WHY USE RINGLOCK SCAFFOLDING SYSTEM IN A COAL HOPPER?
July 11, 2019
Thermal power plant managers must oversee the operations of a number of critical areas. Ensuring proper and adequate coal storage is just one of those responsibilities. However, when it comes time to construct a new coal hopper, or clean and service an existing hopper, extra resources are needed. That is where Ringlock Scaffolding System
comes in.
The versatility of the Ringlock Scaffolding System
Ringlock Scaffolding
boasts incredible versatility and can be built to suit any shape or size container or project. That is particularly useful in coal hoppers, which can often be awkward to work around and in. No matter the size of the access, you can get Ringlock Scaffolding Systems into a coal hopper.
In addition to versatility, Ringlock Scaffolding Systems also allow users to quickly and efficiently erect, use, and dismantle temporary work structures. This creates increased efficiency and productivity at a plant, and saves time and money by keeping operations on time and on budget.
How to erect the Ringlock Scaffolding System in tight spaces
Coal hoppers are traditionally built with a slope that feeds coal into a chute. Before erecting scaffolding inside the hopper, planks, or beams (wood planks for a brick hopper, base beams for a steel hopper) need to be secured to the wall so workers can climb the slope. Think of the planks as a makeshift ladder. Because the chute may run five to 20 feet deep into boilers, you also need to secure a lifeline or slack line for workers to attach themselves too.
Once you have taken the proper safety steps, you can begin erecting the scaffolding with this process:
- Start at the center line of the hopper and create a square base that will fit in the bottom, usually three 3×3 feet to 4×4 feet.
- Since the slope is very steep, start stepping out in all four directions with small bays for ease of erection.
- Place Swiveljacks on the slope.
- Place steel tubes to brace legs from sliding down the slope.
- Work your way out to the hopper walls to create planked working levels.
- Finish to the top of the hopper.
Ringlock meets or exceeds the highest American and European safety and durability standards. AT-PAC has manufactured the Ringlock Scaffolding System
and associated components since 1995 and we maintain distribution warehouses all over the world, which saves you both time and money.
Call our closest regional office or contact us online when you’re ready to integrate the Ringlock Scaffolding System into your power plant.
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AT-PAC expands presence in Latin America — with Mexico established as key operational hub AT-PAC, one of the world’s leading scaffolding solution providers and part of umdasch Industrial Solutions, announces the launch of its new operation in Mexico. With this development, AT-PAC strengthens its industrial footprint in Latin America, offering immediate availability of AT-PAC Ringlock System Scaffolding, applied engineering support, and direct operational readiness for high-performance industrial projects. Mexico City, 08.01.2026. Well established across the USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, the UK and multiple LATAM regions, AT-PAC now advances into Mexico — a strategic market with growing industrial demand and large-scale operational potential. The expansion aims to support EPCs, asset owners and contractors with local inventory, engineering guidance and high-efficiency industrial access solutions. AT-PAC guides customers through the full lifecycle of an industrial scaffolding project — from engineering, documentation and planning, to material supply, field support and digital asset control. The core objective remains unchanged: safety, precision and performance in industrial environments. Direct value for the Mexican market According to Isaac Tovar, Commercial Director Mexico, the company’s arrival represents more than material access — it is a technical and operational support system designed to prevent downtime; "Every industrial challenge in Mexico becomes our mission. We respond with engineering, local availability, and specialized technical support to ensure continuity and efficiency in every project." With inventory positioned locally and a dedicated commercial and engineering team, Mexico now gains faster turnaround capabilities for high-demand industrial operations. Looking ahead For Rodrigo Arce, Regional Director LATAM, this is only the beginning of AT-PAC’s long-term vision in the region; "Mexico is a strategic point for Latin America. This operation strengthens capacity, accelerates response and establishes a new industrial scaffolding standard for the region." Alongside material availability, the Mexico hub will offer: ✔ Ringlock System Scaffolding for sales & rental ✔ Engineering, design & technical planning for industrial access ✔ On-site support and safe execution consulting ✔ Hi-Vis Scaffold Management Software for digital control and traceability ✔ Technical documentation, training and operational partnership
We are shaping the future of scaffolding
For nearly a decade, AT-PAC's Baton Rouge branch has been a cornerstone of our southern U.S. operations, proudly supporting projects across Louisiana, Missouri, Arkansas and Mississippi. Known for their dependable service and deep industry knowledge, the Baton Rouge team continues to strengthen AT-PAC's presence in the region - helping customers keep projects on track and on time. Under the leadership of Branch Manager Jeremy Smith, this experienced team has built lasting relationships through reliability, responsiveness, and a hands-on approach. Their recent move to a larger, upgraded facility marks an exciting new chapter - expanding their capacity to serve more customers, more quickly than ever before. Hear from Jeremy below about the team's new space, their commitment to customers, and how Baton Rouge continues to raise the standard across the South. Ready to reach out to the team? Contact them here .