Can the Hollo-Bolt be used in concrete?

No. It is designed as an expansion bolt for HSS or other steel sections where access is available from one side only.

Can the Hollo-Bolt be used in all shapes and sizes of HSS?

Yes. It can be used in square, rectangular, circular, and other profiles where access is restricted to the outer face. In all cases the suitability of the component is subject to the available void space, the total thickness of the material to be clamped and in the case of circular sections, the radius of the outer face.

Is it possible to reuse the Hollo-Bolt?

No, although a new Hollo-Bolt can be inserted in the existing hole.

Why is there a minimum outer ply requirement when using 5⁄8" and 3⁄4" Hollo-Bolts?

To ensure the unique collapse mechanism (rubber washer) does not compromise the shear capacity of the Hollo-Bolt by being within the shear plane.

Is it necessary to seal the Hollo-Bolt to prevent ingress of water?

This is not always neccessary especially on the larger size 5/8" and 3/4" Hollo-Bolt HCFs where the collapse mechanism (rubber washer) expands to fill the void. Sealing washers are available; however, it is important the interface between the HSS face and plate or bracket is not ignored.

How do I remove a Hollo-Bolt?

Using a power / hand tool to remove a pre-installed Hexagonal or Countersunk Hollo-Bolt (sizes 5/16", 3/8" and 1/2"):

1) Set the power / hand tool to reverse mode (anti-clockwise rotation).

2) Place a suitable size wrench (depending on collar size) on the collar flats to hold in place.

3) Use the power / hand tool to loosen the bolt. 

4) Continue in reverse mode until the cone on the inside of the HSS at the other end of the bolt is released to drop inside the HSS.

5) The bolt can now be removed as can the sleeve by prying the collar with a pinch or crow bar.

Watch the Hollo-Bolt removal video here

Using a power / hand tool to remove a pre-installed Hollo-Bolt High Clamping Force (sizes 5/8" and 3/4"): 

Steps 1) to 3) same as above.

4) Continue in reverse mode until the cone, expanded sleeve, and rubber washer on the inside of the HSS, at the other end of the bolt are released to drop inside the HSS.

5) The bolt and loose collar can now be removed.

Watch the Hollo-Bolt removal video here

Can the maximum clamping thicknesses published in the catalogue be exceeded?

No. The figures are accurate depictions and should not be exceeded under any circumstances.

Which Hollo-Bolt load table should I use?

For simple connections with unfactored loads use the capacity figures shown on page 44 of the Lindapter catalog (5:1 Factor of Safety). The Hollo-Bolt LRFD and ASD Design Strengths figures on page 45 of the Lindapter catalog (taken from ESR- 3330) are to be used only when designing a bolted connection to AISC 360, AISC 341 and AISI S-100 as referenced in Section 2205 of the IBC.