What is the difference between a strike anchor and a wedge anchor?

Strike anchors and wedge anchors are both types of mechanical anchors used in concrete and masonry applications to provide secure fastening. However, they differ in their design, installation methods, and applications. Here’s a detailed comparison:

Strike Anchors

Design:

- Strike anchors consist of a tubular expansion sleeve with a solid pin or nail.

- The anchor has a flared or beveled end that expands the sleeve when the pin is driven in.

Installation:

1. Drill a Hole: Drill a hole in the concrete or masonry to the depth specified by the anchor manufacturer.

2. Insert the Anchor: Insert the strike anchor into the hole until the flange is flush with the surface.

3. Set the Anchor: Use a hammer to drive the pin or nail into the anchor, causing the sleeve to expand against the walls of the hole, securing the anchor in place.

Applications:

- Light to medium-duty applications.

- Often used for attaching lightweight fixtures, such as metal brackets, handrails, and signs, to concrete or masonry surfaces.

Advantages:

- Easy and quick to install.

- Requires only a hammer for setting the anchor.

- Good for overhead and horizontal applications.

Disadvantages:

- Limited holding power compared to heavier-duty anchors.

- Not suitable for very heavy loads or critical applications.

Wedge Anchors

Design:

- Wedge anchors are composed of a threaded stud with a conical wedge and an expansion clip at the end.

- They typically come with a washer and a nut.

Installation:

1. Drill a Hole: Drill a hole into the concrete to the appropriate depth and diameter specified by the anchor manufacturer.

2. Clean the Hole: Remove debris from the hole to ensure proper seating.

3. Insert the Anchor: Insert the wedge anchor into the hole. Tap it lightly with a hammer if necessary until the washer is flush with the surface.

4. Tighten the Nut: As you tighten the nut, the conical wedge is drawn up through the expansion clip, forcing it outward against the walls of the hole, creating a secure hold.

Applications:

- Medium to heavy-duty applications.

- Commonly used for securing structural supports, heavy machinery, racking systems, and safety barriers to concrete surfaces.

Advantages:

- High load-bearing capacity.

- Suitable for critical and high-stress applications.

- Reliable and strong fastening.

Disadvantages:

- Requires precise drilling and installation.

- More time-consuming to install compared to strike anchors.

- Requires additional tools (wrench) for installation.

Summary

Strike Anchors:

- Design: Expansion sleeve with a solid pin.

- Installation: Hammer-driven.

- Applications: Light to medium-duty, such as fixtures and signs.

- Advantages: Quick and easy installation.

- Disadvantages: Limited holding power.

Wedge Anchors:

- Design: Threaded stud with a conical wedge and expansion clip.

- Installation: Requires tightening a nut.

- Applications: Medium to heavy-duty, such as structural supports and heavy machinery.

- Advantages: High load capacity and secure hold.

- Disadvantages: More complex and time-consuming to install.

Choosing between a strike anchor and a wedge anchor depends on the specific requirements of the application, including the load to be supported, the type of material being anchored into, and the desired ease of installation.