Batting Cage Steel Tubes - What size do I use

  • Context: Wood/Glass/Metal 
  • Thread starter Thread starter No_Diva
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Cage Steel
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on constructing a 12x12x70 batting cage using 4 steel posts, specifically 4 x .120 A500/A513 grade steel. The net's weight is approximately 140 lbs, raising concerns about the posts' ability to support the load effectively. Participants emphasize the importance of considering wind, rain, and snow loading, as well as the necessity of additional support structures like guy lines and triangulation to prevent sagging over the 70-foot span. Researching existing batting cage structures in the area is recommended for practical insights.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of A500/A513 steel specifications
  • Knowledge of structural load considerations
  • Familiarity with tension support systems in construction
  • Basic principles of wind and snow load calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research local batting cage designs and their structural supports
  • Learn about wind and snow load calculations for outdoor structures
  • Explore the use of guy lines and triangulation in large-span constructions
  • Investigate available batting cage kits for design inspiration
USEFUL FOR

Homeowners planning to build batting cages, structural engineers, and DIY enthusiasts interested in outdoor construction projects.

No_Diva
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
I am building a batting cage in my backyard. The cage will be 12x12x70. I'd like to use 4 steel posts. The posts will be 4 feet into the ground. I was considering using 4 x .120 A500/A513 post and cable. Can the posts handle the load? I believe the net weighs about 140 lbs.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Welcome to PF, fun project. :smile:

How many pairs of posts are you planning on for the 70' length? What kind of structure will be along the tops of the posts to support the net? Are there any wind loading or rain/snow loading considerations?

1698412287536.png

https://absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/custom-build-batting-cages/
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: Lnewqban
No_Diva said:
Can the posts handle the load?
The answer to that question can be found by looking at batting cages in your area. Use someone else's knowledge at the cost of a small amount of vehicle fuel.
berkeman said:
Are there any wind loading or rain/snow loading co
I'd think that would be the most relevant factor - plus the effect of flying debris during storms and possibly the build up of wet leaves in autumn. Again, studying existing structures would be valuable.
 
No_Diva said:
The cage will be 12x12x70. I'd like to use 4 steel posts.
Just 4??? I re-read this and I assumed there would need to be a lot of guy lines to give it strength. Will you have room for the guys (at the side and at the ends)? A 70' span will involve a lot of tension to keep it from sagging badly (unless it is spider's web).
More spars and some 'triangles' in there would avoid needing to go 4' down. I'm further convinced that you need to be looking around you at what people tend to use. Are kits available - not to buy but to study?
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: berkeman

Similar threads

  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
7K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Replies
19
Views
9K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
5K
Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
3
Views
2K