WARNING: IMPACT DRIVERS CAN REDUCE FASTENER STRENGTH BY UP TO 70%

NEW RESEARCH SHOWS IMPACT DRIVERS CAN SIGNIFICANTLY WEAKEN STRUCTURAL CONNECTIONS

New research conducted at Glasgow Caledonian University reveals critical information for everyone in construction.  When installing structural fasteners, your choice of tool can significantly affect building safety.

THE NUMBERS ARE CLEAR:

1. Withdrawal strength up to 60% weaker using impact drivers,

2. Shear strength up to 70% weaker using impact drivers.

WHAT YOU MUST DO:

On building sites:

 USE traditional electric screwdrivers for structural connections,

 AVOID impact drivers for structural connections,

 CHECK existing connections installed with impact drivers.

In design offices:

 SPECIFY correct tools in documentation,

 REVIEW current specifications,

 IMPLEMENT training on correct tooling choices.

BUILDING SAFETY ACT IMPLICATIONS

The Building Safety Act places responsibility on everyone in the construction chain.  Tool selection can be a critical factor in structural integrity and could affect compliance.

EVOLUTION FASTENERS ADVICE:

Take this research seriously.  While we cannot comment on every specific application, the evidence suggests that proper tool selection can make a substantial difference to connection performance.

Act now to protect your projects, your reputation, and building occupants.

Click here to read theresearch paper.

Research conducted by Ryan Murphy at Glasgow Caledonian University.  Contact Evolution Fasteners’ technical team for specific application advice.

Figure 2 – Comparison of Characteristic Withdrawal Resistances when installed using traditional tooling vs using impact-type tooling.

Figure 3 – Comparison of Characteristic Lap-Shearing Resistances when installed using traditional tooling vs using impact-type tooling.