glue rods imbeds
F3 Timber Technologies
The new standard when it comes to installing glued rods. The simplicity of the design allows rods to be epoxied on site just as accurately as in shop. F3 Timber Tech’s new design keeps rods centered in the holes, promotes even distribution of epoxy around the rod as it’s spun in and prevents the epoxy from escaping.
This component is not structural; however, it aids in the improved speed and quality of the installation making glued rods one of the best connection options.
Glued-in rods have been used for many years already; however, there are challenges with proper installation and quality control. We have developed a system that simplifies installation while at the same time giving quality assurance and consistent engineered values that do not impact product quality.
CONSTRUCTABILITY AT WORK
We pride ourselves on our sustainable, innovative and high-quality products.
The Problem
Current methods that overcome inherent challenges with glued-in rods are not fast.
Gravity
Most of the time, these connections are made horizontally, causing the rod to fall and the epoxy to sag, allowing some of the epoxy to flow out of the opening.
Centring Rod in Hole
To maintain accuracy, it is important that all rods centered are accurately lined up with the steel or other pieces of wood it connects to.
Air Pockets
The correct volume of epoxy is first placed inside the hole, and then the threaded rod is pushed into it. Twisting motions often help ease the rod through the epoxy until the desired depth is reached. Despite good efforts, air pockets are hard to remove during installation.
Consistent Depth
It can be difficult to achieve a consistent depth between all threaded rods connected to the same material end. On top of that, air pockets can again be problematic by causing outward force on the rods. If the rods are not restrained, they may be pushed out slowly during the cure time.
Speed of Installation
A few methods of installing glued rods produce good quality outcomes; however, these methods are time-consuming and not practical to do on-site.
The Solution
A New Method
Fast & Easy Installation
A second hole with a slightly larger diameter is drilled at the start of the rod hole. The GRI is hammered (friction fit) into the secondary hole.
Maintains Consistent Placement of Epoxy
The GRI creates a dam, so the epoxy cannot escape except for the groove along one side that provides relief for air and excess epoxy to escape.
Keeps Rod Centered in the Hole and in Place
The GRI has internal threads, centring the rod in the hole and keeping it at its proper centre spacing. Spinning the rod through the GRI promotes a more consistent epoxy coverage over the rod and reduces air pockets.
Increases Structural Capacity
Two rounds of testing at UBC in the fall of 2021 and spring of 2022 have shown a 30% increase in pull-out capacity when using a GRI. The degree of variance was also lower, making this connection more predictable for engineers.