PRO-STRAIN, TORNADO CLIPEX AND TORUS NET: THE COMPLETE METAL FENCING SYSTEM
We recently completed a new dog exercise field using the Pro-Strain and Clipex system. The client, who designs dog fields nationally, requested Clipex posts but wasn’t aware of the new Pro-Strain system. After sharing samples, the client was impressed and decided to proceed with it.
What did you consider before making your final decisions on the net and post/straining system?
The client needed a metal post system to meet planning conditions for the dog field. They required a 6ft minimum height and 75mm wire spacing, which the Tornado R13/192/8 suited perfectly. We considered using a panel-based system like V-mesh, but the strained netting option was significantly cheaper.
Why did you choose Tornado Clipex and Pro-Strain?
It was quick and easy to install both the strainers and the strut system. The fence needed to be long-lasting, but creosote wasn’t an option due to the site being non-agricultural and public-facing, where creosote isn’t legally permitted.
How did your customer benefit from using metal posts and the straining system?
Galvanised metal posts offer consistent longevity in ground contact, unlike other options on the market. Creosote treatment has had consistency issues, but galvanised steel posts are manufactured to the same standard every time.
As the site was located next to a main road, the client wanted a low-visibility fence. The thin profile of the Clipex posts and 90mm strainers (compared to traditional 4-5″ intermediate posts and 7-8″ strainers) made the fence almost unnoticeable from the road, which pleased the client.
Do you have any new projects in the pipeline where you would recommend Tornado Clipex and Pro-Strain steel straining systems?
Yes, we have more dog exercise fields in the pipeline that will use the Pro-Strain and Clipex systems, as well as a smaller cattle field fence for some Highland cows. I’d also like to use the struts on timber strainers in the future to speed up the strutting process, which is typically the slowest part of the job for me.
How does Pro-Strain compare to other metal straining posts on the market?
Clients appreciate the larger diameter of the strainers, and I really like the adaptability of the system. With the bolt-on plates, I can specify larger 600mm wide ones for clay ground and revert to smaller sizes for heavy gravel areas. We can also adjust lengths, strut heights, strut lengths, foot plates, and strut peg lengths to suit varying ground conditions. It’s almost as adaptable as timber, making it a favorite of mine.
Malcolm Blackford from Tornado added:
“Every end and corner in a fence line is different, and we knew our solution needed to accommodate this. The Pro-Strain system is the only steel straining system as adaptable as wood. Box and strutted strainer assemblies are built using the same components. Breast and heel plates come in various sizes for different soil types, and struts can be cut to length with 200mm of adjustment to ‘pre-load’ the straining post before tensioning the netting.”
To date, Pro-Strain sales have exceeded expectations, with contractors finding innovative ways to use the system. Pro-Strain will be demonstrated at the AFI Best Practice Day on 19th October in Dumfries, offering contractors a chance to see the benefits firsthand.
For more information:
www.tornadowire.com
