An anchor is a very popular connecting element that allows for a solid connection of structure fragments - incomparably more durable than those provided by expansion pins. Prevents unwanted movements such as translations and rotations. The enormous durability of the anchor ensures its versatile use in construction, renovation and finishing works. But what else can an anchor be useful for? You will find out in this article!
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How can a concrete anchor help?
A concrete anchor is a fastening element commonly used in construction and finishing projects. Anchoring with anchors most often involves working with concrete. Concrete anchors allow you to quickly obtain a solid, stable and lasting fixation. Installing the anchor increases the strength and improves the load-bearing properties of the substrate. It strengthens and integrates the entire structure.
Using a concrete anchor, you can attach very heavy equipment to a concrete wall or even connect another structure to it, without risking damage to the internal structure of the ground. This is a frequently used solution when installing fences and gates. The anchors work on a similar principle to expansion plugs, but these are suitable for small and medium loads. Anchors provide much greater strength and durability of connections. They are designed for very heavy loads and installation in concrete substrates.
How long can a concrete anchor withstand?
The strength of a concrete anchor depends not only on the parameters of the fastener itself, but also on the strength parameters of the substrate. The class of concrete does not affect the load-bearing capacity of the anchor. A distinction should be made between ordinary concrete with high compressive strength and lightweight concrete with lower strength. For this reason, the load capacity of an anchor is generally given for concrete grades.
In the technical specifications of some concrete anchors you can find specific information about the maximum load. The value for most products is several hundred kilograms. Both steel and chemical anchors can withstand this load. In the case of chemical anchors, the maximum load will depend on the quality of the anchor and the type of substrate - whether it is weak or coherent. With a looser structure with empty spaces, the strength will be approximately 200 kg.
However, the durable and durable structure of the substrate, combined with a modern chemical mixture, can ensure resistance to loads of up to 800 kg. Specialized computer programs are used to precisely determine the breaking load capacity of anchors. They are mainly used by professionals from the construction and geotechnical industries.
What should you remember when installing a concrete anchor?
Installing a concrete anchor should start with selecting the right type. The most popular division is into mechanical anchors and chemical (glued) anchors. The category of mechanical anchors includes screw-in anchors and drive-in anchors. The subgroups are sleeve anchors, in the form of a screw surrounded by an expansion sleeve , and band anchors, intended for pass-through installation, ensuring flexibility in the anchorage depth. There are also different types of chemical anchors. This segment includes, among others: polyester anchors and epoxy anchors. The latter are suitable for carrying the highest loads. The concrete anchor is selected according to the parameters of the connected elements. You will learn more about the materials from which concrete anchors are made in the next paragraph.
When it comes to the installation process, the guidelines of the anchor manufacturer must be strictly followed, and any generally available instructions should be treated as a guide only. Screwed and driven anchors are installed in a similar way to concrete expansion plugs. You place the anchor in pre-drilled holes (with the same diameter as the anchor diameter), drive it in with a hammer and tighten it with an appropriate wrench. Anchors intended for concreting are installed in various ways. It must be remembered that elements concreted during pouring (inserted into the mixture) require quick and precise leveling.
In the case of a chemical anchor, follow the instructions included with the product you purchased. The holes must certainly be slightly larger than the diameters of the screws or rods and thoroughly cleaned. Leaving dirt reduces the effectiveness of fastening the elements. You squeeze the prepared mass into the hole using an applicator, then insert a screw or rod and after a certain time you can start assembling the necessary elements.
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What should a concrete anchor be made of?
Mechanical anchors, i.e. driven and screwed, should be made of stainless or galvanized steel. The steel mechanical anchor is widely used in construction. It is resistant to moisture, so it works well on damp surfaces. It is used, for example, to attach fence posts or balustrades to a concrete surface. In extremely difficult conditions, especially in aggressive environments, you should consider anchors made of acid-resistant steel.
However, a chemical anchor takes the form of a mass with resin and hardener. The resin mass is pressed into the holes and then embedded connectors in the form of bolts, screws or ribbed rods. Due to their composition, chemical epoxy anchors and polyester anchors are distinguished. Hybrid (mixed) anchors are also available. Their use enables permanent mounting (gluing) of even very heavy elements.
To select the right type and material of anchor, the following factors must be taken into account:
- environmental conditions,
- material and structure of the substrate,
- risk of damaging the substrate,
- anchor load capacity,
- type and direction of loads,
- anchoring guidelines.
Of course, there may be more factors depending on the characteristics of a specific project.
How does a chemical anchor work?
Chemical anchors work on the principle of adhesion. The concrete substrate is connected, or rather glued, to the connector surface. The chemical anchor does not exert any stress on the substrate - it does not use expansion forces. It can also be used in an old building with a damaged or damaged floor. The chemical anchor is purchased in a container. It takes the form of a resin mass that is poured (injected) into a previously prepared hole, and then the selected connector is embedded in the hole. After the resin hardens, a bond with excellent strength is created.
What can be attached with a chemical anchor?
The maximum load capacity of a chemical anchor and the substrate material for which it is intended are determined by the manufacturer. The best connection will be achieved with a strong base, e.g. aerated concrete or brick wall, but this is not a necessary requirement. The connector may be a bolt, screw or rod. Examples of applications of chemical anchors as a permanent form of fastening elements are:
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renovation of old buildings, - construction of new houses,
- repairing holes after removing mechanical anchors,
- various renovation and finishing works,
- fixing objects in concrete and hollow bricks,
- installation of devices exposed to moisture and temperature changes,
- fastening heavy objects around the edges,
- ensuring absolute mounting stability, despite strong external loads.
Concrete anchors at the Onninen wholesaler
In the Onninen installation wholesaler you will find a wide range of concrete anchors. Regardless of whether you need a brass expansion anchor , a steel expansion sleeve, a special heavy-duty bolt anchor or an easy-to-use glued anchor, you will find it on Onninen.pl. All products meet the highest quality and safety standards. Correctly selected and implemented, they will become the basis for solid structures.