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Anchors 3/8 x 5" Cracked Concrete Wed (Jar 50)
Manufacturer Resources
Product Specs
- Division:
- Electrical H1
- Pack Type:
- Jar
- Product Group:
- Fasteners
- Sub Division:
- Electrical-E H2
- Department:
- Electrical
- Product Subgroup:
- Anchors
Metallics SWA3850 – Frequently Asked Questions
1) What does "cracked concrete" mean on this Metallics anchor, and why does it matter for my inspection?
It means the anchor is intended for use in concrete that is assumed to crack under load, which is the condition most structural and seismic attachments are designed for. Standard non-cracked anchors are only good for uncracked concrete, so if your drawing or inspector calls for a cracked-concrete rated anchor, a plain wedge anchor will not satisfy it. The SWA3850 is the 3/8 x 5 inch cracked-concrete wedge anchor in that family.
2) Can I use the Metallics SWA3850 wedge anchor in block, brick, or hollow-core deck?
No. Wedge anchors rely on a clip expanding against solid, dense material, so they belong in solid poured concrete only. Hollow block, brick, and hollow-core plank need a different anchor type, typically a sleeve anchor or a screen tube with adhesive. Using the 3/8 x 5 inch wedge in hollow material will spin or pull out.
3) What size hole do I drill for a 3/8 inch wedge anchor like the Metallics SWA3850?
Wedge anchors are drilled at the same nominal size as the anchor, so a 3/8 inch anchor takes a 3/8 inch carbide hammer-drill bit. Drill deeper than the planned embedment so dust has somewhere to go, blow the hole clean, then drive the anchor through the fixture and tighten the nut to set the clip.
4) Is a 5 inch wedge anchor overkill for anchoring strut and conduit supports to a concrete slab?
The length is driven by how much embedment you need plus the thickness of what you are clamping. Anchoring a strut channel or a hanger base flat to a slab generally needs far less than 5 inches, and the extra sticking out of the slab has to be cut or dealt with. Pick the 3/8 x 5 inch SWA3850 when you are going through a thick base plate, grout, or topping and still need solid embedment below it; for thin fixtures, a shorter 3/8 inch wedge is easier to install.
5) Do I need anything else to install the Metallics SWA3850, or does it come complete?
Wedge anchors ship as a complete assembly with the nut and washer on the threaded end, so each of the 50 anchors in the jar is ready to drive. What you supply is a carbide hammer-drill bit in 3/8 inch, a blow-out bulb or vacuum to clean the hole, and a wrench or impact socket to torque the nut.
6) Can a wedge anchor be removed or reused if I set it in the wrong spot?
Not practically. Once the nut is tightened the clip bites into the hole wall and the anchor is permanent. The usual fix is to back off the nut, drive the anchor below the surface with a punch if there is room, and patch over it, then re-drill a fresh hole an adequate distance away. Order the jar of 50 with a few spares in mind for that reason.
How fast can I get the Metallics SWA3850 delivered?
Most orders ship the same day from our distribution partners, with quick delivery throughout the
continental
U.S.
Need it urgently? Contact Us for expedited shipping options.
Can I return it if it doesn’t work for me?
Yes—ZenSupply offers a hassle-free return policy. If the product isn’t the right fit,
reach out to our support team for a return authorization or setup a return by following our return instructions.
Does the Metallics SWA3850 come with a warranty?
Absolutely. The Metallics SWA3850 is backed by a manufacturer’s warranty.
For full warranty terms, check the product documentation or Contact Us.
How do I get technical support or installation help for the Metallics SWA3850?
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installation tips, and troubleshooting. Contact Us
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