Sleeve anchors
are designed for fastening items to concrete, brick or block base
material. The HLC sleeve anchor is the brand name for the sleeve anchor
that is manufactured by Hilti, Incorporated.
Sleeve anchors are one of the most versatile concrete anchors because
it can be used in a variety of base materials and is available in four
different head styles for specific types of applications. The 1/4" HLC
sleeve anchors come with an acorn nut, flat slotted or round slotted
head. The 5/16", 3/8", and 1/2" HLC sleeve anchor all come with a hex
nut. The 3/8" sleeve anchor also comes with a flat Phillips head. The
speciality heads that are available in the 1/4" and 3/8" are designed
for specific applications such as fastening down thresholds to concrete
or attaching a metal doorframe to a block wall.
The length of a HLC sleeve anchor is measured from under the head
to the end of the anchor. A sleeve anchor's diameter is designated as
the outside diameter of the sleeve anchor. The thread size that is
inside of the sleeve is smaller: a 3/8" anchor has a 5/16" diameter
threaded bolt. The Hilti HLC sleeve anchor is only available in
diameters ranging from 1/4" to 1/2" while companies such as Concrete
Fastening Systems, Inc. also have sleeve anchors in 5/8" and 3/4"
diameters. Each diameter requires the hole in the base material be
drilled a minimum distance. See sleeve anchor minimum embedments.
Outlined below are step by step instructions on how to install a Hilti HLC sleeve anchor into base material:
1. Drill the correct diameter hole in the base material using a
hammer drill. For hollow masonry applications, switch the hammer drill
to the drill only mode before penetrating the backside of masonry. Doing
so may decrease the chances of a blowout.
2. Clean the hole of all debris using a wire brush, vacuum or compressed air.
3. Insert the HLC sleeve anchor through the fixture and into the
base material by tapping lightly with a hammer until the nut &
washer is flush with the fixture.
4. Set the anchor by tightening the anchor to the torque values
recommended by Hilti, Inc. Make sure that the sleeve anchor is not
over-torqued since this will reduce shear and pullout values.
The Hilti HLC sleeve anchor is a versatile concrete fastener that
can be used in a variety of base materials and applications. Before
using sleeve anchors in any application, it is important to determine
the correct diameter and length of anchor that should be used. Carefully
choosing the correct sleeve anchor and following the directions in this
article will help ensure that a sleeve anchor is installed properly and
safely.
As with any anchoring project, it is important to keep safety in mind and follow instructions carefully. Always remember to wear safety goggles, handle all tools with extra care and follow all technical specifications. This article is meant to serve only as a basic explanation of concrete fasteners. Always refer to manufacturer's instructions or consult a contracting expert during any anchoring project.
Article Written By:
Bob Carlisle, President of Concrete Fasteners
Concrete Fasteners, Inc. has over 40 years of experience selling concrete fasteners. We can ship out one box or a whole pallet of concrete anchors. Our products are of the highest quality... "your satisfaction is guaranteed". We ship all orders the same day the order is received.