English 
Nederlands 
Polski - All-in-one concept
- Invisible solutions
- Minimal disruption
- Solid solutions
- International expertise
- Experienced specialist
Bow Flex is a specialised helical-shaped reinforcement providing a hidden fix for stabilising bowing walls.
Unlike traditional methods, such as S or X ties, which leave a large plate on the side of the structure and a beam through the property, Bow Flex is installed invisibly and uses the existing structural members to provide the necessary stability.
For heavier duty applications, a secondary solution is available: Bow Flex Type2.
By utilising the existing structural elements of the building the solution is simple, cost effective, less disruptive and much quicker to install.
If the Bow Flex is fitted into the side of the second floor joist the strength and load sharing is achieved via the floor boards on top of the joists and the ceiling boards below the joist crossing from one joist to the next.
When the joists run into the wall and sit in pockets within the masonry the fixing is achieved with a short Bow Flex tie being fixed into the end grain of each joist. If the joist is continuous through the property a fixing at each end should produce the required effect. Care must be taken to ensure that any unconnected overlaps, perhaps on a central load bearing wall, are structurally jointed to allow continuity through the full joists.
Bow Flex is a one-piece fixing manufactured from Grade 304 stainless steel helical bar. It is 8 mm in diameter, and supplied to the length required for the project.
Bow Flex Type2 is a one-piece fixing manufactured from Grade 304 stainless steel threaded bar. It is 12 mm in diameter, and supplied to the length required for the project.
Bow Flex ties should be proof-tested using a Target Load Test Unit. The required tensile loading is typically supplied by the specifying engineer.
The required loading is typically much lower than expected. For example, considering a wall of 5 m of height and bowing outwards at its mid point by 50 mm, it is straightforward to calculate, by using a triangle of forces, that a horizontal load of just 1 kN is sufficient to withstand a vertical load of 50 kN or 5 tonnes!
With Bow Flex ties fixed at 600 mm centres a load resistance in excess of 80 kN per metre run is easily achieved.
