Key Clamp Sloping Cross Piece 30-45° for 42.4mm Tube, Stair Mid Rail Fitting, Galvanised

The sloping cross piece carries a mid rail past a post at the point where a stair or ramp rail changes from level to sloping, at 30° to 45°. The post passes straight through the centre of the fitting. The level rail ends in the socket on one side and the sloping rail ends in the angled socket on the other, so the rail turns down, or up, the slope right at the post. Three grub screws lock it, one for each tube. It suits 42.4mm outside diameter tube and is malleable cast iron with a galvanised finish for indoor and outdoor use. The price shown is for one fitting, with a minimum order of 5.

Why use a sloping cross piece

Made for the change of direction. On a stair guard rail the mid rail runs level along the landing, then turns to follow the flight. This fitting makes that turn at the post, in one casting, with no cut and welded joint.

The post carries on. The post passes straight through, so it stays one length from the floor to the top rail above.

Down or up the slope. Turn the fitting over and the same casting suits a rail going from level to sloping down or from level to sloping up.

Galvanised for outdoors. The zinc coating protects the iron on external steps, fire escapes and ramps in all weathers.

Where it is used

Mid rails on guard rails and balustrades at the top and bottom of external steps, stair landings in warehouses and plant rooms, access platforms and steel stairs, and any tube frame where a lower rail changes from level to a 30° to 45° slope at a post.

Specifications

Know its limits

This fitting is for slopes between 30° and 45°, which covers most stairs. Both rails end in their sockets and do not pass through. For shallow ramps up to 11°, use the slope fittings made for ramps. No load rating is published; for a guard rail that must meet a set load, ask a structural engineer to check the design.

Which 42.4mm fitting goes where on a stair rail?

How many do you need?

One at each post where a mid rail changes between level and sloping. A single flight with a level landing at the top and bottom needs two for each mid rail, one at each change of direction.

Choosing the right size

Key clamps are sized by the tube's outside diameter. 42.4mm tube is often sold as 1¼" or 32mm nominal bore. Measure across the tube before ordering: this fitting will not grip 33.7mm or 48.3mm scaffold tube. The same fitting is made for 48.3mm tube.

Fitting and care

Slide the fitting onto the post at mid rail height before fitting anything above it. Cut the rails to length and deburr the ends. Push the level rail and the sloping rail fully into their sockets, set the frame and tighten all three grub screws firmly with a 5/16" hex key. Check the screws after the first week and once a year after that. Touch up scratched galvanising with zinc-rich paint.

Frequently asked questions

Ordering and delivery

Order 5 or more online, with Express UK Delivery to your site and same-day dispatch on orders before 2pm, Monday to Friday. For a full stair rail, call 01744 520 110 or email sales@industrialsuppliesco.co.uk and we will confirm availability and delivery before you order.