Abstract
This study examined the structural behavior of bracket scaffolds reflecting the influence of bracket's deflection. Even though the supporting condition of bracket scaffolds is different to that of general earth-supported scaffolds, there is no clear standards about the installation of bracket scaffolds. To compare the structural behaviors of the earth-supported scaffolds without settlements in columns and those of bracket scaffolds installed on the bracket structure, the finite element analysis was performed. The results show that the differential settlement between the scaffold columns installed on the bracket was occurred due to the deflection of the bracket. The differential settlement gave birth to remarkable secondary stress to the scaffold columns. It is resonable to locate all scaffold columns on the brackets, and if unavoidable situation is faced at a site, the horizontal members should not placed alone without columns on the brackets. Moreover, the structural analysis should be performed to ensure structural safety of bracket scaffolds before installation. In addition, the location of wall connection to the structures is recommended to the scaffolds columns installed on the brackets.