Halfen - Brickwork supports

Introduction

Brickwork support systems using the bracket/angle system to support masonry above horizontal soft joints. The systems have high load capacity and give site adjustability whilst meeting the most stringent industry requirements. A customised service adapts standard parts or supplies unique design solutions.

Halfen bracket/angle systems

Halfen's most widely used brickwork support system – HMA-G – consists of brackets factory-welded to a shelf angle. Halfen design the system on a project basis, i.e. standard parts are combined and welded together to suit the project requirements. Halfen also provide setting-out drawings for use on site.

Materials

Brackets and angles are normally stainless steel Grade 304. If this has to be separated from the main structure, hard plastic separators are available from Halfen.

Brackets

Halfen HMA-G bracket components are manufactured in a wide range of dimensions to suit any cavity width. Brackets normally fill the cavity zone, thus ensuring that the angle is small and light, for economy of material.

Brackets are easy to level on the serrated slot and, if shims are used, these are 50 mm wide strips behind the bracket. Brackets are shaped to allow easy access for the washer, nut and spanner. They allow the dpc tray to cross the cavity neatly, and the shape helps to prevent cut hands on site.

Angles

Angles are normally designed by Halfen on a job basis. The projecting leg is kept to a minimum so that the angle can be as thin as possible – typically 4, 5 or 6 mm. Angle length is modular, with infill pieces at corners or at the ends of runs. For ease of handling angles are normally supplied 1.5 m long, with three, four or five brackets per angle. Brackets are spaced at suitable centres by Halfen to suit the load, i.e. height of brickwork.

Angles are not normally broken at vertical movements joints. Halfen Limited will be pleased to discuss this.

Engineer

Angles are welded to the brackets by Halfen. This ensures that the assembly is as stiff as possible and deflection at the working load is kept to a minimum.

Halfen design a butt joint detail for corners to suit the brickwork detail; examples are shown alongside. A mitre joint is also available.