How Do Concrete Expansion Bolts Work?
How Do Concrete Expansion Bolts Work?
Concrete expansion bolts work by expanding when they are inserted into a hole drilled in the concrete. The expansion of the concrete expansion bolt creates a friction fit that holds the bolt in place.
Expansion bolts are inserted at equal intervals along the beam and tightened down with a wrench to create a secure connection. The mechanical concrete anchors apply outward pressure on the concrete hole’s wall.
This pressure travels out and up the length of the anchor bolt, transferring the weight throughout the concrete surface. Upon installation of a mechanical type anchor, it is necessary to spread out slightly or “flare” the anchor flange.
This creates a counteracting “tension force” in tension with the seat of the nut and bolt. If a concrete expansion bolt fails, it will bend at the seat or flange area and not by cracking or breaking at the threads, leaving part of itself embedded.
Pulling a mechanical anchor back out of a drilled hole is impossible.
How Do You Fix Loose Concrete Anchor Bolts?
You can fix loose concrete anchor bolts in a variety of ways. If all you’re dealing with is a small, cosmetic issue where the bolt has popped out of its hole and fallen to the ground, you could grab the bolt and poke it back into place.
- Remove the anchor bolts from the unsecured support posts and clean the bolts and holes of dirt or loose concrete.
- Mix equal quantities of resin and hardener in a disposable container until homogeneous (approx. 1 minute). Tint mix with cement or sand if necessary for color matching.
- Insert the anchor bolts into the holes and fill them with the epoxy compound mixture. (Ensure that the anchors are straight and evenly dispersed for 24 hours while the repair cures and hardens.)
- Re-bolt the railing to the anchor bolts.
How Do You Use Concrete Bolts?
The Concrete bolt functions similarly to any other bolt. Drill a hole into your material the same size as the Concrete bolt you’re using, making sure it’s both broad and deep enough.
Remove any stray dust from the area before screwing the Concrete bolt into place using a socket wrench, screwdriver, or another suitable implement. If the bolt is new, apply a drop of oil to the threads before installation to help ensure a smooth sliding fit.
It’ll then be necessary to twist the bolt into place with a wrench or screwdriver until it is completely secured. You can remove Concrete bolts by simply unscrewing them out of their respective holes.
Should Anchor Bolts In Concrete Be Galvanized?
Yes, anchor bolts in concrete should be galvanized to protect it from the corrosive effects of water. Hot-dipped galvanized (wedge) anchor bolts are designed for use in solid concrete. They should never be installed into soft, hollow base materials.
The hot-dipped galvanized coating is excellent for moist atmospheres where more rust resistance is required than the standard zinc-plated wedge anchors can provide.
Galvanized anchors are a great choice for applications where more rust resistance is needed. The zinc-plated wedge anchors are a good option for most applications, but they can be less effective in moist environments.
Hot-dipped galvanized anchors are designed specifically for these conditions and are excellent for solid concrete use.
Galvanized anchors are also a good choice for applications where there is a risk of water damage. The hot-dipped galvanized coating helps to resist rust and corrosion. This coating also helps to resist moisture loss.
Galvanized anchors are a good option for applications where more rust resistance is needed. The zinc-plated wedge anchors are a good option for most applications, but they can be less effective in moist environments.
Hot-dipped galvanized anchors are designed specifically for these conditions and are excellent for solid concrete use.
