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Horizontal Aluminum Shoring Systems

Aluminum shores can also be used in a horizontal configuration. In this respect, they act like a
cross-brace and waler system. This configuration is commonly used for TYPE B and is required
for TYPE C soils or where close or tight sheeting is required.

In this orientation, the size of hydraulic cylinder required varies with the cylinder span and the
section modules. The section modules are a measure relating to the bending strength of the water.

The following is a summary of information for vertical aluminum shoring systems:

• Distances are measured center-to-center.
• Top cylinders must be placed between 6 and 24 inches from the top of the trench.

• Maximum distance from bottom cylinder to the bottom of the trench is 4 feet.
• Over sleeves may be required.

System Installation
Aluminum hydraulic systems are installed in accordance with manufacturer's guidelines. Please
refer to the purchase information or tabulated data for specific procedures for installing and
removing these systems. Regardless of the procedure however, workers must be protected
during the installation and removal process. Following removal, the unprotected trench should be
backfilled as soon as possible.

Protective Systems Conclusion

The OSHA Standard on Trenching addresses only four general types of protection for trench
workers. Other forms of protection such as air shores are available and can be used, either in
accordance with the manufacturer's tabulated data, using other tabulated data produced by a
Registered Professional Engineer, or in a protective system designed by a Registered
Professional Engineer. Further, modifications to the systems discussed are possible under the
same circumstances described above.

Trench & Excavation
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