If you plan to lay the foundations for a building, construct a bridge or erect a billboard, you may need robust fixing anchors to ensure your structures withstand any environmental factors and do not move. In such scenarios, shield anchors play a crucial role in anchoring masonry or other components to the concrete, brickwork, or stone. This blog post will closely examine what Shield anchors are, their properties, uses, and applications.
What is Shield Anchor?
Shield anchors are heavy-duty fixings that anchor items to masonry, brickwork, or concrete. They work by expanding and biting into the material they are installed. They are made out of ductile steel, which gives them the capacity to withstand high loads and prevent them from detaching.
Shield Anchors Properties:
Shield anchors come in various sizes, lengths and shapes depending on the application and required loading. The standard finish on shield anchors is a bright zinc that offers fundamental corrosion resistance. Stainless steel versions of shield anchors are available for more aggressive environments. Other versions may come with a tough nylon sleeve, improving their performance in dated and soft materials.
Shield Anchors Uses:
Shield anchors are ideal for fixing suspended ceilings, ventilation, and cable tray installations. They also secure steel or timber cladding panels to concrete or masonry walls. They can also anchor fence posts, handrails, and guard rails. The shield anchor is a versatile option because its length and diameter can be easily adjusted to suit the masonry’s fixed thickness.
Shield Anchor Applications:
One of the key applications of Shield Anchors is in the construction industry, where they are used to fix components to solid walls, columns, and floors. The construction industry relies on shield anchors because they offer reliable support for high load requirements due to their capacity of up to 70kN load rating. The capacity to withstand heavy loads makes them useful for metal and pipe support brackets and fixing steel structures like trusses and beams.
How to Use Shield Anchors:
Suppose you intend to use a shield anchor to anchor a concrete fence post to an existing wall. In that case, you must first drill a hole into the masonry. Ensure the hole’s diameter is slightly larger than the shield anchor fixing element to allow for expansion. Then, assemble the shield anchor into the hole and engage it using a torque wrench. This leaves the fixing element expanded. Finally, tighten the bolt or screw and fasten your fence post or other hanging fixture to the wall.
Conclusion:
Shield anchors come in different shapes and sizes to match the specific application requirements. Their strong properties make them formidable fixings that can withstand extreme loads and offer reliable support. Shield anchors are versatile, making them suitable for various fixing jobs in industrial or domestic settings. Knowing how to use shield anchors ensures a secure and safe fit. If you need heavy-duty fixing solutions, you can rely on shield anchors to do the job right.
A passionate metal industry expert and blogger. With over 5 years of experience in the field, Palak brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to her writing. Whether discussing the latest trends in the metal industry or sharing tips, she is dedicated to helping others succeed in the metal industry.
