Galvanized Saddle Clip Fastener

Grating Fasteners Model GSCF-7 is a galvanized steel grating fastener used to fasten 15 spaced steel bar grating to structural shapes. This particular fastener can be installed with a tek screw.

The GSCF-7 saddle clip, is an M-shaped, stamped and formed piece of 14 gauge steel, galvanized, that fits over the grating upper surface. A hole is punched in the center of the clip to allow a 1/4” tek screw or other fastener to be used. Tek screws are not included with the saddle clips, but can be purchased separately. A zinc plated or 410 SS #14 screw is available. The screw has a 3/8” hex washer head. The point in the tek screw is a #3 point. This screw is available in two sizes, 1-1/2” or 2. (Other sizes can be requested)

INSTALLATION PREPARATION

As with any grating fastener, care should be taken during the grating layout, cutting and placement phase, to reduce the quantity of grating cross bars that are located over the intended fastened point. This reduces the quantity of grating cross bars that interfere with fastener placement, which may require the cutting of cross bars. Pilot holes may need to be drilled if the structural beam thickness is 1/4” thick or more at the attachment point.

TOOLS REQUIRED

A power driver with a 3/8” socket head is required. A 3/16” drill bit may be required if pilot holes need to be drilled.

INSTALLATION GUIDE

If needed, drill pilot holes into the structural steel at each planned attachment point.

Place the saddle clip at the desired attachment point. Place the screw in the socket head of the power driver and through the slotted hole of the saddle clip. Screw the tek screw into the steel, keeping the screw perpendicular to the work surface. Installation is complete when the saddle clip is snug against the grating surface and it cannot be turned or twisted by hand. Over-tightening should be avoided if at all possible. Should the saddle clip deform during tightening where the center depression has changed from flat to curved, that saddle clip should be discarded
and another new clip should be used at that spot on the grating surface.

It is also recommended that grating installers use 1 grating clip on every corner of the grating plus at least 1 grating clip on each intermediate steel support. In our experience, 1 grating clip for every 4 sq ft of grating is best for walkway conditions. In cases of high-vibration or heavy loads, using 1 grating clip for every 2.5 sq ft of grating may be needed.