A weld-free installation process has caught the attention of Victoria’s caving community.
Parks Victoria and ASSDA Member Stainless Tube Mills Fences Pty Ltd recently completed a visitor access upgrade for popular tourist sites, the Royal and Fairy Caves.
STM Fences’ patented assembly process for tubular panels allows for easy installation without the need for welding.
Ranger in charge of Buchan, Dale Calnin, said using this system meant installation wasn’t damaging to the caves’ sensitive environment. 
“The stainless steel balustrading looked fantastic and is a well presented modular system,” he said.
Mr Calnin said this process would be welcomed by the international caving community.
220 metres of grade 316 stainless steel handrails and balustrading were installed to provide strong and durable protective barriers.
The application consisted of 50.8mm diameter top and bottom rails with 12.7mm diameter spigots, square mesh panels and fabricated stainless cable trays by Duraduct Pty Ltd.
Double top rails were also installed, using STM Fences’ innovative swivel cones to help with undulations throughout the caves.
A fine bright finish was applied by Stainless Tube Mills Pty Ltd and fabricated components pickled and passivated by Duraduct for maximum corrosion resistance.
Great caution was taken during installation to protect the caves’ delicate interior.
“STM Fences worked closely with Brettell Developments to ensure installation was handled appropriately for the environmentally sensitive area,” STM’s Peter Martin said.
This article featured in Australian Stainless magazine - Issue 45, Summer 2009.