts and fittings.
We tested our fittings against standard strut and fitting assembly using novice and experienced contractors. And they quickly realized that it is much faster and simpler to install and assemble strut with pre-assembled strut fittings. In fact, the time study showed up to a 79% faster installation.
The advantage of using B-Line series pre-assembled strut fittings
Eaton has taken the most commonly used strut fittings and adapted them with the proper hardware. The result is the pre-assembled strut fittings that are faster and easier to install than traditional strut fittings. Pre-assembled strut fittings help minimize material handling, increase construction assembly efficiency and deliver a quality solution that results in an overall positive return on the investment.
B-Line series strut and pre-assembled fittings stands apart
Eaton provides safety factor information in the B-Line series strut system catalog* which helps ensure the safety and operational capability of the product over time. Load data is based on 12-gauge B-Line series strut channel, using ½ inch diameter hardware and B-Line series strut fittings. When these correct products are utilized the 2.5 safety factor is achieved.
The hole size of the B-Line series strut assembled fittings are 9/16-inch, which provides a 1/16-inch annular space around the shank of the fastener.
The ½ inch cap screws typically used to install fittings also have 360-degree coverage to provide even load distribution under the head of the cap screw and does not require a flat washer.
The strut nut or grip nut is designed to bite into the folded edge of the strut channel to help prevent slipping. Loads are based on the dimensionality and tensile strength of the base material.
Strut and fittings are designed as assemblies
Hardware that is 3/8-inch diameter would create a 3/16-inch annular space around the shank of the fastener which would require the use of a flat washer.
The torque is different for ½ inch hardware from 3/8 hardware. The clamping power of a bolt is achieved through slight stretching of the bolt through even tension. The 3/8 bolt will likely cave the washer prior to reaching the right tension.
The use of undersized strut nuts can negatively affect the load rating of the assembly.
Our published working loads are inclusive of the safety factor to assist the end user in safe design practice.
* Learn more, reference technical data section of the strut system catalog.
How field assembly impacts efficiency
The assembly of spring nuts, cone nuts or top spring nuts into the channel is labor intensive.
When inserting and aligning the nuts into the channel, the spring on the spring nut can cause the nut to turn over, become dislodged or misaligned before the bolt is introduced. This results in the need to disassemble and reassemble.
The spring also tends to get caught in the slotted holes and falls over. Often the cone on the cone nut pulls off the strut nut body, while other strut nut options can become dislodged during the dry fit operation.
The alignment of the fitting to the strut nuts adds additional installation time.
Once the strut nuts are installed, alignment is required. This involves dry fitting, placing the fitting to check alignment with the strut nuts, then removing and adjusting the nut locations as is necessary. This may require multiple attempts.
The vibration of the impact gun can cause misalignment or loosening.
Currently common method of tightening, whether in the pre-fab shop or in the field, is generally performed using an impact gun.
The vibration of the impact gun can cause the parts and pieces of the standard assemblies to jar loose or become misaligned requiring constant re-alignment or adjustment.
The cost of inventory, purchasing and material handling can be impacted.
A typical four (4) bolt type strut fitting would require ordering and managing 13 items to make a single assembly. This includes the standard fitting, bolts, washers and spring nuts.
Compared to B-Line series pre-assembled fitting the piece count is just one.
MRO and plant facilities purchasing becomes stream lined and accurate by reducing overall piece count to be managed.
Flate Plate Fittings
90 degree angle fittings
Angular Fittings
Clevis Fittings
U Fitting
About Eaton B-Line
Today, the world runs on critical infrastructure and technology. Planes. Hospitals. Factories. Data centers. Vehicles. The electrical grid. These are things people depend on every day. And the companies behind them depend on us to help solve some of the toughest power management challenges on the planet. At Eaton, we’re dedicated to improving people’s lives and the environment with power management technologies that are more reliable, efficient, safe and sustainable.
We are a power management company made up of approximately 85,000 employees, doing business in more than 175 countries. Our energy-efficient products and services help our customers effectively manage electrical, hydraulic and mechanical power more reliably, efficiently, safely and sustainably. By giving people tools to use power more efficiently. Helping companies do business more sustainably. And by encouraging each and every employee at Eaton to think differently about our business, our communities—and the positive impact we can have on the world.