Epoxy anchor bolt testing
Epoxy anchor bolt testing
(OP)
Are there any IBC requirements to test post-installed epoxy anchors in concrete? The anchors were design per ACI 318 App D. If not, any ideas on what to specify for a testing procedure and a test load? I would assume the test load would be based on the required and/or design capacity?
Thanks in advance.
Thanks in advance.





RE: Epoxy anchor bolt testing
RE: Epoxy anchor bolt testing
RE: Epoxy anchor bolt testing
RE: Epoxy anchor bolt testing
Or do you want to test them for some reason?
RE: Epoxy anchor bolt testing
RE: Epoxy anchor bolt testing
Who determines what sample size and acceptable failure level one needs for representative testing.
Whatever anyone says I think there are still issues of creep with regard to epoxy anchors in tension. Boston tunnel is a frightening reminder.
RE: Epoxy anchor bolt testing
We specify at least 10 percent of fasteners or a minimum of 3 fasteners for testing purposes. This is consistent with other proof testing requirements for load.
RE: Epoxy anchor bolt testing
Not to indict any particular mfr. (mostly because I can't recall), but I remember looking at a temp. vs. strength chart on one product, and its strength had dropped to 50%(!) at something like 128degF--goodbye Phoenix, AZ!
Picking a brand that meets ICC-ES/AC58 criteria is just a starting point. And even that highly regarded std. tests only up to 110°F.
RE: Epoxy anchor bolt testing
If the anchors experience tension forces from transient loads such as wind loads, then testing the anchor will be less critical. I had an example recently where I thought I had not achieved bond between the epoxy and the concrete from improper installation and specified some load tests on the anchors (Hilti Anchors) which where pulled up to a load which significantly exceeded the design loads. It was later determined that insufficient concrete substrate was allowed for which resulted in the visible cracking on the soffit of the slab. thread507-257487: Baseplate Punching Through Slab
We had a discussion in our office about how often we should be calling up load tests and it was decided for wind loads where the tension capacity required does not exceed 40kN (9kips) it is not considered a high load and that testing is not required.