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Apprentice answer

Why does a short flange lip make an S-cleat joint fail

1st YearHand Tools, Fasteners & HardwareField Reference

S-cleats need enough flange lip to bite. If the lip is trimmed too short, remake the end or add an approved connection fix before the joint is installed.

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Plain-English answer

You trim a section of rectangular duct down to length using hand snips, but you cut the flat S-cleat connection flange lip down to less than frac{1}{4}\text{-inch} deep, leaving the metal lip too short to catch the interior fold of the S-cleat bar.

S-cleats need enough flange lip to bite. If the lip is trimmed too short, remake the end or add an approved connection fix before the joint is installed. The likely recovery is to check the condition, correct prep/setup if it is within your assignment, and bring the foreman clean information before the work creates rework overhead.

Ask Foreman

You trimmed that connection flange lip too short—it's barely catching the edge of the S-cleat pocket. Maintain a clean half-inch flange extension on your cut lines so the joint locks together secure.

Verify before acting

Use this as training guidance. Foreman direction, approved drawings, project specs, manufacturer instructions, employer safety policy, and AHJ/code requirements always control the final answer.

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