MFSL Anchorage and Extension Kit Installation
One of the most challenging aspects of moment frame installation is proper layout and placement of the anchor bolts. Incorrect bolt pattern and on-center placement can mean costly field fixes of the anchor bolts or moment frame or total replacement. Simpson Strong-Tie Strong Frame® has integrated templates, preassembled anchor kits and column base plates that help to eliminate many of the difficulties associated with anchor bolt placement.
Step 1 — MFSL Template Preparation
Prep MFSL for proper installation by performing the following:
- Check to make sure the centerline marked on the template (A) runs parallel with the seam line (B) formed between the two pieces of the shear lug.
- Confirm the distance between the top of the anchor rods and the top of template plate is a minimum 4 1/2”.
- Verify embedment depth (le) complies with construction documents.
Once orientation is confirmed:
- Ensure the set of hex nuts on top of the template are cinched tight to hold template in place during concrete placement.
Step 2 — MFSL Template Measurements
- Identify the center of both columns on the forms per plan; this is the center of the MFSL anchorage assembly kits.
Top view of frame opening showing correct orientation of MFSL template
Step 3 — MFSL Template Form Board Attachment
Prep MFSL for proper installation by performing the following:
- Place MFSL shear lug assemblies at the center of each frame column location according to measurements taken in Step 2; attach to form boards using duplex nails or screws.
- Half moons in middle of the template can be used to pull your tape to confirm the measurements of the center of each frame column location.
- Call Simpson Strong-Tie at (800) 999-5099 with questions concerning the MFSL template placement to help troubleshoot any issues before concrete pour.
Top View of MFSL Template Sticker
To ensure proper orientation of the MFSL, the template should be placed where the sticker”s CENTER OF FRAME arrow is pointing in the direction of the frame opening and corresponding column. The template is reversible when flipped on the sticker side only.
Step 4 — Concrete Placement
- Pour and thoroughly vibrate concrete around the shear lug to ensure full consolidation of the concrete around the assembly. Concrete should be flush with top of shear lug and bottom of template.
Step 5 — MFSL Template Removal
- When the concrete has thoroughly cured to allow for construction, remove duplex nails or screws, unscrew the top set of four hex nuts from the anchor bolts to remove the MFSL template plate.
Note: MFAB template installation similar to MFSL template installation.
Anchorage Extension Kit Installation (where required)
MFSL Installation
- Remove shear lug and template from the anchorage assembly.
- Insert extension rods and fasten with nuts provided.
- Cut bottom of rod to desired length so that the shear lug is flush with top of concrete.
- Install original anchor rods onto the bottom of the extension rods using the coupler nuts (provided). Tighten rods so that both ends are visible in the Witness Hole™ openings.
MFAB Installation
- Remove template from the anchorage assembly.
- Insert extension rods and fasten with nuts provided.
- Cut bottom of rod to desired length so that the fixed nut is flush with top of concrete.
- Install original anchor rods onto the bottom of the extension rods using the coupler nuts (provided). Tighten rods so that both ends are visible in the Witness Hole openings.
Refer to Anchorage page for more anchorage information.
