Using Pinch Blocks for a Simple Truss Connection

Oct 23, 2024

Summary

It's a common misconception that tube-style truss bolt plates require a corner block when making perpendicular connections. Introducing a more efficient solution: pinch blocks (also known as grapplers). The pinch block design allows for a simpler connection process, as it slides into the opposing truss and is secured with washers and nuts. The added nut in the design holds everything in place, making it easier to manage, especially when working at heights. Pinch blocks are also a more affordable alternative to corner blocks.

Transcription

00:01
So something that we run into a lot seems to be a bit of a misconception when you're working with tube style truss bolt plate is that for any perpendicular connection that you have to have a corner block. What you use is a product called pinch blocks. So these are also sometimes referred to as grapplers. I believe that is a proprietary term. But what that does is that's gonna slide in and cup.

00:30
of your opposing truss there, and then you're just gonna put your washers and nuts on, just like you would with any other bolt plate. This is a design that we really like. Some of these that you're gonna find will just have a sleeve here without that nut. And what happens is you're trying to hold all this together while you're climbing truss or working in the air, and that can be a bit to manage. So when they put this nut on here, that holds all this together, so you can really just one-handed.

01:01
slide that in. These are also a lot less expensive than a corner block, about 120 130 bucks for the pair and again that is called a pinch block.

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