Anchor channels are available in various configurations to suit different applications. This page describes the available variants and when to use each.
Material Variants
Hot-Dip Galvanized (HDG)
Description:
Steel channel and anchors coated with zinc through hot-dip galvanizing process.
Properties:
- Zinc coating: 45-85 μm typical
- Corrosion protection: Sacrificial zinc layer
- Color: Silver-grey, may dull over time
Applications:
- Internal dry environments (XC1)
- Protected external (with additional coating)
- Cost-sensitive projects
Limitations:
- Not suitable for marine environments
- Limited life in high humidity
- Potential galvanic issues with stainless fixings
Stainless Steel 1.4301 (304)
Description:
Austenitic stainless steel with good general corrosion resistance.
Composition:
- Chromium: 17-19%
- Nickel: 8-10%
- Carbon: < 0.08%
Applications:
- External building facades
- Moderate humidity environments (XC3)
- Food processing (non-chloride)
Limitations:
- Not suitable for chloride exposure
- Can pit in stagnant water
- Less resistant than 1.4404
Stainless Steel 1.4404 (316L)
Description:
Molybdenum-alloyed austenitic stainless steel with superior corrosion resistance.
Composition:
- Chromium: 16-18%
- Nickel: 10-14%
- Molybdenum: 2-3%
- Carbon: < 0.03% (L = low carbon)
Applications:
- Marine environments (XS classes)
- Swimming pools and water features
- Chemical exposure
- High-specification facades
Advantages:
- Excellent chloride resistance
- Pitting resistance (PREN > 23)
- Weldable without sensitization
Stainless Steel 1.4571 (316Ti)
Description:
Titanium-stabilized version of 316 stainless steel.
Composition:
- As 1.4404, plus
- Titanium: 5 × C to 0.70%
Applications:
- High-temperature applications
- Weld-intensive fabrication
- Specialized industrial
Advantages:
- Stabilized against sensitization
- Better high-temperature properties
- Equivalent corrosion resistance to 1.4404
For most facade and external applications, 1.4404 provides the best
balance of corrosion resistance and availability.
Length Variants
Standard Lengths
Channels are supplied in standard lengths:
| Length | Application |
|---|
| 1.0 m | Small projects, cut-to-length |
| 2.0 m | Most common, minimal waste |
| 3.0 m | Long runs, fewer joints |
| 6.0 m | Maximum standard, bulk supply |
Cut-to-Length
Channels can be cut to specific lengths:
Advantages:
- Minimize site cutting
- Reduce waste
- Precise fit to design
Minimum lengths:
- Typically 100 mm minimum
- Must accommodate required T-bolt positions
- Allow for tolerance in casting
Order cut-to-length for projects with many identical connections.
The setup cost is offset by reduced site work and waste.
Anchor Configurations
Standard Anchor Spacing
| Profile | Standard Spacing | Min. Spacing |
|---|
| CPRO 38/23 | 125 mm | 100 mm |
| CPRO 52/34 | 125 mm | 100 mm |
| CPRO 72/48 | 150 mm | 125 mm |
| ATA 28/15 | 100 mm | 75 mm |
| ATA 38/23 | 125 mm | 100 mm |
Custom Anchor Spacing
Available for special applications:
- Closer spacing: Higher capacity per length
- Wider spacing: Cost reduction, sufficient for light loads
- Variable spacing: Optimized for specific load patterns
Request custom spacing through your supplier.
Anchor End Conditions
| Configuration | Description | Use |
|---|
| Full anchor at end | Anchor within 50mm of channel end | Maximum capacity |
| Half anchor at end | Anchor cut at channel end | Standard supply |
| No end anchor | First anchor set back from end | Special applications |
Channel End Options
Plain Cut End
Standard finish:
- Factory cut or site cut
- Deburr for safety
- Suitable for most applications
End Caps
Plastic or metal caps:
- Close channel opening
- Prevent concrete ingress during casting
- Aesthetic finish for exposed channels
Welded End Plates
For structural continuity:
- Plate welded to channel end
- Transfers forces to adjacent structure
- Requires engineering coordination
Surface Treatments
Standard Finish
As-manufactured:
- HDG: Zinc coating
- Stainless: Mill finish or pickled
Painted
For color matching or additional protection:
- Powder coating over HDG
- Paint system over stainless (rare)
- Color matching to facade
Passivated
For stainless steel:
- Removes free iron from surface
- Enhances corrosion resistance
- Standard for marine applications
Accessory Options
Standard T-Bolts
| Type | Description |
|---|
| T-bolt | Standard T-head bolt |
| Serrated | T-head with serrations for grip |
| Hammer head | Rotates to lock in channel |
Special Fixings
| Type | Application |
|---|
| Hook bolt | Suspension applications |
| Eye bolt | Rigging points |
| Threaded insert | Rod connections |
| Swivel | Adjustable connections |
| Item | Purpose |
|---|
| Torque wrench | Correct tightening |
| Channel template | Positioning guide |
| End caps | Close channel ends |
| Foam strip | Prevent concrete entry |
Selection Matrix
By Environment
| Environment | Recommended Material |
|---|
| Internal, dry | HDG (most economical) |
| Internal, humid | 1.4301 or HDG |
| External, sheltered | 1.4301 |
| External, exposed | 1.4404 |
| Marine/coastal | 1.4404 minimum |
| Industrial/chemical | 1.4404 or higher |
By Budget
| Priority | Selection |
|---|
| Lowest cost | ATA HDG, standard lengths |
| Balanced | CPRO 1.4301, cut-to-length |
| Premium | CPRO 1.4404, custom config |
| Requirement | Selection |
|---|
| Maximum capacity | CPRO 72/48, tight anchor spacing |
| High corrosion resistance | 1.4404 with passivation |
| Thin concrete | ATA 28/15 |
| Heavy loads | CPRO 72/48 with multiple T-bolts |
