Anchor Bolt

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Anchor Bolt

What is Anchor Bolt?

Anchor Bolt, A steel fastener embedded in concrete or masonry to secure structural and nonstructural elements.

Description

Anchor Bolt is a commonly used term in the construction industry. An anchor bolt is a threaded steel rod or bent bar cast into concrete or installed with epoxy to attach structural steel, columns, sill plates, or equipment bases to a foundation. Types include L‑shaped J‑bolts, straight rods with nuts and washers, and heavy‑duty wedge or sleeve anchors. Correct embedment depth, edge distance, and grout coverage ensure load transfer in tension and shear. Anchor layouts comply with ACI 318 and AISC design provisions.

FAQs

  • What are standard anchor bolt sizes?

    Diameters range from ½ in to 1½ in with lengths 6 in to 36 in.

  • How are anchor bolts installed?

    Cast in place before concrete sets or drilled and epoxied after curing.

  • What standards govern anchor design?

    ACI 318 Appendix D and AISC 360.

  • Can anchor bolts be galvanized?

    Yes, hot dip galvanizing protects against corrosion.

  • Who inspects anchor bolt placement?

    Special inspectors verify location and projection before the concrete pour.

  • Are templates used for anchor bolts?

    Steel base templates hold bolts in exact alignment.

  • What is the anchor bolt edge distance?

    Minimum four bolt diameters from the concrete edge to prevent breakout.

Fun Fact

Fun Fact: The Eiffel Tower’s foundations used early anchor bolt concepts, giant cast iron shoes bolted into masonry piers.

CSI Code

03 15 00

NAHB Code

330