What Is a Turnbuckle Brace?
A Turnbuckle Brace is a reinforcing material used in the primary structural components of architectural structures.
It is employed to enhance the strength and durability of buildings and structures against external forces such as earthquakes and wind. Typically, it consists of a long rod made of steel and is frequently attached to the structure of a building. The adjustable length of the brace allows for flexibility in building design. By adjusting the length of the brace, it becomes possible to efficiently tune the vibrational characteristics and seismic resistance of a building, making it applicable to various architectural structures. Moreover, Turnbuckle Braces are often available as prefabricated components, contributing to the efficiency of assembly and installation on construction sites.
However, it is crucial to note that accurate design and construction are paramount for this critical component. If the length and installation angles of the brace are not appropriate, the expected enhancement in seismic resistance may not be achieved.
Uses of Turnbuckle Brace
Turnbuckle Braces find applications in various primary structural components of architectural structures. The main uses are outlined below.
1. Small to Medium-Sized Steel Frame Buildings
In the context of recent seismic events, ensuring the overall resilience of steel-framed buildings has become increasingly crucial. Specifically, in steel-framed buildings equipped with Turnbuckle Braces conforming to JIS standards, these braces play a significant role in ensuring the overall resilience of the structure. Consequently, they are widely used to enhance seismic resistance in small to medium-sized steel-framed buildings.
2. Public Facilities
To enhance the seismic resistance of older structures like school buildings, reinforcement with Turnbuckle Braces may be employed. This approach allows for maintaining historical value while ensuring safety. Additionally, in hospitals, where vibrations can impact the normal operation of equipment and surgeries, Turnbuckle Braces control vibrations, securing the proper functionality of facilities. They are also used in tall communication towers to control vibrations and prevent collapse or damage.
3. Bridge Construction
Elevated bridges are structures susceptible to wind effects. Turnbuckle Braces are used to control vibrations caused by wind, maintaining stability. Pedestrian bridges and highway overpasses, being prone to wind effects, often utilize Turnbuckle Braces for wind reinforcement.
4. Historical Structures
Some historical structures may not meet modern seismic standards. Turnbuckle Braces are often chosen as a reinforcement method to protect these buildings.
Principle of Turnbuckle Brace
A Turnbuckle Brace is fundamentally a reinforcing element made of steel with an adjustable length. It is commonly manufactured using steel. It consists of components such as round steel bolts, turnbuckle bodies, and fasteners.
1. Round Steel Bolt
The round steel bolt is a crucial component of the Turnbuckle Brace, featuring a male screw at its tip. It is a diagonally arranged rod steel designed to enhance the resistance of the building against external forces like earthquakes and wind.
2. Turnbuckle Body
The turnbuckle body is a component used to fine-tune the length of the Turnbuckle Brace. Typically featuring female threads at both ends, it is combined with round steel bolts. Tightening the turnbuckle body shortens the overall length of the Turnbuckle Brace while loosening it allows for extension.
To connect the Turnbuckle Brace with the structural elements of the building, fasteners such as bolts are used. These fasteners ensure the overall stability of the Turnbuckle Brace and enhance durability against external forces.
How to Choose Turnbuckle Brace
When selecting Turnbuckle Braces, consideration should primarily be given to factors such as:
1. Short-Term Allowable Load Capacity
Turnbuckle Braces need to withstand short-duration external forces like earthquakes and wind. Confirming the short-term allowable load capacity of the brace during the design phase is essential for ensuring safety against temporary external forces.
2. Long-Term Allowable Load Capacity
Considering the capacity to withstand loads and deformations over an extended period is crucial. The long-term allowable load capacity of the brace indicates the required strength to resist external forces. Material selection and determination of the brace’s cross-sectional area are crucial in this regard.
3. Tensile Strength
Turnbuckle Braces are primarily designed to withstand tensile stress. The tensile strength of the brace indicates the required strength to resist external forces. Material selection and determination of the brace’s cross-sectional area are crucial in this regard.
4. End Shape
The shape of end attachments influences the stability of brace installation and connection. Accurate design and the use of appropriate fasteners are vital for firmly connecting the Turnbuckle Brace and the structural elements. Common shapes include plate-type and hook-type attachments.