How to Choose the Right Acrow Prop Size

Acrow props are essential temporary supports in construction—providing reliable shoring for ceilings, beams, and walls during repairs, alterations, or formwork. Selecting the correct size is critical for safety and efficiency. Dynaton, a 100% Australian owned company, offers a comprehensive range of engineered and certified Acrow Props designed to meet various height and load requirements.

Understanding Dynaton’s Acrow Prop Range

Dynaton’s product line includes several sizes, each tailored for specific applications:

• Acrow Prop Super Stump:

  • Closed Height: ~270 mm
  • Open Height: ~420 mm
    Ideal for low-level support applications.

• Acrow Prop Stump Pro:

  • Closed Height: ~270 mm
  • Open Height: ~420 mm
    Ideal for low-level support applications.
    

• Acrow Prop #00:

  • Closed Height: ~690 mm
  • Open Height: ~1163 mm
    
    

• Acrow Prop #0:

  • Closed Height: ~1090 mm
  • Open Height: ~1833 mm
    
    

• Acrow Prop #1:

  • Closed Height: ~1620 mm
  • Open Height: ~2620 mm
    
    

• Acrow Prop #2, #3, and #4:
  These larger sizes extend from around 1950 mm up to 4950 mm in open height, serving heavy-duty applications where longer reach is required.

(For more detailed product dimensions, see Dynaton’s Acrow Props page)

Key Factors to Consider

When choosing the appropriate prop size, keep the following factors in mind:

1. Height Requirement

• Measure Your Space:
  Determine the distance from the supporting surface (e.g. floor or existing structure) to the point that needs support.

• Match Dimensions:
  Each Acrow prop is adjustable between its “closed” (minimum) and “open” (maximum) heights. Select a prop whose closed height is below your required measurement and whose open height is above it. This ensures that the prop can be securely adjusted without operating at the extreme end of its extension—where load capacity may be reduced.

2. Load Capacity

• Understand Load Ratings:
  The safe working load of a prop depends on both its size and the degree to which it’s extended. Smaller props generally offer higher load capacity when used at or near their closed height.

• Safety Margin:
  Always choose a prop with a load rating that comfortably exceeds your project’s demands. Dynaton’s props are engineered and certified to meet rigorous standards, so using the correct size helps ensure the prop remains within its safe working limits.

3. Working Conditions and Safety

• Site Considerations:
  Evaluate the job site conditions, such as the stability of the ground and any potential lateral forces. Ensure that the prop can be braced and installed plumb for maximum stability.

• Application Specifics:
  Consider the intended use—whether it’s shoring for a temporary formwork setup or supporting a load-bearing wall during alterations. In scenarios where the prop will be operating near its maximum extension, extra caution is warranted since its load capacity may diminish.

4. Certification and Quality

• Engineered to Standards:
  Dynaton’s Acrow props are manufactured from high-quality steel and finished with hot-dipped galvanizing. They comply with relevant Australian and British Standards (such as AS/NZS and BS4074), which assures you of their durability and safety.

• Professional Consultation:
  If in doubt, consulting a structural engineer or a safety expert can help determine the best size for your specific conditions.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Selecting the Right Size

1. Measure the Required Height:
   • Determine the vertical distance from the base to the support point.
2. Assess the Load:
   • Calculate or estimate the weight of the load the prop must support, then compare it with the safe working loads provided by the manufacturer.
3. Review Dynaton’s Product Specifications:
   • Use the closed and open height ranges available on Dynaton’s website. For instance, if your support point is approximately 1.5 m above the base, an Acrow Prop #00 (690–1163 mm) might be too short, whereas an Acrow Prop #0 (1090–1833 mm) could be ideal.
4. Consider the Working Environment:
   • Factor in any additional safety measures needed for unstable or uneven surfaces.
5. Confirm Compliance and Quality:
   • Ensure the chosen prop meets local safety regulations and standards.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Acrow prop size is a blend of accurate measurements, understanding load capacities, and matching these to the specific conditions of your construction site. By selecting a prop from a trusted supplier like Dynaton, you benefit from products that are engineered, certified, and designed to deliver both safety and efficiency. Always measure twice, assess your load requirements, and if necessary, seek expert advice to ensure that the temporary supports will safely uphold your structure.