Anchor Bolts: Types and Uses

Anchor bolts are designed to attach structural elements to concrete. In our industry, anchor bolts are typically used to attach steel to concrete. One end is embedded into the concrete, while the opposite end is threaded to attach structural support. There are four main types of anchor bolts: L-shaped, double end rods with plate, headed, and swedge. Each type has their own uses, sizes, and advantages. Let’s go over each type of anchor bolt and how they are used in structural applications each day.

L-Shaped Anchor Bolts

L-Shaped anchor bolts are used in a variety of applications including light poles, sign structures, heavy equipment and tooling. At Birmingham Fastener, we distribute L-shaped bolts in 3/8”-2.5” diameter and any length required in the following standards: A307, F1554 -36, F1554-55, F1554-105, A193 B7, 304 Stainless, 316 stainless, and any grade the customer may require.

Double End Rods with Plate

These types of anchors are double end rods with a plate washer added to one end. The plate can either be welded to the anchor bolt itself, or it can be tack welded to a nut entrenched in concrete. Plate bolts are used primarily in constructing columns for buildings, highway signs, and other applications. At Birmingham Fastener, we distribute straight with plate bolts in 3/8”-4” diameter and any length required in the following standards: A307, F1554 -36, F1554-55, F1554-105, A193 B7, 304 Stainless, 316 stainless, and any grade the customer may require.

Headed Anchor Bolts

Unlike most anchor bolts, headed anchor bolts have a forged head on their unthreaded end. It is typically a hex, heavy hex, or square head. The head is embedded into the concrete to secure a variety of constructions including structural columns, bridge railing, and light poles. At Birmingham Fastener, we distribute straight with headed anchor bolts in 1/2”-2” diameter and any length required in the following standards: A307, F1554 -36, F1554-55, F1554-105, A193 B7, 304 Stainless, 316 stainless, and any grade the customer may require.

Swedge Bolts

Swedge bolts consist of round bar steel that is threaded on one end and “swedged” on the other. “Swedged” means one end will have multiple indentions to allow concrete to flow into them. Swedge bolts are 100% domestic, as they are used to connect girders and piers. Most swedge bolts are hot dipped galvanized and come in diameters ranging from 5/8” to 4”. They are also available in other materials including stainless steel.

For an easy to read chart, view our Anchor Bolts Length Chart.