Choosing the Best Anchor to Fasten to Concrete

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Purchase Anchors

What is the base material?

What is the difference between cement and concrete?

The words "concrete" and "cement" are often erroneously used as interchangeable terms. Cement is an ingredient of concrete. Concrete is a mixture of water, aggregates (i.e. small stones), sand and portland cement. Portland cement is not a brand name but rather a generic term for the type of cement used in most concrete. The cement and water harden and bind the aggregates into a solid mass over time through a process called hydration. The hydration hardens the concrete for years, which means that concrete gets stronger as it ages. People wrongly call sidewalks "cement" and point out "cement trucks" and "cement mixers". The truth is that only concrete sidewalks and mixers exist!

How old is the concrete?

Green concrete, which is less than 28 days old, should not be drilled or anchored into. The older the concrete, the harder it gets and therefore the more difficult to drill into. In some cases, concrete also becomes more abrasive as it ages. The Tapcon® screw may not work in extremely old concrete because the lead threads deteriorate and prevent the screw from being inserted the minimum of one inch. Most other concrete fasteners will successfully work in concrete regardless of age. However, the reason there are a variety of concrete fasteners is that a variety of concrete also exists. A specific concrete anchor or fastener may not work in all applications.

What is the compression strength of concrete?

The compression strength of concrete is measured in psi, or pounds per square inch. The measurement is calculated by pouring concrete in a cylinder and then measuring the force needed to break the concrete after it is hardened. For example, concrete that is designated as 3,000 psi concrete is concrete that is able to carry a compression stress of 3,000 psi after 28 days. Standard concrete is less than 7,000 psi and high strength concrete is measured between 7,000 and 14,500 psi.

How thick is the concrete?

There is a minimum embedment with all concrete anchors which is determined by the diameter of the anchor being used. As a rule of thumb, the smaller the diameter- the shorter the minimum embedment will also be. It makes sense then that the larger the diameter- the larger the minimum embedment. It is important to avoid having the working end of the concrete anchor too close to the bottom of the concrete. This will create an unsupported edge which will reduce the holding values of the concrete anchors.

Is there steel re-bar in concrete?

Concrete reinforced with rebar may cause problems. The rebar may get in the way when trying to place a concrete anchor deeply or it may cause problems when drilling a hole. There is special rebar cutting bits that can be used when rebar is located in areas where the anchor must be placed. While these special rebar bits work well, they are fairly expensive and add extra work when placing anchors. Generally, the deeper the embedment of a concrete anchor, the better the pullout/holding values will be. Increased holding values will also be attained when the working end of a concrete anchor is on the far side of rebar.

How heavy is the load to be fastened?

It is important to determine the diameter of the anchor needed from the weight of the object to be fastened to the concrete. The weakest link of a concrete anchor is the concrete in which it is placed. In most cases- it is the concrete that fails, not the anchor. The best holding values are achieved when the concrete is hard and the embedment into the concrete is deep. The larger the diameter- the higher holding values the anchor will have. For example, a 3/4" diameter anchor has a minimum embedment of 3-1/4" and a 1/4" anchor has a minimum embedment of 1". The difference in these minimum embedments results in a stronger holding value for the 3/4" concrete anchor in comparison to the holding value of the 1/4" anchor.

Is it overhead on a wall or fastened to the floor into concrete?

Where the object is placed is a major consideration due to the different load values. An object placed overhead is critical for a number of reasons. First, the load is considered to be a pullout or tension load, i.e. the force of the weight is straight down. Secondly, overhead installations are critical because failure may be catastrophic, i.e. the object may fall and hurt or kill someone. An object placed on a wall puts the concrete fastener into a shear loading situation (the load is at a 90° angle to the anchor). The shear values are based on the diameter of the anchor and are not affected by embedment depth. The larger the diameter, the better the shear values will be. The values do not change with embedment depth as long as the anchor is placed at the minimum embedment or deeper. Anchoring objects to a concrete floor involve keeping the object in place so it does not move. The diameter of the anchor is usually determined by the size of the hole in the fixture. Embedment depth should be to minimum embedment or deeper.

Does the fixture vibrate?

A vibratory load is a load that is in constant motion, i.e. a fan, conveyor belt or a sign in the wind. Mechanical type concrete anchors deliver their holding values from friction. Once the friction is broken, the anchor will gradually lose its holding values. Concrete anchors in a vibratory load application may loosen or break up the concrete in the hole where it is placed. The working end of the anchor can push against the walls of the hole in the concrete. This process then deteriorates the holding values of the anchor, thereby decreasing its holding values, making the anchor lose and possibly reducing the holding values to zero.

Shock loading application?

A shock load is a load where the load values change over time. An example of a shock load would be a dock bumper. Mechanical type anchors deliver their holding values from friction. Once the friction is broken, the anchor may gradually lose its holding values. Concrete anchors in a shock loading application loosen or break up the concrete in the hole in which it is placed. The working end of the anchor pushes up against the walls of the hole. This process deteriorates the holding values of the concrete anchor- decreasing holding values, making the anchor lose and possibly reducing its holding values to zero.

Is it a permanent fixing to concrete?

As a general rule, concrete anchors are designed to go into a hole in concrete and not come out. Some anchors are designed for the fixture to be removed at some future date such as a pallet rack or fence post. Other applications are designed so that removal is not an option. These applications include an electrical junction box or small direction sign.

Will it need to be leveled and/or shimmed?

If the fixture that is being placed on the concrete needs to be leveled or shimmed, then it is important to make sure that the concrete anchor protrudes high enough and with adequate threads to allow for movement up and down the anchor. In this case, the concrete wedge anchor is the only anchor that provides all of the necessary features required for leveling and shimming of a fixture.

What size hole is in the fixture to be fastened?

Many times the hole in the fixture determines which diameter of anchor needs to be used. It is important to know that the concrete anchor diameter and diameter of hole sizes do not match up. A 1/2" concrete wedge anchor will not through a 1/2" hole in a fixture. The threaded part of the anchor will fit through the 1/2" hole but not the working end. The concrete anchor diameter is matched to the hole size that needs to be drilled into the concrete to allow the anchor to protrude through the fixture. Below are anchor diameters and the corresponding fixture hole size:

Anchor Dia. Fixture Hole Dia. 1/4" 5/16" 5/16" 3/8" 3/8" 7/16" 1/2" 9/16" 5/8" 11/16" 3/4" 7/8" 7/8" 1" 1" 1-1/8" 1-1/4" 1-3/8"

What length of concrete fastener should be used?

If it is a male or stud anchor, the anchor length is determined by adding the thickness of the material to be fastened- plus the minimum embedment for the diameter of the anchor- plus the thickness of the nut and washer (rule of thumb is the diameter of the anchors). If a female anchor is being used, a separate bolt or screw will need to be inserted into the anchor. The bolt or screw length is determined by adding the thickness of the material to be fastened- plus any washers- plus the number of threads in the anchor and the embedment of the anchor into the concrete.

Does it require a finished look?

Some concrete anchors are designed so that a steel rod sticks up through a nut. The length of the stud above the nut will be different heights depending on how the nut was placed on the anchor before being hammered into the concrete. The length will also depend on how many times the nut is turned to set the anchor in the base material. This uneven look may not be what is needed for an application, therefore an anchor with a finished head is required. These types of concrete anchors would be the Tapcon®, flat or round head sleeve anchors, or any female type anchors where a specific bolt head can be chosen to be inserted into the anchor. These female type anchors would include the: drop-in anchor, machine screw anchor, double expansion & single expansion anchors.

All of these considerations will play an important part in which type of concrete anchor will work best for your specific application.

Wedge Anchors

Zinc Plated Wedge Anchors

Hot Dipped Galvanized Wedge Anchors

304 Stainless Steel Wedge Anchors

316 Stainless Steel Wedge Anchors

Sleeve Anchors

Zinc Plated Sleeve Anchors

304 Stainless Steel Sleeve Anchors

Purchase Anchors

When it comes to constructing buildings, anchor bolts are an essential component of the foundation. Anchor bolts are used to secure the building&#;s structure to the foundation, making them a crucial element of any construction project. The diameter of the anchor bolt is an important factor to consider when selecting the right fastener for the job.

Anchor bolts come in a variety of diameters, ranging from 1/4 inch to 4 inches or more. The diameter of the anchor bolt is determined by the size of the hole in the base material and the thickness of the material being fastened. It&#;s important to choose the right diameter of anchor bolt to ensure that the building is secure and stable.

At Fastening Specialists, we understand the importance of selecting the right size and type of fastener for your construction project. With over 65 years of experience in the industry, we are the trusted wholesale distributor of DeWalt fasteners, Powers fasteners, and Tie Max Pro fasteners. Our team of experts can provide you with advice and best use-cases for your specific needs. However, always check with local building codes and engineers for correct usage instructions. Trust the specialists for the best in product value, insight, code expertise, and order fulfillment.

Anchor Bolt Basics

When it comes to securing structures and equipment, anchor bolts are the go-to fasteners. They are used to attach concrete to other materials like steel and wood, and they come in various sizes and types. In this section, we will cover the basics of anchor bolts, including defining anchor bolt diameter and types of anchor bolts.

Defining Anchor Bolt Diameter

Anchor bolt diameter is a crucial factor to consider when selecting the right anchor bolt for your project. The diameter of an anchor bolt is the thickness of the rod that goes into the material being fastened. Anchor bolts come in different diameters, ranging from 3/8 inch to 2 inches.

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The diameter of the anchor bolt will determine its holding capacity. A larger diameter anchor bolt will have a higher load capacity than a smaller diameter bolt. However, a larger diameter bolt may not always be necessary, as the size of the anchor bolt should be based on the load requirements of the project.

Types of Anchor Bolts

There are several types of anchor bolts, each designed for specific applications. Some of the most common types of anchor bolts include:

• Wedge anchor bolts: These bolts are designed for use in solid concrete and are available in various diameters and lengths.
• Sleeve anchor bolts: These bolts are used in hollow materials like brick and block. They expand as the bolt is tightened, creating a secure hold.
• Drop-in anchor bolts: These bolts are designed for use in concrete and are installed by drilling a hole and dropping the bolt into the hole.
• Expansion anchor bolts: These bolts are used in concrete and other solid materials. They expand as the bolt is tightened, creating a secure hold.
• Headed anchor bolts: These bolts have a head on one end and are used to attach structural steel columns to concrete foundations.
• Bent anchor bolts: These bolts have a 90-degree bend at one end and are used to secure concrete structures to a foundation.

When selecting the right anchor bolt for your project, it&#;s essential to consider the material being fastened, the load requirements, and the diameter of the bolt.

As a trusted wholesale distributor for over 65 years, Fastening Specialists can provide you with the best anchor bolts for your project. Our team of fastening specialists can offer advice and best use-cases, but always check with local building codes and engineers for correct usage instructions.

Materials and Specifications

Material Standards

Anchor bolts are made from a variety of materials, including carbon steel, alloy steel, and stainless steel. The material used depends on the application and the required strength of the anchor bolt. Carbon steel is the most commonly used material for anchor bolts and is suitable for most applications. Alloy steel is used for applications that require higher strength and durability, while stainless steel is used for applications that require corrosion resistance.

ASTM Specifications

ASTM specifications are used to determine the strength and performance of anchor bolts. The most commonly used ASTM specifications for anchor bolts are F, A307, A449, A354, A193, A320, and F593.

F

F is the most widely used ASTM specification for anchor bolts and covers straight, bent, headed, and headless anchor bolts made from carbon, medium carbon boron, alloy, or high-strength low alloy steel. F covers anchor bolts in grade 36, 55, and 105, each designated with minimum ksi strength value, used for structural and nonstructural anchoring.

A307

A307 is a standard specification for carbon steel bolts and studs, with tensile strength ranging from 60 to 100 ksi. This specification covers anchor bolts in diameters ranging from 1/4&#; to 4&#;, and is commonly used in construction and building applications.

A449

A449 is a high-strength steel bolt specification that covers bolts, studs, and anchor rods with minimum tensile strength of 120 ksi. This specification is commonly used in applications that require high strength and durability.

A354

A354 is a specification for alloy steel bolts, studs, and other fasteners with minimum tensile strength ranging from 105 to 150 ksi. This specification covers anchor bolts in diameters ranging from 1/4&#; to 4&#;, and is commonly used in high-strength applications.

A193

A193 is a specification for alloy steel and stainless steel bolting materials for high-temperature service. This specification covers anchor bolts in diameters ranging from 1/4&#; to 4&#;, and is commonly used in applications that require high-temperature resistance.

A320

A320 is a specification for alloy steel bolting materials for low-temperature service. This specification covers anchor bolts in diameters ranging from 1/4&#; to 4&#;, and is commonly used in applications that require low-temperature resistance.

F593

F593 is a specification for stainless steel bolts, hex cap screws, and studs. This specification covers anchor bolts in diameters ranging from 1/4&#; to 4&#;, and is commonly used in applications that require corrosion resistance.

Fastening Specialists is a trusted wholesale distributor of anchor bolts, with over 65 years of experience in the industry. Our experts can provide advice and best use-cases for all your fastening needs. With a wide range of sizes, applications, features, designs, materials, coatings, and SKU names, we know that fastenings can be overwhelming. Serving a long list of industries, you can trust THE specialists for the best in product value, insight, code expertise, and order fulfillment. Remember to always check with local building codes and engineers for correct usage instructions.

Installation Considerations

When it comes to installing anchor bolts, there are a few important factors to consider to ensure that the anchor bolts are properly secured. In this section, we will discuss two key installation considerations: Concrete and Masonry Anchoring and Determining Hole Size.

Concrete and Masonry Anchoring

When anchoring to concrete or masonry, it is important to ensure that the anchor bolts are properly secured. According to Fastening Specialists, a trusted wholesale distributor for over 65 years, there are several types of fasteners that can be used for concrete and masonry anchoring, including wedge anchors, sleeve anchors, and drop-in anchors. These fasteners are designed to expand and grip the concrete or masonry when tightened, providing a secure hold.

It is important to note that the strength of the concrete or masonry will affect the holding power of the anchor bolts. The concrete psi (pounds per square inch) rating will determine how much weight the concrete can hold. It is important to choose an anchor bolt that is appropriate for the concrete or masonry being used.

Determining Hole Size

Another important consideration when installing anchor bolts is determining the correct hole size. The hole size will depend on the size of the anchor bolt being used. According to Ash in the Wild, standard anchor bolt sizes range from 1/4 inch to 4 inches in diameter, with lengths varying according to the specific requirements of the project.

It is important to choose the correct hole size to ensure that the anchor bolt is properly secured. If the hole is too small, the anchor bolt may not fit properly. If the hole is too large, the anchor bolt may not be able to grip the concrete or masonry properly.

In conclusion, when installing anchor bolts, it is important to consider the type of concrete or masonry being used, as well as the size of the anchor bolt and the correct hole size. By taking these factors into consideration, you can ensure that your anchor bolts are properly secured. The team at Fastening Specialists provides advice and best use-cases, but always check with local building codes and engineers for correct usage instructions.

Applications and Uses

Anchor bolts are used in various applications and industries to secure structural elements or components to substantial structures. The diameter of an anchor bolt is a crucial factor in determining its load-bearing capacity. Common diameters range from 1/4 inch to 2 inches, with standard sizes like 1/2 inch, 5/8 inch, and 3/4 inch being widely used in construction. The length of an anchor bolt is equally important and can vary based on the thickness of the material it is being attached to.

Infrastructure Applications

Anchor bolts are widely used in infrastructure applications such as highway sign structures, bridge rail, traffic signal poles, and light poles. These applications require a strong and secure connection to ensure the safety of the public. Anchor bolts are also used in the construction of structural steel columns and equipment.

Commercial and Industrial Uses

In commercial and industrial settings, anchor bolts are used to secure equipment, machinery, and structural members to concrete. These applications require a reliable and long-lasting connection to ensure the safety of workers and the integrity of the structure. Anchor bolts can be used in a variety of industries such as construction, manufacturing, and transportation.

At Fastening Specialists, we understand the importance of using high-quality anchor bolts for your applications. As a trusted wholesale distributor for over 65 years, we are specialists in this field and can provide you with the best in product value, insight, code expertise, and order fulfillment. Our team of experts can provide advice and best use-cases for your specific needs. However, it is always important to check with local building codes and engineers for correct usage instructions.

When it comes to anchor bolts, there are many types and brands available on the market. Some popular brands include DeWalt fasteners, Powers fasteners, and Tie Max Pro fasteners. However, it is important to choose the right product type for your specific application. At Fastening Specialists, we can help you find the right anchor bolt for your needs, ensuring a strong and secure connection every time.

Manufacturing and Finishing

Production Processes

Anchor bolts are manufactured through various processes, including hot forging, cold forging, and machining. Hot forging involves heating the steel to a high temperature and then shaping it into the desired shape using a die. Cold forging, on the other hand, involves shaping the steel at room temperature using a punch and die. Machining involves cutting the steel into the desired shape using a lathe or milling machine.

The manufacturing process used for anchor bolts is determined by the size and quantity required. Small quantities are typically manufactured using cold forging or machining, while larger quantities are manufactured using hot forging.

Finishing and Coatings

Anchor bolts are finished and coated to prevent corrosion and improve their appearance. The most common finishing method is hot-dip galvanizing, which involves dipping the anchor bolts in a bath of molten zinc. This creates a thick, durable coating that protects the steel from corrosion.

Other finishing methods include electroplating, which involves applying a thin layer of zinc or another metal to the surface of the anchor bolt using an electrical current. Powder coating is another finishing method that involves applying a dry powder to the surface of the anchor bolt and then baking it in an oven to create a hard, durable coating.

At Fastening Specialists, we offer a wide range of anchor bolts with different finishes and coatings to meet your specific needs. Our selection includes DeWalt fasteners, Powers fasteners, and Tie Max Pro fasteners, among others. As a trusted wholesale distributor for over 65 years, we are specialists in this field and can provide you with the best in product value, insight, and code expertise.

Remember to always check with local building codes and engineers for correct usage instructions. The team at Fastening Specialists provides advice and best use-cases to help you make informed decisions about your fastening needs.