Selecting the right utility anchor is one of the most important decisions that can be made to ensure that any precast concrete construction project is completed effectively, safely and economically.It does this while allowing heavy components to be mobilized safely and efficiently, without the compromise of either the precast elements involved or the immediately surrounding environment. In this blog, we are going to introduce everything you need to know about utility anchors, considering the main features and benefits and basic aspects for the right choice in favor of your projects. Besides, let’s take a glance at how BaoQi one of the major driving forces on the market-manufactures and sells utility anchors in a quite reliable and high-quality way.
What is Utility Anchor?
The utility anchor is designed in special way for ease in lifting and handling precast concrete elements. It finds extensive use in the construction industry, especially in operations involving lifting, moving, and installing heavy precast components such as beams, panels, and slabs. In providing a safe, efficient, and economical means of handling these materials, utility anchors help eliminate the need for special lifting devices and are thus a valuable tool in modern precast construction.
Utility anchors differ from common methods of lifting because, while some would use through holes and more complicated set-ups, the idea with these utility anchors is to provide something a lot more friendly to be engaged quickly by the workers onto the lifting system without compromising the integrity of the precast element. Anchors are employed both at the precasting yard-while unloading from vehicles-and for positioning at site.
Industry Insights: The Demand for Efficient Anchoring Solutions Grows
A Markets and Markets report says that the global precast concrete market, valued at USD 116.3 billion in 2020, will reach USD 170.3 billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 6.3%. Growing demand is observed for effective and economic ways of constructing buildings, specifically urban development and infrastructure projects.
Increased focus on sustainability and safety also press towards having anchors that will be long-lasting with minimal waste. Utility anchors which can be reused several times, such as those by BaoQi, present a sustainable solution since it saves the consumption of materials and encourages the circularity of economy principles within the whole cycle of a construction project.
Features of Utility Anchor
A utility anchor should be selected based on a variety of important features and specifications to best suit your project needs. Let’s explore some of the defining attributes of a good utility anchor:
1. Strength and Load Capacity
The most critical factor when selecting a utility anchor is its load-bearing capacity. It is important that the anchor can support the weight of the precast elements to be lifted safely. The Safe Working Load (SWL) is a very important specification, and utility anchors for heavy-duty applications can carry loads up to 24,000 lbs. Utility anchors by BaoQi are designed to handle a wide range of loads, thus making them suitable for a variety of precast concrete elements.
2. Ease of Use and Versatility
One of the major benefits of utility anchors is their ease of use. Unlike traditional methods of lifting, which often involve custom lifting devices, utility anchors can be rapidly connected using a standard hook or shackle. Consequently, fewer specialized tools are needed, streamlining the process and reducing equipment costs. The utility anchor system by BaoQi is just a perfect example of this design philosophy, as it provides a versatile solution for the entire wide ranging processes of construction, from the lifting of elements out of the form to unloading and placing them at the job site.
3. Reusability and Sustainability
Sustainability in the building industry is fast gaining awareness. One major advantage of utility anchors is the reusability of the components therein, such as polyurethane recess plugs. The polyurethane recess plug can be reused multiple times to save money and waste over long periods. Utility anchors at BaoQi boast 90° and 45° polyurethane recess plugs, thereby providing major environmental and economic benefits with reduced consumption of disposable components.
The reusability of utility anchor systems makes the projects cost-effective that involve repeated lifting and handling of precast components.
4. No Need for Through Holes
Most of the traditional methods of lifting involve the creation of through holes in the precast element, compromising both its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Utility anchors avoid the creation of such holes. This design feature maintains the quality of the precast element, keeping it structurally sound and visually intact. This saves time in the process of lifting, as no additional modifications need to be made to the precast components.
5. Dual Functionality
BaoQi’s utility anchors offer dual functionality that adds value for contractors. In addition to their primary role as lifting devices, these anchors can also serve as pulling irons, increasing the safe working load by up to 33%. This added functionality makes the anchor even more versatile and valuable in utility applications, where lifting and pulling operations are often required.
Regulations and Standards in the Anchoring Industry
When choosing a utility anchor, careful consideration of the relevant industry standards and regulations that apply to each application is a must. For the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set rigid guidelines for safely operating lifting equipment at a construction site. OSHA regulations, mainly 29 CFR 1926.251, have detailed specifications regarding devices for lifting, also including anchors that are used by workers while undertaking any lifting operation.
Likewise, in Europe, the CE Marking designates that a product, such as utility anchors, meets the minimum safety, health, and environmental protection requirements, making them sellable within the European Economic Area (EEA). Utility anchors by BaoQi bear this CE marking owing to their adherence to strict standards that ensure a great deal of safety and quality for customers.
BaoQi Utility Anchors: Reliable Solution for Precast Construction
BaoQi represents a well-established name in the field of lifting and precast concrete for several utility anchors catering to high expectations in terms of safety, durability, and functionality. From over a decade of manufacturing and exporting high-quality components, it has grown out to be among the leading companies dealing with the issue at hand. Utility anchors presented by BaoQi are produced from high-strength material and designed with a focus on load-carrying capacity to meet safe and successful lifting.
One of the hot-selling products by BaoQi is the Cross Hole Lifting Anchor, which is a utility anchor designed for large precast units such as slabs, beams, panels, and pipes. This anchor system is very useful in securing precast components during lifting and installation. The lifting anchors offered by BaoQi boast a 3.1 certificate and comply with ISO-9001 quality standards; therefore, they meet the strictest safety and quality requirements, making them a reliable choice for contractors worldwide.
BaoQi’s utility anchors are delivered with clear load ratings, and their reusable components help reduce waste, making them a cost-effective solution for precast construction projects. Whether you’re handling small precast elements or massive, heavy-duty components, BaoQi’s utility anchors provide the flexibility and strength needed to get the job done safely and efficiently.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Project
Choosing the right utility anchor is crucial for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and success of your precast construction project. By considering factors such as load capacity, ease of use, sustainability, and compliance with industry regulations, you can select an anchor system that meets your specific needs. BaoQi’s utility anchors stand out as an excellent choice, offering high-strength, reusable solutions that simplify lifting operations and ensure safety throughout the construction process.
For contractors and businesses looking for a reliable supplier of utility anchors, BaoQi is the partner of choice. With a commitment to quality, safety, and innovation, BaoQi’s utility anchors provide exceptional value for both small and large-scale projects.
