Can the Hollo-Bolt be used in concrete?

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

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

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 M16 and M20 Hollo-Bolts?

To ensure the 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?

Not always, especially on the size M16 and M20 Hollo-Bolt HCFs where the rubber washer expands to fill the void. Sealing washers are available; however, it is important the interface between the SHS 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 M8, M10 and M12):

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

2) Place a suitable size spanner (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 SHS at the other end of the bolt is released to drop inside the SHS.

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 M16 and M20): 

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 SHS, at the other end of the bolt are released to drop inside the SHS.

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 connections to secondary steelwork, please refer to page 42 of the Lindapter catalogue. If designing structural connections to Eurocode 3, see the Characteristic Values on page 43 of the Lindapter catalogue. For structural connections using the ‘Simple Method’ i.e. braced frames where connections carry mainly shear and axial loads only, refer to the BCSA and SCI design guide ‘Joints in Steel Construction – Simple Connections’.