PROFIS and anchor load adjustements

Hi Daniel,

Spacing dimensions, edge distances, and concrete thicknesses that are published in the ICC-ES evaluation reports, which is what PROFIS Engineering uses, are based on specific tests in the ICC-ES acceptance criteria for mechanical anchors in concrete (AC193) and the acceptance criteria for adhesive anchors in concrete (AC308). The tests are noted in Section 9.3 of AC193 and Section 9.10 of AC308. The tests are related to the installation torque, and the dimensions depend on whether or not the slab cracks during the test or if the concrete spalls on the bottom of the concrete during drilling. Thus, if anchors are used in conditions outside of the published dimensions in the ESR for minimum spacing, edge distance, and concrete thickness, there is an increased risk of splitting the slab when the installation torque is applied and an increased risk of spalling the back side of the concrete when the hole is drilled.
 
The tests that are required in AC193 and AC308 are performed at a minimum spacing, edge distance, concrete thickness, and in low strength concrete, all in combination.  If one of these parameters is significantly increased, it is possible that another parameter can be decreased. For example, if the edge distance of an anchor group is greater than five times the published minimum edge distance, it is possible the minimum spacing could be decreased. However, the specific condition should be tested according to AC193 or AC308. These tests could be performed on a specific jobsite, provided the provisions of AC193 and AC308 are strictly followed and the tests are witnessed by a qualified test agency.
 
If testing is performed according to AC193 or AC308 and it is determined that this combination of spacing, edge distance, concrete thickness, and concrete strength is valid, then from a concept standpoint the anchor can be designed according to ACI 318-14. There is no additional reduction factor that would need to be applied for design. 

Regards,
Dani