Whether you are constructing ADA-compliant rails and guards or rigging a movie set lighting, there is no quicker and more efficient method than to use speed rail connectors to join the pipes that make up the system. Designed for rapid installation with no welding, threading or joining, there are dozens of types, styles and angles of fittings to select from, giving you virtually infinite versatility to create the system of guard and hand railings needed for your unique purpose. Available from the best metal suppliers, where you can also purchase the railing pipes in 20-foot sections as needed to assemble the railings, the rail connectors fasten around the outside of the pipes with a single set screw that provides stability to the railing connection and the entire system.
Varieties
The versatility of the connectors comes from the nearly infinite possibilities for arrangements that can be constructed of the various angled, straight, curved, and middle joining pieces that are available. As gaffers know on every movie set, the versatility and ease of assembly that the rails are known for makes putting together a rack a simple matter of attaching pipe and using a simple set screw that holds the pipe in place from the outside. Speed railsconnect lengths securely together without threading, welding, or bonding.Check out this video on speed rails that displays the versatility of the metal.
Versatility
Used in industry and architecture, speed rail systems are appreciated for ease of assembly and design and versatility of applications, including:
- fencing
- gardening
- handrails
- guardrails
- lighting rigs
When installed properly, the connectors are firm and stable, and will last in place virtually indefinitely. On the other hand, if the system needs to be disassembled and rearranged, the speed rails are easy to take apart and replace where needed. It is this versatility and adaptability that has made them the connector of choice among architects, engineers, and movie gaffers and grips.
Look to Your Metal Supplier
From the hardware to the rails, the connectors to the footings and wall mounts, quality supplierswill have all the parts and accessories needed to make your railing system simple and quick to plan, purchase, and install. Able to answer all the questions that come up as you design and plan your needs in a rail system, an experienced metal supply company will guide you through selection of materials, types and styles of connectors needed for your application, mounting techniques, and more.
The measurement of the system is fairly simple, but can benefit from professional advice as well. Basically, the measurement on the pipe you will be using as the railing is the measurement of the rail connectors you will use. So if the IPS (Iron Pipe Size, not Inside Pipe Size as many believe, related to its original use as a measurement of the volume of fluid that the pipe could handle) is 1.5 inches, then you need 1.5-inch connectors.
The connectors sit on the outside of the pipe and fasten with a screw that protrudes down to the outside surface of the pipe that serves as the railing. With proper planning and design, the system you plan will be ready to install and use in no time, with the simplicity and ease of the connectors that slide in place and fasten with one screw.
