This code of practice provides design guidelines for post-installed mechanical anchors used to make connections to hardened concrete. It covers the design methodology for anchors subjected to tension, shear, and combined loads, outlining various failure modes like steel failure, concrete cone breakout, and pull-out.
Lays down the procedure for the design of mechanical anchor fasteners for use in concrete.
Quick Reference Values
Interaction formula exponent for combined loads5/3
Minimum factor of safety on ultimate test load3.0
Assumed angle of concrete failure cone from anchor head45 degrees
Coefficient for concrete cone capacity (N p)0.40
Key Formulas
(Ns/Nn)^(5/3) + (Vs/Vn)^(5/3) <= 1.0 — Interaction formula for combined tension and shear
N_p = 0.4 * A_p * sqrt(fck) — Characteristic strength for concrete cone failure in tension
Vs = 0.45 * fy * As — Design shear strength of anchor steel
Practical Notes
This code's design methods are dated and do not include provisions for seismic loading. For modern and critical applications, refer to manufacturer's technical data based on European Technical Approvals (ETA).
The performance of mechanical anchors is highly dependent on correct installation procedures, including hole diameter, cleaning, and tightening torque. On-site supervision and proof testing (as per Annex A) are crucial.
The formulas provided are generic; product-specific data from the anchor manufacturer should always be preferred as it accounts for the specific anchor's performance characteristics.