AnemErgonics now provides anchor rods with its SMarT foundation kits. Southwest Windpower normally supplies concrete anchor “J-bolts” to its Skystream installers. But in an effort to standardize on a single bolt length, and to reduce price, weight and shipping cost, AnemErgonics launched an aggressive research effort to improve this aspect of foundation installation. The result is a new concrete anchor system that is shipped concurrently with SMarT foundation kits. This greatly simplifies shipping logistics and reduces cost. The entire system is delivered to the UPS (United Parcel Service) address provided by the end user.

Concrete anchors are required to connect the tower base flange to the concrete foundation. Our engineers and technicians have invested hundreds of hours researching anchor rod specifications, including materials, corrosion protection, washers, nuts and vibration resistance. They succeeded in designing a system that simplifies installation and significantly reduces price, weight and shipping cost compared to the methods used previously. We use anchor rods threaded at both ends, and our system complies with ASTM F1554 (rods), ASTM F436 (washers) and ASTM A563 (nuts). In keeping with prudent engineering practice and the recommendations of U.S. government agencies, we also supply vibration resistant locking devices. We are proud to use domestic steel in our anchor rods, which are manufactured in the U.S.A. (Imported nuts and washers might be used due to cost and availability.)

Anchor rods are shipped in two boxes, each of which is 6” x 6” x 36” (152 mm x 152 mm x 914 mm) and weighs 56 lbs (25.5 kg). Each box contains four anchor rods and associated nuts, washers and vibration resistant locking devices. Mill certifications are included for the anchor rod material so that installers can choose appropriate installation specifications. All unused materials are either reusable or recyclable.

It is important to note that according to Tower Engineering Professionals “… specification of installation procedures is the responsibility of the turbine or tower manufacturer.” And the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration says in its Guidelines for the Installation, Inspection, Maintenance and Repair of Structural Supports for Highway Signs, Luminaries, and Traffic Signals that “Proper installation … inspection and testing … of the anchor rods is the responsibility of the foundation contractor.” So please check with the turbine manufacturer for recommended installation procedures.

The figure to the left compares the original J-bolts with the new anchor rods, which exhibit more efficient engineering fundamentals. Our anchor rod shipping box is shown below.