Elbows for rods

About elbows for crossbar rods

In crossbar balustrades the horizontal rods run from post to post. Where the line turns, or climbs a stair, the rod has to change direction – that is what a rod elbow does.

Unlike tube elbows, these are small and often stay visible at close range, so finish quality matters as much as geometry.

The Strofix range has three types: a fixed 90° elbow, bendable elbows in 70 and 102 mm, and adjustable elbows.

The fixed and bendable versions are for Ø12 mm rod; adjustable elbows come in both Ø10 and Ø12 mm.

The choice depends on rod diameter and on whether the angle is known in advance or has to be set on site.

How to choose an elbow for a crossbar rod

1. Rod diameter: Ø10 or Ø12 mm

Ø12 mm is the standard crossbar size in the Strofix range, and it has the widest choice.

Ø10 mm is used for lighter structures; an adjustable elbow is available for it. Make sure rods, holders and end caps share one diameter.

2. Fixed, bendable or adjustable

The fixed 90° elbow is the cleanest solution for a right-angle turn.

The bendable elbow is bent to the required angle in place – that gives freedom, but demands care, since it cannot be straightened back afterwards.

The adjustable elbow lets the angle change without bending and is the safer choice when the angle is not known exactly.

3. Bendable elbow length: 70 or 102 mm

A longer bendable elbow gives a gentler curve and lower stress concentration in the metal.

The 102 mm version suits shallow turns and stair transitions; 70 mm suits sharper turns in tight spaces.

4. Finish

Every elbow in the range is satin AISI 304, like the rods and holders, so the assembly reads as one piece.

If the balustrade is coastal or by a pool, consider AISI 316 for the whole crossbar system – these elbows are the smallest part, but corrosion starts exactly in small, tightly mating parts.