If you’re in the market for fastenings, you’ve probably come across mechanical anchors. These types of anchors are used to secure heavy loads and are commonly used in construction and engineering projects. They are designed to expand and grip the base material, providing a strong and reliable hold. If you’re looking for a reliable fastening solution, mechanical anchors are definitely worth considering.
As a trusted wholesale distributor for over 65 years, Fastening Specialists is your go-to source for all things related to fastening. With so many sizes, applications, and designs available, choosing the right mechanical anchor can be overwhelming. That’s where our expertise comes in. We have a long history of serving a variety of industries and can provide valuable insight, code expertise, and order fulfillment to ensure you get the best product value. Trust the specialists for all your fastening needs.
Types of Mechanical Anchors
Mechanical anchors are designed to hold a wide range of forces in concrete and masonry. They are available in various forms, including wedge anchors, screw anchors, and expansion anchors.
Wedge Anchors
Wedge anchors are a type of mechanical anchor that is commonly used for heavy-duty applications. They are designed to expand when tightened, creating a secure hold in the concrete or masonry. Wedge anchors are available in various sizes and materials, including stainless steel and zinc-plated steel.
Screw Anchors
Screw anchors are another type of mechanical anchor that is used after the concrete is cured or CMU is placed. They offer quick and easy installation, making them ideal for projects where speed and convenience are essential. Screw anchors are available in various sizes and materials, including carbon steel, stainless steel, and zinc-plated steel.
Expansion Anchors
Expansion anchors are a type of mechanical anchor that uses friction to resist loads. They are commonly used for post-installed applications, including heavy-duty applications. Expansion anchors are available in various sizes and materials, including stainless steel and zinc-plated steel.
Materials and Coatings
When it comes to mechanical anchors, the materials and coatings used are critical in determining their strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion.We offer a wide variety of mechanical anchors in both carbon steel and stainless steel, as well as galvanized and zinc-plated coatings.
Carbon Steel and Stainless Steel
Carbon steel is the most commonly used material for mechanical anchors due to its strength and affordability. However, it is prone to rust and corrosion, which can weaken the anchor over time. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is highly resistant to corrosion and is an excellent choice for outdoor applications or in areas with high humidity or salt exposure.
Our team of experts can help you choose the right product for your specific application, ensuring that you get the strength and durability you need.
Galvanized and Zinc-Plated
Galvanized and zinc-plated coatings are applied to carbon steel anchors to provide a layer of protection against corrosion. Galvanized coatings are made of zinc and are highly resistant to rust and corrosion, making them an excellent choice for outdoor applications. Zinc-plated coatings, on the other hand, are thinner and less durable than galvanized coatings but are still effective in protecting against corrosion.
We offer a range of galvanized and zinc-plated mechanical anchors, including drop-in anchors, expansion anchors, and concrete screws. Our products are manufactured to the highest standards and are tested to ensure maximum strength and durability.
Choosing the right material and coating for your mechanical anchors is crucial to ensuring their longevity and effectiveness.
Installation Techniques
When it comes to installing mechanical anchors, there are three key steps to follow: drilling and hole preparation, setting and fastening, and load considerations.
Drilling and Hole Preparation
The first step in installing mechanical anchors is to drill the appropriate hole in the concrete or masonry surface. The size of the hole should be determined by the size of the anchor being used. It is important to use the correct drill bit to ensure that the hole is the right size and shape for the anchor.
After drilling the hole, it is important to clean out any debris or dust that may have accumulated. This can be done using a wire brush or a vacuum cleaner. A clean hole will ensure that the anchor sets properly and can support the intended load.
Setting and Fastening
Once the hole is prepared, the anchor can be set and fastened in place. This can be done using a variety of techniques, depending on the type of anchor being used. For example, Kwik Hus mechanical anchors are designed to be set by hammering them into the hole, while Ultimate Screw Anchors are designed to be screwed in place.
Regardless of the type of anchor being used, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure that the anchor is set properly and securely. This will help to ensure that the anchor can support the intended load.
Load Considerations
Finally, it is important to consider the load that the anchor will be supporting. This includes both the weight of the object being supported and any additional forces that may be applied, such as wind or vibration.
When selecting an anchor, it is important to choose one that is capable of supporting the intended load. This may require consulting load tables or other resources to determine the appropriate anchor size and type.
Anchor Selection for Different Materials
When selecting mechanical anchors for different materials, it is essential to consider the type of material and the anchor’s specifications. The wrong anchor can lead to a failed installation, which can be costly and dangerous. Here are some guidelines for selecting the right anchor for different materials.
Concrete and Masonry Anchoring
Concrete and masonry are common materials used in construction, and they require heavy-duty anchors that can withstand the weight of the load. Wedge anchors are a popular choice for concrete and masonry because they provide a strong hold and can withstand temperature fluctuations. Sleeve anchors are another option and are ideal for light to medium-duty applications.
When selecting an anchor for concrete and masonry, it is important to consider the diameter of the anchor and the thickness of the material. The anchor diameter should match the hole size, and the thickness of the material should be at least equal to the embedment depth of the anchor.
Grout-Filled CMU and Metal Fastening
Grout-filled CMU and metal require special consideration when selecting mechanical anchors. Wedge anchors and sleeve anchors are also suitable for grout-filled CMU, but it is important to use anchors with a longer embedment depth to ensure a secure hold.
For metal fastening, self-drilling anchors are ideal because they can drill through the metal and provide a strong hold. It is important to select an anchor with the proper diameter and length to ensure a secure hold.
We are the go-to source for all your mechanical anchor needs. As specialists in this field, we provide the best value, insight, and expertise to ensure your installation is successful.
Applications and Use Cases
Mechanical anchors have a wide range of applications and use cases in the construction industry. In this section, we will discuss some of the most common applications and use cases for mechanical anchors.
Commercial and Industrial Projects
Mechanical anchors are commonly used in commercial and industrial projects such as high-rise buildings, bridges, and stadiums. These anchors are ideal for securing handrails, railings, and ledgers to concrete and masonry surfaces. They are also used for racking and shelving systems, as well as for securing sill plates to concrete foundations.
When it comes to commercial and industrial projects, it is crucial to choose the right type of mechanical anchor for the job. At Fastening Specialists, we offer a wide range of mechanical anchors that are specifically designed for commercial and industrial applications. Our products are made from high-quality materials and are designed to withstand heavy loads and extreme conditions.
Infrastructure and Residential Applications
Mechanical anchors are also commonly used in infrastructure and residential applications. They are ideal for securing fastening systems, such as electrical conduit, to concrete and masonry surfaces. They are also used for securing sill plates to concrete foundations in residential construction.
We understand that choosing the right mechanical anchor for your project can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer a wide range of products that are specifically designed for infrastructure and residential applications. Our products are made from high-quality materials and are designed to meet code requirements and withstand extreme conditions.
The expert gives you so much more value. With so many 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 us for the best in product value, insight, code expertise, and order fulfillment.
Innovations and Advancements
Mechanical anchors have come a long way since their inception. With innovative anchor solutions being developed and the introduction of new materials, mechanical anchors have become more versatile and efficient. We are at the forefront of this innovation, offering the latest and most advanced mechanical anchors to their customers.
High-Performance Anchors
The demand for high-performance anchors has been on the rise, especially in the construction industry. High-performance anchors are designed to withstand higher loads and provide better resistance to pullout and shear forces. Simpson Strong-Tie is one of the leading manufacturers of high-performance anchors, offering a wide range of products that meet the highest industry standards.
Chemical Anchors and Adhesives
Chemical anchors have gained popularity due to their ability to provide superior bonding strength. They are ideal for applications where traditional mechanical anchors are not suitable. Chemical anchors work by bonding with the base material, creating a strong and durable bond. We offer a wide range of chemical anchors and adhesives, including epoxy and acrylic formulations, to meet the diverse needs of their customers.
Installation time is a critical factor in any construction project, and we understands the importance of timely delivery. They offer fast and reliable order fulfillment, ensuring that you receive your order on time, every time. With a wide range of sizes, applications, features, designs, materials, coatings, and SKU names, they make it easy for you to find the right fastening solution for your project.
In conclusion, mechanical anchors have seen significant advancements in recent years, with the introduction of high-performance anchors and chemical anchors.
The team at fastening specialists provides advice and best use-cases, but always check with local building codes and engineers for correct usage instructions.