Anchor Bolts FAQs

A193 Grade B7 Anchor Bolts

Is A193 Grade B7 a valid specification for anchor bolts?

While there is certainly nothing to preclude ASTM A193 B7 from being specified for anchor bolts – and Portland Bolt manufactures them quite often – the specification is not intended for anchor bolt use. ASTM F1554 Grade 105 is a specification specifically developed for anchor bolts and possesses virtually identical chemical and physical properties. ASTM... Read more

Fixing Misaligned Anchor Bolts

What do I do if I poured my anchor bolts in the wrong position?

This is a common problem, and one that can be very difficult to remedy once the concrete is cured. As with most job-site fixes, the repair method depends on the nature of the problem and when in the construction process it is first noted. The repair method may be different if one bolt is out... Read more

Headed F1554 Anchor Bolts

Do headed F1554 anchor bolts have a standard hex head or a heavy hex head?

ASTM F1554 does not specify whether the headed configuration is to be a standard hex pattern or heavy hex. There are three primary configurations covered by the ASTM F1554 specification which include straight rods, bent anchor bolts, and forged headed anchor bolts. Whether or not a headed anchor has a standard hex head or a heavy hex head can differ depending on the application. Since the... Read more

Anchor Bolt Pullout Strength

What is the Pullout Strength of Portland Bolt’s Anchor Bolts?

This is a question that we are asked on a regular basis, and one that we do not have a clear answer for due to the variety of factors involved in making this calculation. Anchor bolt pull out strength is the force required to pull a single bolt out of its foundation. In order to... Read more

Rebar Threading Issues and Solutions

Is it possible to put threads on rebar?

The answer is yes, however, there are several issues to consider to avoid liability. For this discussion, we will assume a requirement for threaded rebar as follows: #8 x 48″ long A615 grade 60 rebar with 8″ thread one end. What is rebar? Rebar is short for “reinforcing bar” and often used in concrete foundations... Read more

Rules for Reusing Bolts

Can a bolt be reused? If so, what grades and in what scenarios?

A bolt that has already been used in a given application may or may not be reused, depending on the grade, application, and recommendation of the “Engineer of Record”. There are a tremendous number of conflicting opinions on this subject, but the only definitive published information we can find on this issue from a reputable... Read more

ASTM F3125 Grade A325 Anchor Bolts

Can ASTM A325 bolts be used as anchor bolts?

Engineers occasionally specify the use of F3125 Grade A325 heavy hex structural bolts as anchor bolts, but technically they are supposed to be used for structural steel connections only. Part of the problem is that the A325 specification is very specific as to the application and thread length. Because A325 bolts are typically used in... Read more

California School Projects

Are roll threaded anchor bolts with a reduced body allowed on school projects in California?

Contrary to popular belief, roll threaded anchor bolts are acceptable for schools in California when connecting steel to concrete. Portland bolt spent three years working with the California Department of General Services Division of the State Architect to dispel the rumor that only full body cut threaded bolts could be used. The link at the... Read more