Galvanized, Zinc Plated, Stainless Steel & Expansion Zinc Plated Wedge Anchors
A wedge anchor is a type of expansion anchor that’s typically used to permanently anchor steel directly to solid concrete. These anchors are actually a fastener assembly, which is comprised of a threaded rod that ends with a clip. This clip creates a secure installation and makes them particularly easy to identify compared to other anchors and fasteners.
Wedge anchors also include a nut and washer that are included as part of the total assembly. They are sometimes referred to as expansion anchors, expansion bolts, or concrete anchors. They are also sometimes called Trubolts, Kwik Bolts, Power Studs, and Wedge Bolts, however these names are specific to individual wedge anchor manufacturers.
Available Wedge Anchor Materials And Choosing Them
These anchors come in varied materials and types. Zinc plated wedge anchors are among the most common. Other types include stainless steel wedge anchors, hot dipped galvanized steel and carbon wedge anchors. When choosing anchors made from specific materials or with particular finishes, it’s important to consider the environmental and structural demands of the end installation. For example, in potentially corrosive conditions and moist environments, such as those subjected to salt water or a variety of weather, stainless steel or hot dipped galvanized anchors would be an optimal choice due to their corrosion resistance.
What To Know When Choosing Stainless Steel Wedge Anchors
These anchors made from different grades of stainless steel also offer varying levels of corrosion resistance. 304 wedge anchors would be suitable for use in outdoor applications that are subject to only a moderate level of corrosive hazards, such as an urban playground or parking lot, while 316 wedge anchors would be better suited to a more corrosive environment, such as a dock or outdoor industrial facility. If corrosion is not a major concern, as in most indoor installations, then a zinc plated wedge anchor would suffice for such applications.
What Are Cracked And Uncracked Wedge Anchors
The terms cracked and uncracked have less to do with the general structure of a wedge anchor than where it’s to be used. Cracked and uncracked wedge anchors are specially made for installation in cracked and uncracked concrete, respectively. Cracked concrete certified wedge anchors are manufactured according to specific criteria, which ensures they can be used in areas where seismic activity is likely to occur.
Where Are Wedge Anchors Most Commonly Used?
Some of the most common places you’ll find wedge anchors are part of structural columns, concrete pillars, and precast footings. While these anchors are often used for structural applications, they can also be used to secure industrial hardware to a concrete floor, wall, or other surface. Wedge anchors might be used to fix a washing machine, boiler, or other appliance, firmly in place. They can even be used in stone and masonry work, such as a household brick wall or mantle.
Mistakes To Avoid When Installing Wedge Anchors
Wedge anchors should only be installed in solid surfaces and by predrilling a properly sized hole, similar to those used with other types of drop-in anchors. It’s very important that the size of the hole, in which the wedge anchor is being installed, is properly sized to fit. One of the most common mistakes made when installing anchors are making oversized installation holes. This can cause the installation to loosen and fail. It’s also important to thoroughly clean the installation hole and surface prior to installation. Dust and debris can compromise the integrity of a wedge anchor installation. Wedge anchors should not be used in structural material that isn’t solid, such as hollow brick.
Sleeve Anchors Vs. Wedge Anchors
If an anchor is needed for a hollow brick or other similar surface a sleeve anchor would be used in place of a wedge anchor. While the clip at the end of a wedge anchor serves to secure the fastener into a solid material, the addition of a metal sleeve on an aptly named sleeve anchor creates the tension and backing needed to secure the fastener within a hollow material. Like wedge anchors, sleeve anchors are meant to be permanent, non-removable fasteners. As a result, they may not be the best option for design features that require adjustments or frequent updates.
Large Diameter Tapcons Vs. Wedge Anchors
Large diameter tapcons are similar fasteners to wedge anchors. They are also installed in holes that are pre-drilled within concrete or similar materials. While they resemble bolts structurally, the thread that runs the rod of the large diameter tapcon resembles saw teeth. The serrated structure serves to cut into concrete as the large diameter tapcon is being installed, not unlike a screw being drilled into a wood stud. This amounts to a strong and secure grip. It also allows for possible removal of the large diameter tapcon using a torque wrench or similar mechanical hand tool rather than an electrical one.
Industrial Strength Alternatives To Wedge Anchors
While wedge anchors are a reliable and easy way to fasten steel to concrete, alternative fastening components and methods can be used. One of the most common alternatives is industrial epoxy or adhesive. Using epoxy, as part of an installation process is typically more involved than the use of wedge anchors, however, use of epoxy isn’t limited to a specific size and length. Use of wedge anchors or epoxy is not always interchangeable; the best option will depend on the unique factors of a specific installation.
How To Get The Wedge Anchors You Need?
When sourcing wedge anchors and other industrial fasteners from us, such as drilling screws, 303 stainless steel anchors, or F1554 and GR.5 hex cap screws, be sure to determine the exact diameters and finishes you need. If you prefer wedge anchors from a specific manufacturer, please be sure to specify. We carry the top brands in the industry and are able to supply them to meet with your individual request. Comprehensive inspection services and dedicated bolt testing procedures help us ensure a level of quality and reliability that not every supplier can offer.
Our inventory is extensive and our commitment to customer service and prompt delivery is unmatched. We can have your order on its way to you the very next business day. If you require wedge anchors and other fasteners in specialty, extended, or custom sizes, our longtime partnerships with the industry’s leading manufacturers enable us to supply you with custom components.
Baco Enterprises is based in NY and we're proud to serve the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic with exceptionally fast delivery speeds thanks to our shipping fleet. If you require expedited delivery to New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Maryland, Delaware, New Hampshire, Maine and Vermont, we have the capabilities to deliver the products you require with impeccable speed.
