Wedge anchors are among the most reliable and versatile concrete fasteners available, offering superior holding power in many situations. Due to their strength and ease of installation, they are the go-to choice for various heavy-duty applications across different industries.
Wedge anchors are designed to perform in challenging environments, ensuring stability and security where it matters most. It is also essential when choosing a wedge anchor for your application that you make sure that they meet the specifications for the environment and use case such as:
· Chamfered top designed to prevent mushrooming during installation
• Qualified for static and seismic loading conditions (seismic design categories A through F)
• Suitable for horizontal, vertical, and overhead applications
• Standard (ANSI) fractional sizes fit standard fixtures and installs with common drill bit and tool sizes
• Tested per ACI355.2 and AC193
Below are five key applications where wedge anchors provide unparalleled support in concrete fastening.
One of the most common uses for wedge anchors is in securing structural steel beams to concrete foundations. In construction projects, stability is crucial, and wedge anchors offer the necessary strength to securely fasten heavy steel to concrete.
1. Securing Structural Steel Beams
One of the most common uses for wedge anchors is in securing structural steel beams to concrete foundations. In construction projects, stability is crucial, and wedge anchors offer the necessary strength to securely fasten heavy steel to concrete. By embedding the wedge anchor deep into the concrete, it expands as the nut is tightened, locking the beam in place. This application is essential for high-rise buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure that requires a solid foundation. Be sure to look for these key features to ensure successful installation:
2. Installing Heavy Machinery
Wedge anchors are suitable for anchoring heavy industrial machinery to concrete floors. In manufacturing plants and factories, large machines such as presses, lathes, and mills generate significant vibrations, which can loosen fasteners over time. Wedge anchors provide exceptional resistance to vibrations, ensuring that machinery remains securely fastened even under heavy operational loads. This not only improves safety but also reduces downtime caused by shifting or misalignment.
3. Mounting Handrails and Safety Barriers
Safety is a top priority in many commercial and industrial settings, and wedge anchors play a crucial role in securely fastening handrails and safety barriers to concrete surfaces. Whether it’s in a public stairwell, a factory floor, or a parking structure, wedge anchors ensure that handrails and barriers remain firmly in place to prevent accidents. Their high load capacity makes them suitable for areas where handrails are frequently used or where barriers are exposed to heavy impact.
4. Attaching Shelving and Storage Systems
Warehouses, distribution centers, and retail spaces often require robust shelving and storage systems that can handle large loads. Wedge anchors are perfect for anchoring these systems to concrete floors and walls, providing the necessary support to hold heavy items securely. Whether it is pallet racks in a warehouse or storage units in a commercial setting, wedge anchors ensure that shelving systems remain stable and safe, even under heavy use.
Wedge anchors are frequently used in outdoor environments like this Confast railing application.
5. Fastening Outdoor Structures
Wedge anchors are also frequently used in outdoor applications, such as railroad crossing gates, fences, and signage to concrete surfaces. These anchors offer excellent corrosion resistance, especially when made from stainless steel, making them suitable for long-term use in outdoor environments. Whether you’re securing a fence post to a concrete patio or installing a heavy-duty sign at an industrial site, wedge anchors provide reliable holding power in any weather condition.
Conclusion
Wedge anchors are indispensable for a variety of heavy-duty applications in both commercial and industrial settings. Their ability to securely fasten materials to concrete surfaces makes them a preferred choice for projects ranging from construction and machinery installation to safety and storage solutions.
CONFAST
www.confast.com/products-wedge
Filed Under: Fastening + joining, Screws • nuts • bolts • rivets
