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3. The Advantages and Disadvantages of Anchor Fasteners

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Anchor Fasteners

Fixings are crucial for ensuring safety across various applications, and there is a wide range of fixing systems available. Experienced professionals can quickly differentiate between chemical and mechanical anchors. Mechanical anchors can be categorized into two types: expansion anchors and non-expansion anchors. Expansion anchors include various types such as stud anchors, shield anchors, sleeve anchor fasteners, and more. These anchors utilize an expansion method to hold two pieces together. However, expansion anchors do have drawbacks as they may be limited to specific materials in which they can be used.

For instance, utilizing an expansion anchor in brickwork or stonework can potentially crack or crush the material. In such scenarios, opting for non-expansion anchors can serve as a better choice. On the other hand, chemical anchors avoid the complications that mechanical anchors present and are particularly beneficial when working with closer edge distances in materials like concrete. This allows for a smaller gap between two materials while still creating a robust connection. The industry surrounding Anchor Fasteners is expanding significantly, as the demand continues to grow across all manufacturing sectors.

2. Posted on March 6,

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The installation of a light pole involves thorough planning and preparation to ensure the project's success. Poles are typically available in two types: direct burial, where the pole is buried directly into the ground, and anchor-based, where the pole has a base that can be secured by anchor bolts. In this article, we will concentrate on anchor base poles and the anchor bolts that secure them.

Our company is the leading global supplier of anchor bolt installation. We serve as your one-stop shop for all related needs. Our specialized staff is committed to assisting you in finding the ideal product for your project.

What Is an Anchor Bolt?

An anchor bolt is a fastener typically constructed from galvanized steel, featuring a bend or J hook at one end. Anchor bolts come in various sizes, with the three most common being 3/4x30x3, 1x36x4, and 3/4x17x3, with the latter being the most frequently seen. However, these are not the only available sizes, as anchor bolts can be found in a multitude of sizes to accommodate the requirements of any project.

What Are the Benefits of Using an Anchor Base Pole?

One of the primary benefits of using an anchor base pole is the elevation of the pole's foundation. Have you noticed poles in some parking lots attached to short concrete pillars? This design serves a specific purpose; if a vehicle accidentally collides with the pole, it is safer for other vehicles in the parking lot if the vehicle hits the concrete instead of the pole. Consider what would happen if a vehicle were to strike a direct burial pole. In that case, replacing the pole would require digging up the entire structure and the surrounding concrete. However, with an anchor base pole, as long as the anchor bolts remain intact, you can merely replace the damaged pole with a new one easily.

How Do I Install Anchor Bolts?

Installing anchor bolts in concrete foundations can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive task, but the resulting safety makes it worthwhile. Once you are prepared to pour the concrete, adhere to the following steps, ensuring that the template you are using aligns with the pole's bolt circle.

• Draft and drill your bolt pattern on plywood.
• Position the bolts on the plywood according to the pattern.
• Insert the plywood with the bolts hanging below it into the cardboard cone used for pouring the concrete.
• Pour the concrete into the cone and allow it to set.
• After the concrete has set, remove the plywood and smooth the surface.

Check with your local municipality to determine the required depth for pouring the concrete, as standards and requirements vary by region.

What If the Anchor Bolts Are Too Short?

It is crucial to consider the bolt projection, which refers to how far the bolts extend above the concrete. Insufficient bolt length will prevent the proper securing of the pole. The necessary bolt projection for any given pole should be included in the specification sheet. If you discover your bolts are too short, don't worry; you can acquire bolt extenders like our TE175 to complete your project.

How Do I Remove Anchor Bolts?

In most cases, the answer is: you don’t. Once anchor bolts are embedded in concrete, removal is virtually impossible. If you have existing bolts that do not correspond with the pole's bolt circle, you have a few options. You can use an anchor bolt adaptor like our ABA175 or AABA to accommodate the incorrect size. Alternatively, you could cut down the existing bolts, drill new holes, and apply an epoxy adhesive to secure straight bolts in the concrete.

Light Pole Assistance

With this information, you should feel more prepared to handle anchor base pole installations. If you are considering installing light poles, allow LightMart to assist you. We offer a broad selection of light poles, fixtures, and brackets to address your various lighting needs. Reach out to one of our experts today at (866) 576- or contact us online.