Technical Support

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The testing of anchors can be a crucial link in the chain of ensuring they fulfil their role in any safety critical application. This can be carried out by TFS ltd and by our anchor manufacturers/suppliers. Tests may be required for two distinct purposes:

Tests to determine suitability or allowable Loads:

These are done before the specification of anchors is finalised to ensure anchors are suitable for the base material concerned and have an adequate Allowable Load* - usually when the strength or precise nature of the base material is unknown and no Recommended Load* data is available from the manufacturer, e.g. in brickwork, block work or stonework.
 These tests will be done on anchors NOT to be used on the job. Two approaches are possible Preliminary Load tests* (this approach is recommended by the CFA) or ultimate* Load tests procedures for which are described in the CFA GN:  Procedure for Site Testing Construction Fixings - 2012.

Tests to check correct installation:

Carried out on anchors which are used on the job and after they have been installed to ensure they have been installed correctly. These tests are called Proof Tests. For each of these purposes the requirements are different in terms of sample size, magnitude of load, rig dimensions etc. 

Full details of test procedures are given in the CFA Guidance Note - Procedure for Site Testing Construction Fixings - 2012. Tests are not needed - If anchors are specified with a European Technical Approval and have been designed (selected) and installed fully in accordance with the requirements of the ETA.