If you’re specifying or buying support systems for construction or heavy industry projects, understanding the names of Sikla systems can be confusing. To support the wide range of applications and loads, Sikla offers three modular steel support systems:
Each system has been engineered to support efficient assembly and installation across a range of building services and industrial applications. Compared to traditional welded steel or alternative modular systems, Sikla’s systems are designed to:
- Eliminate hot works
- Enable faster and consistent installations
- Solve labour shortages
- Streamline planning and assembly with repeatable designs
- Integrate seamlessly across the Sikla product range
- Simplify planning, procurement and logistics
In this blog, we break down each system to explain where it performs best and highlight what makes Sikla the smarter choice for modern support structures.
Sikla solutions
Since 1967, Sikla has been supplying support solutions evolving from individual fixings into modular systems that enable modern construction and industrial projects to be delivered on time and within budget. Today, Sikla products are used across a wide range of sectors including building services, data centres, power generation, mining, chemical processing, oil & gas and pharmaceutical facilities.
Sikla products are available off the shelf in over 40 countries worldwide, including most European countries, North America and Oceania, significantly reducing lead times.
All Sikla products undergo rigorous independent testing and supported by relevant standards, approvals and technical documentation. As standard, Sikla components are supplied hot dip galvanised to C4 corrosion levels ensuring long-term durability for industrial and building environments.
Each modular system has its own Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), assessing the environmental impact across the full lifecycle and support sustainability goals.
Beyond suppling products, Sikla also provides engineering and digital support including BIM integration. Sikla systems can be integrated into planning software’s to improve coordination and identify potential clashes before installation.
siFramo
Launched in 2006, siFramo is Sikla’s heavy‑duty modular support system and best suited for industrial applications with high loads. Typical uses include supporting roof top plant equipment as well as heavy mechanical and electrical services in demanding environments.
Depending on the application, siFramo is an alternative to traditional welded steel structures. Despite its light weight design, it delivers the same high load‑bearing capacity, making it easier to handle. Structures can either be freestanding or where traditional steel is already present or required, siFramo can seamlessly integrate with it to support complex piping systems without compromising on structural performance.
Time case study on installing siFramo vs traditional steel
As a three‑dimensional steel box section support system, siFramo enables modular supports to be assembled on all four sides of the profile. This allows space‑efficient designs, avoids unnecessary design restrictions and provides greater freedom when planning services routes. siFramo’s high torsional rigidity ensures strength and durability, even when supporting substantial loads.
siFramo supports are assembled using a single type of self forming screw and impact driver. To assemble correctly , siFramo requires two screws to be positioned on opposite sides of the profile and tightened to 50 Nm to achieve a secure connection.
Downloadable one-page guide to correctly install siFramo
The siFramo profile allows stepless connections, meaning connecting components such as cantilevers can be positioned with precision. This is particularly beneficial when adjustments are required to enable quick modifications to accommodate on-site changes.
The system is the only modular steel support solution on the market with a European Technical Assessment (ETA) , providing specifiers with confidence in its performance and compliance. Where the full siFramo capacity is not required due to lower load requirements, the system can efficiently adapt to our siConnect channel system to optimise costs.
siMetrix
Sikla’s newest modular support system, launched in 2024, to bridge the gap between siConnect and siFramo. siMetrix combines the simplicity of siConnect’s Pressix press installation with the three‑dimensional flexibility of siFramo.
The system has been engineered with minimal components, helping simplify installation. siMetrix follows Sikla’s 1‑2‑3 principle: one screw, two parts and three‑dimensions. This intuitive approach reduces on‑site complexity, even across large projects with repetitive supports.
.jpeg?width=375&height=500&name=IMG_0913%20(1).jpeg)
siFramo and siMetrix integrated pipe support preassembled before being delivered to site
By combining fast installation with three‑dimensional flexibility, siMetrix is a solution for applications that exceed the capabilities of siConnect but do not require the heavy‑duty performance of siFramo.
Offering a range of modular systems tailored to different load requirements and applications, Sikla is a smarter and more flexible solution for modern support structures.
siConnect
Sikla’s two-dimensional strut channel system, commonly known as Pressix CC and designed for applications with lower load requirements than siFramo. Pressix is system is available in two core width ranges:
Each width is available in a variety of sizes and configurations providing flexibility to match the specific load and space requirements.
siConnect Pressix is ideal for building services projects to support pipework, cable trays, ducting plus lighter mechanical and electrical installations within industrial projects
Pressix supports can be assembled using pre-assembled blocks by simply pressing the component into the channel profile. The Pressix speed nut then rotates and locks into place under the weight of a connected component. The connection is then secured by tightening with a spanner.
The serrated edges on channel profile helps prevent slipping and minimise vibrational movement, ensuring secure and reliable long‑term performance. The channel profile is compatible with a wide range of our pipe clamps using M8 or M10 threaded rod to accommodate the correct support for different services.
For design confidence, Pressix structures can be verified using siPlan, Sikla’s own static analysis tool. This enables engineers and designers to check that the selected configuration is suitable for the required loads.
The system includes several angle connectors for both Pressix 41 and 27. The design of all Pressix components eliminates small loose parts, reducing the risk of components being misplaced on-site.
Although siConnect Pressix is compatible with other strut channel systems available on the market, it performs best as a complete Sikla solution.
Would you like to learn more about out modular steel solutions?
Depending on your project’s space and load requirements, we can provide you with the right solution for long term durability. With reliable engineering, local availability and a focus on efficiency Sikla helps specifiers and contractors deliver robust projects that ensure you complete on-time and within budget.
For project-specific advice or support with specification, contact Sikla to find the right solution for your application.
.jpg)
Written by Jen Bradley
Regional Marketing Coordinator for Sikla UK & Ireland, Oceania and USA
Comments