How Sikla's Self-Forming Screw Optimizes Your Structural Build

For decades, the only option available for a structural framing system was welded steel. Sikla siFramo changes that, bringing the flexibility of a modular system and the strength of welded steel together into a modular structural steel system. One of the greatest advantages of using Sikla is the inherent time savings thanks to Sikla siFramo’s self-forming screw technology. 

A Single Fastener for the Entire System

Each Sikla siFramo beam has a closed profile with the ability to connect on all four sides via staggered pilot holes. With Sikla’s non-cutting technology, the threads of the Sikla screw cold form threads into the pilot holes of the perforated siFramo section, causing the steel to reshape and harden around the screw. The low thread-forming torque and resulting high clamping force create a vibration-proof connection, making a Sikla build incredibly durable. In fact, Sikla connections are rated at US Department of Defense MIL-STD 810g. 

This one type of self-forming screw is used for all connections to and from a Sikla beam, making it the only fastener needed for a build; no backplates, carriage bolts, nuts, or washers needed. Sikla screws can be removed and used again, making on-the-spot adjustments easy. 

Save Time and Increase Productivity

By utilizing the same fastener for all connections, there is no second-guessing or searching for the right nut and bolt during a Sikla build. Using only hand tools and the self-forming screw, anyone on your team can have a support build complete in a fraction of the time it would take to complete a similar welded structure. In fact, Sikla estimates that each connection component takes only 4 minutes to complete, a huge time savings compared to welding a connection. 

The chart below breaks down the estimated time to complete a Sikla build by component, cut or connection time, and total minutes for completion depending on the amount of operators involved.

The benefits of this time savings aren’t limited to just your build and installation, it permeates throughout your team’s productivity. In an industry facing skilled labor shortages, a build option that requires less of your team’s time is invaluable. Requiring only a few people and hand tools, no welding capabilities or hot works permits, your Sikla build can be completed in a matter of hours, leaving your skilled labor team available for billable work.

Optimize Time Savings with Sikla Prefabrication

While a Sikla structure is simple enough for your team to assemble on site, the time savings really add up when leveraging offsite Sikla prefabricated builds. 

The vibration-resistant seal formed by the self-forming Sikla screw can stand up to shipment by truck, lifting by crane, and final installation, all with no retorque required. Sikla’s high torsional resistance paired with the skilled deflection engineering of a team like Unistrut Midwest means that even large multi-trade racks can be built offsite, transported to your location, and lifted into place. 

Much like the construction of the rack itself, installing a prefabricated pipe rack or MTR requires only a few of your team members and some hand tools, again freeing up your team’s time for other billable work. And because the rack was built offsite and can be installed in hours, not days, there is minimal downtime to any of your warehouse operations or primary structure construction. 

Time saved via Sikla’s self-forming screw is just one of many benefits of using Sikla siFramo for your support systems. To learn more about Sikla siFramo and find out how it can work for your application, contact the Unistrut Midwest team.