The forces in a structure must be able to be transferred from one part to the next. A connection is therefore assessed together with the connected materials and the substrate. The number of bolts or anchors alone does not say enough.
Bolted connections
A bolted connection may have to transmit tension, shear force and other effects. In addition to the bolts, plates, holes and connected parts are also assessed.
Prepare: Share bolt quality, pattern, plate thicknesses and the loading direction.
Welded joints
Welds connect steel or aluminum parts and must match the forces and geometry. The elaboration includes the welding type, dimensions and feasible connection.
Prepare: Provide material quality, plate thicknesses and the accessibility of the weld.
Wood joints
Screws, bolts and connectors transmit forces between wooden or mixed parts. Placement relative to edges, ends and fiber direction is relevant.
Prepare: Share wood quality, connection materials and a detail of the connection.
Column base plates and anchors
A column base transfers forces to concrete or another support point. Base plate, anchors, underlayment and foundation must be matched to each other as a connection.
Prepare: Indicate column forces, concrete dimensions and the planned anchor positions.
Fastenings in concrete or masonry
The capacity depends on the product and the surface, edge distances and mounting. For existing buildings, the actual subsurface must be sufficiently known.
Prepare: Provide product documentation, substrate data and installation details.
Beam supports and bearing pressure
A beam concentration can cause locally high pressure in a wall, column or other support point. The contact surface and the underlying load path must be assessed appropriately.
Prepare: Indicate support length, wall material and any pressure-distributing parts.
Detailed explanation and request: Beam supports and bearing pressure
Connection between existing and new constructions
Old and new can have different stiffness, deformation and material properties. The connection must be in line with the intended cooperation or freedom of movement.
Prepare: Provide a detail of both constructions and information about the existing condition.
Extensive explanation and request: Connection between existing and new constructions
Fastening of facade parts and installations
Facade panels, consoles and installations must transfer their forces to the supporting structure. Wind, own weight and possible vibrations influence the design.
Prepare: Share dimensions, weights, mounting points and supplier information.
Data for the initial assessment
- Forces and direction of the load
- Material of both connecting parts
- Edge distances and available space
- Product details and implementation conditions
From request to defined assignment
- Capture situation. Describe the location, existing condition and intended change.
- Review data. Discuss which documents are useful and what additional research is needed.
- Agree on scope. Record which checks, drawings and implementation phases are being developed.
- Fine-tune design. Please include changes in dimensions, material or use in the documents.
What determines the price?
The scope of the calculations, available data, required details and coordination determine the assignment. There is no single prize for this category that covers all situations. View the known starting prices and quote requests.
Frequently asked questions
Is a product table enough to choose an anchor?
A table applies under certain conditions. The substrate, geometry, loads and mounting must correspond to this.
Who develops the connection?
The structural engineer or a specialized supplier can do this. Determine who calculates the connection and who monitors the coherence with the main design.
Can a connection to construction be changed?
Have changes assessed in advance. Other holes, weld details or anchors may change the operation of the connection.
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