How to Install a Wedge-All®
Published by Robert Carlisle on Jun 30th 2009
The Wedge-all® is a wedge anchor manufactured by the Simpson Strong-Tie Company, Inc. It is a non-bottom bearing, wedge type expansion anchor that can only be used in solid concrete base material. The Wedge-all® has a one piece clip that provides uniform holding values that will increase as tension is applied to it. The threaded version of this anchor comes in eight (8) diameters and in numerous different lengths. A special version of the wedge-all called the tie-wire wedge-all, is available in one size and is used for attaching wire for drop ceilings or light fixtures. The threaded version is set using a wrench to turn the nut to the correct torque values. The tie wire version is set using a claw type hammer. Other features of the wedge-all include: a threaded end that is chamfered for ease in starting the nut and fully threaded studs for versatility.
The wedge-all is made from carbon steel or stainless steel. The carbon steel wedge-all can either be zinc plated or hot-dipped galvanized. The wedge-all also comes with a length identification marked on the head of the anchor. This ID mark provides the length of the anchor so that the depth of the embedment of the anchor can be easily figured out after it is installed simply by inspecting the anchoring application.
Below is the installation process for the threaded stud version of the Wedge-all:
1. Using a hammer drill and a carbide bit, drill a hole in the base material. The hole diameter is equal to the diameter of the anchor being used. The hole should be drilled to the specified embedment depth and blown clean by compressed air. The hole should be drilled deep enough to allow for embedment depth and dust from the drilling operation.
2. The nut and washer should be assembled on the anchor so the nut is flush with the top of the anchor. Insert the anchor through the fixture and drive the anchor into the hole until the nut and washer are tight against the fixture being fastened.
3. Using a wrench, tighten the nut to the required torque values for the diameter of the anchor being used.
The Wedge-all is a strong anchor that can be used in solid concrete for a number of applications. If your application requires anchoring into solid concrete, you should consider if the wedge-all wedge anchor will work for your specific project.
