Concrete Supply Plus October 2024

He is right around the corner

5 Key Applications for Using Wedge Anchors in Concrete Fastening

Wedge anchors are among the most reliable and versatile concrete fasteners available, offering superior holding power in solid concrete. Due to their strength and ease of installation, they are the go-to choice for various heavy-duty applications across different industries. Wedge anchors are designed to perform in challenging environments, ensuring stability and security where it matters most. It is also essential when choosing a wedge anchor for your application that you make sure that they meet the specifications for the environment and use case such as:

  • Chamfered top designed to prevent mushrooming during installation
  • Qualified for static and seismic loading conditions (seismic design categories A through F)
  • Suitable for horizontal, vertical and overhead applications
  • Standard (ANSI) fractional sizes fit standard fixtures and installs with common drill bit and tool sizes
  • Tested per ACI355.2 and AC193

Below are five key applications where wedge anchors provide unparalleled support in concrete fastening.

1. Securing Structural Steel Beams

One of the most common uses for wedge anchors is in securing structural steel beams to concrete foundations. In construction projects, stability is crucial, and wedge anchors offer the necessary strength to securely fasten heavy steel to concrete. By embedding the wedge anchor deep into the concrete, it expands as the nut is tightened, locking the beam in place. This application is essential for high-rise buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure that requires a solid foundation. Be sure to look for these key features to ensure successful installation.

2. Installing Heavy Machinery

Wedge anchors are ideal for anchoring heavy industrial machinery to concrete floors. In manufacturing plants and factories, large machines such as presses, lathes, and mills generate significant vibrations, which can loosen fasteners over time. Wedge anchors provide exceptional resistance to vibrations, ensuring that machinery remains securely fastened even under heavy operational loads. This not only improves safety but also reduces downtime caused by shifting or misalignment.

3. Mounting Handrails and Safety Barriers

Safety is a top priority in many commercial and industrial settings, and wedge anchors play a crucial role in securely fastening handrails and safety barriers to concrete surfaces. Whether it’s in a public stairwell, a factory floor, or a parking structure, wedge anchors ensure that handrails and barriers remain firmly in place to prevent accidents. Their high load capacity makes them suitable for areas where handrails are frequently used or where barriers are exposed to heavy impact.

4. Attaching Shelving and Storage Systems

Warehouses, distribution centers, and retail spaces often require robust shelving and storage systems that can handle large loads. Wedge anchors are perfect for anchoring these systems to concrete floors and walls, providing the necessary support to hold heavy items securely. Whether it’s pallet racks in a warehouse or storage units in a commercial setting, wedge anchors ensure that shelving systems remain stable and safe, even under heavy use.

5. Fastening Outdoor Structures

Wedge anchors are also frequently used in outdoor applications, such as railroad crossing gates, fences, and signage to concrete surfaces. These anchors offer excellent corrosion resistance, especially when made from stainless steel, making them suitable for long-term use in outdoor environments. Whether you’re securing a fence post to a concrete patio or installing a heavy-duty sign at an industrial site, wedge anchors provide reliable holding power in any weather condition.

Conclusion

Wedge anchors are indispensable for a wide variety of heavy-duty applications in both commercial and industrial settings. Their ability to securely fasten materials to concrete surfaces makes them a preferred choice for projects ranging from construction and machinery installation to safety and storage solutions. CONFAST offers a comprehensive range of Simpson Strong Tie wedge anchors to meet the specific needs of any project, ensuring durability, strength, and reliability in every application. Whether you’re building a skyscraper, installing machinery, or setting up storage racks, CONFAST selection of wedge anchors included Simpson Strong-Tie wedge anchors provide the holding power and security you can trust. Buy Wedge Anchors online 24/7: https://www.confast.com/products-wedge/


Top economist for cement and concrete industries reveals 2025 construction forecast. Ed Sullivan, the Chief Economist and Sr. Vice President of Market Intelligence for the Portland Cement Association (PCA) — which represents America’s cement manufacturers — says the Federal Reserve’s recent move to lower interest rates coupled with easing inflation signals a significant retreat in interest rate levels by the end of next year … all to the benefit of construction activity. https://www.worldcement.com/the-americas/15102024/top-economist-for-cement-and-concrete-industries-reveals-2025-construction-forecast/


Ready-Mix Equipment Liners​ from Durex Products: We offer a number of wear-resistant urethane, and rubber liner solutions that provide long-term protection in concrete plants and concrete trucks.

Our urethane liners will combat impact, abrasion, noise, and sticking. Based on your needs, our liners can be installed by welding, bolting, or with high-strength magnets. We have developed our standard liners to fit plants and trucks from most major manufacturers.

Custom liners can be designed to suit any application. Just give us a call to discuss your needs: 715-483-9611 or email us: cs@durexproducts.com.

@nathancamel

Boys dont grow up, they become construction workers 👷🏼 #constructionhumor #bluecollarboys #holdinghands

♬ Fluffing a Duck – Kevin MacLeod
Construction Humor for the week….

CONFAST Now Carries the Code-Listed Simpson Strong-Bolt 2 Anchor

We’re thrilled to announce that CONFAST now offers the Simpson Strong-Tie® Strong-Bolt 2 wedge-type expansion anchor—an ideal solution for high-performance anchoring in both cracked and uncracked concrete as well as masonry applications.

Engineered to excel under tough conditions, the Strong-Bolt 2 is code-listed for seismic and high-wind environments. With dual undercutting embossments on each clip segment, this anchor provides secondary expansion if a crack intersects the anchor location, ensuring load stability even if the hole expands.

Available in carbon steel and Type 304 and Type 316 stainless steel, the Strong-Bolt 2 is built for reliability and strength in any application. Trust CONFAST for your most demanding anchoring needs! Purchase today: https://www.confast.com/mfg-simpson/

#CONFAST #SimpsonStrongTie #StrongBolt2 #Construction #Anchors #SeismicSafety #ConcreteAnchoring #HighPerformance

Concrete Supply Plus September 2024

For anyone that has known me for years knows I have tried to support the skate community. This program fits right in with my appreciation of concrete and skateboarding. This video explains what the program is all about: https://www.skate4concrete.com.
Fastening or Attaching a Pedestal Base Plate to Concrete using CONFAST American MadeWedge Anchors. To purchase online: https://www.confast.com/products-wedge-american-wedge/

Tesla Semi factory to get massive amounts of concrete, update shows

Tesla has been building a dedicated Semi plant at its Gigafactory Nevada this year, and a recent construction update shows preparations for a massive amount of concrete yet to be laid.

In an update this week from Zanegler, a Giga Nevada observer and self-proclaimed Tesla Semi advocate, footage from the site shows tons of recent progress, including action shots of truss rods going up on the now-many steel beams at the site, and the various footings that will reportedly utilize a huge volume of concrete. https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-semi-factory-concrete-update/

Approaches to effectively maintain screening equipment

By P&Q Staff|  August 23, 2024

Nelson
Nelson

Keegan Nelson spent nearly 10 years of his career in various roles with Martin Marietta, joining Durex Products in 2024. Nelson, who now serves Durex Products as vice president of sales, recently shared his experience related to screening with P&Q.

P&Q: In your experience, how do some of the best-performing aggregate operations approach the maintenance of their screens and their supporting screen media? https://www.pitandquarry.com/approaches-to-effectively-maintain-screening-equipment/https://www.pitandquarry.com/approaches-to-effectively-maintain-screening-equipment/

Concrete Construction Tick Tack Toe

CONFAST Expands Product Offerings: CONFAST’s drywall anchors are fasteners that are best used for mounting items on surfaces such as drywall, sheetrock, gypsum, dry wall, wallboard, or plasterboard. Use them to keep items securely in place such as pictures, curtain rods, clocks, towel racks, light fixtures, hooks, hanging planters, TVs, wall mounted storage bins and more.


Walmart validates 3D-printed concrete on store addition’s 20-ft. wall Alquist 3D recently dispatched a concrete/mortar ink printer and crew to place a 20-ft. high enclosure for an 8,000-sq.-ft. addition to the Walmart Supercenter in Athens, Tenn. An articulating robot with 48-in. long, 1-in. diameter nozzle shuttled around each wall section perimeter, efficiently printing twin inner and outer layers with precision. The new facility will support the Walmart Online Pickup & Delivery program. https://concreteproducts.com/index.php/2024/09/13/walmart-validates-3d-printed-concrete-on-store-additions-20-ft-wall/

Concrete Supply Plus September

GC Demos Silicate SCM for Porsche Dealership

Houston’s Christensen Building Group replaces fly ash for OPUS SCM in Porsche dealership concrete placement.

https://www.forconstructionpros.com/concrete/equipment-products/concrete-materials/article/22871527/terra-co2-technology-contractor-demos-silicate-scm-terra-co2-opus


At CONFAST, we’ve got your concrete anchoring needs covered. Whether you’re working on a DIY project or managing a construction site, our wide range of high-quality fasteners ensures your structures stay rock-solid. Order online at https://www.confast.com/


At Trimble Dimensions 2022 HP showed its new SitePrint robot, giving IRONPROS its first chance to get an up close look at this new layout robot. Technology editor Chuck Rathmann takes you through how the HP SitePrint works and the competition it faces in the robotic layout space.
Complete guide for installing the CONFAST® 1/4″-20 x 2-1/4″ Male Hurricane Anchoring Kit for Storm Panels, Plywood and Metal Panels (25 Sets, 1 Driver, Total 76 Pieces) Buy now: https://www.confast.com/HAM14214

Fight Shrinkage Cracking With Magnesium Oxide Admixture In Concrete Water & Wastewater Structures

Shrinkage cracking threatens concrete water containment structures. One of the ways to prevent or minimize shrinkage cracking is using a magnesium oxide additive in the concrete mix.

https://www.forconstructionpros.com/concrete/equipment-products/concrete-materials/article/22866926/premier-magnesia-llc-how-magnesium-oxide-admixture-combats-cracks

Concrete Supply Plus Month of August

Complete guide for installing the CONFAST® 1/4″-20 x 2-1/4″ Male Hurricane Anchoring Kit for Storm Panels, Plywood and Metal Panels (25 Sets, 1 Driver, Total 76 Pieces)
Buy now: https://www.confast.com/HAM14214
CONFAST 1/4″-20 x 2-1/4″ Male Hurricane anchors install quicker and more efficiently than other storm protection anchoring products. For concrete and concrete block applications, drill pilot hole and drive the anchor in, it’s that easy. Pre-drilling is not required in wood base materials. Full thread engagement in concrete, concrete block and wood is required for best performance. Stucco-faced surfaces usually require countersinking so that the top of the hurricane anchors set flush to the stucco surface, allowing for full thread engagement in the base material All CONFAST hurricane anchor installations are required to be compliant with the shutter/panel manufacturer’s spacing, alignment and build-out requirements. Hurricane Anchor Kit includes 25 sets of anchors, wing nuts, and anchor protectors Kit contains 1 driver Made of Carbon Steel w/ White Ruspert Coating Install one time, the anchors stay in place to make future panel mounting faster and easier Use 7/32″ bit in Concrete, 3/16″ bit in Concrete Block Uses standard 1/4-20 hardware

These smaller concrete mixers are great for city or urban projects

Divergence from the original plans on construction projects is unavoidable. But that doesn’t have to lead to a problem.

Subcontractors often must balance the demands of owners, government agencies and general contractors, all while trying to make a profit. 

But the construction industry is also rife with defects, change order disputes and project delays. When these issues arise, a subcontractor is often faced with the choice of “getting the work done” while trying to preserve the chance of “getting more work.” 

A single setback can create a domino effect leading to delayed payments, compounding costs and significant legal ramifications — consequences that are particularly challenging for subcontractors to navigate. Read more: https://constructionext.com/business-management/5-steps-keep-change-orders-becoming-disputes

Blue and stainless concrete screws are specialized types of screws designed for specific applications, particularly in construction and woodworking projects involving concrete or masonry surfaces. They offer unique features and benefits that make them valuable for these types of projects.

Blue Concrete Screws:

Blue concrete screws, also known as blue-tap concrete screws, are designed for fastening objects to concrete, brick, or masonry surfaces without the need for anchors or pre-drilling holes. They have a blue coating, which often provides corrosion resistance and enhances their overall durability. Here are some uses and values of blue concrete screws:

Ease of Installation: Blue concrete screws are self-tapping, which means they have a special thread design that allows them to cut into concrete without the need for pre-drilling. This makes installation faster and more convenient compared to traditional methods.

Strong Hold: These screws are designed to provide a strong and reliable hold in concrete and masonry materials. They can securely fasten items like electrical boxes, framing, brackets, and other fixtures.

Corrosion Resistance: The blue coating on these screws often provides a level of corrosion resistance, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications where exposure to moisture and weathering is a concern.

Versatility: Blue concrete screws can be used in various applications, such as attaching wooden or metal items to concrete walls, securing door frames, or mounting shelving units.

Stainless Concrete Screws:

Stainless concrete screws, as the name suggests, are screws made from stainless steel, a material known for its exceptional corrosion resistance. These screws are particularly valuable in applications where exposure to moisture, chemicals, or outdoor conditions is a concern. Here’s why stainless concrete screws are valuable:

Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel is highly resistant to rust and corrosion, making stainless concrete screws ideal for environments where moisture, humidity, or chemical exposure could compromise the integrity of regular screws.

Longevity: Due to their corrosion-resistant properties, stainless concrete screws have a longer lifespan compared to standard screws or even coated screws. This makes them suitable for both indoor and outdoor projects.

Aesthetic Appeal: Stainless steel has a polished and sleek appearance that can enhance the visual appeal of projects, especially in applications where the screws are visible, such as decorative fixtures or architectural elements.

High Strength: Stainless steel is inherently strong, allowing these screws to provide a reliable and sturdy hold when fastening items to concrete or masonry surfaces.

Versatility: Just like blue concrete screws, stainless concrete screws can be used in a wide range of applications, including construction, woodworking, and various DIY projects.

Both blue and stainless concrete screws offer specific advantages based on their design and properties. The choice between the two depends on factors such as the intended application, environmental conditions, and the desired level of corrosion resistance and aesthetics. Always ensure that you choose the appropriate screw type for your specific project to achieve the best results.

Order both online at https://www.confast.com/confast-concrete-screws/

A little construction humor to share

Concrete Supply Plus January Week # 2

Scientists chip away at how ancient Roman concrete stood test of time

Roman concrete contains white bits called “lime clasts,” remnants of the lime used in the concrete. These features, the researchers said, appear to have resulted from a process called “hot mixing” that employs a lime variant called quicklime that reacts with water to heat the mortar mix and fosters beneficial chemistries that otherwise would not occur.

“Essentially it works like this: when concrete cracks, water or moisture enters and the crack widens and spreads throughout the structure. The lime clasts dissolve with the infiltration of water and provide calcium ions that recrystallize and repair the cracks. Additionally, the calcium ions can react with volcanic ingredients to reinforce the structure,” Masic said.

Masic is a co-founder of a company called DMAT, based in the United States and Italy, that is commercializing concrete inspired by the ancient Roman version.

https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/science/scientists-chip-away-how-ancient-roman-concrete-stood-test-time-2023-01-09/?

BASF has broken ground on the third and final phase of the methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) expansion project at its Verbund site in Geismar, Louisiana, announced in July 2022. The company will increase production capacity to approximately 600,000 metric tons per year by the middle of the decade to support the ongoing growth of its North American MDI customers.

https://www.ien.com/operations/news/22644490/basf-breaks-ground-on-780m-expansion-in-louisiana?__lt

3/8″ CONFAST Threaded Rod Anchor for Concrete, Vertical, 1/4″ x 1-1/2″, 100/Box

Products Features 

Tramex Concrete Moisture Encounter CMEX5

New, rugged ergonomically designed enclosure.

Non-destructive in operation with no need to probe, drill or mechanically damage the surface.

CMEX5 is a non-destructive digital multi moisture meter for concrete floors and slabs providing instant and precise quantitative measurement of moisture content using Gravimetric testing as a baseline.

Bluetooth connection to accompanying IOS & Android App allowing for continual development and integration of apps and reporting.

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