Truss and rigging

TOMCAT 12 × 12 Plated: identification, bolts and load-chart scope

Distinguish the Light-Duty 12 × 12 Plated family from other TOMCAT truss, then check connection identity, chart revision and support conditions.

Identify the truss

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This guide concerns conventional TOMCAT Light-Duty 12 × 12 in Plated straight truss with bolted end connections. Spigoted, Guardian and Center Chord products are separate variants; the same nominal size does not identify the connection or its capacity.

Section and connection references

Published construction: Main chords: 2 in OD × 1/8 in wall; diagonals: 1 in OD × 1/8 in wall.
Example straight-section reference: TC 1212-120B: 10 ft. Confirm the actual label and length rather than assigning that code to every section.
Selected chart: September 2024 data sheet with deflection limited to L/100. Use its own notes; do not combine it with a chart based on a different limit.

The selected chart concerns a static simple span supported at its ends, with stated load direction and panel-point attachment conditions. Cantilevers, dynamic loads, multiple axes and off-center loading require qualified approval. Its distributed-load and per-point columns answer different questions.

Parts and supporting documents

Identify the specified bolts, nuts and connection arrangement, plus approved supports and load attachments. The general manual Part 1 must be used with the product-specific Part 2. Keep those instructions with the job; a sheet of tube dimensions is not a complete assembly procedure.

Prepare the configuration

Record family, section codes, lengths, inspection status and the chart revision used in the drawing. Resolve unidentified or mixed components before assembly.
With unloaded modules safely supported, compare the mating end plates and hole alignment. Inspect for distortion, cracks and worn holes. Do not draw misaligned modules together with bolts or excessive force.
A competent person must confirm the connection hardware and tightening instructions. Use the specified torque wrench procedure; do not adopt a generic torque or copy a value from a different connection.

Three technical questions

The plate holes do not line up. Can I tighten the bolts to pull the trusses together?
Can every bolt on a Plated truss be tightened to one internet torque value?
Does the load chart cover a corner, tower or moving load?

The plate holes do not line up. Can I tighten the bolts to pull the trusses together?

Stop and keep the modules unloaded. Compare references, orientation and visible end-plate condition first. The manual calls for alignment without excessive force; permanent plate distortion and worn holes are inspection concerns. Do not drill or grind the holes. Have the responsible competent person assess an unresolved mismatch before use.

Can every bolt on a Plated truss be tightened to one internet torque value?

Do not assume so. Identify the supplied bolt, nut and any threaded component, then consult the applicable product-specific instructions together with Part 1. The general manual’s torque statement has a threaded-steel-component condition; it is not a substitute for identifying the connection. Record the approved setting and tightening check before loading.

Does the load chart cover a corner, tower or moving load?

Not through the simple-span table alone. Compare the actual supports, orientation and attachment points with the chart’s assumptions. Check its notes on repetitive use and deflection criteria with the designer. Do not subtract truss self-weight a second time from data that already accounts for it, or convert a distributed rating into permission for one central load. Obtain a qualified assessment for cases outside the chart.

Limits before installation

Isolate suspect components and retain their labels for inspection. Do not weld, heat-straighten or alter a plate as an on-site remedy. Installation and disassembly require competent supervision and the manufacturer’s applicable instructions; this guide does not approve the project or authorize lifting people.

Manufacturer documentation

Sources checked: October 22, 2026.