Using RailCalc(tm) and Understanding its Results

RailCalc is provided for your convenience to assist you in understanding the
correct  lengths of tubing and proper components required to configure
 a foot rail for any size bar with one or more sides.
The program makes certain assumptions of which you should be aware:
  • It is assumed that  brackets are to be spaced consistantly along a given bar side
  • Brackets should be placed no more than 60" apart
  • It is desirable for brackets to be inset 3-6" from the ends of a rail
  • 6" of extra length will be needed for each side that connects with a 90* fitting
  • 3" of extra length will be needed for each side that connects with a 135* fitting
  • To save shipping costs, tubing  5 feet and longer will be configured using hidden splices
In performing its calculations,  RailCalc will determine the quantity and stock lengths
of tubing required as well as  the nominal length to which each piece must be trimmed on-site.
NOTE: All calculations reflect the "cut to"  size needed with all applicable fittings attached.
Measurements should always be taken to the horizontal end of fitting.

Example:

An "L" shaped bar --  10 ft across the front then a 90* angle and 5' along the right side.
We'll assume a domed end cap on the left end of the 10' side and a domed end cap on the fright end of the 5' side.
The two sides will be connected with a 90* flush fitting.

This information would be entered as shown below:
Side 1

Length of Bar Side:  Feet     Inches
Left side ends with:
Right side ends with:


Side 2
Length of Bar Side:  Feet:    Inches:
Left side ends with:
Right side ends with:


Next, you would simply click on Submit query and the following results would display:


Side-1 / 2 Item # Description Quantity Stock Length
 Cut to
  1 Tube 2 48 44.00
  2 Tube 1 48 38.00
  3 Combo Bracket 4    
  4 Splice 2    
  5 Doomed end cap 1    
  6 90 degree flush fitting 1    


Side-2 / 2 Item # Description Quantity Stock Length Cut to
  1 Tube 2 36 33.00
  2 Combo Bracket 3    
  3 Splice 1    
  4 90 degree flush fitting 0 (Shared)
    
  5 Doomed end cap 1    

IMPORTANT: The Stock Length is the size tubing to order.  The "Cut to" length  is the nominal size
to which you will cut each stock piece, on-site. Always measure with fitting in place.

The "Cut to" size is the  total length in inches with the fitting attached