Wedge anchor
is the description for a concrete anchor that is a one piece,
non-bottom bearing concrete anchor that is threaded on one end and has a
steel clip at the other end. They are packaged with a corresponding
number of nuts and washers are are designed for use in solid concrete.
The wedge anchor has the best and most consistent holding value of any
mechanical type concrete fastener. Wedge anchors can be used in concrete
only and will not work in other base materials such as brick or block.
Wedge anchors are manufactured in a wide variety of materials
that meet the majority of application requirements. It is a good choice
for indoor use and in environments where no moisture is present.
Hot-dipped galvanized wedge anchors are used in outdoor applications
where moisture and no chemicals are present. They are acceptable for use
with treated lumber as well. Stainless steel wedge anchors are
manufactured in both 303 and 316 stainless steel for use in water and
other caustic environments. While many companies seel this type of
product under their own brand name, such as the Hilti Kwik Bolt and
Powers Power Bolt®, Concrete Fastening Systems is the only company still
selling this product as wedge anchors.
The process for installing wedge anchors is described below:
1. Drill a hole in the concrete using a carbide bit and a hammer
drill. The diameter of the carbide bit is the same diameter as the
anchor being used. Make sure the carbide bit meets ANSI standards
B212.15 to ensure proper hole size for the anchor. The hole needs to be
drilled to a depth a minimum of one anchor deeper or 1/2" deeper than
the wedge anchor will penetrate. This will allow space for debris to
fall during the installation process. The fixture can be used for a
template but make sure that the holes in the fixture are large enough
for the drill bit to fit through.
2. Before inserting the wedge anchor, it is important to clean
any debris from the hole using a wire brush, vacuum or compressed air.
This step is taken to ensure that the hole is clean of any debris. This
is critical for a successful anchor installation.
3. Put the washer on the wedge anchor can thread the nut on. It
is important to make sure that the nut is threaded so that the top of it
is level with the top of the wedge anchor in order to help protect the
threads from any damage while hammering the anchor into the hole.
4. Insert the wedge anchor (with the clip end first) through the
fixture or directly into the hole in the concrete. Using a hammer, hit
the wedge anchor and nut with sharp blows until the washer and nut are
snug against the base material or fixture. It is critical that there is a
minimum of 6 threads below the surface of the concrete or the fixture
because these threads will be required to set the wedge anchor.
5. Tighten the nut finger tight and then take a wrench and turn
the nut 3-5 times to the recommended installation torque. This pulls the
wedge anchor up, wedging the clip between the steel stud and the wall
of the hole in the concrete.
Wedge anchors are an excellent choice when
fastening into solid concrete. By following the instructions above,
installation of these fasteners should be successful.
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.