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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN

CONCRETE ELEMENTS

AC232

Approved June 2018

Compliance date December 15, 2018

Previously approved June 2017, October 2016, May 2016, February 2016, October
2015, June 2015, February 2015, October 2014, June 2014, February 2014, October
2013, June 2013, February 2013, October 2012, June 2012, October 2011, June 2011,
October 2010

(Previously editorially revised July 2015, October 2013, May 2013)

PREFACE
Evaluation reports issued by ICC Evaluation Service, LLC (ICC-ES), are based upon performance features of
the International family of codes. (Some reports may also reference older code families such as the BOCA
National Codes, the Standard Codes, and the Uniform Codes.) Section 104.11 of the International Building Code®
reads as follows:

The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any materials or to
prohibit any design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code,
provided that any such alternative has been approved. An alternative material, design or
method of construction shall be approved where the building official finds that the proposed
design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code, and that the
material, method or work offered is, for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that
prescribed in this code in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability and safety.

This acceptance criteria has been issued to provide interested parties with guidelines for demonstrating
compliance with performance features of the codes referenced in the criteria. The criteria was developed through
a transparent process involving public hearings of the ICC-ES Evaluation Committee, and/or on-line postings
where public comment was solicited.

New acceptance criteria will only have an “approved” date, which is the date the document was approved by
the Evaluation Committee. When existing acceptance criteria are revised, the Evaluation Committee will decide
whether the revised document should carry only an “approved” date, or an “approved” date combined with a
“compliance” date. The compliance date is the date by which relevant evaluation reports must comply with the
requirements of the criteria. See the ICC-ES web site for more information on compliance dates.

If this criteria is a revised edition, a solid vertical line (│) in the margin within the criteria indicates a change
from the previous edition. A deletion indicator () is provided in the margin where any significant wording has
been deleted.

ICC-ES may consider alternate criteria for report approval, provided the report applicant submits data
demonstrating that the alternate criteria are at least equivalent to the criteria set forth in this document, and
otherwise demonstrate compliance with the performance features of the codes. ICC-ES retains the right to refuse
to issue or renew any evaluation report, if the applicable product, material, or method of construction is such that
either unusual care with its installation or use must be exercised for satisfactory performance, or if
malfunctioning is apt to cause injury or unreasonable damage.

Acceptance criteria are developed for use solely by ICC-ES for purposes of issuing ICC-ES evaluation reports.

Copyright © 2018 ICC Evaluation Service, LLC. All rights reserved.

 ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE
ELEMENTS (AC232)
1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.3.12 ASTM C33-03, Standard Specification for
Concrete Aggregates, ASTM International.
1.1 Purpose: The purpose of this acceptance criteria
is to establish requirements for anchor channels in normal- 1.3.13 ASTM C39, Standard Test Method for
weight or lightweight concrete elements to be recognized Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens,
in an ICC Evaluation Service, LLC (ICC-ES), evaluation ASTM International.
report under the 2018, 2015, 2012, 2009 and 2006 1.3.14 ASTM C42, Standard Test Method for
International Building Code® (IBC), and the 2018, 2015, Obtaining and Testing Drilled Cores and Sawed Beams of
2012, 2009 and 2006 International Residential Code® Concrete, ASTM International.
(IRC). Bases of recognition are IBC Section 104.11, and
IRC Section R104.11. 1.3.15 ASTM C150, Standard Specification for
Portland Cement, ASTM International.
The reason for the development of this criteria is to
1.3.16 ASTM C330, Standard Specification for
allow for recognition of the use of anchor channels in
Lightweight Aggregates for Structural Concrete, ASTM
concrete, since the prescriptive requirements of Chapter
International.
19 of the IBC do not include requirements for establishing
the structural capacities of anchor channels used to create 1.3.17 ASTM E8-04, Standard Test Methods for
connections between structural concrete and attachments. Tension Testing of Metallic Materials, ASTM International.
1.2 Scope: Anchor channels are alternatives to cast- 1.3.18 ASTM E119-07, Standard Test Method for Fire
in-place anchors described in Section 1901.3 of the 2018 Tests of Building Construction and Materials, ASTM
and 2015 IBC, Section 1908 and 1909 of the 2012 IBC, International.
and Sections 1911 and 1912 of the 2009 and 2006 IBC. 1.3.19 ASTM E488-10, Standard Test Method for
The anchor channels recognized in this criteria may also Strength of Anchors in Concrete and Masonry Elements,
be used where an engineered design is permitted in ASTM International.
accordance with Section R301.1.3 of the IRC.
1.3.20 AWS D1.1-2004, Structural Welding Code –
1.3 Codes and Referenced Standards Steel, American Welding Society.
1.3.1 2018, 2015, 2012, 2009 and 2006 International 1.3.21 UL 263, Standard for Fire Tests of Building
Building Code® (IBC), International Code Council. Constructions and Materials, Underwriters Laboratories
Inc.
1.3.2 2018, 2015, 2012, 2009 and 2006 International
Residential Code® (IRC), International Code Council. 1.3.22 The applicable editions of referenced
standards are given in Table 1.
1.3.3 ACI 211.1-91 (2002), Standard Practice for
1.4 Definitions:
Selecting Proportions for Normal, Heavyweight and Mass
Concrete, American Concrete Institute. Definitions are presented in Section 2.1 of Annex A.
1.3.4 ACI 211.2-98 (2004), Standard Practice for 1.5 Notations:
Selecting Proportions for Structural Lightweight Concrete, Notations are presented in Section 2.2 of Annex A.
American Concrete Institute.
2.0 BASIC INFORMATION
1.3.5 ACI 318, Building Code Requirements for 2.1 General: The following information shall be
Structural Concrete, American Concrete Institute. submitted:
1.3.6 ACI 355.2, Qualification of Post-Installed 2.1.1 Product Description: Anchor channels shall
Mechanical Anchors in Concrete, American Concrete be described as to:
Institute.
2.1.1.1 Generic or trade name.
1.3.7 ASTM A153, Standard Specification for Zinc
2.1.1.2 Manufacturer’s catalog number.
Coating (Hot-Dip) on Iron and Steel Hardware, ASTM
International. 2.1.1.3 Height, width and length of anchor
channel.
1.3.8 ASTM A283/A283M-03 (reapproved 2007).
Standard Specification for Low and Intermediate Tensile 2.1.1.4 Dimensions and spacing of anchors.
Strength Carbon Steel Plates, ASTM International. 2.1.1.5 Method of connecting anchors to channel.
1.3.9 ASTM A1011/A1011M-10: Standard 2.1.1.6 Geometry of channel bolt.
Specification for Steel, Sheet and Strip, Hot-Rolled, 2.1.1.7 Permitted manufacturing tolerances.
Carbon, Structural, High-Strength Low Alloy, High-
Strength Low Alloy with Improved Formability, and Ultra- 2.1.1.8 Basic materials, including appropriate
High Strength, ASTM International. physical properties before and after manufacture and
protective coatings, shall be described. If the anchor
1.3.10 ASTM B695, Specification for Coatings of Zinc channel consists of component parts involving different
Mechanically Deposited on Iron and Steel, ASTM materials, differences shall be noted.
International.
2.1.1.9 Material Properties:
1.3.11 ASTM C31, Standard Practice for Making and
2.1.1.9.1 The mechanical and physical
Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the Field, ASTM
properties of the proprietary steel anchor channel
International.
Page 2 of 92
ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)
components for which recognition is sought shall be tested
for compliance with the appropriate specifications.
2.1.1.9.2 Elongation and Reduction of Area:
The elongation and reduction of area of each anchor
channel component (i.e. channel profile, anchor, channel
bolt) shall be determined in accordance with a recognized
test standard (e.g. ASTM F606) and reported on the data
sheet (in Section 9.0 of Annex A). If the elongation is at
least 14 percent and the reduction of area is at least 30
percent, the anchor channel component shall be
considered to be a ductile steel element. If the elongation
or reduction of area cannot be determined, the anchor
channel shall be considered to be a brittle steel element.
2.1.2 Installation Instructions:
The manufacturer’s published instructions for
installation and application shall be submitted.
2.1.3 Packaging and Identification:
The packaging and identification shall comply with
Annex A, Section 9.2.6 of this criteria.
2.2 Testing Laboratories:
Testing laboratories shall comply with Section 2.0 of
the ICC-ES Acceptance Criteria for Test Reports (AC85)
and Section 4.2 of the ICC-ES Rules of Procedure for
Evaluation Reports. The testing laboratory shall verify that
all elements of the test program and analysis were in
compliance with this criteria. The testing laboratory shall
conduct or directly verify all procedures. All required
testing shall be conducted by an independent accredited
testing laboratory at their facility, except that up to 25
percent of the tests required by Table 4.1 of Annex A are
permitted to be witnessed by the accredited testing
laboratory in the manufacturer's facility as noted in Section
11 of Annex A. Additional testing can be conducted by the
manufacturer as noted in Section 11 of Annex A.
2.3 Test Reports:
Test reports shall comply with AC85. In addition, the
test reports shall include information described in Section
13 of ASTM E488 and Chapter 11 of ACI 355.2, as well as
the following:
2.3.1 Mode of failure for each test.
2.3.2 Photographs of test equipment and typical
failures.
2.3.3 Report approval by a registered design
professional.
2.3.4 Verification that test specimen sampling
complies with Section 2.4 of this criteria.
2.3.5 Manufacturer’s published installation
instructions.
2.3.6 Strength of Test Specimen Materials: The
test report shall note the strength of the test specimen
materials. The appropriate specification shall be
referenced. When no specification exists, acceptable
properties for quality control purposes shall be established
by physical tests.
2.3.7 Normalization of Concrete and Steel
Strengths: Test specimen test capacities shall be
normalized, as required, in accordance with Section 8 of
Annex A and the normalized values reported within the
test report.
Page 3 of 92
2.4 Product Sampling:
Sampling of the anchor channels for tests under this
criteria shall comply with Sections 3.1, 3.3 and 3.4 of
AC85.
2.5 Design Strengths:
Anchor channels shall be designed in accordance with
Section 3 of Annex A.
3.0 TEST AND PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Durability:
When anchors are recognized for exterior exposure or
damp environments, evidence of durability shall be
submitted. The steel shall be corrosion-resistant, stainless,
or zinc-coated steel. The zinc coating shall be either hot-
dipped in accordance with ASTM A153 Class C or D;
mechanically deposited in accordance with ASTM B695
with a Class 55 coating having a minimum thickness of 2.1
mils (0.053 mm); or demonstrated through tests to be
equivalent to the coatings previously described in this
sentence. The corrosion-resistant materials shall be tested
as set forth in Annex A, Section 6.2.
3.2 Concrete:
The concrete used to produce test members described
in Section 3.2.6, shall comply with the following:
3.2.1 Concrete mix design shall follow
recommendations for proportioning in ACI 211.1, ACI
211.2 or ACI 318. The concrete shall also comply with
Section 5.1 of ACI 355.2. Proportions may be varied to
achieve desired nominal compressive strength. The
reason for any variation shall be described in the test
report. No cementitious additives shall be added to the
concrete test members.
3.2.2 Portland cement shall comply with ASTM
C150. Additional requirements in Section 5.2.4 of Annex A
apply.
3.2.3 Coarse and fine aggregate in concrete shall
comply with ASTM C33 for normal-weight concrete or
ASTM C330 for lightweight concrete. The aggregate
description shall include the rock and mineral components,
shape, hardness, maximum size, and grading
specification. Additional requirements in Section 5.2 of
Annex A also apply.
3.2.4 Concrete test cylinders shall be prepared in
accordance with ASTM C31. Cylinders shall be stored and
cured in accordance with Section 10.2 of ASTM C31 (field
cure). To determine the compressive strength of test
members, cylinders shall be tested in accordance with
ASTM C39 and Section 3.2.8 of this criteria.
3.2.5 When no test cylinders are available, or where
there is a question as to whether the concrete cylinders
represent the concrete compressive strength of the test
members, compressive strength shall be determined using
drilled cores from test members. Cores shall be obtained,
prepared, and tested in accordance with ASTM C42 and
Section 3.2.8 of this criteria.
3.2.6 Test Members: Test members shall be
prepared in accordance with Section 6.4 of ASTM E488
and Section 5.3 of Annex A.
3.2.7 Reinforcement for tests in uncracked concrete
may only be used to stabilize test members during
ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)
transportation or as required in Sections 5.3.4 and 5.3.5 of
Annex A. Reinforcing elements in concrete test members
shall be outside the potential failure region of each test
specimen. The test laboratory shall verify the location of
the reinforcing. If anchor channels with anchor
reinforcement are tested to determine the influence of
anchor reinforcement on anchor channel strength, the
type, diameter, and location of this reinforcement and the
location of the anchor channel in the test member shall be
reported.
3.2.8 Compressive Strength Determination:
3.2.8.1 Concrete compressive strengths at time of
tests shall comply with the ranges specified in Section
5.2.5 of Annex A.
3.2.8.2 Test members shall be cured a minimum
of 21 days prior to the beginning of tests in accordance
with Section 5.3.2 of Annex A.
Exception: For tests to determine performance in
high-early-strength or uncured concrete, a lesser curing
period may be used.
3.2.8.3 Where high-early-strength cement is used,
curing shall be for a minimum of seven days, with a two-
day allowable minus tolerance. Two cylinders shall be
crushed and the average compressive strength noted
during a 12-hour period immediately preceding and
following any test series.
3.2.8.4 For concrete less than 90 days old, two
tests of two cylinders, or cores, each prepared in
accordance with Section 3.2.4 or 3.2.5 of this criteria, shall
be performed at the beginning and ending of testing in
accordance with Table 2 of this criteria. The beginning of
the compressive strength tests shall be concurrent with
the initiation of anchor channel load testing. The beginning
and ending strength results shall be averaged (four
cylinders or cores, total) to establish the strength of the
test members during the test period.
3.2.8.5 For concrete aged 90 days or more, the
compressive strength test shall be a single test of three
cylinders or cores, performed within 30 days of any
testing.
3.2.8.6 Reported concrete compressive strength
for any test series shall be determined from tests in this
section, within the time limitations shown in Table 2 of this
criteria.
3.3 Anchor Channel Load Test Program:
3.3.1 Tests shall be performed in accordance with
Section 4.0 of this criteria.
3.3.2 Test Specimen Behavior: Test specimen
behavior shall be evaluated and reported in accordance
with Section 9.0 of Annex A. The test report shall comply
with Section 2.3 of this criteria.
3.3.3 Test results shall be assessed in accordance
with Section 8 of Annex A.
3.4 Fire Resistance (Optional):
Test specimens intended for fire-resistive construction
shall be evaluated for load resistance during fire exposure.
General guidelines for fire exposure are in ASTM E119 or
UL 263.
Page 4 of 92
3.5 Changes to Product:
Changes to product shall be qualified in accordance
with Section 10.0 of Annex A. ICC-ES shall approve the
test program proposed before tests are conducted.
4.0 TEST METHODS
4.1 Test Procedures:
4.1.1 The test program shall comply with Section 4.0
of Annex A.
4.1.2 Test procedures shall be in accordance with
Section 5.0 of Annex A based on the requirements set
forth in Section 7.0 of Annex A.
4.1.3 Concrete used in the anchor channel load
tests shall comply with Section 3.2 of this criteria.
4.1.4 Test equipment for tension and shear loading
shall be adequate to impose anticipated ultimate loads
and shall comply with the requirements of ASTM E488. If
loading is not carried to failure, the highest value achieved
will be considered the peak load.
4.1.5 Direction of loading for tension testing shall be
coaxial with the anchors of the anchor channels. Direction
of loading for shear testing shall be either perpendicular to
the channel longitudinal axis or co-linear with the
longitudinal axis of the channel (longitudinal shear),
whereby shear loading along the longitudinal axis of the
channel is optional.
4.1.6 The test equipment shall not impose pullout or
shear reaction loading on the surface or edge of the
concrete test member within a distance that the formation
of a concrete breakout body is restrained. This condition
may be considered as satisfied if the clear distance
between the support reaction and the axis of the
outermost anchors of the anchor channel is ≥1.5 hef for
tension loading or ≥1.5 ca for shear loading. Equipment
used to apply a shear load shall be designed to minimize
frictional resistance, using a concrete surface finish
specified in ASTM E488 and Section 5.2.1.2 of ACI 355.2.
4.1.7 Displacements under tension and shear
loading shall be recorded in a continuous manner for each
test specimen tested. The displacement shall be
measured as a function of the direction of load application
as set forth in ASTM E488, Section 5.5, “Anchor
Displacement Measurement,” and Section 8.6.1,
“Continuous Load Application.”
4.1.8 Slab Thickness: The minimum allowable slab
thickness shall be hmin = hef + th + cnom where th = anchor
head thickness (example given in Figure 1 of Annex A)
and cnom = required concrete cover.
5.0 QUALITY CONTROL
5.1 The products shall be manufactured under an
approved quality control program with inspections by ICC-
ES or by a properly accredited inspection agency that has
a contractual relationship with ICC-ES. The program shall
address requirements in Section 10.0 of Annex A.
5.2 Quality documentation complying with the ICC-ES
Acceptance Criteria for Quality Documentation (AC10)
shall be submitted.
5.3 A qualifying inspection shall be conducted at each
manufacturing facility when required by the ICC-ES
ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

Acceptance Criteria for Inspections and Inspection

Agencies (AC304).
5.4 Periodic special Inspection shall be provided for
anchor channels loaded by a tension load and/or a shear
load perpendicular to the longitudinal channel axis in
accordance with Section 1704 of the IBC and Section 10.3
of Annex A. For anchor channels loaded by a shear load
in direction of the longitudinal channel axis the level of
special inspection is given in Table 9.1. It depends on the
results of reliability tests (see Annex A, Section 8.20). The
manufacturer shall submit inspection procedures to verify
proper installation.
6.0 EVALUATION REPORT
The evaluation report shall include the following:
6.1 Description:
Basic Information required by Section 2.1 of this
criteria, including product description, installation
procedures and identification information.
6.2 Information and statements as set forth in Section
9.0 of Annex A.
6.3 Minimum member thickness and minimum edge
distances shall be specified in the evaluation report.
6.4 When anchor channels are recognized for exterior
exposure or damp environment, Section 3.1 of this criteria
applies.
6.5 Special Inspection:
Special inspection details based on information
described in Section 5.4 and Annex A, Section 10 of this
criteria shall be included in the evaluation report.
6.6 Optional Information:
The evaluation report may include information on
seismic use, based on the evaluation under this criteria:
6.6.1 Information on seismic use.
Strength design values determined in accordance
with Section 3.1 of Annex A may be converted to values
suitable for use with allowable stress design load
combinations in accordance with Section 3.2 of Annex A.
6.6.2 The evaluation report shall note that the use of
anchor channels in lightweight concrete is beyond the
scope of the report.
Exception: The use of anchor channels in lightweight
concrete shall be recognized provided tests No. 6 and No.
8 in accordance with Table 4.1 of Annex A have been
performed in lightweight concrete. If these test series have
been conducted in all- lightweight concrete, the results
may also be used for recognition in sand-lightweight
concrete. If these test series have been conducted in
sand-lightweight concrete only, the results may not be
used for recognition in all-lightweight concrete. ∎

TABLE 1—APPLICABLE EDITIONS OF REFERENCED STANDARDS

STANDARD EDITION
REFERENCED STANDARD
2018 IBC 2015 IBC 2012 IBC 2009 IBC 2006 IBC
ACI 318 2014 2014 2011 2008 2005
ACI 355.2 2007 2007 2007 2007 2004
ASTM A153 2009 2009 2005 2005 2003
ASTM B695 2009 2009 2004 2004 2000
ASTM C31 2015 2012 2010 2006 1998
ASTM C39 2014 2014 2011 2005 2003
ASTM C42 2013 2013 2011 2004 2003
ASTM C150 2015 2012 2007 2007 2004
ASTM C330 2014 2014 2005 2005 2004
ASTM E119 2016 2014 2008a 2007 2000
2003 with revisions
UL 263 2014 2014 2003 N/A
through October 2007

TABLE 2—STRENGTH TEST TIME LIMITATIONS

AGE OF CONCRETE AT BEGINNING MAXIMUM TIME BETWEEN

COMMENTS
OF TESTING STRENGTH TESTS
For special tests only. See Sections 3.2.8.1
Less than 21 days 3 days
and 3.2.8.3
21-35 days 7 days None
36-56 days 14 days None
57-90 days 30 days None
More than 90 days 60 days See Section 3.2.8.5

Page 5 of 92
ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

ANNEX A
TESTING AND DESIGN OF ANCHOR CHANNELS

Synopsis:

This acceptance criteria prescribes a testing program, evaluation requirements, and design requirements for anchor channels
for use in uncracked and cracked normal weight and lightweight concrete.

Keywords:

Anchor channels, cracked concrete

Table of Contents

ANNEX A—TESTING AND DESIGN OF ANCHOR CHANNELS ........................................................................................ 6

Synopsis .............................................................................................................................................................................. 6

1.0 Introduction ............................................................................................................................................................... 7

2.0 Definitions and Notations ........................................................................................................................................ 12

3.0 Design Requirements .............................................................................................................................................. 21

4.0 Test Organization ..................................................................................................................................................... 46

5.0 Requirements for Test Specimens, Anchor Channel Installation and Testing ................................................... 48

6.0 Requirements for Anchor Channel Identification .................................................................................................. 57

7.0 Service Condition Tests .......................................................................................................................................... 58

8.0 Assessment .............................................................................................................................................................. 75

9.0 Data Presentation ..................................................................................................................................................... 86

10.0 Quality Control Requirements................................................................................................................................. 90

11.0 Requirements for the Independent Testing and Evaluation Agency ................................................................... 92

Page 6 of 92
ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

1.0 Introduction:
1.1 Purpose:
1.1.1 The purpose of this annex is to establish testing programs and evaluation requirements for recognition of anchor
channels in ICC Evaluation Service, LLC (ICC-ES) evaluation reports under the 2018, 2015, 2012, 2009, 2006 International
Building Code® (IBC) and the 2018, 2015, 2012, 2009, 2006 International Residential Code® (IRC). Bases of recognition are
IBC Section 104.11 and IRC Section R104.11. This acceptance criteria describes the principles and requirements for safety,
serviceability and durability of anchor channels for use in uncracked or cracked concrete.

1.2 Scope:
1.2.1 This annex to AC232 applies to anchor channels used to resist loads in cracked and uncracked normal weight and
lightweight concrete and includes assessment of strength capacity, design procedures and quality control. Special inspection
in accordance with Chapter 17 of the IBC is required. Modifications to the strength design requirements of ACI 318 (-05, -08,
-11), Appendix D or ACI 318-14 Chapter 17 as applicable are provided in Section 3.0 of this annex.

1.2.2 The following loading conditions are outside the scope of this acceptance criteria:

1.2.2.1 Fatigue loading.

1.3 Anchor Channels Permitted Under This Acceptance Criteria:

1.3.1 Anchor Channel Assemblies: Anchor channels consist of a channel produced from hot-rolled or cold-formed steel and
at least two metal anchors on the channel back as illustrated in Figure 1 and Figure 2 of this annex whereby anchors may
consist of round headed anchors, I-shaped anchors, or deformed reinforcing bars. The anchor channels shall be placed flush
with the concrete surface as illustrated in Figure 3 of this annex. A fixture shall be connected to the anchor channel by channel
bolts (hammer head or hooked channel bolts) with nut and washer in accordance with Figure 1 and Figure 3 of this annex.

1.3.2 Loading of Anchor Channels: The anchor channel may be used to transmit tensile loads, shear loads perpendicular
to the longitudinal channel axis, shear loads acting in the direction of the longitudinal channel axis (optional), or any
combination of these loads applied at any location between the outermost anchors of the anchor channel in accordance with
Figure 4 of this annex. Transfer of tension loads takes place via interlock between the channel bolt and the channel lips,
bending of the channel, tension in the anchors, and mechanical interlock with the concrete. Shear loads perpendicular to the
longitudinal channel axis are transferred by the anchors and by compression stresses between the side of the channel and the
concrete. However, for reasons of simplicity, it is assumed that the shear loads are transferred by the anchors only [see
D.3.1.1.3 (ACI 318-05, ACI 318-08), D.3.1.2.3 (ACI 318-11), Section 17.2.1.2.3 (ACI 318-14)]. Shear loads acting in the
direction of the longitudinal channel axis are assumed to be transferred from the channel bolt via the channel and the anchors
into the concrete without consideration of friction and/or adhesion [see D.3.1.1.5 (ACI 318-05, ACI 318-08), D.3.1.2.5 (ACI
318-11), Section 17.2.1.1.5 (ACI 318-14)].

Where recognition is sought for static shear loading along the longitudinal axis of the anchor channel, the longitudinal loads
shall be transferred by a positive load transfer mechanism [e.g. mechanical interlock between the channel bolt and the channel
profile by notches in the smooth channel lips created by notching channel bolts (example see Fig. 5a) or by matching
serrations between the channel lips and channel bolt (example see Fig. 5b)].

Transfer of shear load in the direction of the longitudinal channel axis from the channel bolt via channel and anchors into the
concrete shall use a positive load transfer mechanism that shall be capable to ensure safe and effective behavior under
normal and adverse conditions, both during installation and in service. Factors included are installation conditions in concrete
and torqueing of the channel bolt.

Where recognition is sought for seismic loading in Seismic Design Categories C, D, E and F recognition for shear loads in
direction of the longitudinal channel axis is required.
Page 7 of 92
ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

1.3.3 Channels: The channel height shall be 0.6 in. (15 mm) ≤ hch ≤ 2 in. (51 mm) and the corresponding channel width 1 in.
(25.4 mm) ≤ bch ≤ 3 in. (76 mm). The minimum channel length shall be 4 in. (102 mm). The maximum length is unlimited.

The effective embedment depth of anchor channels, hef, may not exceed 7.1 in. (180 mm) for anchor channels with I-shaped
anchors.

The anchor channel geometry must fulfill the following requirements: hch/hef ≤ 0.5 and bch/hef ≤ 0.7.

1.3.4 Anchors: The headed anchors shall be produced from carbon or stainless steel. Deformed reinforcing bars must
conform to one of the types listed in (a) through (g) below:

(a) ASTM A615 – carbon steel

(b) ASTM A706 – low-alloy steel

(c) ASTM A996- axle steel and rail steel; bars from tail steel shall be Type R

(d) ASTM A955 – stainless steel

(e) ASTM A1035 – low-carbon chromium steel

(f) CAN/CSA-G30.18- billet steel bars for concrete reinforcement

(g) DIN 488- BSt 500- carbon steel

The anchors may be welded, forged or bolted to the channel. Where deformed reinforcing bars are welded, they shall be of a
weldable grade. All anchors attached to the anchor channel shall be of the same type, size and embedment.

1.3.4.1 Anchors that are welded to the channel may consist of I-shaped profiles, round-headed anchors, or deformed
reinforcing bars. The welding shall be performed by any appropriate welding method in accordance with AWS D1.1. The
manufacturer of the anchor channel shall demonstrate that the manufacturing plant is capable of performing the selected
welding process in accordance with the applicable standards.

1.3.4.2 I-shaped anchors shall comply with the following dimensions: length lA ≥ 13/16 in. (30 mm), web thickness p ≥ 5/32 in.
(4 mm), width of anchor head d1 ≥ 9/16 in. (14 mm), width 3/8 in. (10 mm) ≤ wA ≤ 2 in. (51 mm).

1.3.4.3 Round headed anchors shall comply with the following dimensions: length lA ≥ 13/16 in. (30 mm), shaft diameter d2 ≥
1/
5 in. (5 mm), and head diameter d1 ≥ 1/2 in. (12 mm). The head is forged to the anchor or may consist of a nut.

1.3.4.4 Round headed anchors that are attached to the channel shall comply with the requirements of Section 1.3.4.3 of
this annex. The anchors shall be placed into prefabricated holes in the back of the channel and connected rigidly with the
channel back.

1.3.4.5 Deformed reinforcing bars as defined in Section 2.2 of ACI 318 (-05, -08, -11), and Section 2.3 of ACI 318-14 may
be attached to the channel in lieu of anchors as described in Section 1.3.4.4 above.

1.3.4.6 The axial distance between the end of the channel and the nearest anchor, x, shall be ≥ 1 in. (25.4 mm).

1.3.4.7 The axial spacing between anchors, s, shall be at least 2 in. (51 mm). Where deformed reinforcing bars are used as
anchors, the axial spacing between bars, s, shall be at least 4 inches (100 mm).The maximum spacing, s, shall not be larger
than the smaller of 5 times the minimum edge distance cmin and 16 in. (400 mm). If more than two anchors are connected to
the channel back, their spacing shall be constant. The spacing between I-anchors oriented longitudinal to the channel axis
shall be sufficient to permit concrete to flow readily into the spaces between the anchors. See Section 7.6 of ACI 318 (-05, -08,
-11) and Section 25.2 of ACI 318-14.

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1.3.5 Durability: Depending on the material of channel bolt, channel and anchor channels may be used in a dry internal
environment, under external atmospheric conditions, in an industrial atmosphere, or in a marine environment.

a) Anchor channel profile with I-shaped anchors

b) Anchor channel profile with round headed anchors
c) Anchor channel profile with deformed reinforcing bars

FIGURE 1—EXAMPLES OF ANCHOR CHANNELS WITH CORRESPONDING CHANNEL BOLT

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b)
s = spacing of the anchors
ca1 = edge distance of the anchors in one direction
x = distance of the anchors from end of the channel
ca2 = edge distance of the anchors in the direction perpendicular to ca1

FIGURE 2—EXAMPLE OF a) AN ANCHOR CHANNEL b) PLAN VIEW IN A CONCRETE MEMBER

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a) hef for anchor channels [see D.5.2.10 (ACI 318-11), Section 17.4.2.10 (ACI 318-14), and D.5.2.10b) (ACI 318-11), Section
17.4.2.10b)]

b) h*ef for anchor channels (see D.5.2.10a) (ACI 318-11), Section 17.4.2.10a) (ACI 318-14)

h*ef = reduced effective embedment depth

FIGURE 3—ANCHOR CHANNEL INSTALLED IN CONCRETE MEMBER, CROSS SECTION THROUGH CHANNEL
PROFILE PERPENDICULAR TO THE LONGITUDINAL AXIS, and CROSS SECTION THROUGH THE LONGITUDINAL
AXIS OF THE CHANNEL PROFILE

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tension load: z-direction (in direction of anchor)

shear load: y-direction (perpendicular to longitudinal axis of channel)
x-direction (in longitudinal channel axis – optional)

FIGURE 4—LOAD DIRECTIONS COVERED BY THIS ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA

a) Locking channel bolt creating a b) Serrated channel with matching serrations

notch in the channel between channel lips and locking channel bolt

FIGURE 5—EXAMPLES OF ANCHOR CHANNELS WITH MECHANICAL INTERLOCK

2.0 Definitions and Notations

2.1 Definitions

2.1.1 Anchor Channel – Steel profile with rigidly connected anchors installed prior to concrete placement.

2.1.2 Anchor Channel Loading: Axial Tension – Load applied perpendicular to the surface of the base material and in
direction of the anchor axis.

2.1.3 Anchor Channel Loading: Bending – Bending effect induced by a tension load applied in direction of the anchor
axis at any location between anchors.

2.1.4 Anchor Channel Loading: Combined – Axial tension and shear loading applied simultaneously (oblique loading).

2.1.5 Anchor Channel Loading: Perpendicular shear – Loads acting parallel to the concrete surface and perpendicular
to the longitudinal axis of the anchor channel.
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2.1.6 Anchor Channel Loading: Longitudinal Shear - Loads acting parallel to the concrete surface and co-linear with the
longitudinal axis of the anchor channel.

2.1.7 Anchor Channel Installation – Instructions for placement of subject anchor channel.

2.1.8 Anchor Channel System – Specific combination of anchor channel and channel bolt under consideration.

2.1.9 Anchor Diameter – Nominal diameter of the anchor element.

2.1.10 Anchor Reinforcement – Steel reinforcement to resist tension on shear load acting on the anchor channel
illustrations are provided in Figures RD.5.2.10.9 (Figure 17.4.2.10.9, ACI 318-14) and RD.6.2.10.8.2 (Figure 17.5.10.8.2, ACI
318-14) of this annex.

2.1.11 Anchor Spacing – Axial distance between anchors.

2.1.12 Attachment – Structural assembly, external to the surface of the concrete, that transfers loads to or receives loads
from the anchor channel.

2.1.13 Base Material – Material, such as concrete, in which the anchor channel is installed.

2.1.14 Channel Bolt – Threaded fastener that connects the element to be attached to the anchor channel.

2.1.15 Characteristic Spacing – Spacing for ensuring the characteristic resistance of a single anchor.

2.1.16 Characteristic Resistance – Five (5) percent fractile of the resistance (value corresponding to a 5 percent
probability of non-exceedance, with a confidence of 90 percent), based on a noncentral student’s t-distribution for which the
population standard deviation is unknown.

2.1.17 Clamping Force – Prestressing force resulting from tightening of the channel bolt against the fixture.

2.1.18 Concrete Blow-out Failure – Failure of an anchor channel installed near the edge of the concrete member
characterized by spalling at the side of the concrete member near the anchor head and no major breakout at the top concrete
surface of the concrete member. This is usually associated with tensioned anchors with small side cover and deep
embedment.

2.1.19 Concrete Breakout Failure – Failure of an anchor channel in an unconfined tension test characterized by the
formation of a conical fracture surface originating at the head of the anchor and projecting to the surface of the concrete
member (Illustrations are provided in Figure 6 a6 of this annex).

2.1.20 Concrete Edge Failure – Failure of an anchor channel installed at the edge of a concrete member and loaded in
shear towards the edge characterized by the formation of a fracture surface originating at the channel and projecting towards
the edge of the concrete member (Illustrations are provided in Figure 6 b3 of this annex).

2.1.21 Concrete Pryout Failure – Failure of an anchor channel loaded in shear characterized by the formation of a fracture
surface originating at the anchor head and projecting towards the concrete surface (Illustrations are provided in Figure 6 b4 of
this annex).

2.1.22 Cracked Concrete – For the purpose of this criteria, a test member with an approximately uniform crack width over
the depth of the concrete member.

2.1.23 Displacement – Movement of an anchor channel, measured relative to the concrete member in which the load is
transmitted. In tension tests, displacement is measured parallel to the anchor axis; in shear tests, displacement is measured
perpendicular to the anchor axis.

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2.1.24 Effective Embedment Depth – Distance between the concrete surface and side of the anchor head towards the
concrete surface (Illustrations are provided in Figure 1 of this annex).

2.1.25 Fastening – Assembly of fixture and anchor channel used to transmit loads to concrete.

2.1.26 Fixture – Steel part attached to the anchor channel by channel bolt (also see attachment).

2.1.27 Independent Testing and Evaluation Agency (ITEA) – Laboratory accredited in conformance with Section 11.0
having responsibility for the testing and assessment of an anchor channel product in accordance with this criteria.

2.1.28 Manufacturer’s Published Installation Instructions (MPII) – Printed instructions for the correct installation of
anchor channels under all anticipated installation conditions as supplied with the product. Manufacturer’s printed installation
instructions shall be clear, concise and easy to understand. In particular, the use of pictorial representation of procedures is
encouraged. All relevant steps shall be shown; in particular modifications to the installation process to accommodate non-
standard conditions (e.g. installation at the top side of a concrete member) shall be clearly denoted.

2.1.29 Mechanical Interlock – Load transfer to a concrete member via constrained surfaces.

2.1.30 Minimum Edge Distance – Minimum distance from the concrete edge to the center of the anchor channel and the
anchors fixed to the channel profile, to allow adequate placement and compaction of concrete and to avoid damage to the
concrete during torquing of the channel bolt, to be reported in the ICC-ES Evaluation Service Report (see Figure 2).

2.1.31 Minimum Member Thickness – Minimum member thickness, where the anchor channels can be installed, to be
reported in the ICC-ES Evaluation Service Report.

2.1.32 Minimum Spacing – Minimum distance between anchors of anchor channels, measured in the direction of the
longitudinal channel axis to allow adequate placing and compaction of concrete, measured centerline to centerline, to be
reported in the ICC-ES Evaluation Service Report.

2.1.33 Pullout Failure – A failure mode in which the anchor loaded in tension withdraws out of the concrete without
developing the full concrete resistance.

2.1.34 Splitting Failure – A failure in which the concrete fractures along a plane passing through the axis of the tensioned
anchor or anchors.

2.1.35 Statistically Equivalent – Two groups of test results shall be considered as statistically equivalent if there are no
significant differences between the means and between the standard deviations of the two groups. Such statistical
equivalence shall be demonstrated using a one-sided Student’s t-Test at a confidence level of 90 percent.

2.1.36 Steel Failure of Anchor Channel Loaded by Axial Tension – Failure mode characterized by one of the following:

Fracture of the channel bolt (thread, shaft or bolt head) (as Illustrated in Figure 6 a1 of this annex)

Bending and local fracture of the channel lips and subsequent pullout of the channel bolt (as Illustrated in Figure 6 a2 of this
annex)

Bending failure of the channel (as illustrated in Figure 6 a3 of this annex)

Fracture of connection between anchor and anchor channel (as illustrated in Figure 6 a4 of this annex)

Fracture of anchor (as Illustrated in Figure 6 a5 of this annex)

2.1.37 Steel failure of anchor channel loaded by shear – Failure mode characterized by one of the following:

a. Fracture of the channel bolt (as Illustrated in Figures 6 b1 and c1 of this annex)

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b. Bending and local fracture of the channel lips and subsequent pullout of the channel bolt (as Illustrated in Figures 6 b2
and c3 of this annex)

Failure of connection between anchor and channel (not shown in Figure 6 of this annex).

Failure of anchor (as illustrated in Figure 6 c2 of this annex).

2.1.38 Test member – A concrete element in which anchor channels are installed and tested.

2.1.39 Test series – A group of identical anchor channels tested under identical conditions.

2.1.40 5 percent Fractile – Value corresponding to a 5 percent probability of non-exceedance with a confidence of 90
percent, based on a Gaussian distribution for which the population standard deviation is unknown. See also characteristic
resistance.

a1) a2) a3)

a4) a5) a6)

b1) b2) b3) b4)

c1) c2) c3) c4) c5)

a) Tension: a1) steel failure of channel bolt; a2) flexural failure of channel lips; a3) flexural failure of channel; a4) failure of
connection between channel and anchor; a5) steel failure of anchor; a6) concrete cone failure. Pullout, splitting and
blowout failure not shown
b) Perpendicular shear: b1) steel failure of channel bolt; b2) flexural failure of channel lip; b3) concrete edge failure; b4)
pryout failure. Failure of connection between anchor and channel and failure of anchor not shown.
c) Longitudinal shear: c1) steel failure of channel bolt; c2) steel failure of anchor; c3) failure of connection between
channel lips and channel bolt; c4) concrete edge failure; c5) pryout failure. Failure of connection between anchor and
channel not shown.

FIGURE 6—FAILURE MODES OF ANCHOR CHANNELS UNDER TENSION AND SHEAR LOADING

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2.2 Notations:

Equations are provided in units of inches and pounds. For convenience, SI (metric) units are provided in parentheses where
appropriate. Unless otherwise noted, values in SI units shall be not used in equations without conversion to units of inches and
pounds.
bch width of channel, as shown in Figure 1 of this annex, inch (mm)
bfix width of fixture, as shown in Figure 3 of this annex, in. (mm)
ca edge distance of anchor channel, measured from edge of concrete member to axis of the nearest anchor as
shown in Figure 2b of this annex, in. (mm)
ca1 edge distance of anchor channel in direction 1 as shown in Figure 2b of this annex, in. (mm)
c’a1 net distance between edge of the concrete member and the anchor channel: c'a1 = ca1 – bch/2 in. (mm)
ca1,red reduced edge distance of the anchor channel, as referenced in Eq. (D-29c, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-39c, ACI 318-
11), (17.5.2.10.7, ACI 318-14)
ca2 edge distance of anchor channel in direction 2 as shown in Figure 2b of this annex, in. (mm)
ca,max maximum edge distance of anchor channel, in. (mm)
ca,min minimum edge distance of anchor channel, in. (mm)
cac edge distance required to develop full concrete capacity in absence of reinforcement to control splitting, in.
(mm)
ccr edge distance required to develop full concrete capacity in absence of anchor reinforcement, in. (mm)
ccr,N critical edge distance for anchor channel for tension loading for concrete breakout, in. (mm)
ccr,Nb critical edge distance for anchor channel for tension loading, concrete blow out, in. (mm)
ccr,V critical edge distance for anchor channel for shear loading, concrete edge breakout, in. (mm)
d1 width of head of I-anchors or diameter of head of round anchor, as shown in Figure 1 of this annex, in. (mm)
d2 shaft diameter of round anchor, as shown in Figure 1 of this annex, in. (mm)
da diameter of anchor reinforcement, in. (mm)
df diameter of the hole in the fixture
ds diameter of channel bolt , as shown in Figure 1 of this annex, in. (mm)
e1 distance between shear load and concrete surface, in. (mm)
es distance between the axis of the shear load and the axis of the anchor reinforcement resisting the shear load,
in. (mm)
f distance between anchor head and surface of the concrete, in. (mm)
f′c specified concrete compressive strength, psi (MPa)
fc,test,x concrete compressive strength corresponding to concrete used for test series x, psi (MPa)
futa specified ultimate tensile strength of anchor, psi (MPa)
futc specified ultimate tensile strength of channel, psi (MPa)
futb specified ultimate tensile strength of channel bolt, psi (MPa)
fut,test,x tensile strength of steel used for test series x, psi (MPa)
fy specified yield tensile strength of steel, psi (MPa)
fya specified yield strength of anchor, psi (MPa)
fyc specified yield strength of channel, psi (MPa)
fyb specified yield strength of channel bolt, psi (MPa)
h thickness of concrete member or test member, as shown in Figure 3 of this annex, inch [mm]
hch height of channel, as shown in Figure 1 of this annex, in. (mm)
hcr,V critical member thickness, in. (mm)
hef effective embedment depth, as shown in Figure 3a of this annex, in. (mm)
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h*ef effective embedment depth, as shown in Figure 3b of this annex: h*ef = hef - hch in. (mm)
hef,red reduced effective embedment depth, as referenced in Eq. (D-8c, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-7.c, ACI 318-11),
(17.4.2.10.2c, ACI 318-14), in. (mm)
k load distribution factor, as referenced in Eq. (D-0.a) (17.2.1.2.1a, ACI 318-14)
kcp pryout factor
ℓA length of I-anchor or headed anchor, plus channel height, as shown in Figure 1 of this annex, in. (mm)
ℓ lever arm of the shear force acting on the channel bolt, in. (mm)
ℓdh development length in tension of deformed bar or deformed wire with a standard hook, measured from critical
section to outside end of hook, in. [mm]
lfix length of fixture as shown in Figure 3 of this annex, in. (mm)
ℓin influence length of an external load Nua along an anchor channel, in. [mm]
p web thickness of I-anchor, as shown in Figure 1 of this annex, in. (mm)
s spacing of anchors in direction of longitudinal axis of channel, in. (mm)
schb center-to-center distance between channel bolts in direction of longitudinal axis of channel, in. (mm)
scr anchor spacing required to develop full concrete capacity in absence of anchor reinforcement, in. (mm)
scr,N critical anchor spacing for tension loading, concrete breakout, in. (mm)
smax maximum spacing between anchor elements in anchor channels, in. (mm)
smin minimum spacing between anchor elements in anchor channels, in. (mm)
scr,Nb critical anchor spacing for tension loading, concrete blow-out, in. (mm)
scr,V critical anchor spacing for shear loading, concrete edge breakout, in. (mm)
t thickness of channel lips, in. (mm)
tfix thickness of fixture as shown in Figure 3 of this annex, in. (mm)
th thickness of head portion of headed anchor, as shown in Figure 1 of this annex, in. (mm)
v coefficient of variation
wA width of I-shaped anchor, as shown in Figure 1 of this annex, in. (mm)
x distance between end of channel and nearest anchor, in. [mm]
z internal lever arm of the concrete member, in. (mm)
Abrg bearing area of anchor head, in.2 (mm2)
Ai ordinate at the position of the anchor I, as illustrated in Figure RD.3.1.1 (Figure 17.2.1.1, ACI 318-14) of this
annex, in. (mm)
Ase,N effective cross-sectional area of anchor or channel bolt in tension, in.2, (mm²)
Ase,V effective cross-sectional area of channel bolt in shear (mm²)
Fk characteristic failure load of a test series calculated according to Eq. (8.5), lbf (N)
Ftest test result from a test series, lbf (N)
Ftest,x test result from test series x, lb (N)
Iy moment of inertia of the channel about principal y-axis, in.4 (mm4), as illustrated in Figure 1 of this annex
M1 bending moment on fixture around axis in direction 1, lbf-in (Nm)
M2 bending moment on fixture around axis in direction 2, lbf-in (Nm)
Ms,flex nominal flexural strength of the anchor channel, lbf-in (Nm)
Ms,flex,allowable,ASD allowable bending moment due to tension loads for use in allowable stress design environments, lb (N)
Ms,s flexural strength of the channel bolt, lbf-in (Nm)
0
M s ,s
nominal flexural strength of the channel bolt, lbf-in (Nm)

Mu,flex bending moment on the channel due to tension loads, lbf-in (Nm)
Nb basic concrete breakout strength of a single anchor in tension, lbf (N)
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Nca nominal strength of anchor reinforcement to take up tension loads, lbf (N)
Ncb concrete breakout strength of a single anchor of anchor channel in tension, lbf (N)
Neq maximum tension load to be applied in simulated seismic tension test, lbf (N)
Ni intermediate tension load to be applied in the simulated seismic tension test, lbf (N)
Nk characteristic tension failure load calculated according to Eq. (8.5), lbf (N)
Nm minimum tension load to be applied in the simulated seismic tension test, lbf (N)
Nn lowest nominal tension strength from all appropriate failure modes under tension, lbf (N)
Np pullout strength of a single anchor of an anchor channel in tension, lbf (N)
Npn nominal pullout strength of a single anchor of an anchor channel in tension, lbf (N)
Nnc nominal tension strength of one anchor from all concrete failure modes (lowest value of Ncb (anchor channels
without anchor reinforcement to take up tension loads) or Nca (anchor channels with anchor reinforcement to
take up tension loads), Npn, and Nsb)
Nns nominal steel strength of anchor channel loaded in tension (lowest value of Nsa, Nsc and Nsl), lbf (N)
Nns,a nominal tension strength for steel failure of anchor or connection between anchor and channel (lowest value of
Nsa and Nsc)
Nsa nominal tensile steel strength of a single anchor, lbf (N)
Nsb nominal concrete side-face blowout strength, lbf (N)
N0 sb basic nominal concrete side-face blowout strength, lbf (N)
Nsc nominal tensile steel strength of the connection channel/anchor, lbf (N)
Nsflex nominal strength of anchor channel in case of flexural failure of channel, lbf (N)
Nsl nominal tensile steel strength of the local bending of the channel lips, lbf (N)
Nss nominal tensile strength of a channel bolt, lbf (N)
a
N ua factored tension load on a single anchor of the anchor channel, lbf (N)
a
Nua,i factored tension load on anchor i of the anchor channel, lbf (N)
b
N ua factored tension load on a channel bolt, lbf (N)

Nua,re factored tension load acting on the anchor reinforcement, lbf (N)
Schb elastic section modulus of channel bolt, in3 (mm³)
Spl,nom plastic section modulus of channel around y-y axis computed with the specified channel dimensions, in3 (mm³)
Tallowable,ASD allowable tension load for use in allowable stress design environments, lb (N)
Tinst Installation torque moment given in the manufacturer´s installation instruction, lbf-in. (N-m)
Tinst,adm Admissible installation torque moment that ensures the required safety against splitting during installation
calculated according to Eq. (7.2), lbf-in. (N-m)
Tk in test performed in accordance with Table 4.1, Test No. 6, the 5% fractile of measured torque moments
whereby in each test the torque is recorded at the formation of a hairline crack in the concrete passing through
the location of at least one anchor. The 5% fractile shall be calculated according to Eq. (8.5) with Ftest,x replaced
by Ttest,6. Where steel failure precedes the formation of a crack in the concrete, torque moments corresponding
to the steel failure shall be permitted to be used in the calculation of Tk, lbf-in. (N-m)
Ttest,6 mean torque moment at formation of a hairline crack or at steel failure of Test No. 6, lbf-in. (N-m)
Vb basic concrete breakout strength in shear of a single anchor, lbf (N)
Vca,y nominal strength of the anchor reinforcement of one anchor to take up shear loads perpendicular to the channel
axis, lbf (N)
Vca,x nominal strength of the anchor reinforcement of one anchor to take up shear loads in longitudinal channel axis,
lbf (N)
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Vca,y,max maximum value of Vca,y of one anchor to be used in design, lbf (N)
Vcb,y nominal concrete breakout strength in shear perpendicular to the channel axis of an anchor channel, lbf (N)
Vcb,x nominal concrete breakout strength in shear in longitudinal channel axis of an anchor channel, lbf (N)
Vcp nominal pry-out strength of a single anchor, lbf (N)
Vcp,y nominal pry-out strength perpendicular to the channel axis of a single anchor, lbf (N)
Vcp,x nominal pry-out strength in longitudinal channel axis of a single anchor, lbf (N)
Veq maximum shear load to be applied in the simulated seismic shear test, lbf (N)
Vi intermediate shear load to be applied in the simulated seismic shear test, lbf (N)
Vk characteristic shear failure load calculated according to Eq. (8.5), lbf (N)
Vm minimum shear load to be applied in the simulated seismic shear test, lbf (N)
Vn,y lowest nominal steel strength from all appropriate failure modes under shear perpendicular to the channel axis,
lbf (N)
Vn,x lowest nominal steel strength from all appropriate failure modes under shear loading in longitudinal channel
axis, lbf (N)
Vnc nominal shear strength of one anchor from all concrete failure modes (lowest value of Vcb (anchor channels with
anchor reinforcement to take up shear loads) or Vca (anchor channels with anchor reinforcement to take up
shear loads) and Vcp)
Vns Nominal steel strength of anchor channel loaded in shear (lowest value of Vsa, Vsc, and Vsl)
Vns,a nominal shear strength for steel failure of anchor or connection between anchor and channel (lowest value of
Vsa and Vsc)
Vsa,y nominal shear steel strength perpendicular to the channel axis of a single anchor, lbf (N)
Vsa,x nominal shear steel strength in longitudinal channel axis of a single anchor, lbf (N)
Vsa,y,seis nominal seismic shear steel strength perpendicular to the channel axis of a single anchor, lbf (N)
Vsa,x,seis nominal seismic shear steel strength in longitudinal channel axis of a single anchor, lbf (N)
Vsc,y nominal shear strength of connection between one anchor bolt and the anchor channel, lbf (N)
Vsc,x nominal shear strength in longitudinal channel axis of connection between one anchor bolt and the anchor
channel, lbf (N)
Vsc,y,seis nominal seismic shear strength perpendicular to the channel axis of connection between one anchor bolt and
the anchor channel, lbf (N)
Vsc,x,seis nominal seismic shear strength in longitudinal channel axis of connection between one anchor bolt and the
anchor channel, lbf (N)
Vsl,y nominal shear steel strength perpendicular to the channel axis of the local bending of the channel lips, lbf (N)
Vsl,x nominal shear steel strength in longitudinal channel axis of connection between channel bolt and channel lips,
lbf (N)
Vsl,y,seis nominal seismic shear steel strength perpendicular to the channel axis of the local bending of the channel lips,
lbf (N)
Vsl,x,seis nominal seismic shear steel strength in longitudinal channel axis of connection between channel bolt and
channel lips, lbf (N)
Vss nominal strength of channel bolt in shear, lbf (N)
Vss,M nominal strength of channel bolt in case of shear with lever arm, lbf (N)
Vua factored shear load on anchor channel, lbf (N)
Vua,x factored shear load on anchor channel in longitudinal channel axis, lbf (N)
Vua,y factored shear load on anchor channel perpendicular to the channel axis, lbf (N)
a
Vua factored shear load on a single anchor of the anchor channel, lbf (N)
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a
Vua ,x factored shear load on a single anchor of the anchor channel in longitudinal channel axis, lbf (N)

a
Vua ,y factored shear load on a single anchor of the anchor channel perpendicular to the channel axis, lbf (N)

a
Vua ,i factored shear load on anchor i of the anchor channel, lbf (N)

a
Vua , x ,i factored shear load on anchor i of the anchor channel in longitudinal channel axis, lbf (N)

a
Vua , y ,i factored shear load on anchor i of the anchor channel perpendicular to the channel axis, lbf (N)

b
Vua factored shear load on a channel bolt, lbf (N)

b
Vua ,x factored shear load on a channel bolt in longitudinal channel axis, lbf (N)

b
Vua ,y factored shear load on a channel bolt perpendicular to the channel axis, lbf (N)

Vx,allowable,ASD allowable shear load in longitudinal channel axis for use in allowable stress design environments, lb (N)
Vy,allowable,ASD allowable shear load perpendicular to the channel axis for use in allowable stress design environments, lb (N)
α exponent of interaction equation (see Section D.7.4.3, Section 17.6.4.3 of ACI 318-14)
αASD conversion factor for allowable stress design (see Section 3.2.1)
αch,N factor to account for the influence of channel size on concrete breakout strength in tension [-]
αM factor to account for the influence of restraint of fixture on the flexural strength of the channel bolt [-]
λ Modification factor for lightweight concrete
αch,V factor to account for the influence of channel size and anchor diameter on concrete edge breakout strength in
shear (lbf1/2/in1/3), (N1/2/mm1/3)
αr factor to account for the influence of restraint of the embedded channel on the channel bending strength [-]
αN,seis,y adjustment factor for seismic loading (tension) [-]
αV,seis,y adjustment factor for seismic loading (shear in y-direction, perpendicular to the channel axis) [-]
αV,seis,x adjustment factor for seismic loading (shear in x-direction, in longitudinal channel axis) [-]
ψc,N modification factor to account for influence of cracked or uncracked concrete on concrete breakout strength [-]
ψc,Nb modification factor to account for influence of cracked or uncracked concrete on concrete blowout strength [-]
ψc,V modification factor to account for influence of cracked or uncracked concrete for concrete edge breakout
strength [-]
ψco,N modification factor for corner effects on concrete breakout strength for anchors loaded in tension [-]
ψco,Nb modification factor for corner effects on concrete blowout strength for anchors loaded in tension [-]
ψco,V modification factor for corner effects on concrete edge breakout strength for anchor channels loaded in shear [-]
ψcp,N modification factor for anchor channels to control splitting [-]
ψed,N modification factor for edge effect on concrete breakout strength for anchors loaded in tension [-]
ψg,Nb modification factor to account for influence of bearing area of neighboring anchors on concrete blowout strength
for anchors loaded in tension [-]
ψh,Nb modification factor to account for influence of member thickness on concrete blowout strength for anchors
loaded in tension [-]
ψh,V modification factor to account for influence of member thickness on concrete edge breakout strength for
anchors channels loaded in shear [-]
ψs,N modification factor to account for influence of location and loading of neighboring anchors on concrete breakout
strength for anchor channels loaded in tension [-]
ψs,Nb modification factor to account for influence of location and loading of neighboring anchors on concrete blowout
strength for anchor channels loaded in tension [-]
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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

ψs,V modification factor to account for influence of location and loading of neighboring anchors on concrete edge
breakout strength for anchor channels loaded in shear [-]

3.0 Design Requirements:

3.1 Strength Design - Amendments to ACI 318:

This section provides amendments to ACI 318-05, ACI 318-08 and ACI 318-11 Appendix D or ACI 318-14 Chapter 17 as
applicable as required for the strength design of anchor channels.

Add Sections D.3.1.1, D.3.3.2.1, D.3.3.4.1, D.4.1.4, D.4.1.5, D.4.4.1, D.5.1.3, D.5.2.10, D.5.3.7, D.5.4.3, D.6.1.4, D.6.2.10,
D.6.2.11, D.6.3.2, D.6.3.3, D.6.3.4, D.7.4 and D.8.8 to ACI 318-05 and ACI 318-08, Appendix D as follows:

Add Sections D.3.1.2, D.3.3.1.1, D.4.1.4, D.4.1.5, D.4.4.1, D.5.1.3, D.5.2.10, D.5.3.7, D.5.4.3, D.6.1.4, D.6.2.10, D.6.3.2,
D.6.3.3, D.6.3.4, D.7.4 and D.8.8 to ACI 318-11, Appendix D as follows:

Add Sections 17.2.1.2, 17.2.3.1.1, 17.3.1.4, 17.3.1.5, 17.4.1.3, 17.4.2.10, 17.4.3.7, 17.4.4.3, 17.5.1.4, 17.5.2.10, 17.5.3.2,
17.5.3.3, 17.5.3.4, 17.6.4 and 17.7.8 to ACI 318-14 as follows:

D.3.1.1 (ACI 318-05, ACI 318-08), D.3.1.2 (ACI 318-11), Section 17.2.1.2 (ACI 318-14) – Anchor channels shall be designed
for critical effects of factored loads as determined by elastic analysis taking into account the elastic support by anchors and the
partial restraint of the channel ends by concrete compression stresses. As an alternative, the triangular load distribution
method in accordance with D.3.1.1.1 through D.3.1.1.3 (ACI 318-05, ACI 318-08), D.3.1.2.1 through D.3.1.2.3 (ACI 318-11) or
17.2.1.2.1 through 17.2.1.2.3 (ACI 318-14) to calculate the tension and shear loads on anchors shall be permitted.

a
D.3.1.1.1 (ACI 318-05, ACI 318-08), D.3.1.2.1 (ACI 318-11), Section 17.2.1.2.1 (ACI 318-14) – The tension loads, Nua,i , on

an anchor due to a tension load, N ua , acting on the channel shall be computed in accordance with Eq. (D-0.a), (17.2.1.2.1a,

ACI 318-14). An example for the calculation of the tension loads acting on the anchors is given in Figure RD 3.1.1 (Figure
17.2.1.1, ACI 318-14).

Naua,i = k ⋅ Ai  ⋅ Nua (D-0.a) (17.2.1.2.1a, ACI 318-14)

where:

Ai' = ordinate at the position of the anchor i assuming a triangle with the unit height at the position of load Nua

and the base length 2ℓin with ℓin determined in accordance with Equation (D-0.c), 17.2.1.2.1c, ACI 318-
14). Examples are provided in Figure RD.3.1.1 (Figure 17.2.1.1, ACI 318-14).

k = 1 (D-0.b) (17-2.1.2.1b, ACI 318-14)

 Ai'
 
0.05
ℓin = 4.93 I y  s  s , inch (D-0.c) (17.2.1.2.1c, ACI 318-14)

 
0.05
ℓin = 13 I y  s  s , mm (D-0.c) (17.2.1.2.1c, ACI 318-14)

s = anchor spacing, inch [mm]

Nua = factored tension load on anchor channel, lbf (N)

D.3.1.1.1.1 (ACI 318-05, ACI 318-08), D.3.1.2.1.1 (ACI 318-11), Section 17.2.2.1.1 (ACI 318-14) – The moment of inertia of
the channel shall be taken from the relevant ICC-ES Evaluation Service Report.

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

D.3.1.1.1.2 (ACI 318-05, ACI 318-08) D.3.1.2.1.2 (ACI 318-11), Section 17.2.2.1.2 (ACI 318-14) – If several tension loads are
simultaneously acting on the channel, a linear superimposition of the anchor forces for all loads shall be assumed.

D.3.1.1.1.3 (ACI 318-05, ACI 318-08) D.3.1.2.1.3 (ACI 318-11), Section 17.2.2.1.3 (ACI 318-14) – If the exact position of the
load on the channel is not known, the most unfavorable loading position shall be assumed for each failure mode (e.g. load
acting over an anchor for the case of failure of an anchor by steel rupture or pull-out and load acting between anchors in the
case of bending failure of the channel).

Nua
e = 0.25s
0.25s

1 2 3 4 5

1
A2' A3' A4'

ℓin=1.5s ℓin=1.5s

  in  s  e   0.25s 1
,1  Nua,5  0
a a
A2'   Nua
 in  in 6

  in  e   1.25s 5 1 2 1
,2    Nua  Nua
a
A3'   Nua
 in  in 6 6 3 9

  in  s  e   0.75s 1 5 2 5
,3    Nua  Nua
a
A4'   Nua
 in  in 2 6 3 9
1 2 1
,4    Nua  Nua
1 2 a
Nua
k  
A  A3'  A4'
'
2 3 2 3 3

FIGURE RD.3.1.1 (FIGURE 17.2.1.1, ACI 318-14)—EXAMPLE FOR THE CALCULATION OF ANCHOR FORCES IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THE TRIANGULAR LOAD DISTRIBUTION METHOD FOR AN ANCHOR CHANNEL WITH FIVE
ANCHORS - THE INFLUENCE LENGTH IS ASSUMED AS ℓin = 1.5s AND THE ECCENTRICITY AS e = 0.25s

D.3.1.1.2 (ACI 318-05, ACI 318-08), D.3.1.2.2 (ACI 318-11), Section 17.2.1.2.2 (ACI 318-14) – The bending moment Mu,flex
on the channel due to tension loads acting on the channel shall be computed assuming a simply supported single span beam
with a span length equal to the anchor spacing.

D.3.1.1.3 (ACI 318-05, ACI 318-08), D.3.1.2.3 (ACI 318-11), Section 17.2.1.2.3 (ACI 318-14) – The shear load Vaua,y,i on
anchor due to a shear load Vua,y acting on the channel perpendicular to its longitudinal axis shall be computed in accordance
with Section D.3.1.1.1 (ACI 318-05, ACI 318-08), D.3.1.2.1.1 (ACI 318-11) (Section 17.2.1.2.1, ACI 318-14) replacing Nua in
Eq. (D-0.a) (17.2.1.2.1a, ACI 318-14) by Vua,y.

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

D.3.1.1.4 (ACI 318-05, ACI 318-08), D.3.1.2.4 (ACI 318-11), Section 17.2.1.2.4 (ACI 318-14) – Tension forces of anchor
reinforcement shall be computed in accordance with D.3.1.1.4.1 and D.3.1.1.4.2 (ACI 318-05, ACI 318-08), D.3.1.2.4.1 and
D.3.1.2.4.2 (ACI 318-11), Section 17.2.1.2.4.1 and 17.2.1.2.4.2 (ACI 318-14)

D.3.1.1.4.1 (ACI 318-05, ACI 318-08), D.3.1.2.4.1 (ACI 318-11), Section 17.2.1.2.4.1 (ACI 318-14) – If tension loads are
acting on the anchor channel, the factored tension forces of the anchor reinforcement for one anchor shall be computed for the
factored tension load ,N0ua,i, of the anchor assuming a strut-and-tie model.

D.3.1.1.4.2 (ACI 318-05, ACI 318-08) D.3.1.2.4.2 (ACI 318-11), Section 17.2.1.2.4.2 (ACI 318-14) – If a shear load Vua,y is
acting on the anchor channel, the resultant factored tension force of the anchor reinforcement Nua,re, shall be computed by Eq.
(D-0.d), (17.2.1.2.4.2, ACI 318-14).

e 
Nua,re  Vua,y  s  1 lbf (N) (D-0.d), (17.2.1.2.4.2, ACI 318-14)
 z 

Where, as illustrated in Figure RD.3.1.1.4, 17.2.1.1.4, ACI 318-14:

es = distance between reinforcement and shear force acting on the anchor channel, in. (mm)
z = internal lever arm of the concrete member, in. (mm)
= 0.85·(h - hch - 0.5da)

 2hef 
≤  
 2c a 1 

FIGURE RD.3.1.1.4 (17.2.1.1.4, ACI 318-14)—ANCHOR REINFORCEMENT TO RESIST SHEAR LOADS

D.3.1.1.5, (ACI 318-05, ACI 318-08) D.3.1.2.5 (ACI 318-11), Section 17.2.1.1.5 (ACI 318-14) – The shear load Vua,x,i on an
anchor due to a shear load Vua,x acting on the channel in direction of the longitudinal channel axis shall be computed as
follows:
D.3.1.1.5.1, (ACI 318-05, ACI 318-08) D.3.1.2.5.1 (ACI 318-11), Section 17.2.1.1.5.1 (ACI 318-14) For the verification of the
strength of the anchor channel for failure of the anchor or failure of the connection between anchor and channel, pryout failure
and concrete edge failure in case of anchor channels arranged parallel to the edge without corner effects, the shear load Vua,x
shall be equally distributed to all anchors for anchor channels with not more than three anchors or to three anchors for anchor
channels with more than three anchors [as illustrated in Figure RD.3.1.1.5, (17.2.1.1.5, ACI 318-14]. The shear load Vua,x shall

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

be distributed to those three anchors that result in the most unfavorable design condition [in the example given in Figure
RD.3.1.1.5, (17.2.1.1.5, ACI 318-14) the shear load Vua,x shall be distributed to the anchors 10 to 12].

D.3.1.1.5.2, (ACI 318-05, ACI 318-08) D.3.1.2.5.2 (ACI 318-11), Section 17.2.1.1.5.2 (ACI 318-14) For the verification of the
strength of the anchor channel for concrete edge failure in case of anchor channels arranged perpendicular to the edge and in
case of anchor channels arranged parallel to the edge with corner effects, the shear load Vua,x shall be equally distributed to all
anchors for anchor channels with not more than three anchors or to the three anchors closest to the edge or corner for anchor
channels with more than three anchors [as illustrated in Figure RD.3.1.1.6, (17.2.1.1.6, ACI 318-14)].

FIGURE RD.3.1.1.5 (17.2.1.1.5, ACI 318-14)—EXAMPLE FOR THE CALCULATION OF ANCHOR FORCES
IN CASE OF ANCHOR CHANNELS WITH 12 ANCHORS LOADED IN SHEAR LONGITUDINAL
TO THE CHANNEL AXIS FOR STEEL AND PRYOUT FAILURE

FIGURE RD.3.1.1.6 (17.2.1.1.6, ACI 318-14)—EXAMPLE FOR THE CALCULATION OF ANCHOR FORCES IN
CASE OF ANCHOR CHANNELS WITH 6 ANCHORS LOADED IN SHEAR LONGITUDINAL TO THE CHANNEL
AXIS FOR CONCRETE EDGE FAILURE

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

D.3.3.2.1 (ACI 318-08 and ACI 318-05) – Anchor channels shall be qualified for use in cracked concrete and shall have
passed the Simulated Seismic Tests in accordance with this criteria. Strength of the anchor channel in tension and shear shall
be based on the results of the Simulated Seismic Tests.

D.3.3.4.1 (ACI 318-08 and ACI 318-05) - In general, anchor channels shall be designed according to D.3.3.5 (ACI

318-05) or D.3.3.5 or D.3.3.6 (ACI 318-08).

D.3.3.1.1 (ACI 318-11) - The design of anchor channels to resist tension loads in SDC C, D, E or F where D.3.3.4.2 applies
shall satisfy the requirements of D.3.3.4.3 (b), (c) or (d). The design of anchor channels to resist shear loads in SDC C, D, E or
F where D.3.3.5.2 applies shall satisfy the requirements of D.3.3.5.3.

Section 17.2.3.1.1 (ACI 318-14) - The design of anchor channels to resist tension loads in SDC C, D, E or F where Section
17.2.3.4.2 applies shall satisfy the requirements of Section 17.2.3.4.3 (b), (c) or (d). The design of anchor channels to resist
shear loads in SDC C, D, E or F where Section 17.2.3.5.2 applies shall satisfy the requirements of Section 17.2.3.5.3.

D.4.1.4, Section 17.3.1.4 (ACI 318-14) – Strength design of anchor channels shall be based either on computation using
design models that comply with the requirements of D.4.2, Section 17.3.2 (ACI 318-14) or on testing using the 5 percent
fractile of test results for the following:

Tension Load:

a) Steel Failure: Steel strength of anchor, strength of connection between anchor and channel, strength for local failure
of channel lip, strength of channel bolt, bending strength of channel (D.5.1), Section 17.4.1 (ACI 318-14)

b) Concrete breakout strength of anchor in tension (D.5.2),Section 17.4.2 (ACI 318-14)

c) Pullout strength of anchor channel in tension (D.5.3), Section 17.4.3 (ACI 318-14)

d) Concrete side-face blowout strength of anchor channel in tension (D.5.4), Section 17.4.4 (ACI 318-14)

Shear Load Acting Perpendicular to Channel:

e) Steel Failure: Strength of channel bolt, strength for local failure of channel lip, strength of connection between anchor
and channel and strength of anchor (D.6.1), Section 17.5.1 (ACI 318-14)

f) Concrete edge breakout strength of anchor channel in shear (D.6.2), Section 17.5.2 (ACI 318-14)

g) Concrete pryout strength of anchor channel in shear (D.6.3), Section 17.5.3 (ACI 318-14)

Shear Load Acting in Longitudinal Channel Axis:

h) Steel Failure: Strength of channel bolt, strength of connection between channel lips and channel bolt, strength of
connection between anchor and channel and strength of anchor (D.6.1), Section 17.5.1 (ACI 318-14)
i) Concrete edge breakout strength of anchor channel in shear (D.6.2), Section 17.5.2 (ACI 318-14)
j) Concrete pryout strength of anchor channel in shear (D.6.3), Section 17.5.3 (ACI 318-14)

In addition, anchor channels shall satisfy the requirements for edge distances, spacings, and member thickness to prevent
splitting failure, as required in D.8, Section 17.7 (ACI 318-14)

D.4.1.5, Section 17.3.1.5 (ACI 318-14) – In Eq. (D-1), and (D-2) (ACI 318-05, 08), Table D.4.1.1 (ACI 318-11) or Table
17.3.1.1 (ACI 318-14) Nn and Vn are the lowest design strengths determined from all appropriate failure modes. Nn is the
lowest design strength in tension of an anchor channel determined from consideration of Nsa, Nsc, Nsl, Nss, Msflex, Ncb,
(anchor channels without anchor reinforcement to take up tension loads) or Nca (anchor channels with anchor reinforcement
to take up tension loads), Npn, and Nsb. Vn,y is the lowest design strength in shear perpendicular to the axis of an anchor
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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

channel as determined from Vsa,y, Vsc,y, Vss, Vss,M, Vsl,y, Vcb,y, (anchor channel without anchor reinforcement to take up
shear loads), or Vca,y (anchor channel with anchor reinforcement to take up shear loads) and Vcp,y. Vn,x is the lowest design
strength in shear acting longitudinal to the channel axis of an anchor channel as determined from Vsa,x, Vsc,x, Vss, Vss,M,
Vsl,x, Vcb,x, (anchor channel without anchor reinforcement to take up shear loads), or Vca,x (anchor channel with anchor
reinforcement to take up shear loads) and Vcp,x. The design strengths for all anchors of an anchor channel shall be
determined. For anchor channels in SDC C, D, E or F the design strengths shall be taken as the corresponding seismic
design strengths Vxx, seis, Vxx.x.seis and Vxx,y, seis.

D.4.4.1 – For anchor channels, the strength reduction factors, , shall be taken as follows (values in parentheses are for use
with load factors given in ACI 318-11 Appendix C):

Tension Symbol Governing stress Ductile steel Brittle steel

anchor Nsa futa 0.75(0.80) 0.65(0.75)
connection Nsc futc 0.75(0.80)1 0.60(0.65)
channel lips Nsl futc 0.75(0.80) 0.65(0.75)
bolt Nss futb 0.75(0.80) 0.65(0.75)
bending Ms,flex fyc 0.85(0.90) 0.65(0.75)
Shear
anchor Vsa futa 0.75(0.80) 0.65(0.75)
connection Vsc futc 0.75(0.80)1 0.65(0.75)
channel lips Vsl futc 0.75(0.80) 0.65(0.75)
bolt Vss and Vss,M futb 0.65(0.70) 0.60(0.65)
1
The strength reduction factor for ductile steel may only be used if the scatter of the failure loads in the tests according to Table 4.1, Test No.
1 is v ≤ 7% and the displacement at peak load is 0.2 in. (5.1 mm) or greater.

For bolts in shear where bending of the bolt occurs the strength reduction factors for bolts in tension shall be used.

D.5.1.3, Section 17.4.1.3 (ACI 318-14) – For anchor channels the nominal steel strength shall be determined as follows:
D.5.1.3.1, Section 17.4.1.3.1 (ACI 318-14) – The nominal strength, Nsa, of a single anchor shall be computed in accordance
with D.5.1.2, Section 17.4.1.2 (ACI 318-14).

D.5.1.3.2, Section 17.4.1.3.2 (ACI 318-14) – The nominal strength, Nsc, of the connection between anchor and anchor
channel shall be taken from the ICC-ES Evaluation Service Report.

D.5.1.3.3, Section 17.4.1.3.3 (ACI 318-14) – The nominal strength of the channel lips to take up tension loads transmitted by
a channel bolt, Nsl, shall be taken from the ICC-ES Evaluation Service Report.
This value is valid only if the center-to-center distance between the channel bolts under consideration and adjacent channel
bolts, schb, is at least 2bch. If this requirement is not met then the value Nsl given in the ICC-ES Evaluation Service Report shall
be reduced by the factor

1
schb,i 2
Nbua,i
1+ ∑n+1 1- · (D-3.a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-2.a, ACI 318-11), (17.4.1.3.3, ACI 318-14)
i=2 2bch Nbua,1

where the center-to-center spacing between channel bolts shall not be less than 3-times the bolt diameter, ds

D.5.1.3.4, Section 17.4.1.3.4 (ACI 318-14) – The nominal strength of the channel bolt, Nss, shall be taken from the ICC-ES
Evaluation Service Report and shall not exceed the value determined in accordance with Eq. (D-3.b, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-2.b,
ACI 318-11)), (17.4.1.3.4, ACI 318-14).

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

Nss = Ase,N · futb (D-3.b, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-2.b, ACI 318-11), (17.4.1.3.4 ACI 318-14)

where Ase,N is the effective cross-sectional area in tension, in2 (mm2); and futb shall be taken as the smaller of 1.9 fyb and
125,000 psi (860 MPa).

D.5.1.3.5, Section 17.4.1.3.5 (ACI 318-14) – The nominal bending strength of the anchor channel, Ms,flex, shall be taken from
the ICC-ES Evaluation Service Report.

D.5.2.10, Section 17.4.2.10 (ACI 318-14) – Concrete breakout strength of anchor channel in tension

For anchor channels where hch/hef ≤ 0.4, the effective embedment depth is determined according to Figure 3a). For anchor
channels where 0.4 < hch/hef ≤ 0.5, the concrete cone resistance may be calculated using one of the following options:

a) the effective embedment depth h*ef is determined according to Figure 3b),with the value for cn,N = 1.0 and scr,N = 3
h*ef, and ccr,N = 1.5 h*ef.

or

b) the effective embedment depth hef is determined in according to Figure 3a), but the value for cn,N shall be taken from
the ICC-ES Evaluation Service Report.

D.5.2.10.1, Section 17.4.2.10.1 (ACI 318-14) – The nominal concrete breakout strength, Ncb, of a single anchor in tension of
an anchor channel shall be determined in accordance with Eq. (D-4.a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-3.a, ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.1, ACI
318-14.
(D-4.a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-3.a, ACI 318-11),
Ncb  Nb s,N ed,N co,N c,N cp,N (17.4.2.10.1, ACI 318-14)

Factors ψs,N, ψed,N, ψco,N, ψc,N, and ψcp,N are defined in D.5.2.10.4, D.5.2.10.5, D.5.2.10.6, D.5.2.10.7, and D.5.2.10.8 or
Sections 17.4.2.10.4, 17.4.2.10.5, 17.4.2.10.6, 17.4.2.10.7, and 17.4.2.10.8 of ACI 318-14 respectively. Nb is defined in
D.5.2.10.2 or Section 17.4.2.10.2 of ACI 318-14.

Where anchors consist of deformed reinforcing bars in accordance with Sections 1.3.1 and 1.3.4.5 and the minimum spacing
requirement of Section 1.3.4.7 is met, verification for concrete breakout is not required provided that the deformed reinforcing
bars are lap spliced with reinforcing bars in the member according to the requirements of ACI 318-11 Section 12.14 or ACI
318-14 Section 25.5.

D.5.2.10.2, Section 17.4.2.10.2 (ACI 318-14) – The basic concrete breakout strength of a single anchor in tension in cracked
concrete, Nb, shall be determined in accordance with (D-7a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-6a, ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10, ACI 318-14).

N b  24     ch,N  fc' hef1.5 , lbf (D-7a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-6a, ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10a, ACI 318-14)

Nb  10    ch,N  fc' hef1.5 , N (D-7a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-6a, ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10a, ACI 318-14)

where

hch/hef ≤ 0.4, cn,N shall be calculated as:

0.15
 hef 
 ch,N     1 , inch-pound unit (D-7b, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-6b, ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10b, ACI 318-14)
 7.1 
0.15
 h 
 ch,N   ef   1 , (SI-units) (D-7b, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-6b, ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10b, ACI 318-14)
 180 

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

D.5.2.10.3, Section 17.4.2.10.3 (ACI 318-14) – Where anchor channels with hef > 7.1 in. (180 mm) are located in an
application with three or more edges (as illustrated in Fig. RD.5.2.10.3, Figure 17.4.2.10.3, ACI 318-14) with edge distances
less than ccr,N (ccr,N in accordance with Eq. [D-11a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-10a, ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.5b, ACI 318-14)] from
the anchor under consideration, the values of hef used in (D-8a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-7a, ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.2a, ACI 318-
14); (D-8b, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-7b, ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.2b, ACI 318-14); (D-9b, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-8b ACI 318-11),
(17.4.2.10.1b, ACI 318-14) and (D-11a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-10a, ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.5b, ACI 318-14) may be reduced to
hef,red in accordance with (D-8c, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-7.c, ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.2c, ACI 318-14)

c s  (D-8c, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-7.c, ACI 318-11),

hef ,red  max  a,max  hef ;  hef  , in. (mm)
c s (17.4.2.10.2c, ACI 318-14)
 cr ,N cr ,N 

where

ca,max is the maximum value of edge or corner distance, in. (mm).

The values ccr,N and scr,N in Eq. (D-8c, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-7.c, ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.2c, ACI 318-14) shall be
computed with hef.

anchor under consideration

adjacent anchor

a) b)

FIGURE RD.5.2.10.3 (FIGURE 17.4.2.10.3, ACI 318-14) —EXAMPLES OF ANCHOR CHANNEL LOCATIONS WHERE A
REDUCED VALUE OF THE EMBEDMENT DEPTH MAY BE USED: a) ANCHOR CHANNEL WITH INFLUENCE OF ONE
EDGE AND TWO CORNERS; b) ANCHOR CHANNEL WITH INFLUENCE OF TWO EDGES AND ONE CORNER

D.5.2.10.4, Section 17.4.2.10.4 (ACI 318-14) – The modification factor to account for the influence of location and loading of
adjacent anchors, ψs,N, shall be computed in accordance with Eq. (D-9a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-8a, ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.1a,
ACI 318-14)

1
 s ,N 
n 1 
Na 
1.5
(D-9a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-8a, ACI
s 
1   1  i   ua,i a
 318-11), (17.4.2.10.1a, ACI 318-14)
i 2  scr ,N  Nua,1
 

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

where (as illustrated in Fig. RD.5.2.10.4, Figure 17.4.2.10.3, ACI 318-14):

si = distance between the anchor under consideration and adjacent anchor, in. (mm)
≤ scr,N
(D-9b, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-8b ACI
 1.3hef  318-11), (17.4.2.10.1b, ACI 318-14)
scr ,N  2  2.8   hef  3hef , in.
 7.1 
(D-9b, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-8b ACI
 1.3hef  318-11), (17.4.2.10.1b, ACI 318-14)
scr ,N  2  2.8   hef  3hef , mm
 180 
a
Nua = Factored tension load of an influencing anchor, lbf (N)
,i

a
N ua = Factored tension load of the anchor under consideration, lbf (N)
,1

n = number of anchors within a distance scr,N to both sides of the anchor under consideration

scr,N scr,N

2 3 1 4

a
a
Nua, a a
Nua,4
2 Nua,3 Nua,1

s3 s4
s2

1 = anchor under consideration 2 to 4 = influencing anchors

FIGURE RD.5.2.10.4 (FIGURE 17.4.2.10.4, ACI 318-14) —EXAMPLE OF AN ANCHOR CHANNEL
WITH NON-UNIFORM ANCHOR TENSION FORCES

D.5.2.10.5, Section 17.4.2.10.5 (ACI 318-14) – The modification factor for edge effect of anchors loaded in tension, Ψed,N,
shall be computed in accordance with (D-10a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-9a ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.5a, ACI 318-14) or (D-10b, ACI
318-05,-08), (D-9b ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.5b, ACI 318-14)

If ca1  ccr ,N
(D-10a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-9a ACI 318-11),
then  ed ,N  1.0
(17.4.2.10.5, ACI 318-14)

If ca1  ccr ,N
0.5 (D-10b, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-9b ACI 318-11),
 c  (17.4.2.10.5b, ACI 318-14)
then  ed ,N   a1   1.0
 ccr ,N 

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

where

 1.3hef  (D-11a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-10a, ACI 318-11),

ccr ,N  0.5scr ,N   2.8   hef  1.5hef , in. (17.4.2.10.5b, ACI 318-14)
 7.1 

 1.3hef 
ccr ,N  0.5scr ,N   2.8   hef  1.5hef , mm (D-11a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-10a, ACI 318-11),
 180 
(17.4.2.10.5b, ACI 318-14)

If anchor channels are located in a narrow concrete member with multiple edge distances ca1,1 and ca1,2 (as shown in Figure
RD.5.2.10.5b, (Figure 17.4.2.10.5b, ACI 318-14), the minimum value of ca1,1 and ca1,2 shall be inserted in Eq. D-10b, ACI 318-
05,-08), (D-9b ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.5b, ACI 318-14).

ca1 ca1,1 ca1,2

a) b)
FIGURE RD.5.2.10.5 (FIGURE 17.4.2.10.5, ACI 318-14) —ANCHOR CHANNEL
a) AT AN EDGE OR b) IN A NARROW MEMBER

D.5.2.10.6, Section 17.4.2.10.6 (ACI 318-14) – The modification factor for corner effect for anchors loaded in tension, Ψco,N,
shall be computed in accordance with Eq. D-11b, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-10b ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.6a, ACI 318-14) or Eq. D-
11c, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-10c ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.6b, ACI 318-14)

If ca2 ≥ ccr,N

then , 1.0 (D-11b, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-10b ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.6a, ACI 318-14)

If ca2 < ccr,N

0 .5

then 
 ca 2  (D-11c, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-10c ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.6b, ACI 318-14)
co ,N   
c   1 .0
 cr ,N 
where

ca2 = distance of the anchor under consideration to the corner (see Figure RD.5.2.10.6 a,b, Figure
17.4.2.10.6 a,b, ACI 318-14)

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

If an anchor is influenced by two corners (as illustrated in Figure RD.5.2.10.6c, Figure 17.4.2.10.6c, ACI 318-14, the factor
Ψco,N shall be computed for each of the values ca2,1 and ca2,2 and the product of the factors, Ψco,N, shall be inserted in Eq. (D-
4.a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-3.a, ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.1, ACI 318-14).

anchor under consideration

adjacent anchor

a) b) c) d)

FIGURE RD.5.2.10.6 (FIGURE 17.4.2.10.6, ACI 318-14) —ANCHOR CHANNEL AT A

CORNER OF A CONCRETE MEMBER
D.5.2.10.7, Section 17.4.2.10.7 (ACI 318-14) – For anchor channels located in a region of a concrete member where analysis
indicates no cracking at service load levels, the following modification factor shall be permitted

, 1.25

Where analysis indicates cracking at service load levels, c,N shall be taken as 1.0. The cracking in the concrete shall be
controlled by flexural reinforcement distributed in accordance with ACI 318-05, 08, 11 Section 10.6.4 or with ACI 318-14
Section 24.3.2 and 24.3.3, or equivalent crack control shall be provided by confining reinforcement.

D.5.2.10.8, Section 17.4.2.10.8 (ACI 318-14) – The modification factor for anchor channels designed for uncracked concrete
without supplementary reinforcement to control splitting, Ψcp,N, shall be computed in accordance with Eq. (D-12a, ACI 318-05,-
08), (D-11a ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.8a, ACI 318-14) or (D-13a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-12a ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.8b, ACI 318-
14) using the critical distance cac as defined in D.8.8.

If ca,min ≥ cac

then cp,N 1.0 (D-12a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-11a ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.8a, ACI 318-14

If ca,min < cac

then ca,min (D-13a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-12a ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.8b, ACI 318-14)
 cp,N 
cac

whereby ψcp,N as determined in accordance with Eq. (D-13a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-12a ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.8b, ACI 318-14)
shall not be taken less than ccr,N / cac, with ccr,N taken from Eq. (D-11a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-10a, ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.5b,
ACI 318-14).
For all other cases, Ψcp,N shall be taken as 1.0.

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

D.5.2.10.9, Section 17.4.2.10.9 (ACI 318-14) – Where anchor reinforcement is developed in accordance with ACI 318-11
Chapter 12 or ACI 318-14 Chapter 25 on both sides of the breakout surface for an anchor of an anchor channel, the design
strength of the anchor reinforcement, Nca, shall be permitted to be used instead of the concrete breakout strength, Ncb, in
determining Nn. The anchor reinforcement for one anchor shall be designed for the tension force, Naua, on this anchor using
a strut-and-tie model. The provisions in Figure RD.5.2.10.9 or Figure 17.4.2.10.9, ACI 318-14 shall be taken into account
when sizing and detailing the anchor reinforcement. Anchor reinforcement shall consist of stirrups made from deformed
reinforcing bars with a maximum diameter of 5/8 in. (No. 5 bar) (16 mm). A strength reduction factor  of 0.75 shall be used in
the design of the anchor reinforcement.

For anchor channels located parallel to the edge of a concrete member or in a narrow concrete member, the plane of the
anchor reinforcement shall be arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the channel (as shown in Figure RD.5.2.10.9,
Figure 17.4.2.10.9, ACI 318-14).

≤ 0.5hef ≤ 0.5hef ≤ 0.5hef ≤ 0.5hef

anchor reinforcement anchor reinforcement

 ℓd  ℓd

35º 35º
 ℓdh  ℓdh

surface reinforcement
Nua Nua

FIGURE RD.5.2.10.9 (FIGURE 17.4.2.10.9, ACI 318-14) —ARRANGEMENT OF ANCHOR REINFORCEMENT

FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS LOADED BY TENSION LOAD

D.5.3.7, Section 17.4.3.7 (ACI 318-14) – Pullout Strength of Anchor Channels in Tension:

D.5.3.7.1, Section 17.4.3.7.1 (ACI 318-14) – For headed anchors of anchor channels, the pullout strength Npn shall be
computed in accordance with D.5.3.1, D.5.3.4, and D.5.3.6 of ACI 318-05, -08, -11, Sections 17.4.3.1, 17.4.3.4, 17.4.3.6 of
ACI 318-14.

D.5.4.3, Section 17.4.4.3 (ACI 318-14) – Concrete Side-Face Blowout Strength of Anchor Channels in Tension:

D.5.4.3.1, Section 17.4.4.3.1 (ACI 318-14) – For headed anchors of anchor channels with deep embedment close to an edge
(hef > 2.0 ca1) the nominal side-face blowout strength, Nsb, of a single anchor shall be computed in accordance with Eq. (D-
17a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-16a, ACI 318-11), (17.4.4.3.1, ACI 318-14).

Nsb  Nsb0 s,Nb g,Nb co,Nb h,Nb c,Nb , lbf (N) (D-17a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-16a, ACI 318-11), (17.4.4.3.1, ACI 318-14)

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

where
0
Nsb is defined in Section D.5.4.3.2, Section 17.4.4.3.2 of ACI 318-14 and the factors s,Nb ,  g ,Nb , co,Nb ,h,Nb , and c,Nb

are defined in D.5.4.3.3 to D.5.4.3.7, Sections 17.4.4.3.3 to 17.4.4.3.7 of ACI 318-14 respectively.

D.5.4.3.2, Section 17.4.4.3.2 (ACI 318-14) – The basic nominal strength of a single anchor without influence of neighboring
0
anchors, corner or member thickness effects in cracked concrete, Nsb , shall be computed in accordance with Eq. (D-17.b,

ACI 318-05,-08), (D-16b ACI 318-11), (17.4.4.3.2, ACI 318-14).

0
Nsb  128    ca1  Abrg  fc' , lbf

0
Nsb  10.5    ca1  Abrg  fc' , N (D-17b, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-16b ACI 318-11), (17.4.4.3.2, ACI 318-14)

D.5.4.3.3, Section 17.4.4.3.3 (ACI 318-14) – The modification factor accounting for the distance to and loading of neighboring
anchors, Ψs,Nb, shall be computed in accordance with Eq. (D-9a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-8a, ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.1a, ACI 318-
14), however scr,N shall be replaced by scr,Nb, which shall be computed in accordance with Eq. (D-17c, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-16c
ACI 318-11), (17.4.4.3.3, ACI 318-14).

scr ,Nb  4  ca1 , in. (mm) (D-17c, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-16c ACI 318-11), (17.4.4.3.3, ACI 318-14)

D.5.4.3.4, Section 17.4.4.3.4 (ACI 318-14) – The modification factor to account for influence of the bearing area of
neighboring anchors, Ψg,Nb, shall be computed in accordance with Eq. (D-17d, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-16d ACI 318-11),
(17.4.4.3.4, ACI 318-14 ) or Eq. (D-17e, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-16e ACI 318-11), (17.4.4.3.4b, ACI 318-14 ).

If s  4  ca1

then g,Nb 1.0 (D-17d, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-16d, ACI 318-11), (17.4.4.3.4a, ACI 318-14)

If s  4  ca1
(D-17e, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-16e, ACI 318-11),
then  g ,Nb  n  1  n    s
4  c a1
 1 .0
(17.4.4.3.4b, ACI 318-14)

where n = number of tensioned anchors in a row parallel to the edge.

D.5.4.3.5 Section 17.4.4.3.5 (ACI 318-14) – The modification factor to account for influence of corner effects, Ψco,Nb, shall be
computed in accordance with Eq. (D-17f, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-16f ACI 318-11), (17.4.4.3.5, ACI 318-14).

0.5
 c  (D-17f, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-16f ACI 318-11), (17.4.4.3.5a, ACI 318-14)
 co,Nb   a 2   1.0
 ccr ,Nb 
where
ca2 = corner distance of the anchor, for which the resistance is computed, in. (mm)

ccr,Nb = 2  ca1 , in. (mm) (D-17g, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-16g ACI 318-11), (17.4.4.3.5b, ACI 318-14)

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

If an anchor is influenced by two corners ( ca2  2  ca1 ), then the factor Ψco,Nb shall be computed for ca2,1 and ca2,2 and the
product of the factors shall be inserted in Eq. (D-17a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-16a, ACI 318-11), (17.4.4.3.1, ACI 318-14).

D.5.4.3.6, Section 17.4.4.3.6 (ACI 318-14) – The modification factor to account for influence of the member thickness, Ψh,Nb,
shall be computed in accordance with Eq. (D-17h, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-16h, ACI 318-11), (17.4.4.3.6a, ACI 318-14) or (D-17i,
ACI 318-05,-08), (D-16i, ACI 318-11), (17.4.4.3.6b, ACI 318-14).

If f  2  ca1

then h,Nb 1.0 (D-17h, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-16h, ACI 318-11), (17.4.4.3.6a, ACI 318-14)

If f  2  ca1

then hef  f 2  c a1  f (D-17i, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-16i, ACI 318-11), (17.4.4.3.6b, ACI 318-14)
 h ,Nb  
4  c a1 4  c a1
where

f = distance between the anchor head and the surface of the concrete member opposite to the anchor
channel (as illustrated in Figure RD.5.4.3.6, Figure 17.4.4.3.6, ACI 318-14) in. (mm)

ca1

hef

f ≤ 2 ca1

FIGURE RD.5.4.3.6 (FIGURE 17.4.4.3.6, ACI 318-14)—ANCHOR CHANNEL AT THE

EDGE OF A THIN CONCRETE MEMBER

D.5.4.3.7, Section 17.4.4.3.7 (ACI 318-14) – The modification factor to account for influence of uncracked concrete, Ψc,Nb,
shall be computed in accordance with D.5.2.10.7, Section 17.4.2.10.7 of ACI 318-14.

D.5.4.3.8, Section 17.4.4.3.8 (ACI 318-14) – For anchor channels located perpendicular to the edge and loaded uniformly,
verification is only required for the anchor closest to the edge.

D.6.1.4, Section 17.5.1.4 (ACI 318-14) – Steel Strength of Anchor Channel in Shear:

D.6.1.4.1, Section 17.5.1.4.1 (ACI 318-14) – For anchor channels, the nominal steel shear strength shall be determined as
follows:

a) The nominal strength of a channel bolt in shear, Vss, shall be taken from the ICC-ES Evaluation Service Report. The
maximum value shall be computed in accordance with Eq. (D-20a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-29a, ACI 318-11), (17.5.1.4.1a, ACI
318-14).

Vss  0.6  AseV,  futb , lbf (N) (D-20a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-29a, ACI 318-11), (17.5.1.4.1a, ACI 318-14)

where
futb shall be taken as the smaller of 1.9 fyb and 125,000 psi (860 MPa).
Page 34 of 92
ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

If the fixture is not clamped against the concrete but secured to the channel bolt at a distance from the concrete surface (e.g.
by double nuts), the nominal strength of a channel bolt in shear, Vss, shall be computed in accordance with Eq. (D-20b, ACI
318-05,-08), (D-29b, ACI 318-11), (17.5.1.4.1b, ACI 318-14).

∙
, ℓ
, lbf (N) (D-20b, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-29b, ACI 318-11), (17.5.1.4.1b, ACI 318-14)

where
αM = factor to take into account the restraint condition of the fixture

= 1.0 if the fixture can rotate freely (no restraint)

= 2.0 if the fixture cannot rotate (full restraint)

Nua
Ms,s = M0ss 1- , lbf–in, (N-mm) (D-20c, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-29c, ACI 318-11),
Nss
(17.5.1.4.1c, ACI 318-14)

Ms0,s = nominal flexural strength of channel bolt

= 1.2 Schb  futb , lbf-in (N-mm) (D-20d, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-29d, ACI 318-11), (17.5.1.4.1d, ACI 318-14)

≤ 0.5 · Nsl · a

≤ 0.5 · Nss · a

futb = minimum [(1.9 fyb or 125,000 (860 MPa)], psi (MPa)) (D-20e, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-29e, ACI 318-11),
(17.5.1.4.1e, ACI 318-14)
 = lever arm, in. (mm)

a = internal lever arm, in. (mm) (as illustrated in Figure RD.6.1.4.1 (Figure 17.5.1.4.1, ACI 318-14))

FIGURE RD.6.1.4.1 (FIGURE 17.5.1.4.1, ACI 318-14) —DEFINITION OF INTERNAL LEVER ARM

b) The nominal strength of the channel lips to take up shear loads transmitted by a channel bolt perpendicular to the channel,
Vsl,y, shall be taken from the ICC-ES Evaluation Service Report.

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

c) The nominal strength of one anchor, Vsa,y, to take up shear loads perpendicular to the channel shall be taken from the ICC-
ES Evaluation Service Report.

d) The nominal strength of the connection between one anchor and the anchor channel, Vsc,y, to take up shear loads
perpendicular to the channel shall be taken from the ICC-ES Evaluation Service Report.

e) The nominal strength of the connection between channel lips and channel bolt to take up shear loads acting in longitudinal
channel axis, Vsl,x, shall be taken from the ICC-ES Evaluation Service Report.

f) The nominal strength of one anchor, Vsa,x, to take up shear loads acting in longitudinal channel axis shall be computed in
accordance with Eq. (D-20, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-29, ACI 318-11), (17.5.1.4.1e, ACI 318-14), D.6.1.2 (ACI 318-05,-08,-11),
17.5.1.2 ( ACI 318-14)
g) The nominal strength of the connection between one anchor and the anchor channel, Vsc,x, to take up shear loads acting in
longitudinal channel axis shall be taken as Vsa,x computed in accordance with Eq. (D-20, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-29, ACI 318-11),
(17.5.1.4.1e, ACI 318-14), D.6.1.2 (ACI 318-05,-08,-11), 17.5.1.2 ( ACI 318-14) multiplied with the ratio Nsc/Nsa ≤ 1, whereby
Nsa shall be calculated in accordance with D.5.1.2 (ACI 318-05,-08,-11), Section 17.4.1.2 (ACI 318-14).

D.6.2.10, Section 17.5.2.10 (ACI 318-14) – Concrete Breakout Strength of a Single Anchor Channel in Shear
Perpendicular to the Channel:

D.6.2.10.1, Section 17.5.2.10.1 (ACI 318-14) – The nominal concrete breakout strength, Vcb,y, of a single anchor of an anchor
channel in shear perpendicular to the channel in cracked concrete shall be computed as follows:

a) For a shear force perpendicular to the edge, by Eq. (D-21a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-30a, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.1,

ACI 318-14)

(D-21a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-30a, ACI 318-11),

Vcb,y  Vb sV, coV, c,V hV, , lb (N)
(17.5.2.10.1, ACI 318-14)

b) For a shear force parallel to an edge (as shown in Figure RD6.2.10.1, Figure 17.5.2.10.1, ACI 318-14), Vcb,y, shall be
permitted to be 2.5 times the value of the shear force determined from Eq. (D-21a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-30a, ACI 318-11),
(17.5.2.10.1, ACI 318-14) with the shear force assumed to act perpendicular to the edge.

The modification factors Ψs,V, Ψco,V, Ψc,V and Ψh,V are defined in D.6.2.10.3, D.6.2.10.4, D.6.2.10.5 and D.6.2.10.6, Sections
17.5.2.10.3, 17.5.2.10.4, 17.5.2.10.5, and 17.5.2.10.6 of ACI 318-14 respectively. Vb is the basic concrete breakout strength
of a single anchor of an anchor channel determined in accordance with D.6.2.10.2, 17.5.2.10.2 of ACI 318-14.

FIGURE RD.6.2.10.1 (FIGURE 17.5.2.10.1, ACI 318-14): ANCHOR CHANNEL ARRANGED PERPENDICULAR
TO THE EDGE AND LOADED PARALLEL TO THE EDGE

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

D.6.2.10.2, Section 17.5.2.10.2 (ACI 318-14) – The basic concrete breakout strength in shear perpendicular to the channel of
a single anchor in an anchor channel in cracked concrete, Vb, shall be computed in accordance with Eq. (D-24a, ACI 318-05,-
08), (D-33a, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.2, ACI 318-14).

⁄
Vb = λ ·αch,V · c4a13 , lbf (N) (D-24a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-33a, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.2, ACI 318-14)

where:
αch,V = as given in the Evaluation Service Report

f’c = the lesser of the specified concrete compressive strength and 8,500 psi (59 MPa)

D.6.2.10.3, Section 17.5.2.10.3 (ACI 318-14) – The modification factor to account for the influence of location and loading of
adjacent anchors, Ψs,V, shall be computed as
1 (D-24b, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-33b, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.3a, ACI 318-14)
 s,V 
n 1  
Vuaa ,i 
1.5
s 
1    1  i   
i  2  scr ,V  Vuaa ,1 
 

where (as illustrated in Figure RD.6.2.10.3, ACI 318-11, Figure 17.5.2.10.3, ACI 318-14):

si = distance between the anchor under consideration and the adjacent anchors, in. (mm)

≤ scr,v

scr,v = 4ca1 + 2bch, in. (mm) (D-24c, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-33c, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.3b, ACI 318-14)

Vuaa ,y ,i = factored shear load of an influencing anchor, lbf (N)

Vuaa ,y ,1 = factored shear load of the anchor under consideration, lbf (N)

n = number of anchors within a distance scr,V to both sides of the anchor under consideration

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

anchor under consideration

adjacent anchor

FIGURE RD.6.2.10.3 (FIGURE 17.5.2.10.3, ACI 318-14) —EXAMPLE OF AN ANCHOR CHANNEL WITH DIFFERENT
ANCHOR SHEAR FORCES

D.6.2.10.4, Section 17.5.2.10.4 (ACI 318-14) – The modification factor for corner effect for an anchor loaded in shear, Ψco,V,
shall be computed in accordance with Eq. (D-24d, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-33d, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.3c, ACI 318-14) or (D-
24e, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-33e, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.3c, ACI 318-14).

If ca2 ≥ ccr,V

then , 1.0 (D-24d, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-33d, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.3c, ACI 318-14)

If ca2 < ccr,V

0.5
then
 ca 2  (D-24e, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-33e, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.3d, ACI 318-14)
 co,V   
 ccr ,V 

where

ccr,V = 2ca1 + bch , in. (mm) (D-24f, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-33f, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.3e, ACI 318-14)

If an anchor is influenced by two corners (as shown in Figure RD.6.2.10.4b, ACI 318-05, -08,-11, 17.5.2.10.4b, ACI 318-14
then the factor Ψco,V in accordance with Eq. (D-24d, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-33d, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.3c, ACI 318-14), or (D-
24e, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-33e, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.3d, ACI 318-14) shall be computed for each corner and the product of
each value of Ψco,V shall be inserted in Eq. (D-21a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-30a, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.1, ACI 318-14).

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

anchor under consideration

adjacent anchor

a) b)

FIGURE RD.6.2.10.4 (FIGURE 17.5.2.10.4, ACI 318-14) —

EXAMPLE OF AN ANCHOR CHANNEL LOADED IN SHEAR WITH ANCHORS
a) INFLUENCED BY ONE CORNER OR
b) INFLUENCED BY TWO CORNERS

D.6.2.10.5, Section 17.5.2.10.5 (ACI 318-14) – For anchor channels located in a region of a concrete member where analysis
indicates no cracking at service load levels, the following modification factor shall be permitted:

Ψc,V = 1.4

For anchor channels located in a region of a concrete member where analysis indicates cracking at service load levels, the
following modifications shall be permitted:

Ψc,V = 1.0 for anchor channels in cracked concrete with no supplementary reinforcement.

Ψc,V = 1.2 for anchor channels in cracked concrete with reinforcement of a No. 4 bar (12.7 mm) or greater between the
anchor channel and the edge.

Ψc,V = 1.4 for anchor channels in cracked concrete containing edge reinforcement with a diameter of 1/2 inch (12.7 mm)
or greater (No. 4 bar or greater) between the anchor channel and the edge, and with the edge reinforcement
enclosed within stirrups with a diameter of 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) or greater (No. 4 or greater) spaced 4 inches
(100 mm) maximum.

D.6.2.10.6, Section 17.5.2.10.6 (ACI 318-14) – The modification factor for anchor channels located in a concrete member with
h < hcr,V, Ψh,V (an example is given in Figure RD 6.2.10.6 ACI 318-05,-08, Figure 17.5.2.10.6, ACI 318-14), shall be computed
in accordance with Eq. (D-29a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D39a, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.6a, ACI 318-14).

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

.
, 1.0 (D-29a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D39a, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.6a, ACI 318-14)
.

where

hcr,V = 2ca1 + 2hch, in. (mm) (D-29b, ACI 318-05,-08), (D39b, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.6b, ACI 318-14)

FIGURE RD.6.2.10.6 (FIGURE 17.5.2.10.6, ACI 318-14) —EXAMPLE OF AN ANCHOR CHANNEL

IN A MEMBER WITH A THICKNESS h < hCR,V

D.6.2.10.7, Section 17.5.2.10.7 (ACI 318-14) – Where an anchor channel is located in a narrow member (ca2,max < ccr,V) with a
thickness h < hcr,V (see Figure RD.6.2.10.7, Figure 17.5.2.10.7, ACI 318-14), the edge distance ca1 in Eq. (D-24a, ACI 318-05,-
08), (D-33a, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.2, ACI 318-14), (D-24c, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-33c, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.3b, ACI 318-
14), (D-24f, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-33f, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.3e, ACI 318-14) and (D-29b, ACI 318-05,-08), (D39b, ACI 318-
11), (17.5.2.10.6b, ACI 318-14) shall not exceed the value ca1,red determined in accordance with Eq. (D-29c, ACI 318-05,-08),
(D39c, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.7, ACI 318-14).

c  bch h  2hch  , in. (mm) (D-29c, ACI 318-05,-08), (D39c, ACI 318-11),
ca1,red  max  a 2,max ; 
 2 2  (17.5.2.10.7, ACI 318-14)

where ca2,max is the largest of the edge distances perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the channel.

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anchor under consideration

adjacent anchor

For this example, the value of ca1,red is obtained by moving the failure surface forward until it intersects the corner as shown.

FIGURE RD.6.2.10.7 (FIGURE 17.5.2.10.7, ACI 318-14) —EXAMPLE OF AN ANCHOR CHANNEL INFLUENCED BY TWO
CORNERS AND MEMBER THICKNESS (IN EXAMPLE ca2,2 GOVERNS FOR THE DETERMINATION OF ca1,red)

D.6.2.10.8, Section 17.5.2.10.8 (ACI 318-14) – For anchor channels with bch greater than 1.1 inches (28 mm) and hch greater
than 0.6 inches (15 mm) arranged parallel to the edge and loaded by a shear load perpendicular to the edge and anchor
reinforcement developed in accordance with ACI 318-11 Chapter 12 or ACI 318-14 Chapter 25 on both sides of the concrete
surface, the design strength of the anchor reinforcement, Vca,y, shall be permitted to be used instead of the concrete breakout
strength, Vcb,y, in determining Vn,y. A strength reduction factor  of 0.75 shall be used in the design of the anchor
reinforcement. The strength of the anchor reinforcement assumed in design shall not exceed the value in accordance with
D.6.2.10.8.1, Section 17.5.2.10.8.1 (ACI 318-14). Only anchor reinforcement that complies with D.6.2.10.8.2 Section
17.5.2.10.8.2 (ACI 318-14) shall be assumed as effective. The provisions in D.6.2.10.8.3 Section 17.5.2.10.8.3 (ACI 318-14)
shall be satisfied.

D.6.2.10.8.1, Section 17.5.2.10.8.1 (ACI 318-14) – The maximum strength of the anchor reinforcement, Vca,y,max, of a single
anchor of an anchor channel shall be computed in accordance with Eq. (D-29d, ACI 318-05,-08), (D39d, ACI 318-11),
(17.5.2.10.8.1, ACI 318-14).

2.85
Vca,y ,max   Vcb,y , lbf (D-29d, ACI 318-05,-08), (D39d, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.8.1, ACI 318-14)
 c a1 
0.12

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4.2
Vca,y ,max   Vcb,y , N (D-29d, ACI 318-05,-08), (D39d, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.8.1, ACI 318-14)
 c a1 
0.12

where Vcb,y is determined in accordance with Eq. (D-21a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-30a, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.1, ACI 318-14).

D.6.2.10.8.2, Section 17.5.2.10.8.2 (ACI 318-14) – Anchor reinforcement shall consist of stirrups made from deformed
reinforcing steel bars with a maximum diameter of 5/ inch (15.9 mm) (No. 5 bar) and straight edge reinforcement with a
8

diameter not smaller than the diameter of the stirrups (as shown in Figure RD.6.2.10.8.2 Figure 17.5.2.10.8.2, ACI 318-14).
Only one bar at both sides of each anchor shall be assumed as effective. The distance of this bar from the anchor shall not
exceed 0.5 ca1 and the anchorage length in the breakout body shall be not less than 4 times the bar diameter. The distance
between stirrups shall not exceed the smaller of anchor spacing or 6 inches (152 mm).

PLAN VIEW

FIGURE RD.6.2.10.8.2 (FIGURE 17.5.2.10.8.2, ACI 318-14) —REQUIREMENTS FOR DETAILING OF ANCHOR
REINFORCEMENT OF ANCHOR CHANNELS

D.6.2.10.8.3, Section 17.5.2.10.8.4 (ACI 318-14) – The anchor reinforcement of an anchor channel shall be designed for the

highest anchor load, Vuaa ,y , of all anchors but at least for the highest individual shear load, Vu,a,y, acting on the channel. This

anchor reinforcement shall be arranged at all anchors of an anchor channel.

D.6.2.11, Section 17.5.2.11 (ACI 318-14) – Concrete Breakout Strength of Anchor Channels for Shear Loads in
Longitudinal Channel Axis:

D.6.2.11.1, Section 17.5.2.11.1 (ACI 318-14) – The nominal concrete breakout strength, Vcb,x in shear in longitudinal channel
axis of an anchor channel in cracked concrete shall be computed as follows:

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a) For a shear force perpendicular to the edge, by Eq. (D-30), D.6.2.1 (ACI 318-11), Eq. (17.5.2.1a), Section 17.5.2.1
(ACI 318-14). The basic concrete breakout strength in shear in longitudinal channel axis of a single round anchor in an anchor
channel in cracked concrete, Vb, shall be computed in accordance with D.6.2.2 (ACI 318-05,-08,-11), 17.5.2.2 (ACI 318-14).

b) For a shear force parallel to an edge, Vcb,x shall be permitted to be twice the value of the shear force determined from
Eq. (D-30), D.6.2.1 (ACI 318-11), Eq. (17.5.2.1a), Section 17.5.2.1 (ACI 318-14) with the shear force assumed to act
perpendicular to the edge.

For I-shaped anchors, the value of da shall be taken as the web thickness and the edge distance, ca1, shall be taken from the
leading edge of the anchor.

D.6.3.2, Section 17.5.3.2 (ACI 318-14) – Concrete Pryout Strength of Anchor Channels for Shear Loads Perpendicular
to the Channel and Shear Loads in Longitudinal Channel Axis – The nominal pryout strength, Vcp, in shear of a single
anchor of an anchor channel without anchor reinforcement shall be computed in accordance with Eq. (D-30a), (17.5.3.2, ACI
318-14).

Vcp Vcp,x Vcp,y  kcp  Ncb , lbf (N) (D-30a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-40a, ACI 318-11), (17.5.3.2, ACI 318-14)

where
kcp = Factor taken from the ICC-ES Evaluation Service Report. The following default values may be used:

kcp = 1.0 for hef < 2.5 in. (63.5 mm) and

kcp = 2.0 for hef ≥ 2.5 in. (63.5 mm)

Ncb = nominal concrete breakout strength of the anchor under consideration, lbf (N), determined in accordance with
D.5.2.10, Section 17.4.2.10 of ACI 318-14; however in the determination of the modification factor Ψs,N, the
a a
values Nua,1 and Nua,i in Eq. (D-9a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-8a, ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.1a, ACI 318-14) shall be

replaced by Vuaa ,1 and Vuaa ,i , respectively. For anchor channels in lightweight concrete, Ncb shall include the

modification factor  .

D.6.3.3, Section 17.5.3.3 (ACI 318-14) – Concrete Pryout Strength of Anchor Channels for Shear Loads Perpendicular
to the Channel and Shear Loads in Longitudinal Channel Axis – The nominal pryout strength, Vcp, in shear of a single
anchor of an anchor channel with anchor reinforcement shall not exceed

Vcp  Vcp,x  Vcp,y  0.75  kcp  Ncb , lbf (N) (D-31a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-41a, ACI 318-11), (17.5.3.3, ACI 318-14)

with kcp and Ncb as defined in D.6.3.2, Section 17.5.3.2, ACI 318-14).

D.7.4, Section 17.6 (ACI 318-14) Anchor channels subjected to combined axial and shear loads shall be designed to satisfy
the requirements of D.7.4, Section 17.6 of ACI 318-14 by distinguishing between steel failure of the channel bolt, steel failure
modes of the channel and concrete failure modes.

D.7.4.1, Section 17.6.4.1 (ACI 318-14) – For channel bolts, Eq. (D-32a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-42a, ACI 318-11), (17.6.4.1 ACI
318-14) shall be satisfied

2 2
 Nuab
  Vuab  (D-32a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-42a, ACI 318-11), (17.6.4 1 ACI 318-14)
     1.0
  Nss   Vss 

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0.5
and V b   V b    V  
b 2 2
where N ua b are the design tension load and design shear load on the channel bolt under
ua ua ,y
 ua , x

consideration.
This verification is not required in case of shear load with lever arm as Eq. (D-20b, ACI 318-05.-08), (D-29b, ACI 318-11),
(17.5.1.4.1b, ACI 318-14) accounts for the interaction.

D.7.4.2, Section 17.6.4.2 (ACI 318-14) – For steel failure modes of anchor channels Eq. (D-32b, ACI 318-05,-08), (D42b, ACI
318-11), (17.6.4.2.1 ACI 318-14), (D-32c, ACI 318-05,-08), (D42c, ACI 318-11), (17.6.4.2.2a ACI 318-14) and (D-32g, ACI
318-05,-08), (D42g, ACI 318-11), (17.6.4.3.2.2b ACI 318-14) shall be satisfied.

D.7.4.2.1, Section 17.6.4.2.1 (ACI 318-14) – For anchor and connection between anchor and channel

 
(D-32b, ACI 318-05,-08),

 Na Na   Va Va    Vuaa , x Vuaa ,x 
m ax  ua ; ua   m ax  ua ,y ; ua ,y    1.0  m ax  ;   (D-42b, ACI 318-11),

  N sa  N sc    Vsa ,y  Vsc ,y     Vsa , x  Vsc , x  (17.6.4.2.1 ACI 318-14)
where

α=2 for anchor channels with max (Vsa,y; Vsc,y) ≤ min (Nsa; Nsc)
α=1 for anchor channels with max (Vsa,y; Vsc,y) > min (Nsa; Nsc)

It shall be permitted to assume reduced values for Vsa,y and Vsc,y corresponding to the use of an exponent α = 2. In this case
the reduced values for Vsa,y and Vsc,y shall also be used in Section D.6.1.4.1, Section 17.5.1.4.1 (ACI 318-14) c) and d).

D.7.4.2.2, Section 17.6.4.2.2 (ACI 318-14) – At the point of load application

  
 N ua
b
  Vuab ,y    Vuab ,x  (D-32c, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-42c, ACI 318-11), (17.6.4. 2.2a ACI 318-14)
       1.0    
  N sl    Vsl ,y     Vsl ,x 

  
 M u ,flex   Vuab ,y    Vuab ,x   (D-32d, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-42d, ACI 318-11), (17.6.4. 2.2b ACI 318-14)
       1.0    
  M s ,flex    Vsl ,y     Vsl ,x 

where
α=2 for anchor channels with Vsl,y ≤ Ns,l
α=1 for anchor channels with Vsl,y > Ns,l

It shall be permitted to assume a reduced value for Vsl,y corresponding to the use of an exponent α = 2. In this case the
reduced value for Vsl,y shall also be used in Section D.6.1.4.1, Section 17.5.1.4.1 (ACI 318-14) b).

D.7.4.3, Section 17.6.4.3 (ACI 318-14) – For concrete failure modes anchor channels shall be designed to satisfy the
requirements in D.7.4.3.1, Section 17.6.4.3.1 (ACI 318-14) through D.7.4.3.3, Section 17.6.4.3.3 (ACI 318-14).

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 Vuaa ,y   Vuaa ,x 
D.7.4.3.1, Section 17.6.4.3.1 (ACI 318-14) – If       0.2 , then the full strength in tension shall be
  Vnc,y    Vnc , x 
permitted:  Nnc  Nua
a

D.7.4.3.2, Section 17.6.4.3.2 (ACI 318-14) – If

a
Nua  0.2 Nnc , then the full strength in shear shall be permitted:

 Vuaa ,y   Vuaa ,x 
      1.0
  Vnc,y    Vnc , x 

 Vuaa ,y   Vuaa ,x 
D.7.4.3.3, Section 17.6.4.3.3 (ACI 318-14) – If       0.2 and
a
Nua  0.2 Nnc ,then Eq. (D-32e),
  Vnc,y    Vnc,x 
Eq. ( 17.6.4.3.a ACI 318-14) applies:

 Nuaa
  Vuaa ,y   Vuaa ,x 
    
   V 
 1.2  (D-32e, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-42e, ACI 318-11), (17.6.4.3.3a ACI 318-14)
 nc    Vnc,y
 N   nc,x 
D.7.4.3.4, Section 17.6.4.3.4 (ACI 318-14) – Alternatively, instead of satisfying D.7.4.3.1, Section 17.6.4.3.1 (ACI 318-14)
through D.7.4.3.3, Section 17.6.4.3.3 (ACI 318-14), the interaction equation (D-32f, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-42f, ACI 318-11),
(17.6.4.3.3b ACI 318-14) may be satisfied:

5/3 5/3 5/3

 Nuaa
  Vuaa ,y   Vuaa ,x 
       1.0   (D-32f, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-42f, ACI 318-11), (17.6.4.3.3b ACI 318-14)
 
  Nnc    Vnc,y    Vnc,x 
D.8.8, Section 17.7.8 (ACI 318-14) – For anchor channels the following additional provisions apply

D.8.8.1, Section 17.7.8.1 (ACI 318-14) – The minimum edge distance shall be taken from the ICC-ES Evaluation Service
Report.

D.8.8.2, Section 17.7.8.2 (ACI 318-14) – The minimum anchor spacing is 2 inches (50 mm)

D.8.8.3, Section 17.7.8.3 (ACI 318-14) – The critical edge distance, cac, shall be taken as 3hef.

3.2 Allowable Stress Design (ASD) Information (Optional):

3.2.1 Strength design values determined in accordance with ACI 318 (-05, -08, -11) Appendix D or ACI 318-14 Chapter 17,
as applicable, with amendments in Section 3.1 of this annex may be converted to values suitable for use with allowable stress
design load combinations. Such guidance of conversions shall be in accordance with the following:

3.2.1.1 General: For anchors designed using load combinations in accordance with IBC Section 1605.3 (Allowable Stress
Design) allowable loads shall be established using Eq. 3.1, Eq. 3.2, Eq. 3.3 and Eq. 3.4.

 Nn Eq. (3.1)
T allow able , A SD 
 ASD
 Vn ,x Eq. (3.2)
Vx ,allowable ,ASD 
 ASD

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 Vn ,y Eq. (3.3)
Vy ,allowable ,ASD 
 ASD

 M s ,flex Eq. (3.4)

M s ,flex ,allowable ,ASD 
 ASD

where:
Tallowable,ASD = Allowable tension load, lb (N)
Vx,allowable,ASD = Allowable shear load in longitudinal channel axis, lb (N)
Vy,allowable,ASD = Allowable shear load perpendicular to the channel axis, lb (N)
Ms,flex,allowable,ASD = Allowable bending moment due to tension loads, lb-in (Nm)

Nn = Lowest design strength of an anchor, channel bolt, or anchor channel in tension for controlling failure mode as
determined in accordance with ACI 318 (-05, -08, -11) Appendix D or ACI 318-14 Chapter 17, as applicable, with
amendments in Section 3.1 of this annex, lb (N)

Vn = Lowest design strength of an anchor, channel bolt, or anchor channel in shear in longitudinal channel axis for
controlling failure mode as determined in accordance with ACI 318 (-05, -08, -11) Appendix D or ACI 318-14 Chapter
17, as applicable, with amendments in Section 3.1 of this annex, lb (N).

Vn,y = Lowest design strength of an anchor, channel bolt, or anchor channel in shear perpendicular to the channel axis for
controlling failure mode as determined in accordance with ACI 318 (-05, -08, -11) Appendix D or ACI 318-14 Chapter
17 as applicable with amendments in Section 3.1 of this annex, lb (N).

αASD = Conversion factor calculated as a weighted average of the load factors for the controlling load combination. In addition,
αASD shall include all applicable factors to account for non-ductile failure modes and required overstrength.

3.2.1.2 Interaction shall be calculated in accordance with ACI 318 (-05, -08, -11) D.7.4 or ACI 318-14, Section 17.6.4 and
amendments in Section 3.1 of this annex.

In Sections 7.4.1, 7.4.2 and 7.4.3 Nua, Vua,x, Vua,y and Mu,flex shall be replaced by the unfactored loads Ta, Vxa, Vya and Ma. The
design strengths Nn, Vn,x, Vn,y and Ms,flex shall be replaced by the allowable loads Tallowable,ASD, Vx,allowable,ASD,
Vy,allowable,ASD and Ms,flex,allowable,ASD.

Ta = unfactored tension load applied to an anchor channel, lbf (N)

Ma = unfactored bending moment on anchor channel due to tension load (calculation according to D.3.1.1.2 (ACI 318-05,
ACI 318-08), D.3.1.2.2 (ACI 318-11), Section 17.2.1.2.2 (ACI 318-14)), lbf-in (Nm)

Vxa = unfactored shear load applied to an anchor channel in longitudinal channel axis, lbf (N)
Vya = unfactored shear load applied to an anchor channel perpendicular to the channel axis, lbf (N)

4.0 Test Organization:

4.1 General:

Qualification of an anchor channel with this criteria requires two basic series of tests:

1. Identification tests to evaluate compliance of anchor channels with manufacturer’s specification, as set forth in
Section 6.0 of this annex.

2. Service condition tests to establish performance of the anchor channel under expected service conditions, as set
forth in Section 7.0 of this annex.

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4.2 Test Requirements for Anchor Channels:

4.2.1 Test requirements to establish structural performance of anchor channels to resist static loads, wind loads and seismic
loads are defined in Table 4.1.

TABLE 4.1—TEST PROGRAM FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS FOR USE IN UNCRACKED AND CRACKED CONCRETE
Channel bolt
Test Minimum No.
Test ref. Test description fc ∆w Channel Anchor Material
no. of tests ds Strength

Section in psi inch inch

[-] [-] [-] [-] [-] [-] [-]
Annex A [N/mm²] [mm] [mm]
Steel Failure Under Tension Load
1 7.3 Channel / anchor - - 51 see Section 7.3.2
Bending of channel - - 51
2 7.3 lips, pull-out of
channel bolt
3 7.3 Channel bolt head - - 5
Bending strength of Low 0 see Section 7.4.2
the channel2
4 7.4
s=smax , inch [mm] 5
3
s<smax , inch [mm] 5
5 7.5 Torque tests4 - - 5 see Section 7.5.2
Concrete Failure Under tension Load
Splitting failure due Low 0 5 see Section 7.6.2
to installation5
6 7.6 ca =ca,min
s=smin, h=hmin
Concrete breakout Low 0 5 See Section 7.7.2
7 7.7
strength
Steel Failure Under Shear Load
Failure of anchor, Low 0 51, 8 see Section 7.8.2
failure of connection
between anchor
8 7.8
and channel, local
rupture of channel
lips6
intentionally left
9
blank
Concrete Failure Under Shear Load
Concrete edge Low 0 5 see Section 7.10.2
failure7 factor αch,V
10 7.10 ca = ca,min, s = smax,
and
h > hcr,V
intentionally left
11
blank
1
If the coefficient of variation V of the failure loads is V ≤ 5 percent, the number of tests can be reduced to n = 3.
2
Tests are only necessary if restraint of channels embedded in concrete shall be taken into account (αr > 4.0, see Section 8.8)
3
The tests shall only be performed if the conditions in Section 7.4.2.1 of this annex apply.
4
If the prestressing force is determined in accordance with Section 8.9.2 of this annex, only the smallest, medium and large channel bolts need
to be tested in the corresponding medium sized channel. The most unfavorable combination of material and coating for the channel bolt and
the channel shall be tested. No torque tests are required with channel bolts without lubrication or friction-reducing coatings if the prestressing
force is calculated according to Eq. (8.11) of this annex with k = 0.15. See also Section 7.5.2.1 of this annex.
5
Only the small, medium and large channel sizes need to be tested if the conditions of Section 7.6.2.1 are fulfilled.
6
Tests may be omitted if the nominal shear strength of the channel, Vns,y, is taken as ≤ Nns.
7
Tests may be omitted if the nominal strength, Vb, is computed in accordance with Eq. (D-24a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-33a, ACI 318-11),
(17.5.2.10.2, ACI 318-14) with αch,V = 5.6 lbf1/2/in1/3 (αch,V = 4.0 N1/2/mm1/3 for SI) (Normal weight concrete)
8
Five tests need to be conducted with the channel bolt positioned over the anchor and an additional five tests with the channel bolt positioned
midway between the two anchors, unless footnote 1 applies.

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TABLE 4.2—OPTIONAL TEST PROGRAM FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS FOR USE IN UNCRACKED AND CRACKED
CONCRETE FOR SHEAR LOADING IN LONGITUDINAL CHANNEL AXIS AND FOR SEISMIC LOADING
(SDC C, D, E and F)
Test Test ref. Test description f’c w Minimum Channe Anchor Material Channel bolts
no. no. of test l
ds Grade n

[-] Section [-] psi  [-] [-] [-] [-] inch [-] [-]
in Annex [N/mm2] [mm]
A
Seismic Tests
12 7.12 Seismic tension Low 0.020 5 see Section 7.12.2 1
(0.5)
13 7.13 Seismic shear Low 0 5 see Section 7.13.2 1
perpendicular to
the channel
profile
14 7.15 Seismic shear in Low 0.020 5 see Section 7.15.2 1
longitudinal (0.5)
channel axis
Steel Failure Under Shear Load Acting in Longitudinal Channel Axis
15 7.14 Failure of Low 0 5 see Section 7.14.2 1
connection
between channel
lips and channel
bolt
16 7.16 Failure of Low 0 5 see Section 7.16.2 1
connection
between channel
lips and channel
bolt – influence
of level of pre-
stressing force
17 7.17 Failure of Low 0 5 see Section 7.17.2 1
connection
between channel
lips and channel
bolt – influence
of channel below
concrete surface

In tests sought for recognition of longitudinal shear (static and seismic) channel bolts from the same production lot shall be
used [test series 5 (table 4.1) and test series 14 to 17 (table 4.2)].

5.0 Requirements for Test Specimens, Anchor Channel Installation and Testing:

5.1 Test Specimens:

5.1.1 Sampling of the anchor channels for tests under this criteria shall comply with Sections 3.1, 3.3 and 3.4 of AC85 and
this section.

5.1.2 The ITEA shall visit the manufacturing or distribution facility, shall randomly select anchor channels for testing, and
shall verify that the specimens are representative of the production of the manufacturer as supplied to the marketplace.

5.1.3 To test newly developed anchor channels that are not yet in production, use samples produced by the expected
production methods. After production has begun, sampling from normal production shall be conducted in accordance with
Annex A Section 5.1.1 and the following tests shall be performed:

 identification tests in accordance with Section 6.0 of this annex to verify that the anchor channels sampled from the
normal production are the same as the tested pre-production anchor channels, including dimensions, materials,
production methods and connection methods
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 tests in accordance with Table 4.1, Test Nos. 1, 2, 3, 5 and 8 and Table 4.2, Test No. 15 (where applicable) of this
annex to verify that the performance of the anchor channels from the normal production is statistically equivalent to
the performance of the pre-production anchor channels originally tested and evaluated

5.1.4 In Table 4.1 of this annex the minimum number of required tests is given to satisfy this criteria. At the discretion of
the ITEA or manufacturer, the sample size shall be permitted to be increased.

5.2 Concrete for Test Members:

5.2.1 Concrete used in testing shall comply with the requirements of this section and Section 3.2 of this criteria. To assess
the performance of an anchor channel for use in a concrete type outside of the scope of this criteria, additional tests shall be
conducted with that concrete.

5.2.2 Concrete mix designs shall follow recommendations for proportioning in the Portland Cement Association’s Design
and Control of Concrete Mixtures, Thirteenth Edition; ACI 211.1; or IBC Chapter 19 (ACI 318). Proportions may be varied to
meet local requirements and to achieve desired nominal compressive strength during the testing period. The reason for any
variation shall be explained in the test report.

5.2.3 Coarse and fine aggregates in concrete shall comply with ASTM C33. The aggregate description shall include the
rock and mineral components, shape, hardness, and the maximum size and grading specification. The maximum aggregate
size shall be 3/4 in. or 1 in. (19.1 mm or 25.4 mm).

5.2.4 For general qualification for use of the anchor channels in normal weight and lightweight concrete, use portland
cement conforming to ASTM C150. The concrete mixture shall not include materials such as slag, fly ash, silica fume or
limestone powder. If a nonstandard concrete mixture is used for test members, report the concrete mixture components and
proportions. In this case, qualification will be limited to the tested concrete mixture.

5.2.5 Test anchor channels in test members cast of concrete with low strength within the following strength limits; 2,500 to
4,500 psi (17 to 31 MPa).

5.2.6 Test members shall conform to the requirements of Section 5.3 of Annex A and Section 3.2.6 of this criteria.

5.2.7 Test members shall be at least 21 days old at the time of anchor testing.

5.3 Requirements for Test Members:

5.3.1 Test members shall conform to the requirements of ASTM E488. Where the requirements of ASTM E 488 conflict
with this criteria, the provisions of this criteria shall take precedence.

5.3.2 Casting, curing and strength determination of test members:

5.3.2.1 Cast test member either horizontally or vertically. If the test member is cast vertically, the maximum height of a
concrete lift shall be 5 feet (1.5 m).

5.3.2.2 Sample, mold and field cure compressive strength cylinders in accordance with ASTM C31. Expose cylinders to
the same environmental conditions as the test member. Remove molds from the cylinders concurrent with removal of forms
and curing membranes from the test member.

5.3.3 Test member concrete compressive strength at the time of anchor testing shall be determined from compression
tests conducted on concrete cylinders in accordance with ASTM C39 or cores extracted from the test member in accordance
with ASTM C42. It shall be permitted to linearly interpolate mean strength values determined at the beginning and end of a test
series or to develop a strength-age relationship for the concrete test member on the basis of compression tests conducted at
uniform intervals throughout the duration of the test program.

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5.3.4 Test members for tests in uncracked concrete: Test members shall be unreinforced except as required to permit
efficient handling of the test member or distribution of reaction loads from test equipment. Position such reinforcing so that the
capacity of the tested anchor channel is not affected. This requirement shall be considered to be met for anchor channels
tested in tension if the reinforcing is located outside of a virtual cone projecting from the embedded end of the anchor to the
concrete surface with an internal vertex angle of 120 degrees.

5.3.5 Test members for tests in cracked concrete: Test members shall be designed to produce approximately planar
cracks of uniform width throughout the thickness of the component. The cracks shall be spaced sufficiently to facilitate testing
of individual anchor channels placed in a crack without influence from neighboring cracks. For test members that use internal
reinforcement to control the crack width, the reinforcement shall be placed so, that there is no influence on the performance of
the anchor channel. See Figure 5.2 of this annex for an example test slab configuration. (For additional guidance on testing in
cracked concrete, see R. Eligehausen, L. Mattis, R. Wollmershauser, M. Hoehler, “Testing Anchors in Cracked Concrete”,
Concrete International, Vol. 26, No. 7, July 2004, pp. 66-71.)

5.3.5.1 The crack width shall be controlled by reinforcing bars oriented perpendicular to the crack plane and distributed
symmetrically over the test member cross section.

5.3.5.2 The reinforcement shall be permitted to cross the potential concrete cone breakout surface associated with the test
anchor channel. The centerline-to-centerline distance between any reinforcement and an anchor shall be 0.4hef minimum.
Greater values for spacing of reinforcement are allowed, e.g., in the case of narrow concrete components (e.g. width x depth =
20 inches (508 mm) x 10 inches (254mm)), where it is ensured that planar cracks of uniform width throughout the thickness of
the component are produced and the crack width requirements of this criteria are fulfilled. Furthermore smaller values for
center-to-center distance between reinforcement and an anchor are allowed in case of deep embedments where it is ensured
that the anchorage mechanism is not influenced by the reinforcement. It shall be permitted to debond reinforcing over a length
of 3 inches (76 mm) on either side of the anticipated crack plane location using tape, plastic tubing or a debonding agent.

5.3.5.3 Crack formation and crack opening: An acceptable method is described in Section 5.3.5.4 of this annex. Other
methods shall be permitted subject to the requirements of this criteria.

5.3.5.4 Initiate and control the crack progression with planar sheet metal shapes (crack inducers) placed in the formwork
prior to casting of the test member. Position crack inducers such that the capacity of the tested anchor channel is not affected
by their presence. Extend tension reinforcing as required in Section 5.3.5 of this annex beyond the ends of the test member to
facilitate application of external tension loads directly to the reinforcing. Apply external loading to both ends of the reinforcing
to facilitate development of uniform strain over the length of the reinforcing. See Figure 5.3 of this annex for an example test
setup.

5.3.5.5 The average of the crack widths for each test series, measured by the two crack measurement devices for each
anchor before the load application shall be equal to or greater than the specified crack width for that test series. Individual
crack widths shall be within ±15 percent of the specified crack width for the test series in Table 4.1.

5.4 Anchor Channel Installation:

5.4.1 General requirements:

5.4.1.1 Anchor channel installation shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s published installation instructions, except
as otherwise required in this test criteria. Report any deviations.

5.4.1.2 Install anchor channels in a formed face of the concrete, or in concrete with a steel-troweled finish.

5.4.1.3 The components of the anchor channel on which the capacity depend shall not be substituted. Bolts and washers not
supplied with the channel bolt shall conform to the specifications developed by the anchor channel manufacturer, and these
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specifications shall be included in the test report. The anchor channel shall be placed such that the behavior is not influenced
by reinforcement. See ACI 355.2 Section A2.2.

5.4.1.4 The anchor channels shall be secured such that they cannot be moved during placing and consolidating of the
concrete. The concrete shall be properly consolidated in the area of the channels and under the head of the anchors.

5.5 Torque Requirements:

In tests with anchor channels embedded in concrete apply the installation torque Tinst specified in the manufacturer’s published
installation instructions using a calibrated torque wrench having a measuring error within ±5 percent of the specified torque.
After a minimum of ten minutes after the initial application of Tinst, loosen the nut of the channel bolt and re-apply torque to a
level of maximum 0.5Tinst.

5.6 Test Methods:

5.6.1 Test anchor channels in conformance with ASTM E488 and this criteria. Where differences occur, this criteria shall
take precedence over ASTM E488.

5.6.2 In Test Nos. 4, 8 and 9 of Table 4.1 of this criteria, concrete failure shall be avoided. This may be achieved by testing
anchor channels with anchors with an increased embedment depth.

5.6.3 This section is intentionally left blank.

5.6.4 The tension tests in accordance with Table 4.1 of this annex, Test Nos. 7 and 12 shall be performed using an
unconfined test set-up. Figure 5.4 of this annex shows an example of an unconfined tension test setup, whereby the supports
are spaced a suitable distance from the anchor to permit the unrestricted development of a conical concrete fracture surface.
In tension Test No. 4 (Table 4.1 of this annex) the distance between the support reaction and any loaded anchor may be
smaller than 2hef to avoid concrete failure.

5.6.5 In Test No. 10 and 11 (Table 4.1 of this annex), the clear distance between the support reaction and any loaded
anchor shall be greater than or equal to 2.5ca1. In test No. 8 (Table 4.1 of this annex) and test No. 13 to 17 (Table 4.2 of this
annex), the edge distance shall be large enough to avoid concrete edge failure. In all shear tests the following requirements
shall be complied with:

- The shear load shall be applied at the center of the fixture (distance between applied shear force and concrete surface
0.5·tfix) (see Figure 5.1).

- The thickness of the fixture in the immediate vicinity of the tested anchor channel shall be as follows: 0.9·ds ≤ tfix ≤ 1.5·ds.

- The hole in the fixture shall be taken as df according to Figure 5.1.

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df = ds + [0.08 in. ± 0.02 in. (2 mm ± 0.5 mm)]

FIGURE 5.1 – EXAMPLE OF SHEAR PLATE WITH SLEEVES AND REQUIRED LOCATION OF THE APPLIED
SHEAR LOAD FOR TEST SERIES NO. 10, 11, AND 13 (TABLE 4.1 OF THIS ANNEX)

5.6.6 Tests in Cracked Concrete:

5.6.6.1 Perform tests in concrete test members complying with the requirements of Annex A Section 5.3. Initiate cracking in
the test member so that the axis of the anchor is coincident with the crack plane. Install instrumentation for monitoring crack-
opening width. Monitor crack-opening width using dial gages or electronic transducers located roughly symmetrically on either
side of the anchor on an axis oriented perpendicular to the crack plane to permit interpolation for the crack width at the anchor
location. The distance from any crack-width measurement point to the anchor centerline shall be kept as small as possible but
shall not exceed the greater of 1.0hef or 5 inches (125 mm). Increase the crack width by the specified crack value prior to
applying external loads to the anchor channels. Verify by suitable means that the system used for crack formation and the
associated test procedures produce cracks that remain parallel during the performance of tests. The crack width as measured
at the opposite face of the test member in line with the anchor location (or as estimated based on the crack width
measurement on each side of the test member as close to the opposite face as possible) shall be approximately equal to the
crack width as measured on the anchor side.

5.6.6.2 Subject the anchor channel to the specified loading sequence while monitoring the crack opening width at the
surface.

5.6.6.3 Continuously record the applied load, corresponding anchor channel displacement and crack width during the test.
Use a sampling frequency appropriate for the load or strain rate employed for the test.

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FIGURE 5.2—EXAMPLE OF A TEST SPECIMEN FOR TESTS IN CRACKED CONCRETE (TEST SERIES NO. 12 AND 14)

FIGURE 5.3—EXAMPLE OF TEST RIG FOR TESTING IN CRACKED CONCRETE

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

FIGURE 5.4—EXAMPLE OF AN UNCONFINED TENSION TEST SETUP FOR TESTING ANCHOR CHANNELS

FIGURE 5.5—TENSION TEST SETUP FOR TESTING ANCHOR CHANNELS IN A UNIVERSAL TESTING MACHINE

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

FIGURE 5.6—EXAMPLE OF TEST SETUP FOR TEST SERIES NO. 14 AND 15 (TESTS IN CONCRETE)
(TABLE 4.2 OF THIS ANNEX)

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FIGURE 5.7—EXAMPLE OF TEST SETUP FOR TEST SERIES NO. 15 (TESTS OUTSIDE OF CONCRETE)
(TABLE 4.2 OF THIS ANNEX)

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

a) b)

FIGURE 5.8—EXAMPLE OF TEST SETUP FOR TEST SERIES NO. 3 (TESTS ON CHANNEL BOLTS) (TABLE 4.1 OF
THIS ANNEX) a) TEST IN A CHANNEL SECTION WHICH IS RESTRAINT IN A STEEL FRAME TO AVOID CHANNEL LIP
FAILURE b) TEST IN A STEEL TEMPLATE

6.0 Requirements for Anchor Channel Identification:

6.1 Basic Requirements:

The following information shall be provided in the evaluation report:

Product description, including:

a. Generic or trade name;

b. Height, width and length of the anchor channel.

c. Dimensions and spacing of anchors.

d. Method of connecting anchors to channel.

e. Geometry of channel bolt;

f. Constituent materials and appropriate physical properties of anchors, channels and channel bolts, including tensile
strength, hardness and coatings;

g. Protective coating of anchor, channel or channel bolt (if applicable).

6.2 Verification:

6.2.1 The ITEA shall check the characteristics (dimensions of all parts (channel, anchors, channel bolts), materials,
thickness of any coating, marking) reported in accordance with Annex A Section 6.1 against the manufacturer’s product
specifications. The results obtained shall be evaluated to make sure that they are within the manufacturer's specifications
observing the tolerances.

6.2.2 The material properties of the channel profile, anchor, and channel bolt shall be determined on specimens that have
been sampled in accordance with section 5.1 of this Annex, after they have undergone all regular manufacturing processes for
which recognition is sought (e.g. hot-rolling, cold forming, heat treating). The samples used for identification shall be taken
from the same production run as those used for the qualification tests. At least three tests shall be conducted for each profile
size, anchor, and channel bolt for each material.
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7.0 Service Condition Tests:

7.1 Purpose:

7.1.1 The purpose of the tests is to determine the basic data required to predict the performances of anchor channels
under service conditions in accordance with ACI 318 Appendix D and modifications in Section 3.0 of this annex.

7.2 Required Tests:

7.2.1 Required service condition tests are given in Table 4.1 of this annex.

7.3 Tension Tests on Anchor Channels not Embedded in Concrete (Table 4.1, Test Nos. 1, 2 and 3):

7.3.1 The purpose of these tests is to determine the strength of the connection between anchor and anchor channel (Test
No. 1), the strength of the channel against bending and local rupture of the channel lips (Test No. 2) and the strength of the
head of the channel bolt (Test No. 3).

7.3.2 Required tests: For Test No. 1, all anchor channel sizes with all anchor types specified by the manufacturer and all
materials shall be tested. The largest channel bolt with the maximum steel strength specified for the tested anchor channel
shall be used as a component of the test specimen to avoid failure of the channel bolt.

For Test No. 2, all channel sizes with all materials specified by the manufacturer shall be tested. The channel bolt with the
smallest head size and maximum steel strength that, when tested, still results in steel failure of a part of the anchor channel
other than the channel bolt shall be used. If the largest channel bolt size still results in bolt failure, the bolt failure load shall be
taken as the load corresponding to lip failure. Only one lip failure load shall be reported for each channel profile and material.
In case of locking channel bolts in combination with non-serrated channels, test all channel bolt sizes.

For Test No. 3, all channel bolt sizes shall be tested.

Exception: For a given channel bolt with a ratio of head area (channel bolt head thickness times the channel bolt head width)
to channel bolt shaft tensile area equal to X, if all tests result in rupture of the channel bolt shaft, tests on channel bolts having
a ratio of head area to shaft tensile area greater than or equal to X may be omitted, provided that the untested channel bolts
are manufactured with a forming process and from materials that are comparable to that of the tested channel bolts.

7.3.3 Conduct of tests: For Test No. 1 and Test No. 2 the anchors shall be tested in a tension test rig without being cast
into concrete (See Figure 5.5). Insert the channel bolt over one anchor and apply the load directly to channel bolt without a
fixture.

Exception: In Test No. 2 (determination of the channel lip strength) tests shall be permitted to be performed with anchor
channels with two anchors cast into low-strength concrete with anchor spacing s ≥ smin where smin shall be taken as the value
which will be published in the ICC-ES Evaluation Service Report but shall not be taken less than 4 inches (100 mm). The
distance between the end of the channel and the anchor axis shall correspond to the minimum value specified by the
manufacturer for the tested channel size. Insert the channel bolt over one anchor and apply the load directly to channel bolt
without a fixture. The test shall be conducted according to Figure 5.4. However, the support spacing may be reduced to ≥ 1.0
hef in every direction. Direct contact between the test stand and the channel profile is not permitted.

The failure load and the failure mode shall be recorded.

7.3.4 Conduct of tests (locking channel bolts in combination with non-serrated channels and serrated channels in
combination with matching serrated channel bolts): For Test No. 1 (determination of strength of the connection between
anchor and channel profile) the anchor channels shall be tested in a tension test rig without being cast into concrete (See
Figure 5.5). Insert the channel bolt over one anchor and apply the load directly to channel bolt.

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Exception: If Test No. 1 is performed with non-serrated channels in combination with standard channel bolts and anchor or
connection failure occurs in all tests, recognition for the use of locking channel bolts in combination with non-serrated channels
shall be included without further testing.

In Test No. 2 (determination of the channel lip strength) tests shall be performed with anchor channels with two anchors cast
into low-strength concrete with anchor spacing s ≥ smin where smin shall be taken as the value which will be published in the
ICC-ES Evaluation Service Report but shall not be taken less than 4 inches (100 mm). The distance between the end of
the channel and the anchor axis shall correspond to the minimum value specified by the manufacturer for the tested channel
size. Insert the channel bolt over one anchor and apply the load directly to channel bolt. A fixture with the following
dimensions shall be used: width = bch, length = 3bch, thickness = df. The fixture shall be shimmed with steel strips having a
thickness = 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) located on each side of the anchor channel (similar to Figure 7.1). The diameter of the hole in
the fixture shall be approximately 10 percent larger than the diameter of the shaft of the channel bolt. The channel bolt shall
be pre-tensioned in accordance with Section 5.5. The test shall be conducted according to Figure 5.4. However, the support
spacing may be reduced to ≥ 1.0 hef in every direction. Direct contact between the test stand and the channel profile is not
permitted.

The failure load, the corresponding displacement, and the failure mode shall be recorded.

Exception: For systems where pre-tensioning of the channel bolt does not result in deformation of the channel lips, it shall be
permitted to perform the tests without a pretension load in the channel bolt. The ITEA shall verify that the pretension
corresponding to the installation torque does not result in deformation of the channel lips.

7.3.5 Conduct of tests (all types of channel bolts): For test No. 3, test the channel bolts in a section of channel that is
sufficiently restrained to cause failure of the channel bolt (see Figure 5.8a). If the channel bolt is intended to be used for
different channel sizes, conduct the tests in the channel profile with the maximum width of the slot between the channel lips.
Insert the channel bolt in the channel profile and apply the load with a coupling nut to avoid thread failure. Alternatively, in case
of standard channel bolts, channel bolts may be tested in a steel template (see Figure 5.8b). This template shall represent the
inner profile of the channels (angle of channel lips and maximum width of the slot) to be included for recognition.

7.4 Bending Tests (Table 4.1, Test No. 4):

7.4.1 The purpose of this test is to measure the bending strength of the channel taking account of the restraint of the
deformation of the outer ends of the channel by the concrete.

7.4.2 Required tests: The tests shall be performed with all sizes and materials of anchor channels. Anchor channels with
two anchors with a maximum spacing and the minimum distance between the end of the channel and the anchor axis as
specified by the manufacturer and with an anchor type that provides the lowest anchor strength shall be tested. The channel
bolt with the smallest head size and maximum steel strength that, when tested, still results in steel failure of a part of the
anchor channel other than the channel bolt shall be used. If the largest channel bolt size still results in bolt failure, the bolt
failure load shall be taken as the load corresponding to bending failure. In case of locking channel bolts in combination with
non-serrated channels, test all channel bolt sizes.

7.4.2.1 If the failure load in the bending tests, Ns,flex computed in accordance with Eq. (7.1) is smaller than the nominal
strength Nsl (Section 8.6 of this annex), then additional tests with s<smax shall be performed. The anchor spacing shall be
chosen such that the failure loads for the failure modes “bending of channel” and “local failure of annel lips” are about equal.

fyc , lb (N)
N s ,flex   r  S pl ,nom  Eq. (7.1)
smin

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where
r = factor, evaluated in accordance with Section 8.8 of this annex
Spl,nom = plastic section modulus of channel around y-axis (see Fig. 1 of this annex) computed with the specified
channel dimensions, in3 (mm3)
smin = minimum anchor spacing of the anchor channel specified by the manufacturer, in. (mm)

7.4.3 Conduct of tests: The anchor channel shall be loaded by a tension load applied midway between the anchors via the
channel bolt without a fixture. Increase the load until failure. Record the applied load, the corresponding displacement of the
anchor channel at the location of the load and the failure mode.

7.4.4 Conduct of tests (locking channel bolts in combination with non-serrated channels and serrated channels in
combination with matching serrated channel bolts): The anchor channel shall be loaded by a tension load applied midway
between the anchors via the channel bolt. A fixture with the following dimensions shall be used: width = bch, length = bch,
thickness = df. The diameter of the hole in the fixture shall be approximately 10 percent larger than the diameter of the shaft of
the channel bolt. The channel bolt shall be pre-tensioned in accordance with Section 5.5. Increase the load until failure.
Record the applied load, the corresponding displacement of the anchor channel at the location of the load and the failure
mode.

Exception: For systems where pre-tensioning of the channel bolt does not result in deformation of the channel lips, it shall be
permitted to perform the tests without a pretension load in the channel bolt. The ITEA shall verify that the pretension
corresponding to the installation torque does not result in deformation of the channel lips.

7.5 Torque Tests (Table 4.1, Test No. 5):

7.5.1 Purpose: These tests shall be used to establish the maximum level of torque that can be applied to the channel bolt
without inducing tension yield in the channel bolt and the anchor as well as damage of the concrete under the anchor head
and of the connection between anchor and channel.

7.5.2 Required tests: Perform torque tests with channel bolts of all sizes, materials and coatings in channels of all sizes
and materials specified for the tested channel bolt according to Section 7.5.3. If the specified torque moment of a channel bolt
does not fulfill the conditions in 8.9.2 additional tests with anchor channels embedded in low strength concrete shall be
performed according to Section 7.5.4. Perform these tests with all anchor channels made from all materials using channel
bolts of all materials and coatings specified for the tested anchor channel that do not fulfill the requirements of 8.9.2.

7.5.2.1 Exception if tests are conducted in accordance with 7.5.3: If the results of torque tests with the most unfavorable
combination material and coating are accepted for all variants only the most unfavorable variant needs to be tested. If the
prestressing force is determined in accordance with Section 8.9.4 of this annex, only the smallest, medium and largest
diameters of channel bolts need to be tested on anchor channels with the medium size of the range specified for the anchor
channels by the manufacturer. The most unfavorable combination of material and coating yielding the highest prestressing
forces, shall be tested. No torque tests are required with channel bolts without lubricants or friction-reducing coatings if the
prestressing force is calculated according to Eq. (8.11) with k = 0.15.

7.5.2.2 Exception if tests are conducted in accordance with 7.5.4: If the results of torque tests with the most unfavorable
combination material and coating are accepted for all variants only the most unfavorable variant needs to be tested.

7.5.3 General test condition: The torque tests shall be carried out on anchor channels not cast into concrete. Double-side
abrasive paper of sufficient roughness shall be placed between washer and fixture to prevent rotation of the washer relative to
the test fixture during the application of torque. Other methods of preventing rotation of the washer shall be permitted provided
it can be shown that they do not affect the test result. The diameter of the hole in the fixture shall be approximately 10 percent

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larger than the diameter of the shaft of the channel bolt. A test set-up similar to the one shown in ACI 355.4-11, Figure 7.4
shall be used.

7.5.3.1 Apply increasing torque and record the torque and corresponding induced tension in the channel bolt.

7.5.4 General test condition: The torque tests shall be carried out on anchor channels with two anchors cast into low
strength concrete. The spacing of the anchors shall correspond to the maximum value (smax) and the distance between the
end of the channel and the anchor axis to the minimum value (xmin) specified by the manufacturer for the tested channel size.
The edge distance shall be large enough to avoid an edge influenced failure. The anchor channel shall be installed flush with
the concrete surface. A fixture with the following dimensions shall be used: width = 3bch, length = 3bch, thickness = df. The
diameter of the hole in the fixture shall be approximately 10 percent larger than the diameter of the shaft of the channel bolt.
To ensure introduction of a tension load into the anchor during torqueing, the fixture shall be placed on two steel strips
(width = 2bch, length = 3bch, thickness = 1/8 inch (3.2 mm)) located on each side of the anchor channel (see Figure 7.1 of this
annex). Double-side abrasive paper of sufficient roughness shall be placed between washer and fixture to prevent rotation of
the washer relative to the test fixture during the application of torque. Other methods of preventing rotation of the washer shall
be permitted provided it can be shown that they do not affect the test result. To reduce adhesion and/or friction between steel
parts of the anchor channel and concrete, the outside of the channel and the anchor shall be greased before casting.

7.5.4.1 Insert a channel bolt over one anchor. Apply increasing torque and record the torque, the corresponding induced
tension in the channel bolt and in the anchor as well as the number of revolutions of the nut. The tension force in the anchor
may be measured by using strain gauges. Two strain gauges should be applied to the anchor in which the tension force is
measured. Alternatively, the tension forces in the anchor may be measured by a load cell placed below the anchor. In this
case the anchor may be extended beyond the concrete member by welding or by using a coupler. Use a spherical washer in
combination with the load cell to prevent introduction of bending stresses in the anchor. However, it must be demonstrated,
that no additional slip is generated by extending the anchor and anchoring the anchor on the load cell. Plot the measured
tension forces in the channel bolt and in the anchor as a function of the applied torque moment as well as a function of the
displacement of the channel bolt head, evaluated from the measured revolutions of the nut.

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FIGURE 7.1—TEST SETUP FOR TESTS IN ACCORDANCE WITH TABLE 4.1, TEST NO. 5 (Additional tests)

7.5.4.2 It shall be allowed to measure the prestressing forces and anchor forces by strain gages in test No. 6 if the test
requirements for both test series are fulfilled.

7.6 Installation Tests on Anchor Channels Embedded in Concrete (Table 4.1, Test No. 6):

7.6.1 Purpose: The tests shall be used to establish the minimum edge distance and minimum anchor spacing to avoid
splitting failure during installation.

7.6.2 Required tests: Tests shall be performed with each channel size. The most unfavorable combination of material, kind
of manufacturing, coating, and diameter of channel bolt shall be tested that result in the highest prestressing force. If for one
channel size different anchors are specified, the anchor with the smallest head shall be used to generate high splitting forces.
If the minimum specified distances are independent of the channel bolt size, only tests with the channel bolt with the largest
diameter are required. If the minimum specified distances depend on the channel bolt size additional tests with channel bolts
with a smaller diameter are required.

7.6.2.1 Exception: Only the small, medium and large channel sizes need to be tested if:

1. The value γinst to be applied in Eq. (8.12) is increased by 30%; and

2. The ratio of the prestressing force N95% to the area Ac of the intermediate untested channel sizes shall not exceed 1.1
times the ratio corresponding to the next largest and next smallest tested channel sizes, whereby N95% is calculated according
to Eq. (8.11) and Ac = ca,min•smin. For calculating N95% of the tested channel sizes the value Tinst to be inserted in Eq. (8.11) may
be replaced by Tinst,adm according to Eq. (7.2).

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Tinst,adm =Tinst · Eq. (7.2)

req

where

0.5
Tk /fc,test
= Eq. (7.2a)
Tinst

req =1.3 · inst Eq. (7.2b)

γinst according to Eq. (8.12)

7.6.3 General test conditions: Anchor channels with two anchors at minimum spacing specified by the manufacturer shall
be cast into concrete members with the minimum specified member depth at the minimum edge distance specified by the
manufacturer. The anchor channel shall be installed flush with the concrete surface and parallel to the edge of the concrete
member. The distance between the outer anchors of two anchor channels in the direction of the longitudinal channel axis shall
be minimum 3hef. A fixture with the following dimensions shall be used: width = bch + 3df, length = smin + 3df, thickness = df with
df = diameter of the hole in the fixture ~ 1.1ds.

To ensure introduction of a tension load into the anchor during torqueing, the fixture shall be placed on two steel strips
(width = df, length = s + 3df, thickness = 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) located on each side of the anchor channel (see Figure 7.2 of this
annex).

The anchor channel is loaded by the application of a torque to two channel bolts located directly above the anchors.

7.6.3.1 Apply a torque alternately to the two channel bolts in steps of 0.2Tinst until the torque cannot be increased further.
After each step of applied torque check the concrete member for cracks. Record the number of revolutions per step of applied
torque, the torque at which a hairline crack (crack with a width < 0.1 mm (0.004 in.) is observed for at least at one anchor and
the maximum torque that can be applied to both channel bolts.

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FIGURE 7.2—TEST SETUP FOR TESTS IN ACCORDANCE WITH TABLE 4.1, TEST NO. 6

7.7 Tension tests on Anchor Channels Embedded in Concrete (Table 4.1, Test No. 7)

7.7.1 Purpose: These tests are used to determine the profile factor ch,N in Eq. (D-7b, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-6b, ACI 318-11),
(17.4.2.10b, ACI 318-14)

7.7.2 Required tests:

No tests are required if either hch/hef ≤ 0.4 or the anchor embedment is taken as h*ef in accordance with Figure 3b.

For all other cases, tests according to Section 7.7.3 shall be performed.

For the determination of the profile factor αch,N, test all shapes of channel profiles, anchor channel sizes and anchor types for
which recognition is sought.

7.7.3 General test conditions: Cast anchor channels with two anchors in concrete. The spacing of the anchors shall
correspond to the maximum value specified by the manufacturer for the tested channel size. Apply tension load to the anchor
channel. The tension loads in the anchors shall be equal. The test shall be conducted according to Figure 5.4. It shall be
permitted to modify the anchor channel to preclude steel failure.

7.7.3.1 Increase the tension load until failure. Record the applied tension load, the displacement of the anchor channel at the
locations of applied tension load, any cracks in the concrete and the failure mode.

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7.8 Shear Tests on Anchor Channels Embedded in Concrete (Table 4.1, Test No. 8):

7.8.1 Purpose: These tests shall be used to determine the nominal shear strength of the anchor channel in case of the
bending and local facture of the channel lips, failure of the connection between anchor and anchor channel, or failure of the
anchor without influence of concrete edges.

7.8.2 Required tests: All channel sizes, steel types, and corresponding anchor types specified by the manufacturer shall be
considered to determine a) anchor types that result in the minimum anchor failure load or minimum connection strength
between anchor and channel, whichever is less; and b) channel bolts with the smallest head and the maximum steel strength
specified for the tested anchor channel to avoid failure of the channel bolt. The channel bolt with the smallest head size and
maximum steel strength that, when tested, still results in steel failure of a part of the anchor channel other than the channel
bolt shall be used. If the largest channel bolt size still results in bolt failure, the bolt failure load shall be taken as the load
corresponding to lip failure. Only one lip failure load shall be reported for each channel profile and material.

7.8.2.1 Exception: The tests can be omitted if the nominal shear strength of the anchor channel, Vns, is taken as less than or
equal to Nns.

7.8.3 General test conditions: The tests shall be performed on anchor channels cast into concrete with two anchors located
with the maximum anchor spacing and minimum distance between the end of the channel and the anchor axis specified by the
manufacturer. Place a PTFE layer (or other friction limiting material of similar friction coefficient) over the entire contact area
between fixture, concrete surface, and channel profile. In one test series, the channel bolt shall be inserted in the channel over
one the anchor and shall be pre-tensioned in accordance with Section 5.5 of this annex. In a second test series, the channel
bolt shall be positioned midway between the two anchors and pre-tensioned in accordance with Section 5.5 of this annex. The
minimum characteristic failure load derived from the two test series governs. Where the results derived from tests with channel
bolts inserted over the anchor and tests with channel bolts positioned midway between the anchors are statistically equivalent,
the test results may be combined.
Exception: To measure the static shear strength of the anchor or the connection between the anchor and the channel, it shall
be allowed to perform additional shear tests on anchor channels with 3 anchors with the maximum anchor spacing embedded
in concrete. Place a PTFE layer (or other friction limiting material of similar friction coefficient) over the entire contact area
between fixture, concrete surface and channel profile. Connect the channel with the fixture by at least 2 channel bolts with a
center-to-center distance ≥ 3ds. The channel bolts shall be arranged symmetrically to the middle anchor. Apply a shear load to
the fixture using a rod that is connected at the middle of the fixture. If 2 or more channel bolts are used, it shall be ensured that
the shear load applied to the fixture is distributed equally to the channel bolts.

7.8.3.1 Apply a shear load to the channel bolt until failure. Record the applied shear load, the corresponding displacement of
the anchor channel at the point of load application and the failure mode.

7.9 This section is intentionally left blank.

7.10 Shear Tests on Anchor Channels Located at the Edge of a Concrete Member (Table 4.1, Test No. 10):

7.10.1 Purpose: These tests are used to determine the profile factor ch,V in Eq. (D-24.a)

7.10.2 Required tests:

For the determination of the profile factor αch,V, test all anchor channel profiles, sizes, anchor types and anchor connection
types for which recognition is sought.

It shall be permitted to use grouping to reduce the test program. Where grouping is used, the tests shall be performed with the
smallest anchor channel of a group of anchor channels for which the profile factor ch,V shall apply. If several types of anchors
are specified for a given channel size, anchor channels with anchors that provide the least shear resistance shall be tested. If
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this anchor cannot be established, test anchor channels with all anchor types. Use anchor channels with the lowest specified
steel strength.

Anchor channels shall be grouped according to the following principles:

1. The exterior profile of the channel and the attached anchor is not varied as the anchor channel size increases. See Fig. 7.3
for typical anchor channel profiles and anchor types.
2. The anchor type (round, I-profile, other) and orientation is constant (e.g., see Fig. 7.4).
3. The connection type and manufacturing method is constant (e.g., see Fig. 7.5).
4. For round anchors, the anchor shaft and head are equal to or greater than that used with the smallest anchor channel of the
group. For I-profiles, the cross-sectional areas of the web and the flanges are greater than or equal to that used with the
smallest anchor channel of the group.
5. The height of the channel, the distance from the end of the channel to the center line of the anchors, the embedment depth
of the anchors, and the calculated value of the moment of inertia, Iz, of the channel profile is equal to or greater than the values
associated with the smallest anchor channel of the group.
6. The nominal steel strength fu and the nominal yield strength fy associated with the anchor channels in the group are equal to
or greater than the values associated with the smallest anchor channel of the group.
7. The ratio c′a1/ca1 at ca = ca1,min of the anchor channels in the group is equal to or larger than the ratio corresponding to the
smallest anchor channel of the group.
8. The edge distance, c′a1, associated with the anchor channels in the group is equal to or larger than the value corresponding
to the smallest anchor channel of the group.

Hot rolled rectangular Cold-formed rectangular Cold-formed non-rectangular

FIG. 7.3 – CHANNEL PROFILE GROUPING

Round anchors I-profile orientation A I-profile orientation B

FIG. 7.4 – CHANNEL ANCHOR GROUPING BY TYPE

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Forged anchor connection Bolted anchor connection Welded anchor connection

FIG. 7.5 – CHANNEL ANCHOR GROUPING BY CONNECTION TYPE

7.10.2.1 Exception: in lieu of testing, a factor ch,V = 5.6 lbf1/2/in1/3 (ch,V = 4.0 N1/2/mm1/3 for SI) (normal weight concrete) shall
be the default value for all channel sizes.
7.10.2.2 Exception: No tests with locking channel bolts in combination with non-serrated channels need to be
performed, if the results with non-serrated channels in combination with standard channel bolts are accepted.

7.10.3 General test conditions: Cast anchor channels with two anchors parallel to the edge of a concrete member. The
spacing of the anchors shall correspond to the maximum value and the distance between the end of the channel and the
anchor axis to the minimum value specified by the manufacturer for the tested channel size. The member thickness shall be
large enough to avoid an influence of the failure load. (h > hcr,v). The edge distance shall be the minimum edge distance
sought for recognition for the tested channel size. Steel failure shall be avoided. Place a PTFE layer (or other friction-limiting
material of similar friction coefficient) over the entire contact area between fixture, concrete surface, and channel profile. Two
channel bolts shall be inserted in the channel directly over the anchors and shall be prestressed in accordance with Section
5.5 of this annex. Apply shear load to the two channel bolts perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the anchor channel. The
shear loads applied to the two channel bolts shall be equal.

7.10.3.1 Increase the shear load until failure. Record the applied shear load, the displacement of the anchor channel at the
locations of applied shear load, any cracks in the concrete and the failure mode.

7.11 [This section is intentionally left blank]

7.12 Simulated Seismic Tension Tests (Table 4.2, Test No. 12):

7. 12.1 Purpose: These optional tests are intended to evaluate the performance of anchor channels in seismic tension,
including the effects of cracks, and without edge effects.

7.12.2 Required tests: Test all channel sizes made from all steel types specified by the manufacturer. If different anchor
types are specified for a channel size, test the anchor for which the lowest seismic tension strength can be expected. If this
anchor type cannot be established test all anchor types. If channel bolts with several diameters are specified, test all
diameters.

Exception 1: Where recognition is sought for a range of channel sizes, it is permissible to test only the smallest channel size
provided all of the following criteria are satisfied:

a. The channel bolt used for all channel sizes for which recognition is sought is of constant dimensions, specified steel
strength, coating, thread type, and manufacture; and

b. For non-serrated channels, the shape (see Fig. 7.9), specified steel strength, and manufacture of the channel lips is
constant across all channel sizes for which recognition is sought; and

c. For serrated channels, the shape (see Fig. 7.9), specified steel strength, and manufacture of the channel lips, including the
shape and dimensions of the serrations, is constant across all channel sizes for which recognition is sought.
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In this case, the value of Nsl,seis, Nsa,seis, Nsc,seis, Nss,seis and Msflex,seis given in Table 9.1 shall be constant for all channel sizes.

Exception 2: Where recognition is sought for a range of channel bolt sizes to be used with a single channel size, it is
permissible to test only one channel bolt size provided all of the following criteria are satisfied:

a. The dimensions of the channel bolt head and the diameter of tested channel bolt shaft is the smallest of all channel bolts
for which recognition is sought; and

b. The specified steel strength of the tested channel bolt is equal to or less than the specified steel strength of all channel
bolts for which recognition is sought.

In this case, the value of Nss,seis given in Table 9.1 shall be constant for all channel bolt sizes.

7.12.3 General test conditions: Perform the tests on anchor channels with two anchors embedded in concrete perpendicular
to the direction of the reinforcement of the test member. The spacing of the anchors shall correspond to the maximum value
and the distance between the end of the channel and the anchor axis to the minimum value specified by the manufacturer for
the tested channel size. The edge distance shall be large enough to avoid an edge influenced failure. Insert a channel bolt
over one anchor and prestress it in accordance with Section 5.5 of this annex. Open the crack by w = 0.020 in (0.5 mm). Verify
that the tested anchor is located in the crack. Apply a tension load via the channel bolt to the anchor channel.

7.12.3.1 Subject the anchor channel to the sinusoidal tension loads specified in Table 7.1 and Figure 7.6 of this annex with a
cycling frequency between 0.1 and 2 Hz, whereby Neq is given by Eq. (7.3) Nm is given by Eq. (7.5), and Ni is given by Eq.
(7.6).
Neq = 0.5No,I, lbf (N) Eq.(7.3)

where:

No,I = minimum value of the mean tension capacities of the tests in accordance with Table 4.1, Test No.1, No.2 and No.3
adjusted to the steel strength of the tested anchor channel (as set forth in Section 8 of this annex)

Neq
Nm  , lbf (N) Eq. (7.5)
2

Neq  Nm
Ni  , lbf (N) Eq. (7.6)
2

7.12.3.2 Record the crack width, anchor displacement and applied tension load.

7.12.3.3 Following completion of the simulated seismic-tension cycles, open the crack to a width not less than the crack
opening width as measured at the end of the cyclic test and load the anchor in tension to failure. Record the maximum tension
load (residual tension capacity), the corresponding displacement, and plot the load-displacement response.

TABLE 7.1—REQUIRED LOADING HISTORY FOR SIMULATED SEISMIC TENSION TESTS

Load level Neq Ni Nm

Number of cycles 10 30 100

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FIGURE 7.6—REQUIRED LOAD HISTORY FOR SIMULATED SEISMIC TENSION TEST

7.13 Simulated Seismic Shear Tests (Table 4.2, Test No. 13):

7.13.1 Purpose: These optional tests are intended to evaluate the performance of anchor channels in seismic shear loads,
without influence of concrete edges.

7.13.2 Required tests: Test all channel sizes made from all steel types specified by the manufacturer. If different anchor
types are specified for a channel size, test the anchor for which the lowest seismic shear strength can be expected. If this
anchor type cannot be established test all anchor types. If channel bolts with several diameters are specified, test all
diameters.

Exception 1: Where recognition is sought for a range of channel sizes, it is permissible to test only the smallest channel size
provided all of the following criteria are satisfied:

a. The channel bolt used for all channel sizes for which recognition is sought is of constant dimensions, specified steel
strength, coating, thread type, and manufacture; and

b. For non-serrated channels, the shape (see Fig. 7.9), specified steel strength, and manufacture of the channel lips is
constant across all channel sizes for which recognition is sought; and

c. For serrated channels, the shape (see Fig. 7.9), specified steel strength, and manufacture of the channel lips, including the
shape and dimensions of the serrations, is constant across all channel sizes for which recognition is sought.

In this case, the value of Vsl,y,seis, Vsa,y,seis, Vsc,y,seis and Vss,seis given in Table 9.1 shall be constant for all channel sizes.

Exception 2: Where recognition is sought for a range of channel bolt sizes to be used with a single channel size, it is
permissible to test only one channel bolt size provided all of the following criteria are satisfied:

a. The dimensions of the channel bolt head and the diameter of tested channel bolt shaft is the smallest of all channel bolts
for which recognition is sought; and

b. The specified steel strength of the tested channel bolt is equal to or less than the specified steel strength of all channel
bolts for which recognition is sought.

In this case, the value of Vss,seis given in Table 9.1 shall be constant for all channel bolt sizes.

7.13.3 General test conditions: Perform the tests on anchor channels with two anchors embedded in concrete. The spacing
of the anchors shall correspond to the maximum value and the distance between the end of the channel and the anchor axis to
the minimum value specified by the manufacturer for the tested channel size. The edge distance shall be large enough to
avoid an edge influenced failure. Place a PTFE layer (or other friction limiting material of similar friction coefficient) over the

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entire contact area between fixture and concrete surface. Insert a channel bolt over one anchor and prestress it in accordance
with Section 5.5 of this annex. Apply a shear load via the channel bolt to the anchor channel.

7.13.3.1 Subject the anchor channel to the sinusoidal shear loads specified in Table 7.2 and Figure 7.7 of this annex, whereby
Veq is given by Eq. (7.7) Vm is given by Eq. (7.10) and Vi is given by Eq. (7.11).

Veq = 0.5·Vs , lbf (N) Eq. (7.7)

where:

Vs = minimum value of the mean failure load Vref in accordance with Eq. (7.8) and Vss in accordance with Eq. (7.9),
lbf (N)

fut ,test t test , lb (N) Eq. (7.8)

V ref  V m ,8  
fut ,test ,8 t8

Vm,8 = mean failure load of reference tests in accordance with Table 4.1, test No.8, lbf (N).

fut,test = steel strength of the anchor channel used in simulated seismic shear tests, psi (MPa).

fut,test,8 = steel strength of the anchor channel used in reference tests, psi (MPa).

ttest = thickness of channel lips of anchor channel seismic test specimen, in. (mm).

t8 = thickness of channel lips of anchor channel reference test specimen (Table 4.1, Test No. 8), in. (mm).

Vss = 0.7·Ase,V·fut,test, lbf (N) Eq. (7.9)

where:

Ase,V = effective cross-sectional area of the channel bolt in shear, in2 (mm2)

fut,test = steel strength of channel bolt used in the simulated seismic shear tests, psi (MPa).

V eq
Vm = , lbf Eq. (7.10)
2

Veq Vm
Vi = , (N) Eq. (7.11)
2

7.13.3.2 If service condition shear tests (Table 4.1, Test No. 8) have not been performed, it shall be permitted to insert in Eq.
(7.8) the mean failure load, the channel steel strength and the thickness of the channel lips of Test No. 2, Table 4.1 as Vm,8,
fut,test,8 and t8, respectively.

7.13.3.3 The frequency of loading shall be between 0.1 and 2 Hz. To reduce the potential for uncontrolled slip during load
reversal, the alternating shear loading shall be permitted to be approximated by the application of two half-sinusoidal load
cycles at the desired frequency connected by a reduced-speed, ramped load as shown in Figure 7.8 of this annex.

7.13.3.4 Record the, anchor displacement and applied shear load. Plot the load-displacement history in the form of hysteresis
loops.

7.13.3.5 Following completion of the simulated seismic-shear cycles, load the anchor channel in shear to failure. Record the
maximum shear load (residual shear capacity), the corresponding displacement, and plot the load-displacement response.

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TABLE 7.2—REQUIRED LOADING HISTORY FOR SIMULATED SEISMIC SHEAR TEST

Load level ±Veq ±Vi ±Vm

Number of cycles 10 30 100

FIGURE 7.7—REQUIRED LOAD HISTORY FOR SIMULATED SEISMIC SHEAR TEST

FIGURE 7.8—PERMITTED APPROXIMATION OF SEISMIC SHEAR CYCLE

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

7.14 Shear Tests on Anchor Channels Loaded in Longitudinal Channel Axis (Table 4.2, Test No. 15):

7.14.1 Purpose: These optional tests are intended to evaluate the nominal shear strength of the connection between
channel lips and channel bolt for shear loads acting in longitudinal channel axis without influence of concrete edges.

7.14.2 Required tests: All channel sizes and steel types specified by the manufacturer shall be tested. Test all types of
channel bolts and sizes specified for a particular channel size.

Exception 1: Where recognition is sought for a range of channel sizes, it is permissible to test only the smallest channel size
provided all of the following criteria are satisfied:

a. The channel bolt used for all channel sizes for which recognition is sought is of constant dimensions, specified steel
strength, coating, thread type, and manufacture; and

b. For non-serrated channels, the shape (see Fig. 7.9), specified steel strength, and manufacture of the channel lips is
constant across all channel sizes for which recognition is sought; and

c. For serrated channels, the shape (see Fig. 7.9), specified steel strength, and manufacture of the channel lips, including the
shape and dimensions of the serrations, is constant across all channel sizes for which recognition is sought.

In this case, the value of Vsl,x given in Table 9.1 shall be constant for all channel sizes.

Exception 2: Where recognition is sought for a range of channel bolt sizes to be used with a single channel size, it is
permissible to test only one channel bolt size provided all of the following criteria are satisfied:

a. The dimension of the channel bolt head and the diameter of the tested channel bolt is the smallest of all channel bolts
sought for recognition; and

b. The specified steel strength of the tested channel bolt is equal to or less than the specified steel strength of all channel bolts
sought for recognition.

In this case, the value of Vsl,x given in Table 9.1 shall be constant for all channel bolt sizes.

7.14.3 General test conditions: The tests shall be performed on anchor channels cast into concrete with two anchors located
with the maximum anchor spacing and the distance between the end of the channel and the anchor axis to the minimum value
specified by the manufacturer for the tested channel size. Place a PTFE layer (or other friction limiting material of similar
friction coefficient) over the entire contact area between fixture and concrete surface. Insert a channel bolt over one anchor
and prestress it in accordance with Section 5.5 of this annex.

7.14.3.1 Exception: Test No. 15 (determination of the strength of connection between channel lips and channel bolt) shall be
permitted to be performed with anchor channels with two anchors outside of the concrete with the maximum anchor spacing
and the minimum distance between the end of the channel and the anchor axis specified by the manufacturer for the tested
channel size. The channel profile may be fixed to a strong floor as described in Figure 5.7. However, the connection between
channel profile and anchors should not be changed. Insert a channel bolt over one anchor and prestress it in accordance with
Section 5.5 of this annex.

7.14.3.2 Apply a shear load towards the free edge of the channel to the channel bolt in longitudinal channel axis until failure.
Record the peak shear load, the corresponding displacement of the anchor channel at the point of load application and the
failure mode.

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FIGURE 7.9—GROUPING BY ANCHOR CHANNEL SHAPE

7.15 Simulated Seismic Shear in Longitudinal Channel Axis (Table 4.2, Test No. 14):

7.15.1 Purpose: These optional tests are intended to evaluate the performance of anchor channels in seismic shear loads
acting in longitudinal channel axis, including the effects of concrete cracking, without influence of concrete edges.

7.15.2 Required tests: All channel sizes and steel types specified by the manufacturer shall be tested. Test all types of
channel bolts and sizes specified for a particular channel size.

Exception 1: Where recognition is sought for a range of channel sizes, it is permissible to test only the smallest channel size
provided all of the following criteria are satisfied:

a. The channel bolt used for all channel sizes for which recognition is sought is of constant dimensions, specified steel
strength, coating, thread type, and manufacture; and

b. For non-serrated channels, the shape (see Fig. 7.9), specified steel strength, and manufacture of the channel lips is
constant across all channel sizes for which recognition is sought; and

c. For serrated channels, the shape (see Fig. 7.9), specified steel strength, and manufacture of the channel lips, including the
shape and dimensions of the serrations, is constant across all channel sizes for which recognition is sought.

In this case, the value of Vsl,x,seis given in Table 9.1 shall be constant for all channel sizes.

Exception 2: Where recognition is sought for a range of channel bolt sizes to be used with a single channel size, it is
permissible to test only one channel bolt size provided all of the following criteria are satisfied:

a. The dimension of the channel bolt head and the diameter of the tested channel bolt is the smallest of all channel bolts
sought for recognition; and

b. The specified steel strength of the tested channel bolt is equal to or less than the specified steel strength of all channel
bolts sought for recognition.

In this case, the value of Vsl,x,seis given in Table 9.1 shall be constant for all channel bolt sizes.

7.15.3 General test conditions: Perform the tests on anchor channels with two anchors embedded in concrete
perpendicular to the direction of the reinforcement of the test member. The spacing of the anchors shall correspond to the
maximum value and the distance between the end of the channel and the anchor axis to the minimum value specified by the
manufacturer for the tested channel size. An example for the test set-up is shown in Fig. 5.6, whereby the gap shown in front

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of the channel should be provided on both ends of the channel. The gap needs to be large enough to avoid contact between
the front of the channel and the concrete over the entire duration of the test. The edge distance shall be large enough to avoid
an edge influenced failure. Open the crack by w = 0.020 in (0.5 mm). Verify that the tested anchors are located in the crack.
Place a PTFE layer (or other friction limiting material of similar friction coefficient) over the entire contact area between fixture
and concrete surface. Insert a channel bolt over one anchor and prestress it in accordance with Section 5.5 of this annex.
Apply a shear load via the channel bolt to the anchor channel in the direction of the crack.

7.15.3.1 Subject the anchor channel to the sinusoidal shear loads specified in Table 7.2 and Figure 7.7 of this annex,
whereby Veq is given by Eq. (7.12) Vm is given by Eq. (7.14) and Vi is given by Eq. (7.15).

Eq. (7.12)
Veq = 0.5·Vs, lbf (N)

where:

Vs = mean failure load Vref in accordance with Eq. (7.13), lbf (N)

fut ,test t
V ref  V m ,15   test , lb (N) Eq. (7.13)
fut ,test ,15 t test ,15

Vm,15 = mean failure load of reference tests in accordance with Table 4.2, test No.15, lbf (N).

fut,test = steel strength of the anchor channel used in simulated seismic shear tests, psi (MPa).

fut,test,15 = steel strength of the anchor channel used in reference tests, psi (MPa).

ttest = thickness of channel lips of anchor channel used in simulated seismic shear tests, in. (mm).

ttest,15 = thickness of channel lips of anchor channel used in reference tests (Table 4.2, Test No. 15), in. (mm).

Veq
Vm = , lbf Eq. (7.14)
2

Veq Vm
Vi = , (N) Eq. (7.15)
2

7.15.3.2 The frequency of loading shall be between 0.1 and 2 Hz. To reduce the potential for uncontrolled slip during load
reversal, the alternating shear loading shall be permitted to be approximated by the application of two half-sinusoidal load
cycles at the desired frequency connected by a reduced-speed, ramped load as shown in Figure 7.8 of this annex.

7.15.3.3 Record the crack width, anchor displacement and applied shear load. Plot the load-displacement history in the form
of hysteresis loops.

7.15.3.4 Following completion of the simulated seismic-shear cycles, open the crack to a width not less than the crack
opening width as measured at the end of the cyclic shear test and load the anchor channel in shear to failure. Record the
maximum shear load (residual shear capacity), the corresponding displacement, and plot the load-displacement response.

7.16 Shear Tests on Anchor Channels Loaded in Longitudinal Channel Axis - Influence of Level of Prestressing
Force on Resistance to Longitudinal Shear Loads (Table 4.2, Test No. 16):

7.16.1 Purpose: These optional tests are intended to evaluate the influence of the level of prestressing force on the shear
strength of the connection between channel lips and channel bolt for shear loads acting in longitudinal channel axis without
influence of concrete edges.

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7.16.2 Required tests: Anchor channels and channel bolts shall be tested according to Section 7.14.2.

7.16.3 General test condition: The tests shall be performed according to Section 7.14.3. However, the channel bolt shall be
prestressed with only 50% of the installation torque Tinst specified in the manufacturer’s published installation instructions using
a calibrated torque wrench having a measuring error within ±5 percent of the specified torque. After a minimum of ten minutes
after the initial application of 0.5Tinst, the test shall be started.

7.17 Shear Tests on Anchor Channels Loaded in Longitudinal Channel Axis - Influence of Channel below the
Concrete Surface on Resistance to Longitudinal Shear Loads (Table 4.2, Test No. 17):

7.17.1 Purpose: These optional tests are intended to evaluate the influence of a gap between anchor channel and concrete
surface on the shear strength of the connection between channel lips and channel bolt for shear loads acting in longitudinal
channel axis without influence of concrete edges.

7.17.2 Required tests: Anchor channels and channel bolts shall be tested according to Section 7.14.2.

7.17.3 General test condition: The tests shall be performed according to Section 7.14.3. However, steel support strips with a
thickness = 1/8 inch (3.2 mm)) (as illustrated in Figure 7.2) shall be placed between fixture and concrete surface. Place a
PTFE layer (or other friction limiting material of similar friction coefficient) over the entire contact area between fixture and steel
support strips.

8.0 Assessment

8.1 Normalization of Anchor Capacities for Measured Concrete and Steel Strengths

8.1.1 When reporting results and data and comparing anchor capacities of tests that require normalization to a specific or a
common strength, the type of failure shall be taken into account.

8.1.2 Concrete breakout, splitting and pull-out failure:

Normalize test results for the influence of concrete compressive strength in accordance with Eq. (8.1).
0.5
Ftest,x =Ftest,x · , lbf (N) Eq. (8.1)
fc,test, x,

where:

Ftest,x = test result normalized to considered concrete strength f’c , lbf (N)

f'c = concrete compressive strength corresponding to concrete to which the test result is to be
normalized, psi (MPa).

fc,test,x = concrete compressive strength corresponding to concrete used for test series
No. x, psi (MPa)

Ftest, x = failure load from test Series No. x, lbf (N)

8.1.3 Failure of Anchor or Channel Bolt in Tension or Shear, or, in case of Shear Load acting in the Longitudinal
Channel Axis, Failure of the Connection between Channel Bolt and Channel Lips:

Where failure is characterized by steel rupture, normalize the capacity for the nominal material strength using Eq. 8.2. For
steels conforming to a standard specification, the characteristic tensile strength shall be taken as the minimum specified
ultimate tensile strength fut.

fut
Ftest,x,fut =F test,x · , lbf (N) Eq. (8.2)
fut,test, x

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where:

Ftest,x,fut = normalized failure load, lbf (N)

Ftest,x = failure load from test series x, lb (N)

fut = steel tensile strength to which the test result is to be normalized, psi (MPa).

fut,test,x = steel tensile strength corresponding to anchors used for test series x, psi (MPa) (in case of
anchor failure)

steel tensile strength corresponding to channel bolts used for test series x, psi (MPa) (in case of
channel bolt failure)

steel tensile strength corresponding to channel lips used for test series x, psi (MPa) (in case of
local failure of channel lips for shear loads acting in longitudinal channel axis)

8.1.4 Failure of Connection between Anchor and Channel and Local Failure of Channel Lips:
Normalize the measured failure loads in accordance with Eq. (8.3). For steels conforming to a standard specification, the
characteristic tensile strength shall be taken as the minimum specified ultimate tensile strength fut.

fut t , lbf (N)

Ftest , x ,u  Ftest , x   nom Eq. (8.3)
fut ,test t test
where:
Ftest,x,u = failure load normalized to channel steel strength fut and thickness tnom of channel lips, lbf (N)
Ftest,x = failure load in test series x, lbf (N)

fut = nominal tensile strength of the channel profile, psi (MPa)

fut,test = strength of the channel profile in series x, psi (MPa)
tnom = nominal thickness of the channel lips or channel back, depending on the location of the failure,
inch (mm)
ttest = thickness of the channel lips or channel back, depending on the location of the failure in test
series x, inch (mm)

Eq. (8.3) is valid for the results of tension and shear tests.

8.1.5 Bending Failure of Anchor Channel:

Normalize the measured failure loads in accordance with Eq. (8.4).
 S   f y ,nom  , lbf (N) Eq. (8.4)
Ftest ,4 ,n  Ftest ,4  pl ,nom   
S
 pl ,test ,4   fy ,test ,4 
where:

Ftest,4,n = normalized failure load of Test No. 4, Table 4.1, lbf (N)

Ftest,4 = failure load measured in Test series 4, Table 4.1, lbf (N)

Spl,nom = Plastic section modulus of the channel computed about the principal y-axis with the specified
channel dimensions (see Fig 1.1 of this annex), in3 (mm³)
Spl,test,4 = Plastic section modulus of the channel computed about the principal y-axis with the actual
channel dimensions in Test No. 4, Table 4.1, in3 (mm³)
fy,nom = nominal yield strength of channel, psi (MPa)

fy,test,4 = yield strength of channel in Test No. 4, Table 4.1, psi (MPa)

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8.2 Establishing Characteristic Failure Loads:

The characteristic failure load shall be evaluated from the mean failure load and the associated coefficient of variation, νtest,x,
using Eq. (8.5).

Fk  Ftest,x 1Ktest  lbf (N) Eq. (8.5)

where:
Fk = characteristic failure load (5 percent fractile), lbf (N)
Ftest,x = mean failure load of test series x, lbf (N)
k = tolerance factor corresponding to a 5 percent probability of non-exceedance with a confidence of
90 percent , derived from a Gaussian distribution for which the population standard deviation is
unknown. Values for specific sample sizes n are provided in Table 8.1 of this annex
νtest,x = coefficient of variation of the population sample corresponding to test series x.

TABLE 8.1—TOLERANCE FACTORS FOR A 5 PERCENT PROBABILITY OF

NON-EXCEEDENCE WITH A CONFIDENCE OF 90 PERCENT

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8.3 Requirements on Coefficient of Variation in Tension and Shear Tests:

8.3.1 The coefficient of variation of the failure loads shall not exceed 20 percent.

8.3.2 For cases where the coefficient of variation, ν, of the ultimate loads in a test series exceeds 15 percent, the
corresponding characteristic failure load computed in accordance with Eq. (8.5) shall be multiplied with the reduction factor
αcov in accordance with Eq. (8.6)
1 Eq. (8.6)
 cov   1.0
1  0.03   test ,x   L 

where:

ν test,x = sample coefficient of variation for test series x equal to the sample standard deviation divided by the
mean standard deviation, percent
νL = threshold coefficient of variation of anchor channels
= 15 percent
8.4 Load-displacement Behavior:

8.4.1 Overall load-displacement behavior

To be acceptable, the tensile load-displacement behavior of anchor channels shall be predictable, except as noted in Section
8.4.2 of this annex. Figure 8.1 of this annex provides examples of acceptable and unacceptable load-displacement curves for
anchor channels. For each anchor channel tested, a load plateau with a corresponding slip greater than 5 percent of the
displacement at ultimate load, or a temporary drop in load, is not acceptable at load levels less than N1. For tests in uncracked
concrete, N1 shall be taken as the smaller of 0.8Nu and Asefy. For tests in cracked concrete, N1 is taken as the smaller of 0.7Nu
and Asefy.

FIGURE 8.1—REQUIREMENT FOR LOAD-DISPLACEMENTS CURVES

8.4.2 Within a test series, if not more than one test shows a load-displacement curve not complying with 8.4.1 of this
annex, the anchor channel shall be considered acceptable provided that two conditions are met:

1. There is no drop in load; and

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2. The deviation is justified as being uncharacteristic of the anchor channel behavior and is due, for example, to a defect in
the test procedure or the base material. Such defects shall be described in detail in the evaluation report, and the results of an
additional 10 tension tests shall display load-displacement curves complying with the requirements of 8.4.1 of this annex.

8.5 Assessment of the Strength of the Connection between Anchor and Channel (Test No. 1 in accordance with
Table 4.1):

The 5 percent-fractile of the measured failure loads shall be normalized in accordance with Eq. (8.3) and denoted as Nsc,
which shall be reported in Section 9.5 of this annex.

8.6 Assessment of the Strength of the Anchor Channel Against Bending of the Channel Lips (Test No. 2 in
accordance with Table 4.1):

The 5 percent-fractile of the measured failure loads shall be normalized in accordance with Eq. (8.3) and denoted as Nsl, which
shall be reported in Section 9.5 of this annex.

8.7 Assessment of the Strength of the Head of the Channel Bolt (Test No. 3 in accordance with Table 4.1):

In case of failure of the shaft of the channel bolt, the value Nss computed in accordance with the ACI 318-11, Section D.5.1
shall be reported in Section 9.5 of this annex. The 5 percent-fractile of the measured failure loads shall be larger than the
value Nss. In case of failure of the head of the channel bolt, the 5 percent-fractile of the measured failure loads as normalized
by Eq. (8.2), where fu,test is the measured steel strength of the shaft of the channel bolt, shall be denoted as Nss and reported in
Section 9.5 of this annex.

8.8 Assessment of the Strength of the Anchor Channel Against Bending (Test No. 4 in accordance with Table 4.1):

From the 5 percent-fractile of the failure loads as normalized by Eq. (8.4), the value αr shall be computed in accordance with
Eq. (8.8).

N k ,test 4  s
r 
S pl ,nom  fyc ,nom Eq. (8.8)

where:

Nk,test,4 = characteristic failure load measured in test 4, normalized by Eq. (8.4), computed in accordance
with Eq. (8.5), lbf (N)
Spl,nom = plastic section modulus of the channel taking account of the specified dimensions around the y-
axis as shown in Figure 1 of this annex (mm³)
s = spacing of the anchors , inch (mm)

fyc,nom = nominal yield strength of the channel, psi (MPa)

The value of αr shall satisfy the following limitations: 4.0 ≤ αr ≤ 8.0. The value r = 4.0 is valid for a beam on two supports and
r = 8.0 for a beam with full restraint at both ends. The reference bending moment Ms,flex shall be computed in accordance with
Eq. (8.9) and reported in Section 9.5 of this annex.
r Eq. (8.9)
Ms,flex = · Spl, nom ·fyc,nom , in-lbf (N–mm)
4
where:
r = value computed in accordance with Eq. (8.8)
Spl,nom = see Eq. (8.8)
fyc.nom = see Eq. (8.8)

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8.9 Assessment of the Maximum Installation Torque (Test No. 5 in accordance with Table 4.1):

8.9.1 The 95 percent-fractile of the prestressing force at a certain torque moment, N95%, shall be evaluated from the mean
measured prestressing force and the associated coefficient of variation using Eq. (8.10)

N95% = Nm (1+K· test ) , lb (N) Eq. (8.10)

where
Nm = mean measured prestressing force, lb (N)
K = factor in accordance with Table 8.1 of this annex
test = coefficient of variation of the measured pre-tension forces

8.9.2 The 95%-fractile of the prestressing force at T= 1.0·Tinst shall not exceed the pullout strength, Np, computed in
accordance with ACI 318-11, Eq. (D-14), the strength of the anchor, Nsa, in accordance with ACI 318-11 D.5.1, the strength of
the connection between anchor and channel, Nsc, in accordance with Section 8.5 of this annex, and the strength of the channel
lips against bending failure, Nsl, in accordance with Section 8.6 of this annex.

Exception: For anchor channels with an embedment depth hef ≥ 3½ inches (90 mm), verification of the prestressing force with
respect to the pullout strength is not required.

8.9.3 The 95%-fractile of the prestressing force at T = 1.3·TInst shall not exceed the value Nss in accordance with Section
8.7 of this annex multiplied by the ratio fyb / futb,
where:
fyb = nominal yield strength of channel bolt, psi (MPa)
futb = nominal ultimate tensile strength of channel bolt, psi (MPa)

8.9.4 It shall be permitted to calculate the prestressing force to be used in Section 8.9.2 and 8.9.3 of this annex in
accordance with Eq. (8.11).

 Tinst lb (N)
N95%  Eq. (8.11)
k  ds
where:
α = 1.0 for verification in accordance with Section 8.9.2 of this annex
= 1.3 for verification in accordance with Section 8.9.3 of this annex
k = Friction factor, to be taken as a lower bound value. For channel bolts without lubricants or friction-reducing
coatings, k = 0.2 shall be assumed, if the reduced test program according to Section 7.5.2.1 of this annex has been
performed and these tests yield a value k  0.2. If these tests yield a value k < 0.2, this value shall be inserted in
Eq. (8.11).
k = 0.15 shall be inserted in Eq. (8.11) for channel bolts without lubricants or friction-reducing coatings if no torque
tests have been performed.
ds = shaft diameter of channel bolt, in. (mm)

8.9.5 If the requirements in Section 8.9.2 and 8.9.3 of this annex are not fulfilled, then the installation torque shall be
reduced until the requirements are fulfilled. The maximum installation torque shall be reported in the Section 9.5 of this annex.

8.9.6 If it is required to perform tests according to Section 7.5.4, the following evaluation is required instead of Section 8.9.2.

8.9.6.1 Evaluate the 95-percent fractile of the anchor tension force by Eq. (8.10) replacing Nm by the mean measured anchor
tension forces and vtest by the coefficient of variation of the measured anchor tension forces.

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8.9.6.2 The 95-percent fractile of the anchor forces measured at T = 1.3 Tinst shall fulfill the requirements of Annex A, Section
8.9.2.

8.9.6.3 From the results of the measured prestressing forces acting on the channel bolt the mean friction factor k shall be
calculated according to Eq. (8.11) at T = 1.3 Tinst, solving for k and replacing N95% by Nm. Furthermore, the coefficient of
variation of the friction factor shall be calculated assuming a normal distribution. Report the factor k and the coefficient of
variation.

8.10 Assessment of the Minimum Edge Distance and Minimum Spacing (splitting failure due to installation) (Test
No. 6 in accordance with Table 4.1):

The minimum spacing smin and minimum edge distance ca,min shall be evaluated from the results of tests on anchor channels
with two anchors in accordance with Section 7.6 of this annex and reported in Section 9.5 of this annex. The characteristic
torque moment, Tk, at which a hairline crack has been observed at one anchor of the anchor channel shall fulfil Eq. (8.12).

fc, test 0.5

Tk ≥ inst ·Tinst · ·lbf-in (N-m) Eq. (8.12)

where:
inst = 1.3 anchorages in cracked concrete
= 1.7 anchorages in non-cracked concrete

8.11 Assessment of Concrete Breakout Strength Under Tension Load (Test No. 7 in accordance with Table 4.1):
The results of the Test No. 7 shall determine the profile factor ch,N to be used in Eq. (D-7b, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-6b, ACI 318-
11), (17.4.2.10b, ACI 318-14), which shall be reported in Section 9.5 of this criteria.
The factor ch,N shall be computed in accordance with Eq. (8.13), but in no case shall ch,N exceed 75% of the value calculated
in accordance with Eq. (8.13) (without upper limits) with the mean failure load Ntest obtained from test series No. 7 substituted
for the characteristic failure load Nk.

 Nk   h 0.15 1/2 1/3

 ch,N  0.7     ef   1 (normal weight concrete), lbf /in Eq. (8.13a)
 24  fc  hef  s,N  
' 1.5 7.1 

 Nk   h 0.15 1/2 1/3

 ch,N  0.7     ef   1 (normal weight concrete), N /mm Eq. (8.13b)
10  fc  hef  s,N   180 
' 1.5

where:

Nk = characteristic failure load applied to one anchor calculated according to Eq. (8.5) and normalized
according to Eq. (8.1), lbf (N)
hef = embedment depth, inch (mm)

f'c = See Eq. (8.1), psi (MPa)

Ψs,N = factor according to Eq. (D-9a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-8a, ACI 318-11), (17.4.2.10.1a, ACI 318-14)

The factorch,N shall be stated in steps of 0.1 and shall be rounded down to the nearest tenth.

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8.12 Assessment of the Steel Strength Under Shear Load (Test No. 8 in accordance with Table 4.1):

The 5 percent-fractile of the measured failure loads as normalized by Eq. (8.3) shall be computed by Eq (8.5) and denoted as
Vsl,y, Vsa,y, and Vsc,y. These values assessed for lightweight concrete may not exceed the values assessed in normal-weight
concrete. These values shall be reported in Section 9.5 of this annex.

8.12.1 If tests have been performed according to 7.8.3.1, the shear strength of the middle anchor calculated according to
Section D.3.1.1.3 from the 5%-fractile of the failure loads normalized according to Eq. (8.3) shall be denoted as Vsa,y and Vsc,y.

8.13 This section is intentionally left blank.

8.14 Assessment of the Concrete-Breakout Strength Under Shear Load (Test No. 10 in accordance with Table 4.1):
The results of the Test No. 10 shall determine the profile factor ch,V to be used in Eq. (D-22.a), which shall be reported in
Section 9.5 of this criteria.
The factor  ch,V shall be computed in accordance with Eq. (8.13), but in no case shall αch,V exceed 75% of the value calculated
in accordance with Eq. (8.13) (without upper limits) with the mean failure load Vtest obtained from test series No. 10 substituted
for the characteristic failure load Vk.

Vk
αch,V =0.7 ≤ 10.5 (normal weight concrete), lbf1/2/in1/2 Eq. (8.13a)
⁄ '
ca,1 · fc ·ψs,V

Vk
αch,V =0.7 ≤ 7.5 (normal weight concrete), N1/2/mm1/2 Eq. (8.13b)
⁄ '
ca,1 · fc ·ψs,V

where:

Vk = characteristic failure load applied to one anchor calculated according to Eq. (8.5) and normalized
according to Eq. (8.1), lbf (N)
ca,1 = edge distance, inch (mm)

= See Eq. (8.1), psi (MPa)

Ψs,V = factor according to Eq. (D-24b)

The factor αch,V shall be stated in steps of 0.1 and shall be rounded down to the nearest tenth.

8.15 [This section is intentionally left blank]

8.16 Assessment of Performance Under Seismic Tension (Test No. 12 in accordance with Table 4.1):

8.16.1 All anchor channel systems in a test series shall complete the simulated seismic-tension load history specified in
Table 7.1 and Figure 7.6 of this annex. Failure of an anchor channel system to develop the required tension resistance in any
cycle before completing the loading history specified in Table 7.1 and Figure 7.6 of this annex shall be recorded as an
unsuccessful test. The mean residual capacity of the anchor channel system in the test series shall be at least 160 percent of
Neq as given by Eq. 7.3).

8.16.2 Successful completion of the cyclic loading history and fulfilment of the residual tension capacity requirement of this
Section shall be reported.

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8.16.3 If the anchor channel system fails to fulfil the above requirements at Neq, it shall be permitted to conduct the test with
reduced cyclic tension loads conforming to the loading history specified in Table 7.1 and Figure 7.6 of this annex whereby
Neq,reduced, Ni,reduced and Nm,reduced are substituted for Neq, Ni and Nm, respectively. All anchor channel systems in a test series
shall complete the simulated seismic-tension load history. Failure of an anchor channel system to develop the required tension
resistance in any cycle prior to completing the loading history given Table 7.1 and Figure 7.6 of this annex shall be recorded
as an unsuccessful test. The mean residual capacity of the anchor channel system in the tension test series shall be at least
160 percent of the reduced peak load Neq,reduced. Successful completion of the reduced cyclic loading history and fulfilment of
the residual tension capacity requirement of this section shall be recorded together with the reduction factor αN,seis as given by
Eq. (8.15).

N eq ,reduced
 N ,seis  Eq. (8.15)
N eq

8.16.3.1 If the channel bolt strength governs (Nss is used to calculate Neq according to Eq. (7.3)), the reduction factor αN,seis
shall only be applied to the specific anchor channel system (specific combination of anchor channel and anchor channel bolt)
tested.

8.16.3.2 If larger channel bolts than tested in Section 8.16.3.1 shall be recognized for seismic loading, test the smallest
channel bolt size that results in failure of the anchor channel. Apply αN,seis in accordance with 8.16.4. In this case the factor
αN,seis may also be applied to the combination of anchor channel and channel bolt where the anchor channel bolt governed,
whereby the determination of Nsa,seis, Nsl,seis, Nsc,seis, and Msflex,seis shall be in accordance with 8.16.4.

8.16.3.3 Only one set of values for Nsa,seis, Nsl,seis, Nsc,seis, and Msflex,seis shall be reported for each channel profile and material,
and only one value Nss,seis shall be reported for each channel bolt diameter, type, and material.

8.16.4 The reduction factor αN,seis shall be used to determine Nsa,seis, Nsl,seis, Nsc,seis, Nss,seis, and Msflex,seis from the values Nsa,
Nsl, Nsc, Nss and Ms,flex evaluated in accordance with Section D.5.1.3 of this annex, respectively.
Following is a clarification of how to apply the factor αN,seis.
Nsl,seis = αN,seis · Nsl Eq.(8.15a)
Nsa,seis = αN,seis · Nsa Eq.(8.15b)
Nsc,seis = αN,seis · Nsc Eq.(8.15c)
Nss,seis = αN,seis · Nss Eq.(8.15d)
Ms,flex,seis = αN,seis · Ms,flex Eq.(8.15e)

8.17 Assessment of Performance Under Seismic Shear (Test No. 13 in accordance with Table 4.1):

8.17.1 All anchor channel systems in a test series shall complete the simulated seismic-shear load history specified in Table
7.2 and Figure 7.7 of this annex. Failure of an anchor channel system to develop the required shear resistance in any cycle
before completing the loading history specified in Table 7.2 and Figure 7.7 of this annex shall be recorded as an unsuccessful
test. The mean residual capacity of the anchor channels system in the test series shall be at least 160 percent of Veq as given
by Eq. (7.7).

8.17.2 Successful completion of the cyclic loading history and fulfilment of the residual shear capacity requirement of this
Section shall be reported.

8.17.3 If the anchor channel system fails to fulfil the above requirements at Veq, it shall be permitted to conduct the test with
reduced cyclic loads conforming to the loading history specified in Table 7.2 and Figure 7.7 of this annex whereby Veq,Reduced,
Vi,Reduced and Vm,reduced are substituted for Veq, Vi and Vm, respectively. All anchor channel systems in a test series shall
complete the simulated seismic-shear load history. Failure of an anchor channel system to develop the required shear

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resistance in any cycle prior to completing the loading history given in Table 7.2 and Figure 7.7 of this annex shall be recorded
as an unsuccessful test. The mean residual capacity of the anchor channel system in the shear test series shall be at least
160 percent of the reduced peak load Veq,reduced. Successful completion of the reduced cyclic loading history and fulfilment of
the residual shear capacity requirement of this section shall be recorded together with a reduction factor αv,seis,y given by Eq.
(8.16).

Veq,reduced
V ,seis,y  Eq. (8.16)
Veq

8.17.3.1 If the channel bolt strength governs (Vss is used to calculate Veq according to Eq. (7.7)), the reduction factor αV,seis,y
shall only be applied to the specific combination of anchor channel and anchor channel bolt tested.

8.17.3.2 If larger channel bolts than tested in Section 8.17.3.1 shall be recognized for seismic loading, test the smallest
channel bolt size that results in failure of the anchor channel. Apply αV,seis,y in accordance with 8.17.4. In this case the factor
αV,seis,y may also be applied to the combination of anchor channel and channel bolt where the anchor channel bolt governed
whereby the determination of Vsa,y,seis,Vsl,y,seis , and Vsc,y,seis shall be in accordance with 8.17.4.

8.17.3.3 Only one set of values for Vsa,seis,y, Vsl,seis,y, and Vsc,seis,y shall be reported for each channel profile and material, and
only one value Vss,seis shall be reported for each channel bolt diameter, type, and material.

8.17.4 The reduction factor αv,seis,y shall be used to determine Vsa,y,seis,Vsc,y,seis ,Vsl,y,seis and Vss,seis from the values Vsa,y,
Vsc,y,Vsl,y and Vss evaluated in accordance with Section 6.1.4 of this annex, respectively.

Following is a clarification of how to apply the factor αV,seis,y.

Vsl,y,seis = αv,seis,y · Vsl,y Eq.(8.16a)
Vsa,y,seis = αv,seis,y · Vsl,y Eq.(8.16b)
Vsc,y,seis = αv,seis,y · Vsl,y Eq.(8.16c)
Vss,seis = αv,seis,y · Vss Eq.(8.16d)

8.18 Assessment of the Steel Strength Under Shear Load Acting in Longitudinal Channel Axis (Test No. 15 in
accordance with Table 4.2):

The measured failure loads shall be normalized according to Section 8.1.3 Eq. (8.2). The 5 percent-fractile of the normalized
measured failure loads shall be computed by Eq (8.5). This value shall be denoted as Vsl,x and reported in Section 9.5 of this
annex.

8.19 Assessment of Performance Under Seismic Shear in Longitudinal Channel Axis (Test No. 14 in accordance
with Table 4.2):

8.19.1 All anchor channel systems in a test series shall complete the simulated seismic-shear load history specified in Table
7.2 and Figure 7.7 of this annex. Failure of an anchor channel system to develop the required shear resistance in any cycle
before completing the loading history specified in Table 7.2 and Figure 7.7 of this annex shall be recorded as an unsuccessful
test. The mean residual capacity of the anchor channel system in the test series shall be at least 160 percent of Veq as given
by Eq. (7.12).

8.19.2 Successful completion of the cyclic loading history and fulfilment of the residual shear capacity requirement of this
Section shall be reported.

8.19.3 If the anchor channel system fails to fulfil the above requirements at Veq, it shall be permitted to conduct the test with
reduced cyclic loads conforming to the loading history specified in Table 7.2 and Figure 7.7 of this annex whereby Veq,reduced,
Vi,reduced and Vm,reduced are substituted for Veq, Vi and Vm, respectively. All anchor channel systems in a test series shall
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complete the simulated seismic-shear load history. Failure of an anchor channel system to develop the required shear
resistance in any cycle prior to completing the loading history given in Table 7.2 and Figure 7.7 of this annex shall be recorded
as an unsuccessful test. The mean residual capacity of the anchor channel system in the shear test series shall be at least
160 percent of the reduced peak load Veq,reduced. Successful completion of the reduced cyclic loading history and fulfilment of
the residual shear capacity requirement of this section shall be recorded together with a reduction factor αv,seis,x given by Eq.
(8.17).
Veq ,reduced
 V ,seis ,x  Eq. (8.17)
Veq

8.19.4 The reduction factor αv,seis,x shall be used to determine Vsl,x,seis, Vsa,x,seis and Vsc,x,seis from the values Vsl,x, Vsa,x, Vsc,x
evaluated in accordance with Section 6.1.4 of this annex. These values shall be reported in Section 9.5 of this annex as well.
Following is a clarification of how to apply the factor αv,seis,x.
Vsl,x,seis = αv,seis,x · Vsl,x Eq.(8.17a)
Vsa,x,seis = αv,seis,x · Vsa,x Eq.(8.17b)
Vsc,x,seis = αv,seis,x · Vsc,x Eq.(8.17c)

8.20 Assessment of Category assigned to Combination of Anchor Channel and Channel Bolt and Level of Special
Inspection (Test No. 16 and 17 in accordance with Table 4.2):

The measured failure loads from test series 16 and 17 shall be normalized according to Section 8.1.3 Eq. (8.2). The 5 percent-
fractile of the normalized measured failure loads shall be computed by Eq (8.5). For each combination of channel bolt diameter
and channel size compute the ratio αinst according to Eq (8.18).

αinst = min[(Fk (test No. 16); Fk (test No. 17))]/ Fk (test No. 15) Eq. (8.18)

Determine the category assigned to combination of anchor channel and channel bolt in accordance with Table 8.3. The
category assigned to combination of anchor channel and channel bolt shall be used to determine the strength reduction factor
for the nominal strength Vsl,x (compare Section 8.21).

Table 8.3 Establishment of Category assigned to combination of anchor channel and channel bolt

Level of special inspection

Periodic Continuous

Category assigned to combination of Smallest ratio αinst of Tests No. 16 and No. 17
anchor channel and channel bolt
1 αinst ≥ 0.95 αinst ≥ 0.8

2 0.80 ≤ αinst < 0.95 0.70 ≤ αinst < 0.8

3 0.70 ≤ αinst < 0.80 0.60 ≤ αinst < 0.70

31 0.50 ≤ αinst <0.70 0.40 ≤ αinst <0.60

αinst < 0.5 αinst < 0.4

1
For anchor channels with 0.50 ≤ αinst <0.70 (periodic inspection) or 0.40 ≤ αinst <0.60 (continuous inspection), the anchor channel shall be
assigned to category 3 and the nominal strength Vsl,x evaluated in accordance with Section 8.18 shall be multiplied by the ratio (αinst /0.7) ≤ 1
(periodic inspection) or (αinst /0.6) ≤ 1 (continuous inspection). This reduced value Vsl,x shall be reported in Section 9.5 of this Annex.
It shall be permitted to evaluate the value αinst on the basis of mean normalized peak loads, provided that: 1) the difference in
the number of replicates in the test series to be compared is not greater than five; and 2) the coefficient of variation of the
normalized peak loads measured in each of the reliability tests (Test no. 16 and no. 17) is less than or equal to the coefficient
of variation of the normalized peak loads in Test no. 15, or less than or equal to 10%.

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8.21 Assessment of strength reduction factor for nominal shear strength in longitudinal channel direction under
static and seismic loads.

The strength reduction factor  for the nominal shear strength of the connection between channel lips and channel bolt under

static loads, Vsl,x, and under seismic loads, Vsl,x,seis shall be assessed according to Table 8.4 and reported in Section 9.5 of
this annex.
Table 8.4 Assessment of strength reduction factor  for Vsl,x and Vsl,x,seis
Category of combination of anchor channel and channel Strength reduction factor  for Vsl,x and Vsl,x,seis
bolt established according to Section 8.20
Ductile steel1,2 Brittle steel1,2
1 0.75 (0.80) 0.65 (0.75)
2 0.65 (0.70) 0.55 (0.60)
3 0.55 (0.60) 0.45 (0.50)
1
Values not in parenthesis are valid when the load combinations according to ACI 318-11, Section 9.2 and values in parenthesis are valid
when the load combinations according to ACI 318-11, Annex C are used.
2
The distinction between ductile and brittle steel shall be made in accordance with the material properties of the anchor channel assessed
according to Section 2.1.1.9.2

9.0 Data Presentation:

9.1 General:

This information shall be held in strictest confidence by ICC-ES.

9.2 The following information shall be submitted:

9.2.1 Product description:

9.2.1.1 Generic or trade name.

9.2.1.2 Manufacturer’s catalog number.

9.2.1.3 Profile sizes.

9.2.1.4 Dimensions of the channel and anchors

9.2.1.5 Method of connecting anchor to channel

9.2.1.6 Geometry of channel bolts

9.2.1.7 Permitted manufacturing tolerances.

9.2.2 Constituent materials and appropriate physical properties of anchors, channels and channel bolts before and after
manufacture. If the anchor channel consists of component parts involving different materials, differences shall be noted.

9.2.3 Protective coating of anchor channel or channel bolt (if applicable).

9.2.4 Appropriate standard specifications for the anchor channel constituent materials: Reports of physical properties for
materials used in test specimens shall be submitted. The reports shall be generated by a mill or testing laboratory. Where
actual material strength exceeds the specified minimum strength, test results shall be adjusted to the specified minimum
strength of the anchor material. Where no physical property specification exists, acceptable properties for quality control
purposes shall be established by physical property tests.

9.2.5 Installation instructions: manufacturer’s published installation instructions, as well as published instructions for
application and design shall be submitted.

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9.2.5.1 At least the following information shall be given in the installation instructions

a) Dimensions and materials of channels and channel bolts

b) Matching channel bolts for each channel size and channel material

c) Information concerning the placement procedure to the formwork, preferably using pictograms

9.2.5.2 The installation instructions may be stated on packaging and/or on an accompanying note.

9.2.6 Packaging and identification: Information on anchor channel packaging and identification shall be determined and
reported in accordance with Section 6.0 of this annex.

9.2.6.1 The anchor channel shall be marked as follows:

a) Manufacturer’s name or insignia

b) Trade name of anchor channel. The trade name shall denote, as a minimum, the outer dimensions of the channel.

c) Material of the anchor channel. This may be accomplished by an additional marking of anchor channels produced from
stainless steel to distinguish them from anchor channels manufactured from carbon steel.

9.2.6.2 The marking of the channel shall be visible after placement of the concrete, so that installation of the correct channel
bolt can be verified. This marking requirement may be satisfied with a unique product specific designation cross-referenced in
the evaluation report.

9.2.6.3 If anchor channels with more than one anchor type with different values Nsa or Nsc, or for more than one anchorage
depth, or for different anchor spacings are used with the same channel size, the anchor type, anchorage depth and anchor
spacing shall be marked and identifiable after placement of the concrete, prior to the installation of the channel bolt. This may
be accomplished by an additional unique marking on the channel, or with a specific and unique designation cross-referenced
in the report, as applicable, as described in Section 9.2.6.2.

9.2.6.4 The evaluation report number (ESR-XXXX) shall appear on the packaging units.

9.2.7 Field preparation: Information concerning methods of preparing anchor channels and concrete for installation shall be
described.

9.3 Data Analysis:

Perform analysis in accordance with Section 8.0 of this annex to assess the results of testing of the subject anchor channel for
conformance with this criteria.

9.4 Test Reports:

9.4.1 Test reports shall comply with the ICC-ES Acceptance Criteria for Test reports (AC85).

9.4.2 Test reports shall include information described in Section 13 of ASTM E488.

9.4.3 Test reports shall also include the following:

9.4.3.1 Mode of failure for each test (e.g., steel rupture of anchor, channel, or channel bolt; rupture of connection between
anchor and channel; concrete splitting; concrete cone failure).

9.4.3.2 Photographs of test equipment and typical anchor channel failure modes.

9.4.3.3 Report approval by a registered design professional.

9.4.3.4 Verification that test specimen sampling complies with Section 5.1 of this annex.

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9.4.3.5 Manufacturer’s published installation instructions.

9.5 Evaluation Report:

9.5.1 The evaluation report shall include sufficient information for complete product identification, manufacturer’s printed
installation instructions, and design data as follows:

9.5.1.1 Anchor channel data used for design in the format shown in Table 9.1 and Table 9.2 of this annex, along with other
observations as appropriate.

9.5.1.2 Design requirements in accordance with this criteria.

9.5.1.3 Special inspection requirements in accordance with Section 10.3 of this annex.

9.5.1.4 Locking Channel Bolts: Where recognition is included for the use of locking channel bolts, the following statements
shall be included in the Evaluation Report:

1. Where locking channel bolts are used, the plate, fixture, or component to be fastened to the anchor channel shall be in
contact with the anchor channel lips. Shims shall be provided as required.

2. Locking channel bolts shall be installed with the plate, fixture, or other component to be fastened to the anchor channel in
place and shall be tightened to the required installation torque. The plate, fixture, or component shall be of sufficient strength
and stiffness to resist without failure the prestressing force resulting from the installation torque.

9.5.1.5 For serrated anchor channels the following statements shall be included in the Evaluation Report:

1. Where serrated anchor channels in combination with matching serrated channel bolts are used, the plate, fixture, or
component to be fastened to the anchor channel shall be in contact with the anchor channel lips. Shims shall be provided as
required.

2. Matching serrated channel bolts shall be installed with the plate, fixture, or other component to be fastened to the anchor
channel in place and shall be tightened to the required installation torque. The plate, fixture, or component shall be of sufficient
strength and stiffness to resist without failure the prestressing force resulting from the installation torque.

9.5.2 Fatigue and Shock Loading: Since an ICC-ES acceptance criteria for evaluating data to determine the performance of
anchor channels subjected to fatigue or shock loading is unavailable at this time, the use of the subject anchor channels to
resist load combinations that include fatigue or shock loading is beyond the scope of this report.

9.5.3 Fire Resistive Construction: Anchor channels are not permitted to support fire-resistive construction. Where not
otherwise prohibited by the code, anchor channels are permitted for installation in fire-resistive construction provided that at
least one of the following conditions is fulfilled:

- Anchor channels are used to resist wind or seismic forces only, or

- Anchor channels that support gravity load bearing structural elements are within a fire resistive envelope or a fire-resistive
membrane, are protected by approved fire resistive materials, or have been evaluated for resistance to fire exposure in
accordance with recognized standards,

9.5.4 Earthquake resistance:

9.5.4.1 Load combinations including earthquake loads are permitted for structures assigned to Seismic Design Categories
A through F.

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9.5.5 Lightweight Concrete:

9.5.5.1 (This version applies where the resistance in lightweight concrete has not been tested according to Section 6.6.2 of
this criteria.) Use of anchor channels in lightweight concrete is beyond the scope of this evaluation report.

9.5.5.2 (This version applies where the resistance in lightweight concrete has been established according to Section 6.6.2
of this criteria.) The basic concrete breakout strength Nb in accordance with Eq. (D-8a, ACI 318-05,-08), (D-7a, ACI 318-11),
(17.4.2.10.2a, ACI 318-14) of Annex A, the nominal strength for blowout failure N0sb in accordance with Eq. (D-17b, ACI 318-
05,-08), (D-16b, ACI 318-11), (17.4.4.3.2, ACI 318-14) of Annex A, the basic concrete breakout strength for shear loads in
longitudinal axis Vb in accordance with D.6.2.2 (ACI 318-05, -08, -11), Section 17.5.2.2 (ACI 318-14), the basic concrete
breakout strength for shear loads perpendicular to the channel axis Vb in accordance with Eq. (D-24a, ACI 318-05, -08), (D-
33a, ACI 318-11), (17.5.2.10.2, ACI 318-14) shall be multiplied with the modification factor λ (λ = λa). The value λa = 1.0λ =
0.85 shall be taken for sand-lightweight concrete and 0.75 for all-lightweight concrete. Linear interpolation shall be permitted
according to Section 8.6 (ACI 318-08,-11) and Section 19.2.4 (ACI 318-14).

TABLE 9.1—SAMPLE FORMAT FOR REPORTING ANCHOR CHANNEL DATA QUALIFIED

FOR USE IN CRACKED AND UNCRACKED CONCRETE
TEST PROGRAM FOR EVALUATING ANCHOR CHANNELS FOR USE IN UNCRACKED AND CRACKED CONCRETE
Manufacturer Anchor channel designation1 Criteria Symbol Units Anchor channel sizes

Channel Channel height hch in.

Channel width bch in.
Moment of inertia Iy in.4
Minimum specified yield tensile strength fy psi
Minimum specified ultimate tensile strength futc psi
Steel elongation at break - %
Steel cross-section reduction at break - %
Nominal strength for local bending of channel lips, tension loading Nsl lbf
Corresponding strength reduction factor3 
Nominal strength for local bending of channel lips, shear loading Vsl,y lbf
Nominal strength for the connection between channel bolt and Vsl,x lbf
channel lips for shear loading in longitudinal channel axis
Corresponding strength reduction factor3 
Nominal bending strength Msflex in-lb
Corresponding strength reduction factor3 
Anchor Anchor spacing S in.
Effective anchor tension area Ase,N in.2
Area of anchor head Abrg in.2
Minimum specified yield tensile strength fya psi
Minimum specified ultimate tensile strength futa psi
Steel elongation at break - %
Steel cross-section reduction at break - %
Nominal steel strength of a single anchor in tension Nsa lbf
Corresponding strength reduction factor3  -
Strength of connection channel/anchor Nsc lbf
Corresponding strength reduction factor3  -
Nominal steel strength of a single anchor for shear loading Vsa,y lbf
perpendicular to the channel
Corresponding strength reduction factor3  -
Nominal steel strength of a single anchor for shear loading in Vsa,x lbf
longitudinal channel axis
Corresponding strength reduction factor3  -
Nominal shear strength of connection between anchor and Vsc,y lbf
channel for shear loading perpendicular to the channel
Corresponding strength reduction factor3  -
Nominal shear strength of connection between anchor and Vsc,x lbf
channel for shear loading in longitudinal channel axis
Corresponding strength reduction factor3  -
Tension loading Concrete Embedment depth hef in.
break-out Critical edge distance to prevent splitting failure cac in.
Concrete blowout bearing area of anchor head Abrg in.2
Pullout strength Np lbf
Strength reduction factor for tension concrete failure modes3  -
Shear loading Concrete edge failure for shear loading perpendicular to the ch,V
channel, profile factor
Pryout failure, factor kp
Strength reduction factor for shear concrete failure modes3  -

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Minimum edge distance in respect to channel size ca,min in.

Minimum anchor spacing smin in.
Minimum member thickness hmin in.
Level of inspection (periodic or continuous)
Optional simulated seismic tests
Tension loading Adjustment factor for seismic loading N,seis -
Nominal seismic tension strength for local failure of channel lips Nsl,seis lbf
Nominal seismic bending strength of channel Msflex,seis in.-lbf
Nominal seismic tension strength of a single anchor Nsa,seis lbf
Nominal seismic strength of connection channel/anchor Nsc,seis lbf
Shear loading V,seis,y -
Adjustment factor for seismic loading
V,seis,x -
Nominal seismic strength for local failure of channel lips for shear Vsl,y,seis lbf
loading perpendicular to the channel
Nominal seismic strength of connection between anchor and Vsc,y,seis lbf
channel for shear loading perpendicular to the channel
Nominal seismic shear strength of anchor for shear loading Vsa,y,seis lbf
perpendicular to the channel
Nominal seismic strength for the connection between channel bolt Vsl,x,seis lbf
and channel lips for shear loading in longitudinal channel axis
Nominal seismic strength of anchor for shear loading in Vsa,x,seis lbf
longitudinal channel axis
Nominal seismic strength of connection between anchor and Vsc,x,seis lbf
channel for shear loading in longitudinal channel axis
1
Trade name. For anchor channels distributed under multiple trade names, all names shall be tabulated.
2
Fractional units shown, SI units may also be used.
3
For use with load combinations in IBC Section 1605.2.1 or ACI 318-11, Section 9.2., ACI 318-14, Section 17.8.2

TABLE 9.2—SAMPLE FORMAT FOR REPORTING DATA OF CHANNEL BOLT

TEST PROGRAM FOR EVALUATING ANCHOR CHANNELS FOR USE IN UNCRACKED AND CRACKED CONCRETE
Anchor Channel bolt designation1 Criteria Symbol Units2 Channel bolt sizes
Manufacturer

Channel bolt may be used for channel sizes - -

Nominal tensile steel strength futb Psi
Nominal yield steel strength fyb Psi
Effective cross-sectional area Tension loading Ase,N in.2
Shear loading Ase,V in.2
Nominal tensile strength Nss Lb
Strength reduction factor for steel failure under tension loading3  -
Nominal shear strength Vss Lb
Strength reduction factor for steel failure under shear loading3  -
Nominal bending strength Moss in.-lb
Strength reduction factor for bending of channel bolt3  -
Maximum torque moment (standard channel bolts) Tinst in.-lb
Required torque moment (locking channel bolts) Tinst in.-lb
Required torque moment (channel bolts in serrated channels) Tinst in.-lb
Minimum edge distance in respect to channel bolt ca,min in.
Optional simulated seismic tests
Reduction factor for seismic tension loading N,seis -
Nominal seismic tensile strength Nss,seis Lb
Reduction factor for seismic shear loading V,seis -
Nominal seismic shear strength Vss,seis Lb
Nominal seismic bending strength Moss,seis in.-lb
1
Trade name. For anchor channels distributed under multiple trade names, all names shall be tabulated.
2
Fractional units shown, SI units may also be used.
3
For use with load combinations of IBC Section 1605.2.1 or ACI 318-11, Section 9.2, ACI 318-14, Section 17.8.2

10.0 Quality Control Requirements:

10.1 Quality Documentation:

10.1.1 Quality documentation complying with the ICC-ES Acceptance Criteria for Quality Documentation (AC10) and Section
10.2 of this annex shall be submitted for each anchor channel. The quality documentation shall include all installed
components of the anchor channel system as provided by the manufacturer.

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10.2 Quality-assurance Program:

10.2.1 Anchor channels shall be manufactured under an approved quality-assurance program with follow-up inspections by
an IIA accredited by the International Accreditation Service (IAS) under ISO 17020 or as otherwise acceptable to ICC-ES.

10.2.2 Inspections shall assess conformance of ongoing production with the quality documentation on file with ICC-ES.

10.3 Special Inspection:

10.3.1 Special inspection shall be performed as required in accordance with Section 1705.1.1 and Table 1705.3 of the 2018,
2015 and 2012 IBC, Section 1704.15 of the 2009 IBC or Section 1704.13 of the 2006 IBC and in accordance with this criteria.
For each type of anchor channel, the manufacturer shall provide inspection procedures to verify proper usage.
10.3.1.1 Inspection requirements:
1. Prior to concrete placement, the special inspector shall inspect the placement of anchor channels in the formwork to verify
anchor channel type, channel size, anchor type, number of anchors, anchor size and, length of anchors, as well as anchor
channel location, position, orientation, and edge distance in accordance with the construction documents. The special
inspector shall also verify that anchor channels are secured within the formwork in accordance with the MPII.

2. Following placement of concrete and form removal, the special inspector shall verify that the concrete around the anchor
channel is without significant visual defects, that the anchor channel is flush with the concrete surface, and that the channel
interior is free of concrete, laitance, or other obstructions. When anchor channels are not flush with the concrete surface, the
special inspector shall verify that appropriate sized shims are provided in accordance with the MPII in the evaluation report.
Following the installation of attachments to the anchor channel, the special inspector shall verify that the specified system
hardware, such as T-headed channel bolts and saddle washers, have been used and positioned correctly, and the installation
torque has been applied to the channel bolts, in accordance with the MPII. For evaluation service reports with recognition for
shear loading in the direction perpendicular to the channel axis only, the special inspector shall confirm with the engineer of
record that the attachments do not produce gravity, wind, and/or seismic loading parallel to the longitudinal axis of the channel
(see AC 232, Figure 4).

3. The special inspector shall be present for the installations of attachments to each type and size of anchor channel.

4. Where they exceed the requirements stated here, the special inspector shall adhere to the special inspection
requirements provided in the statement of special inspections as prepared by the registered design professional in responsible
charge.

10.3.2 Proof loading program: Where required by the registered design professional in responsible charge, a program for
on-site proof loading (proof loading program) to be conducted as part of the special inspection shall include at a minimum the
following information:

1. Frequency and location of proof loading based on channel size and length;

2. Proof loads specified by channel size;

3. Acceptable displacements at proof load;

4. Remedial action in the event of failure to achieve proof load or excessive displacement.

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ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR ANCHOR CHANNELS IN CONCRETE ELEMENTS (AC232)

10.4 Product Modifications:

10.4.1 Prior to implementing any substantive modification to an anchor channel system, which has previously been
assessed in accordance with this criteria, the manufacturer shall report the nature and significance of the modification to the
ITEA (see Section 11.0 of this annex).

10.4.2 For all modifications that are determined to have the potential to affect anchor channel performance, the ITEA shall
perform the requisite tests to assess the impact of the modification. If the modified product can be shown to be statistically
equivalent to those of the originally tested product, no additional testing shall be required. Otherwise, the modified product
shall be tested in accordance with Table 4.1 of this annex.

11.0 Requirements for the Independent Testing and Evaluation Agency:

11.1 General:

11.1.1 The testing and assessment of anchor channels under this criteria shall be performed by an independent testing and
evaluation agency (ITEA) that is accredited as a testing laboratory conforming to ISO 17025 by an accreditation body that is a
signatory to the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation Mutual Recognition Arrangement. The ITEA’s accreditation
shall include testing and evaluation of anchors according to ASTM E488 and ACI 355.2, and anchor channels according to this
criteria.

Subject to prior approval by ICC-ES, the assessment may also be performed by a separate evaluation agency having
documented experience in the evaluation and testing of anchors and anchor channels. If the testing is performed by more than
one test laboratory, the ITEA or the separate evaluation agency shall be responsible for overseeing the development of the
test program and the conducting of the tests, and shall also be responsible for ensuring that all test results are preserved and
included in the evaluation.

11.2 Testing Laboratories:

As a source of test reports, testing laboratories shall comply with Section 2.0 of the ICC-ES Acceptance Criteria for Test
Reports (AC85) and Section 4.2 of the ICC-ES Rules of Procedure for Evaluation Reports. The primary testing laboratory shall
verify that all elements of the test program and analysis are in compliance with this criteria.

11.3 Testing by Independent Testing and Evaluation Agency and Manufacturer:

11.3.1 At least 75 percent of the test series given in Table 4.1 of this criteria shall be performed by the ITEA (Section
11.1.1 of this annex) at their facility. Not more than 25 percent of the tests conducted for each service-condition test series
required by Table 4.1 of this criteria are permitted to be performed by the manufacturer. All such tests shall be witnessed by an
ITEA (Sections 11.1.1 and 11.2 of this annex).

11.3.2 Additional results of tests performed by the manufacturer shall be permitted to be considered in the evaluation. All
tests performed by the manufacturer shall be permitted to be considered only if the results are statistically equivalent to those
of the ITEA. The number of tests conducted by the manufacturer shall not exceed the number of tests by the ITEA.

11.4 Certification:

The test reports and evaluation reports shall be sealed by a registered design professional employed or retained by the ITEA.

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