FACT SHEET 7

TRANSIT FRAMES (T-FRAMES)

The use of transit frames is usually as an answer to handling problems where a full specification container is too costly or would give greater problems in handling works, ie carrying up or down stairs or in limited access areas.  Very ornate or delicate frames also benefit from the use of a transit frame which give art movers solid areas to hold and handles to carry by.  Once fixed to its transit frame many objects are packed into full specification containers for movement both inland and overseas.

CONSTRUCTION

The basic transit frame is constructed using suitable softwood or plywood depending on the exact requirement.  The frame is glued and screwed to achieve an L shape cross section with the sides being of a sufficient depth to accept the required painting frame.  Machined handles of the correct strength are added onto each end to aid movement.  Objects are then screwed or bolted into the transit frame using mirror plates.

If required, any internal face coming into contact with the frame would be lined with 3mm Plastazote and the lower internal edge would be lined with 12mm Plastazote so that the frame could ‘rest’ on this and help relieve stress on the mirror plates.

CAPITAL ‘ART MOVEMENT’ FRAMES

Capital Frames are an ideal solution where the ‘soft wrap option’ is not considered sufficient.  Often the need for a higher level of protection is required but constraints of size, weight and cost prevail, not allowing for, nor requiring full specification containers.   Works can be cushioned into these frames in the same way as a full container.  Their use is primarily for UK inland loans, but  this packing method has been used where works are trucked direct to and from overseas galleries.

CONSTRUCTION

The basic L shaped transit frame (as detailed  overleaf) is enhanced by the addition of a solid back and lid which may be constructed using  plywood or triple wall fibre board depending on the particular requirement.  The lid will use a simple softwood surround with plywood corner plates to which the chosen panel material will be attached.  The lid will be secured to the base using  either captive screw or quick release fasteners.  A suitable handle is  fitted to each end.  Larger frames will have additional handles fitted to side faces to  , area and depth to suit the weight, fragility and dimensions of the object being packed.

Larger frames will have additional handles fitted to side faces to assist handling.
 

Each frame will be lined internally with a basic insulation layer and the cushioning material will be of a density, type, area and depth to suit the weight, fragility and dimensions of the object being packed.'

IDENTIFICATION

Each Capital Frame is fitted with internationally approved warning labels and lender specified identification labels. All softwood is stencilled with ISPM 15 Forestry Commission mark FC0462 as appropriate and in accordance with the International Wood Marking Scheme.

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The company reserves the right to change the materials and construction specifications without notice when circumstances outside its control necessitate