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Rondo's guide to compliant fasteners

Rondo's guide to compliant fasteners

Starting from 1 May 2023, new regulations regarding fastener standards will be implemented, with significant changes that will impact post-installed anchors. These changes will be introduced in Appendix F of the standard and will include seismic design for fasteners.

Post-installed anchors are anchor bolts that are installed after the concrete base has been set. A hole is drilled into the concrete and the anchor is then installed into the hole. There are two main types of post-installed anchors: mechanical expansion anchors (MEA) and adhesive anchors.  

One of the most significant changes in the new regulations is the introduction of two seismic performance categories for fasteners, known as C1 and C2. These categories will be based on the estimated crack width that may form in the concrete during an earthquake. The goal of these changes is to increase the safety of buildings during seismic events.

However, the introduction of C1 and C2 seismic performance categories and fastener pre-qualification may be seen as an unwelcome addition to the construction industry, adding to the already challenging landscape faced by contractors and builders. The effects of these changes may vary depending on the specific role of the company.

Contractors will be affected in two main areas. During the building design phase, the fasteners will need to be designed to use the appropriate pre-qualified fastener, which may require the installation of larger bolts and deeper holes. This will lead to increased labour and material costs and may potentially delay the building process. Additionally, contractors may need to hire more experienced workers to ensure that the fasteners are installed correctly, which could further increase costs.

Builders working on sub-structures may also encounter additional costs for both materials and labour. They may need to provide slab crack concrete reports and x-ray scans for the slab to ensure that the fasteners are installed correctly. This will require additional time and resources, leading to increased costs for the builders.

Fortunately, Rondo, a leading provider of innovative solutions for the construction industry, has provided a guide to help navigate these changes and understand how they will affect ongoing and future projects. The guide explains the changes that will be implemented and how to comply with the new regulations. It also provides tips on how to reduce costs and optimise installation processes. You can also read more about these changes by reading this article written by the team at ICCONS

Our team is committed to helping you achieve compliance in your building projects. Whether you are building a residential or commercial project, our range of NCC compliant fasteners can help ensure that your project meets all the necessary regulations and standards. Visit us in store or check out our range of NCC Compliant fasteners online.