Drop-In Anchors in Australian Construction
What is a Drop-In Anchor?
A Drop-In Anchor is a female concrete insert manufactured entirely from metal for installation into concrete base materials for permanent applications. Drop-in anchors are a displacement setting expansion anchor. The anchor itself comprises of a metal tubular shell and expansion cone combined with an internal thread allowing bolts or threaded rods to be inserted and secured. Drop-In Anchors require a setting process using a specific setting tool where the anchor expands, gripping the internal walls of the concrete drill hole for a strong and reliable hold.
Drop in anchors are valued for their low cost, shallow concrete embedment, ease of use and strong load-bearing capacity. They are commonly employed by carpenters, electricians, plumbers, light installers, ceiling installers, fire protection specialists, steel fabricators, and general builders.
Types of Drop-In Anchors
Drop-In Anchors come in various forms, each tailored to specific needs:
- Standard Drop-In Anchors: Sets flush to the surface, commonly available in sizes M6 to M20. Dependent on hole depth to determine concrete embedment.
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Lipped Drop-In Anchors: The lipped collar prevents the anchor sleeve from slipping in to the drilled hole. Also suitable for Hollow substrates. Commonly available sizes are M10 & M12.
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Shallow Drop-In Anchors: Ideal for applications where a shallow concrete embedment is preferred, also suitable for Hollow substrates. Commonly available sizes are M10 & M12.
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Stainless Steel Drop-In Anchors: Manufactured entirely from stainless steel, suitable for outdoor or other corrosive environments.
Common Applications for Drop-In Anchors
Drop-In Anchors are most commonly used in the Services market (Plumbing/Electrical/HVAC etc.) Common applications include:
HVAC
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AC ducting
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Exhaust fans
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Supply pipes
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Plumbing
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Sewer lines
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Water lines
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Drainage lines
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Gas lines
Electrical
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Cabe Trays Support System
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Hanging lights
Fire
Ceiling
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Suspended ceilings
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Installing Flush Finish Bolts: Securely attaching support brackets, baseplates, racking etc. to concrete walls or ceilings.
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Infrastructure Projects: Fastening signs, lights, and public fixtures in urban settings.
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Machinery Installation: Anchoring machinery and equipment in industrial settings.
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Temporary Installations: Erecting scaffolding, temporary fencing, or formwork in construction sites.
How to use Drop-in Anchors
Installation of Drop-In Anchors involves a few key steps:
- Drilling a Hole: Check the concrete is well compacted and without substantial voids. Suitable for dry, wet and flooded holes. Use drill in hammer mode. Drill according to specified depths in previous tables. Check correct hole size and drill with a fresh Carbide Hammer Drill Bit.
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Cleaning Hole: Remove dust and debris with a blow pump or compressed air
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Insert the Anchor in the drilled hole.
- Using the correct specified setting tool, fully expand the anchor with a hammer or other similar device.
- Securing the Fixture: Fastening the object with a compatible bolt or threaded rod.
Suitable Materials for Drop-In Anchors
Primarily designed for concrete, suitable base materials for Drop-In Anchors are:
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Solid Cracked and Non-cracked concrete structures.
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Hollow core Concrete Panels
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Pre-stressed concrete panels requiring shallow embedment.
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Formed Bondek
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Dense stone materials.
They are not recommended for use in softer or more brittle materials like bricks or hollow blocks.
Who Should Use Drop-In Anchors
These anchors are a go-to for:
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Builders dealing with concrete structures.
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Plumbers (Pipe Support)
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Electricians (Cable Tray Support)
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Light Installers (suspended lights)
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Ceiling installers (suspended Ceilings)
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Fire Protection Installers (Sprinkler System)
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Steel fabricators (suspended bracing)
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HVAC installers (AC Duct Support, Pipe Support etc.)
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Carpenters (Beam Support)
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General Commercial Contractors
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General Infrastructure Contractors
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Maintenance teams in commercial or industrial settings.
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Skilled DIY enthusiasts undertaking concrete anchoring projects.
Understanding the specific requirements and required approvals is essential for choosing the right type of anchor. Screwbolt Threaded Rod Hangers may also be a good solution where Seismic C1 or C2 is required.
Drop-In Anchors are a crucial component in modern construction, offering reliable and efficient solutions for securing various structures and fixtures to concrete. Their versatility and strength make them suitable for a wide range of applications such as supporting cable trays, ductwork, pipes, and various other structural elements. The different types of drop-in anchors, including those approved under AS5216 make them highly suitable for a wide range of users in the construction industry. Understanding their types, applications, and correct usage is key for any professional engaged in construction and maintenance work.
ICCONS offers an extensive range of Drop-in anchors tailored to a wide range of construction applications and requirements. Available in Zinc and Stainless Steel, Lipped and Standard, coupled with AS5216 approvals and compliance with National Codes, ICCONS has you covered.
