In a perfect world, there is no need for custom clips. The architect and the engineer produce a design which utilizes standard parts on every structural connection. The contractor has no unforeseen issues in construction and all components connect as intended. This is how many involved wish the project would go.
Unfortunately, as we all know, this world does not exist. An experienced contractor knows that the jobsite presents seemingly endless obstacles that must be overcome. An experienced engineer knows that certain designs are fraught with difficulty. We design and build our structures in in conditions that are not ideal, simple, or free of unexpected problems. But the buildings we build are important, and we want to be sure they are built correctly.
Real World: The Job Site
The real world of the jobsite is filled with unusual conditions. Perhaps the engineer designed a bypass condition that was intended to have a 1” offset, but field conditions resulted in a 3” offset. What must the contractor do? The connection to the slab that was originally specified is no longer valid. How should the contractor and the engineer team up to resolve the issue?
Or suppose another hypothetical situation. Suppose the engineer specs a custom part from a large manufacturer, but the manufacturer is unwilling to produce the custom part because it is not worth the time. What must be done?
TSN Custom Clips
These problems find an ideal solution in The Steel Network’s custom clip capabilities. TSN is not only a reputable manufacturer of standard clips such as the VertiClip® SLB, but is eager to work with architects, engineers, and contractors to produce custom clips tailored to the issue at hand. Many manufacturers ignore the small problems; TSN takes great pride in solving such issues and showing value to customers in this manner.
What about when you are on a tight schedule? A rush job? TSN’s custom clips have a fast turnaround time and solve the problem at hand. If you can draw it, we can make it.
Check out a few examples of custom clips that TSN has produced over the years.
Custom VertiClip® SLS (extra long)
Custom VertiClip® SLB
Custom VertiClip® Splice
Custom Angle Made With Quarter Inch Stainless Steel
Custom VertiTrak® VTD (VertiClip® SLD with Elongated Slots)
Custom VertiClip® Splice (Angled)
TSN Custom Connector Testing
Sometimes a custom clip in and of itself is not sufficient. Particular conditions may require testing of a custom part to ensure confidence in the performance of the part. In this case, TSN offers custom testing as an optional service. With an equipped lab and rapid prototyping capabilities, TSN is ready to test your custom clip design to verify it will perform as required.
Conclusion
Construction is an important industry in any society. We build the buildings that people eat, work, and live in. It matters that these projects are completed as designed and on schedule. The Steel Network enables this by providing custom clips matched to the needs of a particular situation and custom testing to validate performance when needed. What other manufacturer offers such customizability? What other manufacturer cares about the details?