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Aturnbuckle,stretching screw orbottlescrew is a device for adjusting the tension or length ofropes,cables,tie rods, and other tensioning systems. It normally consists of twothreadedeye bolts, onescrewed into each end of a small metal frame, one with a conventionalright-hand thread and the other with a left-hand thread. Thetension can be adjusted by rotating the frame, which causes both eye bolts to be screwed in or out simultaneously, without twisting the eye bolts or attached cables.[1]
Turnbuckles are most commonly used in applications which require a great deal oftension; they can range in mass from about10 grams (3⁄8 oz) for thin cable used in a gardenfence, totonnes for structural elements in buildings andsuspension bridges.
Turnbuckles have been used in aircraft construction, especially during the early years of aviation. Historically, biplanes might use turnbuckles to adjust the tension on structural wires bracing their wings. Turnbuckles are also widely used on flexible cables in flight control systems. In both cases they are secured withlockwire or specifically designed wire clips to prevent them from turning and losing tension due to vibration.
Turnbuckles are used for tensioning a ship'srigging andlashings. A variant of the turnbuckle called a bottle screw features an enclosed tubular body.
Turnbuckles are used in nearly all rigging performed in the entertainment industry, includingtheatre,film, and live concert performances. In entertainmentrigging, turnbuckles are more commonly used to make small adjustments in line lengths. This is generally to make a flown (hoisted) unit sit parallel to the stage. Another way a turnbuckle could prove helpful is with making very minor height or angle adjustments.
Turnbuckles are used in piping systems as a way to provide minor adjustments for field inconsistencies. This also allows for a minimum amount of resistance when transferring the load to the support components.
A type of splint is used for upper limb to produce gradual stretching over contracted joint by its turn buckle mechanism. Used to treat stiff elbow andVolkmann Ischemic Contracture.
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