Make Sure Your Anchor Designs Are Compliant
Published 07/08/15Last Edited 11/21/17
Chemical anchors have been the preferred method for joining concrete and steel in recent years due to their superior strength in a range of applications. Because the chemical bond created by the adhesive is usually stronger than the concrete itself, chemical anchors are ideal for high load applications. In addition, unlike expansion anchors, chemical anchors do not transfer load stress to the concrete, making them a superior choice for close-to-edge applications such as handrails.
Following the catastrophic failure of chemical anchors in Boston’s Big Dig tunnel in 2006, regulators reexamined anchoring practices in the construction industry. The 2012 International Building Code (IBC) introduced new requirements to ensure that chemical anchors are specified and installed properly. Now that most U.S. states and jurisdictions have adopted the 2012 IBC, it’s critical to ensure that new projects comply with the code.
What the Code Says
The 2012 IBC requires that Strength Design methodology be used when designing structural anchorages within buildings as shown in the Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete and the new ACI standard, ACI 355.4-11. These sections specifically address adhesive anchors and outline the test requirements and assessment criteria for them where previous versions of the code did not.
The far-reaching effects of the changes are to increase requirements concerning:
- concrete depth
- edge distance
- anchor embedment
- mounting plate sizes
- reinforcement
The specs for each required element vary based on the application and site conditions.
How to Comply
Our sales and technical team includes professional engineers who can help you specify compliant anchor solutions that work best for your design needs. HDI has designed and installed handrail systems for clients around the globe, and our engineers are thoroughly familiar with the new chemical anchor codes.
Be sure to consult HDI early in the design phase of your next project to ensure that your handrails are as safe as they are beautiful.