FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENTAGENCY FEMA 413/January 2004 

INSTALLING SEISMIC RESTRAINTS FOR ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT 



Notice: This guide was prepared by the Vibration Isolation 
and Seismic Control Manufacturers Association (VISCMA) 
under a cooperative agreement between the Federal 
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the American 
Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). Any opinions, findings, 
conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this 
publication do not necessarily reflect the views of FEMA and 
ASCE. Additionally, neither FEMA, ASCE, VISCMA, nor any of 
their employees make any warranty, expressed or implied, 
nor assumes any legal liability or responsibility for the 
accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information, 
product, or process included in this publication. Users of 
information from this publication assume all liability arising 
from such use. 

For additional copies of this guide, call the FEMA Distribution 
Center: 1-800-480-2520. 

For further information concerning this guide or the activities 
of ASCE, contact the American Society of Civil Engineers, 
1801 Alexander Bell Drive, Reston, Virginia, 20191, 703-2956000. 

For further information concerning the activities of the 
Vibration Isolation and Seismic Control Manufacturers 
Association, contact Mr. Robert Ecker, 610-971-4850. 

All photos used with permission. Photos provided by: 

ASCO Power Technologies
Amber/Booth Company
American Standard, Inc.
Caterpillar
Cooper Lighting
GARZO, Inc., Equipment & Compressor Accessories
Hergo Ergonomic Support Systems, Inc.
IntraPack Corporation
KINETICS Noise Control


M.W. Sausse & Co., Inc.
Mason Industries, Inc.
Powerware
Seismic Source Company
Square D
Vibration Eliminator Co., Inc.
Vibration Mountings & Controls, Inc.
FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENTAGENCY FEMA 413/January 2004 

INSTALLING 
SEISMIC RESTRAINTS 
FOR 
ELECTRICAL 
EQUIPMENT 

January 2004 


Developed by the Vibration Isolation and Seismic Control 
Manufacturers Association under a cooperative agreement 
between the Federal Emergency Management Agency and 
the American Society of Civil Engineers 

ii iii 


ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 

This guide was prepared under Cooperative Agreement 
EMW-2001-CO-0379 between the Federal Emergency 
Management Agency and the American Society of Civil 
Engineers. The contributions of the following are gratefully 
acknowledged: 

Vibration Isolation and Seismic Control Manufacturers 

Association (VISCMA) 
Amber/Booth Company Thybar Corporation 
Kinetics Noise Control Vibration Mountings & Controls, Inc. 
Mason Industries Vibration Eliminator Co., Inc. 
M. W. Sausse & Company 

Concrete Anchors Manufacturers Association (CAMA) 

The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) 

Project Team 

Paul Tertell, FEMA Project Officer 
Suzanne Ramsey, Project Manager 
James Carlson, Principal Investigator 

J. Marx Ayres Michael Hagerty 
James Borchers James Henderson 
Mike Callanan Jerry Lilly 
Robert H. Ecker Bill Staehlin 
Consulting Advisors -Representatives of 

Amber/Booth Company Thybar Corporation
IAPMO Vibration Mountings & Controls, Inc.
Kinetics Noise Control Vibration Eliminator Co., Inc.
Mason Industries, Inc. Wej-it Fastening Systems


M. W. Sausse & Co., Inc. 
Advisory Group 

George Barna, Omaha Nebraska 
Phillip J. Caldwell, Square D Company 
Dave Cartier, Electrical Training Trust 
Norm Cohen, Los Angeles California 
Professor William Elarton, Los Angeles Trade Technical College 
Brooke Stauffer, National Electrical Contractors Association 

Editing and Layout 

Gary Clemmons, GC Ink 
Leslie McCasker, McCasker Consulting 

Illustrations 

Scott Hiner, Creative Marketing Resources 

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 
INTRODUCTION 1 
EQUIPMENT 4 
Automatic Transfer Switches 4 
Control Panels 6 
Generators 8 
Lighting 10 
Load Centers and Panelboards 12 
Low Voltage: Substations, Capacitor Banks, 
Switchboards, and Switchgears 14 
Medium to High Voltage: Switchgears, Circuit 
Interrupters, Substation Circuit Breakers, 
and Walk-in Enclosures 16 
Meters and Disconnects 18 
Motor Control Centers and Variable 
Frequency Drives 20 
Multi-media Racks 22 
Transformers 24 
Uninterruptable Power Supplies and 
Battery Racks 26 
Unit Heaters and Tanks 28 
RACEWAYS/CONDUITS/CABLE TRAYS 30 
ATTACHMENT TYPES 51 
Rigid Floor-mounted/Pad-mounted Attachments 51 
Roof-mounted Attachments 65 
Suspended Attachments 71 
Vibration-isolated/Floor-mounted Attachments 87 
Wall-mounted Attachments 98 
ANCHORS 104 
General Anchors 104 
Cast-in-place Anchors 111 
Lag Bolts 112 
Masonry and Drywall Anchors 114 
Power-Actuated Anchors 122 
Steel Bolt Connections 123 
Welding 128 
Anchor Sizes for Equipment Weighing Less 
Than 400 Pounds 130 

iv v 


SPECIAL CASES 133 

Cables 133 
Control Panels 139 
Housekeeping Pads 144 
Lighting 148 

ANCHOR SELECTION GUIDE 151 

ELECTRICAL DANGER INSTRUCTION CHART 160 
GLOSSARY 162 
INDEX 171 


INTRODUCTION 

This guide shows equipment installers how to attach 
electrical equipment to a building to minimize earthquake 
damage. Many attachment examples are presented, 
including anchors and the use of special devices called 

seismic restraint devices. 

Seismic restraint devices include vibration isolation 
systems, cable or strut suspension systems, roof 
attachment systems, and steel shapes. 

An electrical danger instruction chart is provided (page 
160) as a basic guideline. Follow all safety requirements 
as required by code, including those listed below: 

 Printed instructions shipped with the equipment. 
 Instructions in construction drawings and 
specifications. Use approved construction documents. 
 Code-required, industry-accepted practices. 
 Electrical safety guidelines and practices. 
 Orders from your supervisor. 
 Seismic restraint device submittals. 
This guide does not replace any of the above 
referenced materials. 

Please note that this guide does not cover: 

 Fire protection sprinkler, smoke and fire stops, or fire 
detection governed by local codes and the National 
Fire Protection Association. 
 Framing design required to elevate equipment above 
the floor. 
If you have questions about any information in this 
guide, check with your supervisor. 


Introduction 

This guide contains the following sections: 

 Equipment: Arranged according to different kinds of 
electrical equipment such as computer racks, control 
panels, lighting, substations, etc. 
 Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays: Covers the different 
ways to install raceways, conduits, and cable trays. 
 Attachment Types: Gives instructions on installing 
equipment in different arrangements known as 
attachment types. 

 Anchors: Shows many different types of anchors used 
to connect equipment to a building. 
 Special Cases: Covers housekeeping pads, and other 
unique applications. 
To use this guide: 

1. Use the Table of Contents to find the Equipment 
section that best represents the equipment you 
are installing. 
2. Using the table (see example below) in the 
Equipment section, find the: 
-type of equipment you are installing in column 1 
-method of installing the equipment in column 2 
-attachment type in column 3. 

column 1 column 2 column 3 
Typical Equipment How is equipment 
to be installed? 
Attachment Type 
Any type of unit Connected to angles 
mounted to the floor 
Rigid with angles 
Go to page 53 

3. Turn to the page referenced in column 3 for the 
equipment/attachment type you have selected. If 
you are not sure which attachment type is 
correct, ask your supervisor. 

4. Follow the instructions for the attachment type 
you have selected. These instructions will refer 
you to the correct anchor section so you can 
make the connection to the building structure. 
Introduction 

NOTE: All instructions in this guide are arranged in 
order using numbered steps. Please follow every step 
in the sequence shown. 

Special precautions are marked: 


A flag means you should take special care before 
continuing. Read all the information next to a 
flag before attaching the equipment. 

A warning sign means you can cause serious 
damage to the building, the device, or the 
equipment if you do not follow the instructions 
exactly. 


A book means you should refer to the 
manufacturers printed instructions before 
continuing. 
Note that a Glossary and an Index are also available to 
facilitate use of this guide. 

2 3 


EQUIPMENT 

Automatic Transfer Switches 


Be sure to refer to approved construction 
documents and specifications, seismic restraint 
submittals, and manufacturers instructions. 

Step 1: Identify the equipment 
Figure 1: Automatic transfer Figure 2: Automatic transfer 
switch (surface wall-switch (floor-mounted). 
mounted). 

Equipment: Automatic Transfer Switches 

Step 2: Select the type of attachment 
Using the following table, select how the equipment is to 
be installed, select the attachment type that best 
matches the installation you have selected, then turn to 
the page under the attachment type. 

Typical 
Equipment 
How is equipment 
to be installed? 
Attachment Type 
Mounted di rectly to Rigi d 
the fl oor Go to page 51 
Connected to angles Rigi d with angl es 
mounted to the floor Go to page 55 
Any type of uni t 
Di rectl y to the wal l 
-mountedWal l 
Go to page 98 
Mounted to the wal l 
wi th angl es 
-mountedWal l 
wi th angl es 
Go to page 100 

Table 1: Automatic transfer switch installation types. 


Refer to the Electrical Danger Instruction Chart 
on page 160. 

Figure 3: Automatic transfer 
and bypass-isolation switch 
(floor-mounted). 
Figure 4: Service entrance 
with transfer switch (floor-
mounted). 
45 


Control Panels 


Be sure to refer to approved construction 
documents and specifications, seismic restraint 
submittals, and manufacturers instructions. 

Step 1: Identify the equipment 
Figure 5: Control panel Figure 6: Control panel 
(flush wall-mounted). (surface floor-mounted). 


Equipment: Control Panels 

Step 2: Select the type of attachment 
Using the following table, select how the equipment is to 
be installed, select the attachment type that best 
matches the installation you have selected, then turn to 
the page under the attachment type. 

Typical 
Equipment 
equipmentisHow 
to be installed? 
Attachment T ype 
Mounted directly to Rigid 
the floor 51pagetoGo 
Connected to angles Rigid with angles 
mounted to the floor 55pageGo to 
On a raised floor 
Raised floor 
61pageGo to 
Directly to the wall 
-mountedWall 
98pageGo to 
Any type of unit 
Mounted to the wall 
with angles 
-mountedWall 
with angles 
100pageGo to 
and PlateStrut Special Cases: 
framing support Control Panels 
systems 139Go to page 
Follow 
Flush-mounted manufacturer's 
instructions 
Connected to 
companion equipment 
Follow 
manufacturer's 
instructions 

Table 2: Control panel installation types. 


Refer to the Electrical Danger Instruction Chart 
on page 160. 

Figure 7: Control panel 
(floor-mounted). 

67 


Generators 


Be sure to refer to approved construction 
documents and specifications, seismic restraint 
submittals, and manufacturers instructions. 

Step 1: Identify the equipment 
Figure 8: Generator controls Figure 9: Housed generator 
(equipment-mounted). (floor-mounted). 


Equipment: Generators 

Step 2: Select the type of attachment 
Using the following table, select how the equipment is to 
be installed, select the attachment type that best 
matches the installation you have selected, then turn to 
the page under the attachment type. 

Typical Equipment 
How is equipment 
to be installed? 
Attachment Type 
Mounted directly to the Rigid 
floor or pad Go to page 51 
Connected to angles Rigid with angles 
mounted to the floor Go to page 55 
Any type of 
generator Vibration-isolated Vibration-isolated/ 
-mountedfloor 
Go to page 87 
Roof-mounted or Roof-mounted 
vibration-isolated on a Go to page 65 
roof 
Generator controls Connected to Follow 
equipment manufacturer's 
instructions 

Table 3: Generator installation types. 


Refer to the Electrical Danger Instruction Chart 
on page 160. 

For generator fuel tanks, see the Unit Heaters 
and Tanks equipment section on page 28. 

Refer to approved construction documents for 
installation requirements for exhaust and 
muffler noise control. 

Figure 10: Generator with Figure 11: Generator 
weatherproof housing with radiator (pad(pad-mounted). mounted). Radiator may 

be remotely mounted. 

89 


Lighting 


Be sure to refer to approved construction 
documents and specifications, seismic restraint 
submittals, and manufacturers instructions. 

Step 1: Identify the equipment 
Figure 12: Battery powered Figure 13: Exit light/lighted 
light. signs. 


Figure 14: Flush-mounted Figure 15: Lay-in light. 
light. 


Figure 16: Pendant light. Figure 17: Recessed light. 


Equipment: Lighting 

Step 2: Select the type of attachment 
Using the following table, select how the equipment is to 
be installed, select the attachment type that best 
matches the installation you have selected, then turn to 
the page under the attachment type. 

Typical Equipment 
How is equipment 
to be installed? 
Attachment Type 
Battery powered 
light, exit light, or 
flush-mounted light 
attached to anyDirectly 
surface using 
attachment instructions 
for wall-mounted 
equipment 
Wall-mounted 
Go to page 98 
Lay-in light and 
flush-mounted light 
-barInstalled in T 
ceilings 
Special cases: 
Lighting 
Go to page 149 
Directly attached to Special cases: 
Pendant light building stucture Lighting 
150Go to page 
Recessed light and 
industrial light 
Directly attached to 
building structure 
Follow 
manufacturer's 
instructions 
Surface-mounted 
light 
Surface-mounted to 
horizontal building 
structure surface. 
Ceilings must have 
capacity to transfer 
load to buiilding 
structure 
Use attachment 
instructions for 
wall-mounted 
equipment 
Go to page 98 
Chandeliers or Suspended from the Suspended with 
chain-supported building structure chain 
equipment 86Go to page 

Table 4: Lighting installation types. 


Refer to the Electrical Danger Instruction Chart 
on page 160. 

Figure 18: Wall-mounted light. Figure 19: Industrial light. 

10 11 


Step 1: Identify the equipment 
Step 2: Select the type of attachment 
Using the following table, select how the equipment is to 
be installed, select the attachment type that best 
matches the installation you have selected, then turn to 
(floor-mounted). 
the page under the attachment type. 
Table 5: Load center and panelboard installation types. 
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Low Voltage: Substations, Capacitor 
Banks, Switchboards, and Switchgears 


Be sure to refer to approved construction 
documents and specifications, seismic restraint 
submittals, and manufacturers instructions. 

Step 1: Identify the equipment 
Figure 25: Substation Figure 26: Capacitor bank 
(floor-mounted). (floor-mounted). 


Equipment: Low Voltage: Substations, Capacitor 
Banks, Switchboards, and Switchgears 


Figure 29: Low voltage switchgear 
(floor-mounted). 

Step 2: Select the type of attachment 
Using the following table, select how the equipment is to 
be installed, select the attachment type that best 
matches the installation you have selected, then turn to 
the page under the attachment type. 

Typical Equipment 
How is equipment 
to be installed? 
Attachment 
Type 
Mounted directly to the Rigid 
floor Go to page 51 
Connected to angles Rigid with angles 
mounted to the floor Go to page 55 
Any type of unit 
Floor-mounted with 
bumpers 
Floor-mounted 
Go to page 60 
orRoof-mounted Roof-mounted 
vibration-isolated on a Go to page 65 
roof 
Vibration-isolated Vibration-isolated/ 
floor-mounted 
Go to page 87 

Table 6: Low voltage: substation, capacitor bank, switchboard, 
and switchgear installation types. 


Refer to the Electrical Danger Instruction Chart 
on page 160. 

Figure 27: Low voltage Figure 28: Low voltage 
switchboard (floor-mounted). switchboard (floor-mounted). 

14 15 


Medium to High Voltage: Switchgears, 
Circuit Interrupters, Substation Circuit 
Breakers, and Walk-in Enclosures 


Be sure to refer to approved construction 
documents and specifications, seismic restraint 
submittals, and manufacturers instructions. 

Step 1: Identify the equipment 
Figure 30: Medium voltage Figure 31: High voltage 
arc-resistant switchgear circuit interrupter (floor(floor-mounted). mounted). 


Equipment: Medium to High Voltage: Switchgears, 
Circuit Interrupters, Substation Circuit Breakers, 
and Walk-in Enclosures 

Step 2: Select the type of attachment 
Using the following table, select how the equipment is to 
be installed, select the attachment type that best 
matches the installation you have selected, then turn to 
the page under the attachment type. 

Table 7: Medium to high voltage: switchgear, circuit interrupter, 
substation circuit breaker, and walk-in enclosure installation 
types. 
Refer to the Electrical Danger Instruction Chart 
on page 160. 
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Figure 32: Substation circuit Figure 33: Walk-in enclosure. 
breaker. 

16 17 


Meters and Disconnects 


Be sure to refer to approved construction 
documents and specifications, seismic restraint 
submittals, and manufacturers instructions. 

Step 1: Identify the equipment 
Figure 34: Meter center Figure 35: Meter center 
(floor-mounted). (surface-mounted). 


Equipment: Meters and Disconnects 

Step 2: Select the type of attachment 
Using the following table, select how the equipment is to 
be installed, select the attachment type that best 
matches the installation you have selected, then turn to 
the page under the attachment type. 

Typical Equipment 
How is equipment 
to be installed? 
Attachment 
Type 
Mounted directly to the Rigid 
floor Go to page 51 
Connected to angles Rigid with angles 
mounted to the floor Go to page 55 
Any type of unit 
Directly to the wall Wall-mounted 
Go to page 98 
Mounted to the wall with Wall-mounted with 
angles angles 
Go to page 100 
Connected to companion Follow 
equipment manufacturer's 
instructions 

Table 8: Meter and disconnect installation types. 


Refer to the Electrical Danger Instruction Chart 
on page 160. 

Figure 36: Safety switch Figure 37: Double throw 
(surface-mounted). safety switch (surfacemounted). 

18 19 


Motor Control Centers and Variable 
Frequency Drives 


Be sure to refer to approved construction 
documents and specifications, seismic restraint 
submittals, and manufacturers instructions. 

Step 1: Identify the equipment 
Figure 38: Low voltage motor Figure 39: Medium voltage 
control center (floor-mounted). motor control center 
(floor-mounted). 


Equipment: Motor Control Centers and 
Variable Frequency Drives 

Step 2: Select the type of attachment 
Using the following table, select how the equipment is to 
be installed, select the attachment type that best 
matches the installation you have selected, then turn to 
the page under the attachment type. 

Typical Equipment 
How is equipment 
to be installed? 
Attachment 
Type 
Mounted directly to the Rigid 
floor Go to page 51 
Connected to angles Rigid with angles 
mounted to the floor Go to page 55 
Directly to the wall Wall-mounted 
Go to page 98 
Mounted to the wall with Wall-mounted with 
Any type of unit angles angles 
Go to page 100 
Floor-mounted 
Vibration-isolated 
Go to page 87 
Wall-mounted with 
angles 
Go to page 102 
Connected to companion Follow 
equipment manufacturer's 
instructions 

Table 9: Motor control center and variable frequency drive 
installation types. 


Refer to the Electrical Danger Instruction Chart 
on page 160. 

Figure 40: Enclosed motor Figure 41: Variable 
(wall-mounted). frequency drive 
(wall-mounted). 
20 21 


Multi-media Racks 


Be sure to refer to approved construction 
documents and specifications, seismic restraint 
submittals, and manufacturers instructions. 

Step 1: Identify the equipment 
Figure 42: Computer rack Figure 43: Equipment rack 
with or without rollers with or without rollers 
(floor-mounted). (floor-mounted). 


Equipment: Multi-media Racks 

Step 2: Select the type of attachment 
Using the following table, select how the equipment is to 
be installed, select the attachment type that best 
matches the installation you have selected, then turn to 
the page under the attachment type. 

Typical Equipment 
How is equipment 
to be installed? 
Attachment 
Type 
Mounted directly to the Rigid 
floor Go to page 51 
Connected to angles Rigid with angles 
mounted to the floor Go to page 55 
Any type of unit 
Directly to the wall Wall-mounted 
Go to page 98 
Mounted to the wall with Wall-mounted with 
angles angles 
Go to page 100 
Connected to companion Follow 
equipment manufacturer's 
instructions 

Table 10: Multi-media rack installation types. 


Refer to the Electrical Danger Instruction Chart 
on page 160. 

Rollers must be constructed to withstand 
additional forces created by earthquakes. 

Figure 44: Open rack Figure 45: Media 
(floor-mounted). equipment 
(wall-mounted). 

22 23 


Transformers 


Be sure to refer to approved construction 
documents and specifications, seismic restraint 
submittals, and manufacturers instructions. 

Step 1: Identify the equipment 
Figure 46: Dry-type transformer Figure 47: Dry-type 
(wall-mounted). transformer 
(floor-mounted). 


Equipment: Transformers 

Step 2: Select the type of attachment 
Using the following table, select how the equipment is to 
be installed, select the attachment type that best 
matches the installation you have selected, then turn to 
the page under the attachment type. 

Typical 
Equipment 
How is equipment 
to be installed? 
Attachment Type 
Mounted directly to the Rigid 
floor Go to page 51 
Connected to angles Rigid with angles 
mounted to the floor Go to page 55 
Using bumpers Floor-mounted with 
bumpers 
Go to page 60 
Directly to the wall Wall-mounted 
Go to page 98 
Any type of unit wallMounted to the 
with angles 
Wall-mounted 
with angles 
Go to page 100 
Mounted to the wall Wall-mounted, 
with vibration isolation vibration-isolated 
Go to page 102 
Vibration-isolated Vibration-isolated/ 
floor-mounted 
Go to page 87 
Roof-mounted Roof-mounted 
Go to page 65 

Table 11: Transformer installation types. 


Refer to the Electrical Danger Instruction Chart 
on page 160. 

Figure 48: Substation dry-type Figure 49: Substation 
transformer. liquid-filled transformer. 

24 25 


Uninterruptable Power Supplies and 
Battery Racks 


Be sure to refer to approved construction 
documents and specifications, seismic restraint 
submittals, and manufacturers instructions. 

Step 1: Identify the equipment 
Figure 50: UPS in multi-media Figure 51: UPS 
rack. (wall-mounted). 


Figure 52: UPS Figure 53: UPS 
(floor-mounted). (floor-mounted). 


Figure 54: Open battery rack. Figure 55: Cabinet battery 
rack. 

26 

Equipment: Uninterruptable Power 
Supplies and Battery Racks 

Step 2: Select the type of attachment 
Using the following table, select how the equipment is to 
be installed, select the attachment type that best 
matches the installation you have selected, then turn to 
the page under the attachment type. 

Typical 
Equipment 
How is equipment 
to be installed? 
Attachment Type 
Mounted directly to the Rigid 
floor Go to page 51 
Connected to angles Rigid with angles 
mounted to the floor Go to page 55 
On a raised floor On a raised floor 
Go to page 61 
Directly to the wall Wall-mounted 
Go to page 98 
Any type of unit 
wallMounted to the 
with angles 
Wall-mounted 
with angles 
Go to page 100 
Mounted to the wall Wall-mounted, 
with vibration isolation vibration-isolated 
Go to page 102 
Vibration-isolated Vibration-isolated/ 
floor-mounted 
Go to page 87 
Roof-mounted Roof-mounted 
Go to page 65 

Table 12: Uninterruptable power supply and battery rack 
installation types. 


Refer to the Electrical Danger Instruction Chart 
on page 160. 

Batteries must be restrained in the racks. See 
manufacturers instructions. 

Follow the manufacturers instructions for field-
erected battery racks. 

27 


Unit Heaters and Tanks 


Be sure to refer to approved construction 
documents and specifications, seismic restraint 
submittals, and manufacturers instructions. 

Step 1: Identify the equipment 
This manual covers unit heaters suspended from the 
building structure and floor-mounted tanks in service with 
generators. Other tank configurations are covered in 
other manuals. 


Figure 56: Electric unit heater. 


Equipment: Unit Heaters and Tanks 

Step 2: Select the type of attachment 
Using the following table, select how the equipment is to 
be installed, select the attachment type that best 
matches the installation you have selected, then turn to 
the page under the attachment type. 

Typical 
Equipment 
How is equipment 
to be installed? 
Attachment Type 
Suspended from the Rigid with rods and 
withbuilding structure cables 
rods and cables Go to page 71 
Suspended from the Rigid with angles 
building structure with Go to page 78 
angles 
Any unit heater 
Suspended from the Vibration-isolated/ 
building structure with suspended 
isolators, rods and cables Go to page 81 
Mounted to the wall with Wall-mounted with 
angles angles 
Go to page 100 
Relatively thin unit Suspended from the Two-point 
heater building structure with Go to page 84 
two rods and cables 
Any tank 
Mounted directly to the 
floor 
Rigid 
Go to page 51 

Table 13: Unit heater and tank installation types. 


Refer to the Electrical Danger Instruction Chart 
on page 160. 

Figure 57: Fuel oil day tank. 

28 29 


Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays 

RACEWAYS/CONDUITS/CABLE TRAYS 

Supported from the floor 

Electrical raceways include conduits and cable trays. 


For post tension (pre-stressed) buildings, locate
the tendons before drilling. Extreme damage
may occur if a tendon is nicked or cut.


Refer to approved construction documents for
details and provisions for crossing fire barriers,
area separation walls/floors/roofs, smoke
barriers and seismic separation joints.


Each run of conduit or cable tray must have at
least one transverse supports at each end of the
run and at least one longitudinal support
anywhere on the run.


Pre-approved manufacturers/industry manuals
used for installation of conduit supports are
required to be on the job site to ensure the
correct details are being used.


Do not mix strut and cable bracing systems. 

The eight ways to install raceways are: 

 Supported from the floor with angles or strut system 
(page 31). 
 Supported from the wall (page 34). 
 Suspended using clevis hanger braced at the 
restraining bolt (page 36). 
 Suspended using clevis hanger braced at the hanger 
rod (page 39). 
 Suspended using clevis hanger and four-way cable 
brace (page 41). 
 Suspended using conduit clamps (page 43). 
 Suspended with a trapeze support system (page 47). 
 Crossing seismic joints (page 50). 
Figure 58: Single vertical support. 
Use the instructions on page 35 for installing rigid 
supports. 
30 31 


Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays 

Laterally braced raceways/conduit/cable trays 
Axially braced raceways/conduit/cable trays 

Figure 59: Braced raceways/conduit/cable trays supported from 
strut. 


Figure 60: Attachment to a floor with a trapeze support system. 

Step 1: Determine dimensions of trapeze support 
Match trapeze support with the bottom of the conduit. 
Ensure that the width of the support allows clearance for 
installing clamps. 

Step 2: Build trapeze support 
Step 3: Determine where to drill holes in floor 
Coordinate the support base hole locations with the 
location of any steel reinforcements or tendons. 


Building structures must be point load capable. 
Verify with the appropriate design professional. 

32 33 


Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays 

Step 4: Install anchors 
For instructions on installing anchors, see Anchors (page 
104). 

Step 5: Run conduit and install conduit clamps 
Secure cable tray to strut or angle with one- or two-hole 
brackets provided with the cable tray, or use two half 
angles. 

END OF ATTACHMENT. 

Supported from the wall 

The instructions below should also be used for conduit 
that is surface-mounted on the underside of a building 
structural slab or rated structural ceiling. 


Figure 62: Attach to the wall with angle or strut welded to 
base plate. 

Step 1: Attach support or angles to the wall 
For instructions on installing anchors, see Anchors (page 
104). 


Building structures must be point load capable. 
Verify with the appropriate design professional. 

For drywall attachments, use a strut attachment to the 
studs as shown in Figure 157 (page 142). 

Step 2: Attach conduits to support with straps 
The length of standoff as shown on approved 
construction documents or manufacturers 
manuals must be rated for applied conduit 
weight. 

END OF ATTACHMENT. 

Figure 61: Direct attachment 

34 35 


Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays 

Suspended using clevis hanger braced at the 
restraining bolt 

Step 1: Attach vertical rods with hanger to the building 
structure 
Lay out all attachment points before anchoring. For 
building structure attachment details, see Figures 92 
through 98 (pages 71 to 75). For instructions on installing 
anchors, see Anchors (page 104). 


Building structures must be point load capable. 
Verify with the appropriate design professional. 

Step 2: Run raceways or conduits as required by the 
approved construction documents 
Step 3: Attach anchors to the building structure for 
lateral support restraints 
Refer to the pre-approved manufacturers/ 
industry manuals for spacing of supports. 


Figure 63: Single clevis hanger support with strut or angle 
lateral supports at the restraining bolt. 


Pre-approved manufacturers/industry manuals 
may limit the maximum transverse and 
longitudinal angles to 45 degrees. 

Torque bolts per manufacturers 
recommendations. 

36 37 


Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays 


Figure 64: Single clevis hanger support with cable lateral
supports at the restraining bolt.


For cable assembly instructions, see Cables (page 133). 
For details on attaching cable to the building structure, 
see Figure 100 (page 77). For angle and strut attachment, 
see Figure 103 (page 79). For instructions on installing 
anchors, see Anchors (page 104). 


Torque bolts per manufacturers
recommendations.


END OF ATTACHMENT.


Suspended using clevis hanger braced at the 
hanger rod 


Figure 65: Single clevis hanger support with strut or angle 
lateral supports at hanger rod. 


Pre-approved manufacturers/industry manuals 
may limit the maximum transverse and 
longitudinal angles to 45 degrees. 


Torque bolts per manufacturers 
recommendations. 

38 39 


Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays 

Step 1: Attach vertical rods with hanger to the building 
structure 
Suspended using clevis hanger and four-way cable 
brace 

Lay out all attachment points before anchoring. For 

building structure attachment details, see Figures 92 

through 98 (pages 71 to 75). For direct attachment to 

buidling structure, see Anchors (page 104). 


Building structures must be point load capable. 
Verify with the appropriate design professional. 

Step 2: Run conduits as required by the approved 
construction documents 
Step 3: Attach anchors to the building structure for 
lateral support restraints 
For cable assembly instructions, see Cables (page 133). 
For details on attaching cable to the building structure, 
see Figure 100 (page 77). For angle and strut attachment, 
see Figure 103 (page 79). For instructions on installing 
anchors, see Anchors (page 104). 

Step 4: Attach cables to conduit 
END OF ATTACHMENT.


Figure 66: Single clevis hanger with four-way cable brace. 
40 41 


Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays 

Step 1: Attach vertical rods with hanger to the building 
structure 
Suspended using conduit clamps 

Lay out all attachment points before anchoring. For 
building structure attachment details, see Figures 92 
through 98 (pages 71 to 75). For instructions on installing 
anchors, see Anchors (page 104). 


Building structures must be point load capable. 
Verify with the appropriate design professional. 

Step 2: Run conduits as required by the approved 
construction documents 
Step 3: Attach anchors to the building structure for 
lateral support restraints 
For cable assembly instructions, see Cables (page 133). 
For details on attaching cable to the building structure, 
see Figure 100 (page 77). For angle and strut attachment, 
see Figure 103 (page 79). For instructions on installing 
anchors, see Anchors (page 104). 

END OF ATTACHMENT. 


Figure 67: Conduit clamp supports with transverse strut or 
angle lateral support and hanger rod. 


Pre-approved manufacturers/industry 
manuals may limit the maximum transverse 
and longitudinal angles to 45 degrees. 

Torque bolts per manufacturers 
recommendations. 

42 43 


Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays 


Figure 68: Conduit clamp supports with longitudinal strut or 
angle lateral support and hanger rod. 


Pre-approved manufacturers/industry 
manuals may limit the maximum transverse 
and longitudinal angles to 45 degrees. 


Figure 69: Conduit clamp supports with longitudinal cable 
Torque bolts per manufacturers lateral support and hanger rod. 
recommendations. 


44 45 


Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays 

Step 1: Attach vertical rods with hanger to the building 
structure 
Lay out all attachment points before anchoring. For 
building structure attachment details see Figures 92 
through 98 (pages 71 to 75). For instructions on installing 
anchors, see Anchors (page 104). 


Building structures must be point load capable. 
Verify with the appropriate design professional. 

Step 2: Run conduits as required by the approved 
construction documents 
Step 3: Attach anchors to the building structure for 
lateral support restraints 
For cable assembly instructions, see Cables (page 133). 
For details on attaching cable to the building structure, 
see Figure 100 (page 77). For angle and strut attachment, 
see Figure 103 (page 79). For instructions on installing 
anchors, see Anchors (page 104). 

END OF ATTACHMENT. 

Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays 

Suspended with a trapeze support system 

Figure 70: Trapeze support with strut or angle lateral supports. 
Pre-approved manufacturers/industry 
manuals may limit the maximum transverse 
and longitudinal angles to 45 degrees. 

Torque bolts per manufacturers 
recommendations. 

46 47 


Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays 

Step 1: Attach vertical rods with hanger to the building 
structure 
Lay out all attachment points before anchoring. For 
building structure attachment details, see Figures 92 
through 98 (pages 71 to 75). For instructions on installing 
anchors, see Anchors (page 104). 


Building structures must be point load capable. 
Verify with the appropriate design professional. 

Step 2: Run conduits as required by approved 
construction documents 
Step 3: Attach anchors to the building structure for 
lateral support restraints 
For cable assembly instructions, see Cables (page 133). 
For details on attaching cable to the building structure, 
see Figure 100 (page 77). For angle and strut attachment, 
see Figure 103 (page 79). For instructions on installing 
anchors, see Anchors (page 104). 


Figure 71: Trapeze support with cable lateral supports. 

END OF ATTACHMENT. 

48 49 


Raceways/Conduits/Cable Trays 

Crossing seismic joints 

Figure 72: Seismic joint. 
Step 1: Cross seismic joint with flexible conduit 
Support conduits as required by approved construction 
documents. Add a flexible conduit support to allow 
differential movement in all directions. 

END OF ATTACHMENT. 

ATTACHMENT TYPES 

This section gives instructions on attaching equipment to 
a building structure in various arrangements. The 
attachment types are: 

 Rigid Floor-mounted/Pad-mounted (this page). 
 Roof-mounted (page 65). 
 Suspended (page 71). 
 Vibration-isolated/Floor-mounted (page 87). 
 Wall-mounted (page 98). 
Rigid Floor-mounted/Pad-mounted 
Attachments 

The four ways to rigidly attach equipment to a floor are: 

 Directly to the floor/pad (this page). 
 Using additional structural steel shapes that transfer 
load to the building floor/pad (page 55). 
 Using bumpers to restrict horizontal movement 
(page 60). 
 On a raised floor (page 61). 
Directly to the floor/pad 

Equipment may be bolted or welded to the building floor 
or pad. To bolt to concrete, use post-installed anchors, or 
embedded headed studs (see Anchors, page 104). 

Attachment of equipment with sheet steel housings is 
shown in Figures 73 and 74 (page 52). 

Attachment of equipment with a structural steel frame or 
base is shown in Figure 75 (page 53). 

50 51 


Attachments: Rigid Floor-mounted/Pad-mounted Attachments: Rigid Floor-mounted/Pad-mounted 


Figure 73: Direct attachment of equipment with sheet steel 
housing to a building. 


Do not add shims under equipment with sheet 
steel housings as shown in Figure 73 above. If 
the concrete floor/pad is irregular, reinforce 
housing with angles as shown in Figure 77 
(page 56). 

Figure 74: Side view of equipment with sheet steel housing. 
Figure 75: Direct attachment of equipment with structural steel 
frame or base to a building. 
Step 1: Determine where to bolt the equipment 
Accurately draw the bolt pattern on the floor, concrete 
pad, or steel beams using one of the following methods: 

 Set the equipment in place and mark the holes. 
 Make a template. 
 Use measurements and approved construction 
documents to lay out the bolt hole pattern. 
It is preferred to use the holes provided by the 
manufacturer. Under supervisory approval, you 
may need to drill additional holes in the 
equipment assembly or building steel beams as 
shown on approved construction documents or 
the manufacturers instructions. 


USE CAUTION WHEN DRILLING INTO 
EQUIPMENT. Internal components can be 
damaged or the manufacturers warranty 
may be voided. 


DO NOT DRILL OVERSIZED HOLES. New holes 
cannot be oversized or oval in shape. Repair 
oversized holes as shown in Figure 76 (page 
54), if necessary. 

53 


Attachments: Rigid Floor-mounted/Pad-mounted Attachments: Rigid Floor-mounted/Pad-mounted 

Step 4: Attach nuts or weld equipment 
Figure 76: Three options to repair oversized holes. 

Step 2: Install anchors 
If the equipment is to be anchored to concrete, drill and 
install post-installed anchors or pour concrete with cast-
in-place studs (see Anchors, page 104). 


If the equipment is to be bolted to steel, drill 
holes in the steel as shown on approved 
construction documents or the manufacturers 
instructions. 

Step 3: Move equipment into place 
BE CAREFUL NOT TO DAMAGE THE ANCHORS 
WHEN SETTING THE EQUIPMENT. 

Attach nuts to the anchor/bolt and torque, see Anchors 
(page 104) or weld equipment to steel beams or 
embedded plates, see Welding (page 128). 

Raceways, conduits, and cable trays may now be 
connected. 

END OF ATTACHMENT. 

Using additional structural steel shapes that transfer 
load to the building floor/pad 

Attach additional structural shapes to the equipment with 
bolts and then attach steel shapes to the building with 
concrete anchors, steel bolts, or welding. When bolting to 
concrete, use post-installed anchors or embedded 
headed studs. 

The five configurations for using angles to attach 
equipment to the building structure are: 

 Full-size angles on each side of equipment (Figure 77, 
page 56). 
 Four or more angles on each side of equipment 
bolted to the concrete floor/pad (Figure 78, page 57). 
 Four or more angles welded to equipment and bolted 
to the floor/pad (Figure 79, page 57). 
 Four or more angles on each side of equipment 
welded to embedded plates (Figure 80, page 58). 
 Three or more angles used to bolt down equipment 
with a round base, (Figure 81, page 58). 
54 55 


Attachments: Rigid Floor-mounted/Pad-mounted Attachments: Rigid Floor-mounted/Pad-mounted 


Figure 78: Four or more angles used to attach the equipment 
to the building. 

Figure 77: Two angles used to attach the equipment to the 
building. 


Figure 79: Four or more angles welded to equipment and 
bolted to the floor/pad. 

56 57 


Attachments: Rigid Floor-mounted/Pad-mounted Attachments: Rigid Floor-mounted/Pad-mounted 

Step 1: Determine where to bolt the equipment 
Figure 80: Four or more angles on each side of equipment 
welded to embedded plates. Figure 148 (page 128) gives 
examples of embedded steel plates. 
Figure 81: Three or more angles used to bolt down equipment 
with a round base. 

Accurately draw the bolt pattern on the floor, concrete 
pad, or steel beams using one of the following methods: 

 Set the equipment in place and mark the holes. 
 Make a template. 
 Use measurements and approved construction 
documents to lay out the bolt hole pattern. 
It is preferred to use the holes provided by the 
manufacturer. Under supervisory approval, you 
may need to drill additional holes in the 
equipment assembly or building steel beams as 
shown on approved construction documents or 
the manufacturers instructions. 


USE CAUTION WHEN DRILLING INTO 
EQUIPMENT. Internal components can be 
damaged or the manufacturers warranty 
may be voided. 

DO NOT DRILL OVERSIZED HOLES. New holes 
cannot be oversized or oval in shape. Repair 
oversized holes as shown in Figure 76 (page 
54), if necessary. 

Step 2: Install anchors 
If the equipment is to be anchored to concrete, drill and 
install post-installed anchors or pour concrete with 
embedded studs (see Anchors, page 104). 

Step 3: Move the equipment into place 
BE CAREFUL NOT TO DAMAGE THE ANCHORS 
WHEN SETTING THE EQUIPMENT. 

You may bolt or weld angles to the equipment before 
moving the equipment into place. 

Step 4: Attach nuts or weld equipment 
Attach nuts to the anchor/bolt and torque (see Anchors, 
page 104 or Welding, page 128). 

Raceways, conduits, and cable trays may now be 
connected. 

END OF ATTACHMENT. 

58 59 


Attachments: Rigid Floor-mounted/Pad-mounted 

Using bumpers to restrict horizontal movement 

Use this attachment type when equipment is mounted to 
a concrete inertia base or steel frame, but is not attached 
to the building. Refer to the Vibration-isolated/Floormounted Attachments section (page 87) for information 
on bumpers. 

Bumpers are used to restrain the base from moving 
horizontally when there is no chance that the equipment 
will tip over. Bumpers are only bolted to the building 
structure. Use post-installed anchors to bolt to concrete, 
as shown in Figures 82 and 83 (below). 


Figure 82: Equipment installed with bumpers. 


If anchors are near a joint in the concrete, see 
detail in Figure 83. 


Attachments: Rigid Floor-mounted/Pad-mounted 

Step 1: Determine where to bolt the equipment 
Accurately draw the bolt pattern on the floor, concrete 
pad, or steel beams using one of the following methods: 

 Set the bumpers in place and mark the holes. 
 Make a template. 
 Use measurements and approved construction 
documents to lay out the bolt hole pattern. 
Step 2: Install anchors 
For instructions on installing anchors, see Anchors (page 
104). If the anchors are near a concrete joint, refer to the 
detail in Figure 83 (page 60). 

Step 3: Install bumpers 
Step 4: Attach nuts to the anchor/bolt and torque 
For instructions on installing anchors, see Anchors (page 
104). Figure 83 (page 60) shows equipment restrained 
with bumpers next to a cold joint. 

END OF ATTACHMENT. 

On a raised floor 

Equipment set on a raised floor can be seismically 
attached to the building structure below. A stand rated 
for the weight of the equipment and laterally braced to 
withstand seismic loads must be provided. Equipment is 
rigidly attached to the stand and the stand is rigidly 
bolted to the floor beneath the raised floor. Portions of 
the raised floor are removed to allow installation of the 
stand and equipment as shown in Figures 84 (page 62), 
85 (page 63) and 86 (page 64). 

Figure 83: Alternate installation detail of bumpers installed near
a concrete joint.


60 61 


Attachments: Rigid Floor-mounted/Pad-mounted Attachments: Rigid Floor-mounted/Pad-mounted 

Figure 84: Electrical equipment installed on a raised floor. 
Step 1: Determine where to bolt the equipment 
Accurately draw the bolt pattern on the floor using one of 
the following methods: 

 Set the frame in place and mark the holes. 
 Make a template. 
 Use measurements and approved construction 
documents to lay out the bolt hole pattern. 
Figure 85: Equipment attached to cables beneath a raised floor. 

Step 2: Install anchors 
For instructions on installing anchors, see Anchors (page 
104). Set the frame in place and apply nuts to the anchor/ 
bolt and torque. 


Verify with a supervisor that the weight of 
equipment will not exceed the capacity of the 
raised floor and that the floor can withstand a 
horizontal load. 

62 63 


Attachments: Rigid Floor-mounted/Pad-mounted 

Figure 86: Equipment bolted beneath a raised floor. 
Step 3: Move the equipment into place 
Bolt the equipment to the frame (see Steel Bolt 
Connections, page 123) or bolt to strut as shown in 
Figure 86. 


It is preferred to use the holes provided by the 
manufacturer. Under supervisory approval, you 
may need to drill additional holes in the 
equipment assembly or building steel beams as 
shown on approved construction documents or 
the manufacturers instructions. 


USE CAUTION WHEN DRILLING INTO 
EQUIPMENT. Internal components can be 
damaged or the manufacturers warranty 
may be voided. 


DO NOT DRILL OVERSIZED HOLES. New holes 
cannot be oversized or oval in shape. Repair 
oversized holes as shown in Figure 76 (page 
54), if necessary. 

Raceways, conduits, and cable trays may now be
connected.


END OF ATTACHMENT. 

64 

Roof-mounted Attachments 

The three ways to attach equipment to a roof are: 

 Using leveling stanchionspost and beam (this page). 
 To a wood frame (page 68). 
 Using restrained vibration isolators on leveling 
stanchions (page 69). 
Using leveling stanchionspost and beam 

Step 1: Attach posts or stanchions 
Bolt or weld stanchions (also called post and beam) to 
the building structure. To attach stanchions to different 
building structure types, see the detail in Figure 87 (page 
66). 

Support stanchions can be made from many different 
structural shapes. 


Coordinate attachment points with approved 
construction documents. Additional intermediate 
building structure beams may be required to 
accommodate the equipment. 


The building structure must be capable of 
supporting the point load of the stanchions. 

Step 2: Apply flashing to stanchions 
Use standard details to flash around pipe stanchions or 
steel tubing. For flashing around a stanchion, which may 
not be uniform like an angle, channel, or I-beam steel 
shape, see Figure 88 (page 67). 

65 


Attachments: Roof-mounted Attachments: Roof-mounted 


Figure 88: Flashing around a stanchion. 

Step 4: Attach equipment 
To rigidly attach the equipment to the equipment support 
frame, see Figure 89 (below). 

Figure 87: Attaching a stanchion to a building. 


Step 3: Weld/bolt equipment support frame to 
stanchion 
The equipment support frame may be box-shaped or
have two parallel beams made from steel shapes such as 
Figure 89: Rigid attachment of equipment to a support frame.


angles, tubes, channels, or I-beams. 

END OF ATTACHMENT. 

66 67 


Attachments: Roof-mounted 

To a wood frame 

Step 1: Attach wood frame to building structure 
Figure 90 (below) shows a typical wood frame (curb/rail) 
attachment. 

Step 2: Install flashing 
Figure 90 (below) shows typical flashing. 


Use approved construction documents for 
flashing details. 

Step 3: Attach equipment to the wood frame 
Attach equipment directly to the wood frame as shown 
below. Wood frames can restrain equipment with 
internal frames or with support legs as shown. 

Figure 90: Attachment of equipment to a wood frame. 
END OF ATTACHMENT. 
68 

Attachments: Roof-mounted 

Using restrained vibration isolators on leveling 
stanchions 

Figure 91 (below) shows a typical installation of 
restrained vibration-isolated equipment on stanchions 
and an equipment support frame. 


Figure 91: Equipment attached using restrained vibration 
islators on a post and beam support. 


More than four restrained vibration isolators 
may be required. See the manufacturers 
instructions. 

Verify that each vibration isolator is properly 
aligned according to the manufacturers 
recommended clearances. If the vibration 
isolator shaft rubs against the snubber element, 
vibration isolation may not function or noise 
problems may occur. 

Step 1: Attach posts or stanchions 
Bolt or weld stanchions to the building structure. Refer to 
the detail in Figure 87 (page 66) for attaching stanchions 
to different building structure types. Support stanchions 
can be made from many different structural shapes. 

69 


Attachments: Roof-mounted 


Coordinate attachment points with approved 
construction documents. Additional 
intermediate building structure beams may be 
required to accommodate the equipment. 

The building structure must be capable of 
supporting the point load of the stanchions. 

Step 2: Apply flashing to stanchions 
Use standard details to flash around pipe stanchions or 
steel tubing. For flashing around a stanchion, which may 
not be uniform like an angle, channel, or I-beam steel 
shape, refer to Figure 88 (page 67). 

Step 3: Weld/bolt equipment support frame to 
stanchions 
The equipment support frame may be box-shaped or 
have two parallel beams. The equipment support frame 
may be made from steel shapes such as angles, tubes, 
channels, or I-beams. 

Step 4: Attach restrained vibration isolators 
Attach restrained vibration isolators to the support frame 
using steel bolts. 


The support frame must be wider than the base 
plate of the restrained vibration isolator. 

Step 5: Install equipment on vibration isolators 
Install equipment on vibration isolators with attachment 
nuts and level. 

Bases are required for mounting equipment 
with restrained vibration isolators. 

END OF ATTACHMENT. 

70 

Suspended Attachments 

Do not mix strut and cable bracing systems. 

The five ways to suspend equipment are by: 

 Rigid connection to the building structure using four 
threaded vertical rods with horizontal cable supports 
(this page). 
 Rigid connection to the building structure using 
angle/strut supports (page 78). 
 Vibration-isolated connection to the building structure 
using a minimum of four threaded vertical rods and 
lateral restraints (page 81). 
 Two point equipment attachment - bolted to the 
building structure (page 84). 
 Chain mounted or bar support with swivel (page 86). 
Rigid connection to the building structure using four 
threaded vertical rods with horizontal cable supports 

Equipment should have pre-installed brackets that can 
support the attachment to the building. 


Figure 92: Rigid connection to the building structure. 


Cables provide lateral bracing for seismic loads 
and should not be installed to hang equipment. 


Attachments: Suspended Attachments: Suspended 

Step 1: Attach the equipment to the building structure 
using threaded rods and anchors 
Lay out all attachment points before anchoring. For 
building structure attachment details, see Figures 92 to 
98 (pages 71 to 75). For instructions on bolting directly 
to the building structure, see Steel Bolt Connections 
(page 123). 

Figure 94: Post-installed anchor; concrete fill on steel deck. 

Figure 93: Cast-in-place anchor; concrete fill on steel deck. 


Figure 95: Wood beam construction. 


For edge distances and spacing, see Lag Bolts 
(page 112). 

72 73 


Attachments: Suspended Attachments: Suspended 


Figure 96: Steel beam construction. 


Use center load beam clamps for vertical loads.
Do not use for cables, rods, or structural
members positioned at an angle. Figure 98: Concrete slab construction.



Figure 97: Bar joist construction. 


Use center load beam clamps for vertical loads. 
Do not use for cables, rods, or structural 
members positioned at an angle. 

74 75 


Attachments: Suspended Attachments: Suspended 

Step 2: Add rod stiffeners, as required 
Figure 99: Rod stiffeners. 

Step 3: Attach anchors to the building structure for 
cable attachment 
Figure 100: Attachments to the building structure. 
For edge distances and spacing, see Lag Bolts 
(page 112). 
Do not attach bracing to bottom of bar joist. 
Figure 100 (page 77) shows typical anchorage to 
different building construction. For instructions on 
installing anchors, see Anchors (page 104). 

Step 4: Attach cable to the building structure 
For cable assembly instructions, see Cables (page 133).
For details on attaching cable to the building structure, 
For details on attaching cable to the equipment, see
see Figure 100 (page 77). 
Figure 101 (page 78).


Step 5: Attach cables to equipment 
76 77 


Attachments: Suspended Attachments: Suspended 

Step 1: Attach the equipment to the building structure 
using threaded rods and anchors 
Figure 101: Attachment of cable to the equipment. 
END OF ATTACHMENT. 
Rigid connection to the building structure using angle/ 
strut supports 
Equipment may have pre-installed brackets for angle 
support attachments as shown below in Figure 102. 
Lay out all attachment points before anchoring. For 
building structure attachment details, see Figures 
92 to 98 (pages 71 to 75). For instructions on installing 
anchors, see Anchors (page 104). Rod stiffeners may be 
required. 

Step 2: Attach anchors to the building structure for 
angle or strut supports 
For building structure attachment details, see Figures 
92 to 98 (pages 71 to 75). For instructions on installing 
anchors, see Anchors (page 104). 

Step 3: Attach angles or strut supports to the building 
structure 
Figure 102: Rigid attachment of angles to the building structure. 
Figure 103: Attachment of angle or strut to the building 
structure. 


Refer to approved construction documents for 
other attachments that may be permitted, 
similar to Figure 100 on page 77 (wood and bar 

joist). 

Pre-approved manufacturers/industry manuals 
may limit the maximum transverse and 
longitudinal angles to 45 degrees. 

Attachment to bottom of beam if permitted by 
approved construction documents. 

78 79 


Attachments: Suspended 

Step 4: Attach angle or strut to equipment 
Figure 104: Attachment of angle or strut to the equipment. 
Pre-approved manufacturers/industry manuals 
may limit the maximum transverse and 
longitudinal angles to 45 degrees. 

END OF ATTACHMENT. 

Attachments: Suspended 

Vibration-isolated connection to the building structure 
using a minimum of four threaded vertical rods and 
lateral restraints 

Equipment may have pre-installed brackets for angle 
support attachments. See Figures 105 and 106 (below). 

Figure 105: Plan view of vibration isolation suspended 
attachment to the building structure. 
The side view (below) shows vibration isolators, rods 
(without rod stiffeners), and cables. 
Figure 106: Side view of vibration isolation suspended 
attachment to the building structure. 
80 


Attachments: Suspended Attachments: Suspended 

Step 1: Attach equipment to the building structure 
using threaded rods, isolators and anchors 
For the isolator detail, see Figure 107 (below). For 
building structure attachment details, see Figures 
92 to 98 (pages 71 to 75). 


Figure 107: Isolator detail. 

Step 2: Attach anchors and cable to the building 
structure 
For details on attaching cable to the building structure, 
see Figure 100 (page 77). For instructions on installing 
anchors, see Anchors (page 104). 

Figure 108: Attachment of cable/rod assembly to the 
equipment. 
END OF ATTACHMENT. 
Step 3: Attach cables to equipment 
For cable assembly instructions, see Cables (page 133). 
For details on attaching the vibration-isolated cable/rod 
assembly to the equipment, see Figure 108 (page 83). 

82 83 


Attachments: Suspended 

Two point equipment attachment  bolted to the 
building structure 


Attachments: Suspended 

Step 1: Attach anchors and vertical rods to the building 
structure 
Lay out all attachment points before anchoring. For 
building structure attchment details, see Figures 92 to 
98 (page 71 to 75). Attach equipment to the vertical 
rods. 


The attachment should be located just above the 
center of gravity to minimize swinging. It should 
be a rigid attachment with brackets to the 
equipment using double nuts and washers, 
especially if connected at the top as shown in 
Figure 109 (page 84). 

Step 2: Attach rod stiffners 
For attachment details, refer to Figure 99 (page 76). 

Step 3: Attach anchors to the building for cable 
attachment 
Figure 100 (page 77) shows typical anchorage to different 
building construction. For instructions on installing 
anchors, see Anchors (page 104). 

Step 4: Attach cable to the building structure 
For cable assembly instructions, see Cables (page 133). 
For details on attaching cable to the building structure, 
see Figure 100 (page 77). 

Step 5: Attach cables to equipment 
The detail in Figure 109 (page 84) shows the attachment 
to the equipment. 

END OF ATTACHMENT. 

Figure 109: Two point equipment attachment. 

Use this type of installation for unit heaters. 

84 85 


Attachments: Suspended 

Chain mounted or bar support with swivel 

Figure 110: Chain mounted or bar support with swivel. 
Step 1: Attach anchor to the building structure 
Lay out all attachment points before anchoring. Follow all 
requirements for anchors. For instructions on installing 
anchors, see Anchors (page 104). 

Step 2: Attach chain or bar to anchor 
Attachment should allow the chain or bar to swing freely 
in all directions without binding. 

Swinging motion should not be obstructed by 
other objects within the vicinity of the 
equipment supported by the chain. 

Design of anchorage must consider the sway of 
the light fixture during a seismic event. 

END OF ATTACHMENT. 

Vibration-isolated/Floor-mounted 
Attachments 

Vibration isolation uses several different springs or 
isolation pads to isolate equipment vibrations from the 
building structure. Vibration isolators can be open (see 
Figure 111, left), housed (see Figure 111, right), and 
restrained (see Figure 112, page 88). 


NEVER USE HOUSED VIBRATION ISOLATORS 
FOR SEISMIC RESTRAINT APPLICATIONS. 
Housed isolators cannot resist uplift. 

Snubbers (see Figure 113, page 88) are restraint 
devices to limit the movement of equipment that is 
isolated. Bumpers (see Figure 114, page 89) also limit 
the movement of equipment and are similar to snubbers. 


NEVER USE SNUBBERS THAT ARE NOT 
SPECIFIED. Some snubbers only restrict 
movement in one direction. 

NEVER USE OPEN VIBRATION ISOLATORS 
WITHOUT SNUBBERS OR BUMPERS. 

Bases are steel structures made from angles, channels, 
or I-beams. 


Bases are required for mounting isolated 
equipment and rated for point loads. The 
equipment or isolator manufacturer may 
provide the bases. 


Figure 111: Open (left) and housed (right) vibration isolators. 

86 87 


Attachments: Vibration-isolated/Floor-mounted Attachments: Vibration-isolated/Floor-mounted 


Figure 112: Four types of restrained vibration isolators. 


Verify that the vibration isolator is properly 
aligned according to the manufacturers 
clearances. If the vibration isolator shaft rubs 
against the snubber element, vibration isolation 
may not function or noise problems may occur. 


Figure 113: Two examples of snubbers. 


Figure 114: Example of a bumper. 


Figure 115: Vibration isolation pads. 

Isolation pads may be placed under electrical equipment 
to reduce noise transmission to the building structure. 
Vibration isolation pads may be made of molded rubber, 
coated fiberglass, cork and various combinations thereof 
(see Figure 115 above for examples). 


Figure 116: Rubber mounts. 

Rubber mounts may be used to isolate equipment. See 
Figure 116 right, for rubber mounts with threaded steel 
inserts; left, for restrained rubber mounts. 

88 89 


Attachments: Vibration-isolated/Floor-mounted 

The three ways of attaching vibration-isolated/floormounted equipment are on: 

 Restrained vibration isolators (this page). 
 Open isolators combined with snubbers (page 93). 
 Elastomeric pads with isolated anchors (page 96). 
Restrained vibration isolators 

Figure 117: Typical installation of restrained vibration 
isolators. 
More than four restrained vibration isolators 
may be required. See the manufacturers 
instructions. 

Step 1: Determine where to bolt the equipment 
Accurately draw the bolt pattern on the floor or pad using 
one of the following methods: 

 Set the equipment in place and mark the holes. 
 Make a template. 
 Use measurements and approved construction documents to lay out the bolt hole pattern. 
90 

Attachments: Vibration-isolated/Floor-mounted 

Step 2: Install anchors 
Drill and install post-installed anchors or pour concrete 
with embedded studs. For instructions on installing 
anchors, see Anchors (page 104). 

Step 3: Set restrained isolators and bolt to anchors 
Install restrained isolators to the building structure as 
shown in Figure 118 (below). Attach nuts to the anchor. 
Use bolts for shell-type anchors or internally threaded 

wedge or chemical anchors. 


Torque bolts per manufacturers 
recommendations. 

BE CAREFUL NOT TO DAMAGE THE ANCHORS 
WHEN SETTING THE EQUIPMENT OR 
ISOLATORS. 

Figure 118: Attachment of restrained vibration isolators to the 
building structure. 
91 


Attachments: Vibration-isolated/Floor-mounted Attachments: Vibration-isolated/Floor-mounted 

Step 4: Move the equipment into place over the 
isolators
Open isolators combined with snubbers 

Use leveling nuts to level the equipment. Use attachment 
nuts to attach the base of the equipment to the isolator. 

Figure 119 (below) shows typical ways to connect the 
equipment to the restrained isolators. 


Figure 120: Typical installation of open isolators and snubbers. 


Additional snubbers may be required. See the 
manufacturers instructions. 

Step 1: Determine where to bolt the equipment 
Accurately draw the bolt pattern for the open isolator 
mounting plate on the floor or pad using one of the 
following methods: 

 Set the equipment in place and mark the holes. 
 Make a template. 
 Use measurements and approved construction 
documents to lay out the bolt hole pattern. 
Step 2: Install post-installed anchors for open isolators 
only (snubbers are covered in later steps) 
Drill and install post-installed anchors for open isolators. 
For instructions on installing anchors, see Anchors (page 
104). 

Figure 119: Attachment of equipment to restrained vibration 
isolators. 

END OF ATTACHMENT. 

92 93 


Attachments: Vibration-isolated/Floor-mounted Attachments: Vibration-isolated/Floor-mounted 

Step 5: Determine where to attach snubber equipment 
assembly 
Step 3: Attach open isolators to concrete floor or pad 
with anchors installed in Step 2 
Set isolators, apply nuts and torque. Use bolts for shell-
type anchors or internally threaded wedge or chemical 
anchors. 


Torque bolts per manufacturers 
recommendations. 

BE CAREFUL NOT TO DAMAGE THE ANCHORS 
WHEN SETTING THE EQUIPMENT OR 
ISOLATORS. 

Step 4: Set equipment on open isolators 
Set equipment on isolators but do not level or torque 
attachment nuts. 


Equipment structural frame must be point load 
capable at the open spring isolators. 

Some installations require the base to be concrete-filled. 
See Figure 121 (below) for a typical concrete-filled 
installation. 


Coordinate the attachment point locations of 
the equipment and snubbers before filling with 
concrete. 


A snubber has two assemblies: the snubber equipment 
assembly and the snubber base assembly. 

Level the equipment. Final leveling will be required in 
later steps. Accurately draw the bolt pattern for the 
snubber equipment assembly mounting plate on the floor 
or pad and on the equipment. 

All clearance requirements for aligning the 
snubber must be met. Shims may be provided. 

Step 6: Attach snubber equipment assembly to 
equipment 
Attach the snubber equipment assembly to the 
equipment by bolting it to embedded bolts in a concrete-
filled base (see Figure 121, page 94), or by bolting or 
welding it to a steel base. 

Step 7: Determine where to bolt snubber base 
Accurately draw the bolt pattern for the snubber 
mounting plate on the floor or pad. 

Step 8: Drill and install post-installed anchors 
For instructions on installing anchors, see Anchors (page 
104). 

Step 9: Raise the equipment 
Raise the equipment to allow the snubber base assembly 
to be placed over the anchors installed in Step 6. 

Figure 121: Concrete-filled inertia base. 

94 95 


Attachments: Vibration-isolated/Floor-mounted 

Step 10: Lower the equipment 
Level equipment and connect the two snubber 
assemblies as specified in the manufacturers 
instructions. Verify that spacing requirements 
are met. Complete the final attachment to open 
isolators. 


DO NOT INSTALL THE ISOLATORS OR 
SNUBBERS IN ANY CONFIGURATION OTHER 
THAN THAT SHOWN IN THE MANUFACTURERS 
INSTRUCTIONS. 

The equipment is now installed to resist earthquakes. 
Flexible piping, ductwork, and conduit connections must 
be used when connecting systems to isolated equipment. 

END OF ATTACHMENT. 

Elastomeric pads with isolated anchors 

Figure 122: Elastomeric pads with isolated anchors. 
Step 1: Determine where to bolt the equipment 
Accurately draw the bolt pattern on the floor, concrete 
pad, or steel beams using one of the following methods: 

 Set the equipment in place and mark the holes. 
 Make a template. 
 Use measurements and approved construction 
documents to lay out the bolt hole pattern. 
96 


Attachments: Vibration-isolated/Floor-mounted 

It is preferred to use the holes provided by the 
manufacturer. Under supervisory approval, you 
may need to drill additional holes in the 
equipment assembly or building steel beams as 
shown on approved construction documents or 
the manufacturers instructions. 

USE CAUTION WHEN DRILLING INTO 
EQUIPMENT. Internal components can be 
damaged or the manufacturers warranty 
may be voided. 

DO NOT DRILL OVERSIZED HOLES. New holes 
cannot be oversized or oval in shape. Repair 
oversized holes as shown in Figure 76 (page 
54), if necessary. 

Step 2: Install anchors 
If the equipment is to be anchored to concrete, drill and 
install post-installed anchors or pour concrete with cast-
in-place studs (see Anchors, page 104). 


If the equipment is to be bolted to steel, drill 
holes in the steel as shown on approved construction documents or the manufacturers 
instructions. 

Step 3: Move equipment into place 
BE CAREFUL NOT TO DAMAGE THE ANCHORS 
WHEN SETTING THE EQUIPMENT. 

Step 4: Attach nuts or weld equipment 
Attach nuts to the anchor/bolt and torque, see Anchors 
(page 104) or weld equipment to steel beams or 
embedded plates, see Welding (page 128). 

Raceways, conduits, and cable trays may now be 
connected. 

END OF ATTACHMENT. 

97 


Wall-mounted Attachments 

Use the instructions for mounting Directly to the wall 
(below) for equipment surface-mounted on the underside 
of a building structural slab or rated structural ceiling. 

The three types of wall mounting are: 

 Directly to the wall (this page). 
 To additional structural steel shapes attached to 
the wall (page 100). 
 Vibration-isolated off the wall (page 102). 
Directly to the wall 

Equipment should have pre-installed brackets that can 
support attachment to the building as shown in Figure 
123 (below). 


Figure 123: Direct attachment to a wall. 

Attachments: Wall-mounted 

Step 1: Determine where to bolt the equipment 
Accurately draw the bolt pattern on the wall using one of 
the following methods: 

 Set the equipment in place and mark the holes. 
 Make a template. 
 Use measurements and approved construction 
documents to lay out the bolt hole pattern. 
Drywall or masonry walls may require additional holes in 
equipment attachment brackets as shown on approved 
construction documents or in the equipment 
manufacturers instructions. 


ONLY USE MOUNTING BRACKETS PROVIDED. 
DO NOT DRILL INTO THE EQUIPMENT 
HOUSING. 

DO NOT DRILL OVERSIZED HOLES. New holes 
cannot be oversized or oval in shape. Repair 
oversized holes as shown in Figure 76 (page 
54), if necessary. 

Step 2: Install post-installed anchors 
If anchoring to concrete, install post-installed anchors 
(see Anchors, page 104, or Masonry and Drywall 
Anchors, page 114). 

Step 3: Move the equipment into place 
BE CAREFUL NOT TO DAMAGE THE ANCHORS 
WHEN SETTING THE EQUIPMENT. 

Step 4: Attach nuts 
Attach nuts to the anchor or bolt and torque 
according to the manufacturers instructions. 

Raceways, conduits, and cable trays may now be 
connected. 

END OF ATTACHMENT. 

99 


Attachments: Wall-mounted Attachments: Wall-mounted 

To additional structural steel shapes attached to the Electric water heaters may be attached to the wall with 

wall a simple strap arrangement, as shown in Figure 125 
(below). 

Equipment attaches to the wall with additional structural
steel shapes and bolts. Shapes may be welded. These
steel shapes are attached to the building using concrete,
masonry, or drywall anchors.


Figure 124 (below) shows how angles and struts can be
used for attachment to a wall. Angles and struts must
accommodate wall construction attachment points and
obstructions. Figure 157 (page 142) shows the direct
attachment of a strut assembly.


100 101 

Figure 124: Angle or strut support. 
Figure 125: Electric water heater attachment. 

Attachments: Wall-mounted 

Step 1: Determine the anchor locations 
Find studs in drywall. Use measurements and 
construction drawings to lay out the bolt hole pattern 
and mark the anchor locations. 

Step 2: Install anchors 
If anchoring to concrete, install post-installed anchors 
(see Anchors, page 104, or Masonry and Drywall Anchors, 
page 114). 

Step 3: Move equipment into place and bolt to frame 
It is preferred to use the holes provided by the 
manufacturer. Under supervisory approval, you 
may need to drill additional holes in the 
equipment assembly or building steel beams as 
shown on approved construction documents or 
the manufacturers instructions. 

USE CAUTION WHEN DRILLING INTO 
EQUIPMENT. Internal components can be 
damaged or the manufacturers warranty 
may be voided. 


DO NOT DRILL OVERSIZED HOLES. New holes 
cannot be oversized or oval in shape. Repair 
oversized holes as shown in Figure 76 (page 
54), if necessary. 

Raceways, conduits, and cable trays may now be 
connected. 

END OF ATTACHMENT. 

Vibration-isolated off the wall 

Equipment attaches to the wall with additional structural 
steel shapes, threaded rods and vibration isolators. 
Shapes may be welded. These steel shapes are attached 
to the building using concrete, masonry, or drywall 
anchors. 

Figure 126 (page 103) shows how rods, angles and 
struts can be used to isolate equipment attached to a 
wall. Angles and struts accommodate wall construction 
attachment points. 

102 

Attachments: Wall-mounted 

Vibration-isolation of equipment reduces the 
transmission of equipment noise and vibration into the 
building structure. See Figure 107 (page 82) for isolator 
detail. 

Figure 126: Wall-mounted, vibration-isolated equipment. 
Step 1: Assemble wall frame with isolators 
Accurately draw the bolt pattern on the wall using one of 
the following methods: 

 Set the frame in place and mark the holes. 
 Make a template. 
 Use measurements and approved construction 
documents to lay out the bolt hole pattern. 
Step 2: Install anchors 
If anchoring to concrete, install post-installed anchors 
(see Anchors, page 104, or Masonry and Drywall 
Anchors, page 114). 

Step 3: Attach isolators, rod, and hang equipment 
Attach the isolators to the framing. 

Raceways, conduits, and cable trays may now be 
connected. 

END OF ATTACHMENT. 

103 


ANCHORS 
General Anchors 


IMPORTANT: Installation methods depend on 
the type of anchor and the particular 
application. Always follow the anchor 
manufacturers installation instructions. 


Figure 127: Types of anchors. 


Some anchors shall not be used with vibratory 
loads. 

Anchors: General 

Step 1: Determine the type of anchor 
Using Figure 127 (page 104), identify the anchor 
recommended for your application. Anchors 1-6 are post-
installed anchors and instructions for installing them 
begin on this page. Anchors 7-11 are specialty anchors 
and instructions are shown on pages 112 to 129. 

The various steps for installing anchors into concrete, 
brick, and concrete block anchors are shown below. 


Non-Adhesive Anchors 

Adhesive Anchors 

Figure 128: Summary of installation steps. 


Approved construction documents may require 
special inspection to torque anchors or for 
proof load using hydraulic rams. 

Step 2: Determine where to drill the hole 
To determine anchor locations for the equipment you are 
installing, follow the instructions for the Attachment Type 
you are using (pages 51 to 103). Coordinate the 
equipment connections and hole locations with the 
location of any steel reinforcements or tendons. 

104 105 


Anchors: General Anchors: General 

Determine the depth and location of any steel
reinforcement or tendons before drilling. This may require
relocating equipment slightly to avoid the reinforcement.



FOR POST-TENSIONED (PRE-STRESSED)
BUILDINGS, LOCATE THE TENDONS
BEFORE DRILLING. EXTREME DAMAGE MAY
OCCUR IF A TENDON IS NICKED OR CUT.


When using electronic locating devices to find
reinforcement and tendons, make sure you know the
limitations of the device. Calibrate and test with a known
standard or location to confirm accuracy. Check the area
of concern in two directions. Inform the contractor
performing the work of the precision of the test unit and
record the results. For example: agreed upon mark +/- 
location vertical, horizontal, and depth +/- .


Coordinate the location of anchors with the edge of the
concrete, construction joints, and other anchors.



Figure 129: Embedment depth and hole depth of four anchor 
Do not install the anchor too close to the edge types. 
of the concrete base. Typically the anchors 
distance from the edge is 1 times the The depth of the concrete base must be at least one inch 
embedment depth. greater than the hole you are drilling. 


Some undercut anchors require an even deeper 
anchor. Typically the minimum spacing between 

Do not install an anchor too close to another 

concrete base.
anchors is two times the anchors embedment
If you strike steel reinforcement when drilling,

depth. 

you must have the damage inspected. As 
directed, fill the hole with approved grout and 
select a new location according to minimum 
spacing requirements. Drill a new hole (see 

Step 3: Drill the hole 
Drill the right-sized hole for the anchors. Use below).
the appropriate ANSI-rated drill bit for the
application.


Do not drill holes into concrete at an angle. 

For wedge, undercut and sleeve anchors, drill the hole 
deeper than the required embedment depth. 


The required hole depth may be different from
the embedment depth. See Figure 129
(page 107).


Figure 130: Drilling into concrete with rebar. 


106 107 


Anchors: General 

Step 4: Clean out the hole 
Drilled holes must be cleaned before you can insert the 
anchor. Use clean, dry compressed air to blow out dust 
and debris. The type of anchor or application also may 
require you to use a brush. 


See the anchor manufacturers instructions for 
cleaning the hole. 

CLEANING IS IMPORTANT: a dirty hole can 
significantly reduce an anchors performance. 

Step 5: Insert the anchor 
If you are installing any anchor other than an adhesive 
anchor, drive the anchor into the hole with a hammer or 
use a wrench rotor hammer for concrete bolts. 


IMPORTANT: DO NOT DAMAGE THE THREADS 
DURING INSTALLATION. DO NOT FORCE THE 
ANCHOR. If you use a larger hammer than 
recommended by the manufacturer, you may 
damage the anchor. 

If you are installing an adhesive anchor, insert the 
capsule or inject non-capsule adhesive into the hole. 
Slowly rotate the anchor into place as shown below. 


Figure 131: Adhesive anchor installation. 

If you have installed a wedge or sleeve anchor, go to 
Step 7 (page 110). 

108 

Anchors: General 

Step 6: Setting adhesive, shell and undercut anchors 
ONLY 
Adhesive Anchor: Allow enough time for the 
adhesive to fully cure. The curing process may 
take a long time. See the manufacturers 
instructions. 

Shell Anchor: Drive the prescribed setting tool 
into the anchor until the setting tool shoulder 
meets the edge of the anchor, as shown below. 
See the manufacturers instructions. 


Figure 132: Set shell anchors. 


Undercut Anchor: Use special tools provided by 
the anchor manufacturer to set the anchor, as 
shown below. See the manufacturers 
instructions. 


Figure 133: Set undercut anchors. 

109 


Anchors: General 

Step 7: Set the equipment and tighten the anchors 
Set the equipment in place. Check for gaps. Gaps under 
the equipment must not be greater than 1/8 as shown 
below. If the gap is greater than 1/8, dry pack the gap 
with grout and repeat this step. 


Figure 134: Acceptable gap for grouted plate. 

For anchor bolts larger than 3/8, the equipment 
housing should be reinforced using a structural angle 
bracket as shown in Figure 135 (below). 


Figure 135: Installing a reinforcing angle bracket to 
equipment. 


Tighten the anchor bolt to the correct torque 
setting in the manufacturers instructions or 
approved construction documents. Use a 
calibrated torque wrench. 

END OF DETAIL. 

Cast-in-place Anchors 

Cast-in-place anchors are embedded in the concrete 
when the floors or walls are poured. Bolts are firmly held 
in place while the concrete is poured to maintain proper 
alignment and position. The size and location of the 
anchors can be determined from approved construction 
documents. 

Step 1: Move the equipment into place 
Figure 136: Bolting equipment to cast-in-place anchors. 
Step 2: Secure equipment 
Once the equipment is in place, apply washers and nuts 
and then tighten. 


Tighten the anchor bolt to the correct torque 
setting in the manufacturers instructions or 
approved construction documents. Use a 
calibrated torque wrench or turn-of-nut method 
(see Table 14, page 124). 

END OF DETAIL. 

110 111 


Lag Bolts 

Lag bolts are used to attach equipment or steel shapes 
to wood structures. The size and location of the anchors 
can be determined from construction drawings (see 
Figure 137 below). 

 The edge distance for the non-loaded side is 1 
times the bolt diameter. 
 The edge distance for the loaded side is 4 times the 
bolt diameter. 
 The spacing between bolts is 4 times the bolt 
diameter. 
 The end distance is 7 times the bolt diameter. 
Figure 137: Spacing requirements for wood lag bolts. 
Figure 137 is allowed for cable attachment. If a 
strut is attached to wood, both edge distances 
are considered loaded and require 4 times the 
bolt diameter. 
Do not anchor to the end grain. 
Step 1: Mark the location of the lag bolts 
Lead holes and clearance holes are not required for lag 
bolts that are 3/8 or smaller. If the lag bolt is smaller 
than 3/8, go to Step 4. 

Anchors: Lag Bolts 

Step 2: Drill a clearance hole 
Drill a hole with a drill bit the same size as the shank of 
the bolt. The depth of the hole is the same as the length 
of the unthreaded shank that will extend into the wood 
(see Figure 137, page 112). 

Step 3: Drill a lead hole 
Drill a hole with a drill bit that is 60% to 70% of the 
diameter of the shank of the bolt. The depth of the hole is 
the same as the embedment depth of the bolt (see Figure 
137, page 112). 

Step 4: Move the equipment or steel shape into place 
Step 5: Install the lag bolt with a wrench 
You may use soap or other lubricant on the lag bolt. 


DO NOT USE A HAMMER TO INSTALL LAG 
BOLTS. 

Step 6: Tighten the bolt 
Hand-adjust the lag bolt until there is firm contact 
between the lag bolt and connected metal components. 
Hand tools may be used to bring the lag bolt and metal 
components into contact. Following contact, tighten nut 
as shown in Table 14 (page 124). 

END OF DETAIL. 

112 113 


Masonry and Drywall Anchors


Step 1: Determine the type of anchor 
Anchors: Masonry and Drywall 

Step 2: Determine where to drill the hole 
Anchors shown in Figure 138 (page 114) must be 
installed in specific areas of hollow block and in-filled 
block. See Figure 139 (below) for approved anchor hole 
locations when using any of the concrete block anchors 
shown in Figure 138 (page 114). 


Figure 139: Block wall locations. 

The location of the anchors should be coordinated with 
the block webs, or centered in the cell face, and properly 
spaced from other anchors. 


DO NOT POSITION THE HOLES IN THE HEAD 
JOINT. Carefully note the location of anchors in 
the face location, centered face location, and 
bed joint as they apply to different anchors.

Figure 138: Types of masonry and drywall anchors. 

114 115 


Anchors: Masonry and Drywall 


When installing through-bolts: avoid webs in 
block walls, reinforcements in grout-filled 
walls, and studs in drywall. 

When installing lag bolts and sheet metal 
screws in drywall: install in a wood or metal 
stud as appropriate. 

Determine the depth and location of any steel 
reinforcement in grout-filled block walls or 
brick before drilling. This may require 
relocating equipment slightly to miss 
reinforcement. 

When using electronic locating devices to find 
reinforcements and tendons, make sure you know the 
limitations of the device. Calibrate and test with a known 
standard or location to confirm accuracy. Check the area 
of concern in two directions. Inform the contractor 
performing the work of the precision of the test unit and 
record the results. For example: agreed upon mark +/-  
location vertical, horizontal, and depth +/- . 

Step 3: Drill the hole 
Drill the right-sized hole for the anchors. Use 
the appropriate ANSI-rated drill bit for the 
application. 

Use masonry drill bits for brick and block. 


DO NOT CUT STEEL REINFORCEMENT WHEN 
DRILLING HOLES. 


If you strike steel reinforcement when drilling, 
you must have the damage inspected. As 
directed, fill the hole with approved grout and 
select a new location according to minimum 
spacing requirements. Drill a new hole (see 
Figure 130, page 107). 


Holes for concrete screws are smaller than 
screw size. See the manufacturers instructions 
for specific requirements. 

116 

Anchors: Masonry and Drywall 

Step 4: Clean out the hole 
Drilled holes must be cleaned before you can insert the 
anchor. Use clean, dry compressed air to blow out dust 
and debris. The type of anchor or application also may 
require you to use a brush. 


See the anchor manufacturers instructions for 
cleaning the hole. 

CLEANING IS IMPORTANT: a dirty hole can 
significantly reduce an anchors performance. 

Step 5: Insert the anchor 
The following anchors use different insertion methods. 

 Adhesive screen anchor in a brick wall or hollow block 
wall (this page). 
 Adhesive anchor in a hollow block wall (page 118). 
 Concrete screw (page 119). 
 Toggle bolt (page 119). 
 Concrete anchor (sleeve anchor or wedge anchor) 
(page 120). 
 Drywall anchor (lag bolts and sheet metal screws) 
(page 120). 
Adhesive screen anchor in a brick wall or hollow block 
wall 


See the anchor manufacturers instructions 
before connecting the anchor to a brick or 
hollow block wall. 

A screen insert is shown in Figure 140 (page 118). Insert 
the screen in the wall. Inject the adhesive. Slowly insert 
the anchor with a twisting motion. 


Screens may be filled with adhesive before 
inserting the screen into the hole. 

For details on installing adhesive anchors in a brick wall, 
see Figure 141 (page 118). Similar installation applies to 
hollow block walls. Adjust the anchor by hand while the 
adhesive sets. 

117 


Anchors: Masonry and Drywall Anchors: Masonry and Drywall 


DO NOT TOUCH THE ANCHOR WHILE THE 
ADHESIVE IS CURING. 

Figure 140: Brick/block wall insert. 
Figure 141: Brick wall adhesive anchor. 

Adhesive anchor in a hollow block wall 


See the anchor manufacturers instructions 
before connecting the anchor to a hollow block 
wall. 

Push an umbrella anchor into the hole until the umbrella 
unfolds in the block cavity. Inject adhesive into the 
umbrella. Slowly insert stud or fastener with a twisting 
motion. 

DO NOT LEAK ADHESIVE ON THE THREADED 
PORTION OR CLEAN WITH SOLVENT. The 
threaded area must be free of debris to attach 
to a threaded rod or steel bolt. 


Figure 142: Umbrella anchor in a hollow block wall. 

Concrete screw 

Drill bits may be specifically sized for each manufacturer, 
and typically are smaller in diameter than the nominal or 
fractional diameter of a screw. Install a concrete screw 
with a rotary drill and bolt the head attachment. 

Toggle bolt 

Hold the toggle flat alongside the plastic straps and slide 
the channel through the hole. Slide the holding ring 
toward the wall until the channel is flush with the wall. 
Cut off the straps at the holding ring. Insert the bolt with 
a rotary drill over the bracket or equipment mounting (see 
Figure 143 on page 120). 


118 119 


Anchors: Masonry and Drywall Anchors: Masonry and Drywall 


Figure 143: Toggle bolt installation. 


DO NOT OVER-TIGHTEN. 

Concrete anchor (sleeve anchor or wedge anchor) 

Use a hammer to drive the anchor in the hole. 


DO NOT FORCE THE ANCHOR. If you use a 
hammer larger than recommended, you may 
damage the anchor. 

To determine the embedment depth of post-installed 
anchors, see Figure 129 (page 107). 

Drywall anchor (lag bolts and sheet metal screws) 

Use a rotary drill to insert the anchor. 


DO NOT OVER-TIGHTEN. 

Step 6: Set the anchor (adhesive only) 
Allow enough time for the adhesive to harden and adhere 
to the concrete. This may take several hours. 

Step 7: Set the equipment and tighten the anchors 
Tighten the anchor bolt to the proper torque 
setting as shown in the anchor manufacturers 
instructions or approved construction 
documents. 

In-filled block walls may have gaps in the grout fill or the 
grout may slightly crack, requiring anchors to be installed 
in the center of the cell. 


If the grout cracks severely, or if you miss a 
grouted block, the anchor will not tighten and 
will pull out. If it pulls out, move the anchor to a 
new centered cell location. 

END OF DETAIL. 

120 121 


Power-Actuated Anchors


Step 1: Determine type of anchor 
Figure 144: Two types of power-actuated anchors. 
Authorities having jurisdiction may require a 
license to use power-actuated anchors. 
Refer to the Anchor Selection Guide (page 151) 
for additional information. 
Step 2: Determine where to place the fastener 
Steel Bolt Connections 

The three ways to attach bolted connections are: 

 Connecting the base of the equipment to an angle 
bolted to a concrete floor (this page). 
 Bolting two structural steel shapes together 
(page 125). 
 Bolting a threaded rod to steel shapes or strut 
(page 126). 
Connecting the base of the equipment to an angle 
bolted to a concrete floor 

Step 1: Preparation 
Determine the bolt size or sheet metal screw 
and material requirements from approved 
construction documents or the manufacturers 
instructions. 


Follow the manufacturers recommendations for 
minimum slab thickness and best location. 

Step 3: Install anchor 
Using tools provided by the anchor manufacturer, install 
the anchor at the desired location. Follow all the 
manufacturers instructions. Also see Power-Actuated 
information in the Anchor Selection Guide (page 151). 

For threaded rods, follow Step 4. 

When using drive pins, install the pin with the strap or 
wire to complete the installation. 


Step 4: Set equipment and tighten 
Tighten the anchor nuts over equipment brackets on the 
threaded rods. 

Figure 145: Bolting equipment to an angle.

END OF DETAIL. 

122 123 


Anchors: Steel Bolt Connections Anchors: Steel Bolt Connections 

Step 2: Locate attachment holes 
It is preferred to use the holes provided by the 
manufacturer. Under supervisory approval, you 
may need to drill additional holes in the 
equipment assembly or building steel beams as 
shown on approved construction documents or 
the manufacturers instructions. 

USE CAUTION WHEN DRILLING INTO 
EQUIPMENT. Internal components can be 
damaged or the manufacturers warranty 
may be voided. 

DO NOT DRILL OVERSIZED HOLES. New holes 
cannot be oversized or oval in shape. Repair 
oversized holes as shown in Figure 76 (page 
54), if necessary. 

Step 2: Locate holesStep 3: Install bolts, washers, and nuts 
Once the equipment is in place, apply washers and nuts 
and then tighten. 


Tighten the anchor bolt to the correct torque 
setting shown in the manufacturers 
instructions or approved construction 
documents. 

For turn-of-nut tightening, hand-adjust the bolt until 
there is firm contact between the bolt and the connected 
metal components. Hand tools may be used to bring the 
bolt and metal components into contact. Following 
contact, tighten the nut as shown below. 

Length of Bolt 
Additional 
Tightening 
Up to and including 4 diameters 1/3 turn 
Over 4 diameters and not more than 
8 diameters 
1/2 turn 
Over 8 diameters and not more than 
12 diameters 
5/6 turn 

Table 14: Turn-of-nut, hand-adjusted tightening. 

124 

Bolting two structural steel shapes together 

Step 1: Preparation 
Determine the bolt size and material 
requirements from approved construction 
documents or the manufacturers instructions. 


Figure 146: Bolting structural shapes. 


It is preferred to use the holes provided by the 
manufacturer. Under supervisory approval, you 
may need to drill additional holes in the 
equipment assembly or building steel beams as 
shown on approved construction documents or 
the manufacturers instructions. 

USE CAUTION WHEN DRILLING INTO 
EQUIPMENT. Internal components can be 
damaged or the manufacturers warranty 
may be voided. 

DO NOT DRILL OVERSIZED HOLES. New holes 
cannot be oversized or oval in shape. Repair 
oversized holes as shown in Figure 76 (page 
54), if necessary. 

Step 3: Install bolts, washers, and nuts 
Apply washers and nuts, then tighten. 


Tighten the anchor bolt to the correct torque 
setting shown in the manufacturers 
instructions or approved construction 
documents. Use a calibrated torque wrench or 
turn-of-nut method (see Table 14, page 124). 

125 


Anchors: Steel Bolt Connections 

Bolting a threaded rod to steel shapes or strut 

A threaded rod is used with suspended equipment. This 
section includes attachment to the equipment and 
attachment at the top (see Suspended Attachments, 
page 71). 

Step 1: Preparation 
Determine the threaded rod size from approved 
construction documents or the manufacturers 
instructions. 

The three different ways to attach the top connection of 
a threaded rod are shown in Figure 147 (below). 

Step 2: Attach the top connection of the threaded rod 
Figure 147: Attaching the top connection of the treaded rod. 

Apply washers and nuts, then tighten. 


Tighten the anchor bolt to the correct torque 
setting shown in the manufacturers 
instructions or approved construction 
documents. Use a calibrated torque wrench or 
turn-of-nut method (see Table 14, page 124). 

Anchors: Steel Bolt Connections 

Step 3: Attach treaded rods to equipment brackets 
Equipment without attachment brackets require 
additional steel shapes for connections to the building 
structure and/or roof. 

Once the equipment is in place, apply washers and nuts, 
then tighten. 


Tighten the anchor bolt to the correct torque 
setting shown in the manufacturers instructions 
or approved construction documents. Use a 
calibrated torque wrench or turn-of-nut method 
(see Table 14, page 124). 

END OF DETAIL. 

126 127 


Welding 


Before welding, refer to approved construction 
documents and specifications, seismic restraint 
submittals, and manufacturers instructions. 

Attaching equipment to embedded plates: Plates are 
embedded in the concrete during the floor or wall pour. 
Plates are firmly held in place while the concrete is 
poured to maintain proper alignment and position. The 
size and location of the plate can be determined from 
approved construction documents. See Figure 148 
(below) for weld locations. 


Figure 148: Welding to embedded plates. 

Attaching structural shapes and plates: Shapes and 
plates are welded to provide equipment attachment. All 
weld base material must be thick enough for the weld 
size specified. 

Step 1: Determine the weld material, shape, and 
dimensions for each piece 
Anchors: Welding 

Step 2: Fit the material to ensure proper weld joint 
preparation 
Step 3: Clean the surfaces 
Surfaces must be dry and free of galvanized coating, hot-
dipped or rust inhibitor, paint, scale, rust, oil, grease, 
water, and other foreign material for a minimum of one 
inch from the estimated toe of the weld. 

Step 4: Weld the materials 
The weld must be as prescribed in the welding procedure 
specifications (WPS). 

WPS for shop and field pre-qualified weld joints and weld 
joints qualified by test must be prepared for review and 
approval before fabrication. All welding procedure items 
such as base metals, welding processes, filler metals and 
joint details that meet the requirements of AWS D1.1 will 
be considered prequalified. Any change or substitution 
beyond the range or tolerance or requirements for pre-

qualification will be qualified by test per AWS D1.1. 


DO NOT WELD OVER PAINT. You may paint 
after welding has cooled to room temperature. 

Step 5: Inspect the weld 
Make sure the surface is free of slag, dirt, grease, oil, 
scale, or other contaminants. 

Welds cannot have cracks. Adjacent layers of weld metal 
and base metal must be thoroughly fused together. 

All craters must be filled to the full cross-section except 
outside the effective weld length. 

Underrun must not exceed 1/16. Undercut must not 
exceed 1/16 for any 2 per 12 weld or 1/32 for the entire 
weld. 

Surfaces must be free of coarse ripples, grooves, abrupt 
ridges, and valleys. The faces of fillet welds must be flat 
or slightly convex. 

END OF DETAIL. 

128 129 


Anchor Sizes for Equipment Weighing 
Less than 400 Pounds 

Rigid floor-mounted equipment 

Bolt equipment to a concrete floor or weld to a steel 
beam according to Table 15 (below). Install one anchor 
at each corner. Torque anchors according to the 
manufacturers instructions. 

Anchor 
Embedment 
(in.) 
Minimum Edge 
Distance (in.) 
1/4" wedge 2" 3" 
3/8" sleeve 1-1/4" 2" 
1/8" weld 
1" long at each 
corner 
N/A 

Table 15: Rigid floor-mounted anchor sizes. 


These anchor/weld selections apply to 
equipment in which the height of the center 
of gravity (center of equipment mass) is 
less than twice the base length AND twice 
the base width. 

Roof-mounted equipment 

Anchor equipment to a concrete deck, a wood beam, or 
directly to a steel structural shape according to Table 16 
(page 131). Install one anchor at each corner. Torque 
anchors according to the manufacturers instructions. 

Anchors: Sizes for Equipment Weighing 
Less than 400 Pounds 

Anchor 
Embedment 
(in.) 
Minimum Edge 
Distance (in.) 
1/4" wedge 2" 3" 
3/8" sleeve 1-1/4" 2" 
3/8" lag 1-1/2" 
1-1/2" to edge 
of wood and 
3" from end 
1/4" steel bolt N/A 1/2" 
1/8" weld 
2" long at each 
corner 
N/A 

Table 16: Roof-mounted anchor sizes for rigid connections. 


These anchor/weld selections apply to 
equipment in which the height of the center 
of gravity (center of equipment mass) is 
less than twice the base length AND twice 
the base width. 

Suspended equipment 

Rigidly suspend equipment from the building structure 
above with angles or rods and cables according to Table 
17 (below and next page). Torque anchors according to 
the manufacturers instructions. 

lacitreVdordedaerhtytitnauQrepsrohcnAdoRhtiwdor"2/1reneffitsdorhcaenoenOrenroc1 
Table 17: Suspended equipment anchor sizes for rigid 
connections (table continued on next page). 

130 131 


Anchors: Sizes for Equipment Weighing 
Less than 400 Pounds 

Rod anchor 
Embedment 
(in.) 
Minimum Edge 
Distance 
1/2" wedge 2-1/4" 3-1/2" 
1/2" sleeve 2-1/4" 3-1/2" 
3/8" lag bolt 2" 
1-1/2" to edge 
of wood and 
3" from end 
1/2" steel bolt N/A 1" 

SPECIAL CASES 
Cables 

The three ways to assemble a cable connection are by 
using: 

 Bolts with center holes (page 134). 
 Ferrule clamps (page 135). 
 Wire rope grips (page 137). 
Other end fittings may be acceptable. 

Cables should be installed at a 45-degree slope. Where 
interferences are present, the slope may be a minimum of 
30 degrees or a maximum of 60 degrees. 

elbaCytitnauQrepsrohcnAelbaccimsies"8/1elbac,seerged54ta4hcaemorfenorenroc1
Cable anchor 
Embedment 
(in.) 
Minimum Edge 
Distance (in.) 
1/2" wedge 2-1/4" 3-1/2" 
1/2" sleeve 2-1/4" 3-1/2" 
3/8" lag bolt 2" 
1-1/2" to edge 
of wood and 
3" from end 
1/2" steel bolt N/A 1" 


Table 17 (continued): Suspended equipment anchor sizes for
rigid connections.


END OF DETAIL. 

Figure 149: Cable attachments. 

132 133 


Special Cases: Cables 

Bolts with center holes 

The manufacturer provides this type of cable assembly, 
along with the cables, mounting bolts with holes, and 
brackets that attach directly to the building structure or 
equipment frame. Assemble the cable as shown below. 


Figure 150: Cable attached with bolts to a bracket. 

Step 1: Drill anchor holes in the building structure as 
required 
Step 2: Attach brackets to both the building and the 
equipment frame 
Step 3: Cut the cable to desired length and slide it 
through the holes in the bolts 
Step 4: Tighten the cable 
For rigid connections, pull the cable hand tight. For 
isolated components, pull the cable hand-tight and let out 
1/8 slack. Avoid using too much tension or too much 
slack. 

Special Cases: Cables 

Step 5: Torque bolts 
Torque bolts per manufacturers 
recommendations. 

Overtorque may damage cables. 

END OF DETAIL.


Ferrule clamps 

Ferrule clamps may be connected to various types of 
attachments. Figure 151 (below) and Figure 152 (page 
136) show attachments and identify the parts (ferrules, 
sleeves, and thimbles) used in the assembly. 


Ferrules must be made of steel, zinc-plated 
copper, or steel alloys (including stainless 
steel). Do not use aluminum ferrules. 


Figure 151: Ferrule assemblies. 

134 135 


Special Cases: Cables Special Cases: Cables 

Wire rope grips 

Installing cables attached with wire rope grips is similar 
to attaching ferrule clamps, as shown below. 

Figure 152: Ferrule attachments. 
Step 1: Install brackets with mounting holes, eye-
bolts, or drill mounting holes 
Install brackets with mounting holes to the structure. 
Attach cables to the top of cord angles. See Suspended 
Attachments (page 71). 

Figure 153: Wire rope grip assemblies. 
Figure 153 clarifies the orientation of wire 
rope grips. 
Step 2: Cut the cable to the desired length and slide the 
oval ferrule (sleeve) onto the cable 
Step 3: Wrap the cable around the thimble and pass it 
through the mounting bolt or holes and back through 
the ferrule 
Step 1: Install brackets with mounting holes, eye-
bolts, or drill mounting holesStep 4: Tighten the cable 
For rigid connections, pull the cable tight. For isolated 
components, leave a small amount of slack. Avoid using 
too much tension or too much slack. 

Step 5: Crimp the ferrule or oval sleeve two or three 
times as specified in the cable or ferrule 
manufacturers instructions 
Step 2: Cut cable to the desired length and slide three 
wire rope grips and thimbles onto the cable 
Use crimp tools and gauges specified by the 
manufacturer. Crimp and verify the depth of the crimp 
using a gauge. 

END OF DETAIL. 

136 137 


Special Cases: Cables 

Step 3: Pass the cable through the mounting bolt or 
holes provided and then back through each of the wire 
rope grips 
Use thimbles for all cable installations with wire 
rope grips. 

Step 4: Tighten the cable 
For rigid connections, pull the cable tight. For isolated 
components, leave a small amount of slack. Avoid using 
too much tension or too much slack. 

Step 5: Torque all bolts evenly 
Use the turn-of-nut tightening method described in Step 3 
of Steel Bolt Connections (page 124). 


DO NOT OVER-TIGHTEN. See Table 14 
(page 124). 

END OF DETAIL. 

Control Panels 

Control panels may be built into units, mounted in a 
separate electrical panel attached to equipment 
assemblies, or mounted as a separate electrical panel 
attached to the building structure. 


Be sure to refer to approved construction 
documents and specifications, seismic restraint 
submittals, and the manufacturers instructions. 

If an electrical panel is mounted separately 
from the unit and the unit is vibration-isolated, 
use flexible electrical connections to allow for 
differential movement. 

Step 1: Select control panel support configuration 
If the control panel is: 

 Built into the equipment, no other action is needed. 
 An electrical panel attached to the assembly, check 
that the attachment is rigid and tight. No other action 
is needed. 

 A remote panel attached directly to the building 
structure or attached using support angles or struts, 
support the panel. The four ways of supporting 
control panels are by attaching them to: 

- An aluminum plate extending from the floor to the 
ceiling. The aluminum plate is attached to the floor 
and ceiling with angles, as shown on the left in 
Figure 155 (page 140). 

- A double-strut support spanning the floor and 
ceiling as shown on the right in Figure 155 (page 
140). Struts are attached to the building structure 
with small angle clips. 

- Vertical angles or strut extending down to the 
floor with angles slanted back to the floor as 
shown in Figure 154 (page 140). This is the typical 
method. Details are shown in Figure 156 (page 
141). 

- Walls with wall anchors as shown in Figure 157 
(page 142). 

138 139 


Special Cases: Control Panels Special Cases: Control Panels 


Figure 154: Typical control panel support using angles.
Additional angle supports may be required (see below).



Figure 155: Two different ways to support control panels: Figure 156: Angle assembly support from floor.
using a metal plate attached to floor and ceiling with steel
angles (left); using struts extending to floor and ceiling (right).


140 141 


Special Cases: Control Panels Special Cases: Control Panels 

Step 4: Attach control panel to frame with a minimum 
of four steel bolts 
See Steel Bolt Connections (page 123). 

END OF DETAIL. 

Figure 157: Direct attachment of a strut assembly support to 
wall. 

Step 2: Assemble the mounting frame 
Use bolts or weld the support framing together as 
shown in Figures 154 to 157 (pages 140 to 142). See 
Steel Bolt Connections (page 123), or Welding (page 
128) for more information. 

Step 3: Attach the mounting frame to floor or wall 
with anchors 
Locate and mark hole locations in the building structure. 
Install the anchors. See Anchors (page 104) for more 
information. 

Attach the mounting frame to the building structure. 

 To attach strut angles for strut floor-mounted 
supports, see Figure 155 (page 140). 
 To attach bases for angle floor-mounted supports, 
see Figure 156 (page 141). 
 To attach strut to wall studs, see Figure 157 (above). 
142 143 


Special Cases: Housekeeping Pads 

Housekeeping Pads 


Be sure to refer to approved construction 
documents, specifications and the 
manufacturers instructions. 

The construction of housekeeping pads is shown below. 


Figure 158: Housekeeping pad. 

The housekeeping pad must be a minimum of one inch 
thicker than the anchor hole depth, or as required for the 
concrete anchors shown in Figure 159 (page 145). 


Housekeeping pads must be designed for the 
equipment weight and seismic load. 


Figure 159: Housekeeping pad in section view. 


If edge distance is not met, get an evaluation 
from your supervisor. 

Dimensions for the housekeeping pad footprint must be 
large enough for the equipment, attachment steel (as 
required), and the edge distance of concrete anchors 
(see Anchors, page 104), as shown in Figure 160 (below). 

Figure 160: Housekeeping pad dimensions. 

Special Cases: Housekeeping Pads Special Cases: Housekeeping Pads 

Step 2: Assemble reinforcement Step 1: Install dowels into the floor 
Attachment details for dowels are shown in Figure 161 Assemble the reinforcement as shown in Figure 158 
(below). (page 144). Connect the dowels using wire. 

 Use measurements and approved construction 
documents to lay out the size of the dowels and the
dowel pattern.


Step 3: Pour concrete and allow to cure 
 Coordinate the location of embedded Z bar shown 
in Figure 161 with the concrete subcontractor. 
Step 4: Drill holes and attach the equipment to 
concrete after the concrete has cured 
Obtain the size of doweling and reinforcement from 
approved construction documents, specifications, or the 

END OF DETAIL. 

manufacturers instructions. Exterior dowels must be  
to 1 in diameter. Interior dowels must be  to  in 
diameter. 


Figure 161: Doweling to the building floor. 

146 147 


Special Cases: Lighting 

Lighting In suspended T-bar ceilings 

The three basic ways to attach lighting fixtures are: 

 Directly to the building structure (this page). 
 In suspended T-bar ceilings (page 149). 
 Pendant-mounted (page 150). 
Directly to the building structure 

Step 1: Locate the attachment points 
Use manufacturers recommendation to attach 
the fixture to the building structure. 

Use anchors to attach to masonry or concrete walls. 
Toggle bolts may be used for drywall construction if 
allowed by the approved construction documents. 

Step 2: Attach the anchors to the building structure 
Use brackets supplied by the manufacturer. See Anchors Figure 162: Typical ways to attach light fixturesin suspended T(page 104) for instructions on installing the anchors. bar ceiling. 


Do not allow light fixture hanger wires to 
contact piping or ductwork as this may result in 
vibration or noise problems. 

Install splay braces on lights as required by 
approved construction documents. 

Step 1: Verify all T-bar ceiling runners are securely 
attached to the building structure as required by 
approved construction documents 
This work is usually performed by a different subcontractor. 

Step 2: Install lighting fixture into the T-bar ceiling 
runners 
148 149 


Special Cases: Lighting 

ANCHOR SELECTION GUIDE 

Step 3: Attach lighting fixture to ceiling runners using 
screws or clips rated for the weight of the fixture 
Attachment to the T-bar ceiling can be made with screws 
as shown in Figure 162 (page 149) or with clips provided 
by the lighting manufacturer. 

Step 4: Run wires directly from the light fixture and 
attach to the building structure with anchors. 
For instructions on installing anchors, see Anchors (page 
104). You may use power-actuated anchors if the anchors 
are rated for seismic use and have a tension rating (see 
Power-Actuated Anchors on page 122) . 

Pendant-mounted 


Figure 163: Pendant light fixture attachment 

Step 1: Attach light fixture to ceiling 
Step 2: Install safety cable 
Power-Actuated 
Description Warning 
Threaded Studs 
Used in cases where the 
fastened equipment is to be 
removed later, or where 
shimming is required. 
Threaded studs for concrete 
have a 0.140" to 0.180 
shank diameter, with typical 
penetration of 3/4" (minimum) to 1-1/2" into concrete. 
Threaded studs for steel plate 
applications have a 0.140" to 
0.180 shank diameter when 
the steel plate thickness is 
3/16" or greater. 
Safety is the primary 
concern when using power-
actuated tools (PAT). PAT 
tools pose the greatest risk 
to the operator and others 
in the area of use. Observe 
the following safety 
precautions: 
Typically not used for 
equipment weighing more than 
40 pounds. 
Never allow a tool to be used 
until the operator is properly 
trained for the specific tool and 
application. 
Never use a tool unless all 
safety features are functioning 
properly. 
Always have the operator and 
others around wear personal 
protective equipment (PPE). 
Never use more powerful loads 
than required for the particular 
application. 
Always be aware of the 
potential of the fastener 
passing through the substrate 
or being deflected from its 
intended target. 
Make sure that all areas are 
clear behind and around the 
target area. 
Have an action plan in place to 
properly handle and dispose of 
misfired loads. 
Always make sure the tools 
are low velocity and not 
standard velocity. (Standard 
velocity tools are not typically 
allowed on most jobsites 
because of the danger.) 
Authorities having jurisdiction may require a license 
to use power-actuated 
anchors. 
Drive Pins 
Used to directly fasten 
equipment for permanent 
installation. 
Drive pins used for concrete 
have a 0.140" to 0.180 
shank diameter, with typical 
penetration of 3/4" minimum 
to 1-1/2" into concrete. 
Drive pins for steel plate 
applications have a 0.140" to 
0.180 shank diameter when 
the steel plate thickness is 
3/16" or greater. 

Safety cable should be bolted to light fixture and 
extended up to building structure. Safety cable may be 
internal to the fixture assembly or exposed. 

END OF DETAIL. 

150 151 


Anchor Selection Guide Anchor Selection Guide 

Adhesive 
Description Warning 
Capsule Spin-In 
Adhesive mixes in the hole 
when the anchor is drilled by 
a rotary hammer drill only. 
Various strengths and types 
of rods or fasteners can be 
used. Multiple types of 
coatings on rods are available. Most commonly used in 
concrete; some might be 
suitable for use in other 
substrates. Most capsules 
cure quickly compared to 
epoxy. 
Do not over-spin during 
installation. The rod must 
have a roof cut end with a 
single or double 45-degree 
angle/bevel for mixing. The 
hole must be clean and dry to 
achieve the maximum 
strength. Rod must be clean 
and must not be disturbed 
during curing. Many capsules 
produce strong vapors during 
the curing process. Check the 
MSDS sheets or with your 
supervisor to determine if 
masks are required. 
Capsule Hammer-in 
Adhesive mixes in the hole 
when the rod is driven by a 
hammer. Various strengths 
and types of rods or fasteners can be used. Multiple 
types of coatings on rods are 
available. Most commonly 
used in concrete; some might 
be suitable for use in other 
substrates. Most capsules 
cure quickly compared to 
epoxy. 
The hole must be clean and 
dry to achieve the maximum 
strength. Rod must be clean 
and must not be disturbed 
during curing. Many capsules 
produce strong odors during 
the curing process. Check the 
MSDS sheets or with your 
supervisor to determine if 
masks are required. 

Adhesive (cont.) 
Description Warning 
Epoxy 
Used by mixing two or more 
components with a mixing 
nozzle at the point of application. Can be used with 
multiple forms of fasteners or 
as an adhesive. Many brands 
can be used in wet, damp, or 
dry conditions. Many formulas 
are allowed for use for USDA 
food processing areas. Some 
may be able to be used 
overhead. Permitted many 
times in freeze-thaw and 
severe weather conditions. 
Allows minimal edge distance 
and anchor spacing. Typical 
shelf life greater than that of 
other adhesives used for 
anchoring. Not as susceptible 
to damage from high storage 
temperatures. 
Typically requires long curing 
times compared to that of 
other adhesives. Can be 
virtually odor free or can emit 
a strong odor, depending on 
the formula. Can be difficult to 
apply if the epoxy is thick. 
Generally not suggested for 
use at temperatures below 32 
degrees F. Most epoxies 
require holes to be cleaned to 
obtain maximum values. 
Check the MSDS sheets or 
with your supervisor to 
determine if masks are 
required. 
Acrylic Adhesive 
Dispenses and cures quickly. 
Some adhesives can be used 
overhead. Some adhesives 
can be installed in damp or 
water-filled holes. Typically 
can be used with many 
fastening devices such as 
threaded rod, dowels, and 
anchors. 
Many types of acrylics produce a strong odor during the 
curing process. Others have a 
minimal odor. Check the 
MSDS sheets or with your 
supervisor to determine if 
masks are required. 
Generally purchased from the 
manufacturer as a complete 
anchoring system. Any 
substitution of materials must 
be authorized before installation. 
Adhesive Undercut 
Anchors 
Used in heavy-duty applications where substrate is of 
poor quality. 

152 153 


Anchor Selection Guide Anchor Selection Guide 

Externally Threaded 
Description Warning 
Heavy Duty Undercut 
Used in heavy-duty applications. Typically two types: 
self-undercutting and 
adhesive. 
Self-undercutting types use a 
special undercutting drill bit 
similar to heavy-duty sleeve 
anchors except that they fill a 
cavity greater than the initial 
hole diameter. 
May require special tools and 
specific drill bits. Typically 
cannot be used at variable 
embedment depths. Can be 
complicated to install. May be 
difficult to verify proper 
installation. 
Wedge Anchor 
The most common concrete 
anchor for heavy- to light-
duty applications. Many 
configurations are available 
for most applications. Made 
from a variety of materials. 
Typically designed for static 
loads and not used with 
reciprocating engines or in 
situations where vibrations are 
present. 
Heavy Duty Sleeve 
Anchor 
Expansion anchor for heavy-
duty requirements. 
A large hole is required for 
this anchor. Some anchors 
have metric diameters. Some 
have multiple parts that can 
be unassembled. If reassembled improperly, the 
anchor may not perform 
properly. If the nut is removed 
after the stud is inserted in the 
hole, the stud could be 
partially separated from the 
expansion cone, causing a 
reduction in anchor strength, 
or be detached from the 
expansion cone, requiring 
anchor replacement. These 
conditions are not visible. 
Center Pin Anchor 
Medium-duty expansion 
anchor. The anchor is correctly installed when the pin 
is completely inserted. 
Installation procedures are 
simple; no torque is required 
to set the anchor. 
Typically designed for static 
loads and not used with 
reciprocating engines, motors 
or in situations where vibrations are present. 

Externally Threaded (cont.) 
Description Warning 
Sleeve Anchor 
Universal anchor for light- to 
medium-duty applications. 
Multiple head designs fit many 
applications and can be 
installed in masonry. 
A large hole is required for 
this anchor. Some anchors 
have metric diameters. Some 
have multiple parts that can 
be unassembled. If reassembled improperly, the 
anchor may not perform 
properly. If the nut is removed 
after the stud is inserted in the 
hole, the stud could be 
partially separated from the 
expansion cone, causing a 
reduction in anchor strength, 
or be detached from the 
expansion cone, requiring 
anchor replacement. These 
conditions are not visible. 
Concrete Bolts (continued 
on next page) 
Concrete bolts are recommended for use in dry interior 
applications. 
Concrete bolts may be 
acceptable in some cases for 
temporary use in exterior 
applications. 
Not all concrete bolts used in 
resisting earthquake or wind 
loads are appropriate and 
may be beyond the scope of 
the anchors abilities. 
Concrete bolts should not be 
subjected to vibratory loads 
such as those encountered by 
supports for reciprocating 
engines, crane loads, and 
moving loads. 
Maintain equal or greater than 
minimum edge distance 
spacing specified for concrete 
bolts or apply reduction 
factors if applicable. 
The embedment depth is the 
distance from the concrete 
surface to the bottom of the 
screw anchor. 
Maintain minimum slab 
thickness. 
Use ONLY a specific 
manufacturers recommended 
method of installation. 
NEVER substitute one 
manufacturers concrete bolt 
installation instructions for 
another manufacturers 
instructions. 
DO NOT ASSUME one 
manufacturers instructions 
are the same as another 
manufacturers instructions. 

154 155 


Anchor Selection Guide Anchor Selection Guide 

Externally Threaded (cont.) 
Description Warning 
Concrete Bolts (cont.) 
Concrete bolts are limited to 
installation in uncracked 
concrete masonry. Cracking 
may occur from anchor 
location in tension zone of 
concrete member, anchor 
location in setting concrete 
member, and anchors subjected to seismic loads, wind 
loads, or moving loads. 
Concrete bolts are limited to 
non-fire-resistive construction 
unless appropriate data is 
submitted demonstrating that 
anchor performance is 
maintained in fire-resistive 
situations. 
Some manufacturers use 
different diameter drill bits for 
the same nominal diameter 
concrete bolt. Use the proper 
diameter drill bit before 
installation. When a specific 
screw anchor manufacturers 
drill bit diameter is not used, a 
reduction of capacity must be 
accounted for in the calculations. Other manufacturers 
may recommend the use of 
ANSI B212 matched diameter 
drill bits for use with their 
concrete bolts. 
Some manufacturers may 
allow power tools for installation and others may not. 
Some screw anchor manufacturers recommend not using 
an electric impact wrench 
when re-using the same hole. 
Some manufacturers allow 
piloting a new anchor hole; 1 
or 2 addition applications or 
re-uses are possible. If the 
manufacturer allows the screw 
anchor to be reused, inspect 
for excessive wear or the 
capacity of the screw anchor. 

Internally Threaded 
Description Warning 
Internally Threaded 
Undercut Anchor 
Used in heavy-duty applications. Typically come in two 
types: self-undercutting and 
those using a specialized 
undercutting drill bit. Anchors 
have internal threads. 
Shallow embedment and 
small edge distances and 
spacing are possible. 
May require special tools and 
specific drill bits. Typically 
cannot be used at variable 
embedment depths. Can be 
complicated to install. May be 
difficult to verify proper 
installation. 
Shell Anchor 
Flush-mount or sub-surface 
internally threaded anchor for 
medium- to light-duty 
applications. Comes in 
fractional and metric sizes 
and is available in a variety 
of materials. 
A special setting tool is 
required and must be supplied 
by the anchor manufacturer. 
The setting tool is designed for 
each anchor size and style. 
Others 
Similar to the wedge concrete 
anchor and used in heavy- to 
light-duty applications. Many 
configurations are available 
to fit most applications. Made 
from a variety of materials. 
Typically designed for static 
loads and not used with 
reciprocating engines or in 
situations where vibrations are 
present. 

156 157 


Anchor Selection Guide Anchor Selection Guide 

Light Duty Fastenings 
Description Warning 
Drive Pin (nail) Anchors 
(metal and plastic) 
Light-duty anchor with fast 
and easy installation in 
many substrates. 
Use only for static loads. 
Typically not used in overhead 
applications. 
DO NOT USE 
FOR SEISMIC 
RESTRAINT 
Concrete Screws 
Medium- to Light-Duty 
A variety of lengths and 
diameters are available. 
Often used for temporary 
anchorage. 
Typically not used in situations 
where extensive vibrations 
are present. Requires the use 
of a special drill bit (some 
metric) supplied by the anchor 
manufacturer. 
Special Style Head 
Wedge (Ring) Anchor 
Wedge anchor with integrated 
connection (head) designed 
for tie wires or suspended 
ceilings. 
Typically designed for static 
loads and not used with 
reciprocating engines or in 
situations where vibrations are 
present. 
Single and Double 
Expansion Shields 
Multi-purpose anchor used in 
concrete, Concrete Masonry 
Unit (CMU), brick, or stone. 
This anchor distributes fairly 
even pressure, making its 
use popular in CMU, brick, 
and natural stone. Typically 
used in conjunction with 
machine bolts, which can be 
removed and replaced. 
Anchor material is malleable 
and the threads can be 
stripped. 
DO NOT USE 
FOR SEISMIC 
RESTRAINT 

Light Duty Fastenings (cont.) 
Description Warning 
Lead Expansion Anchors 
Similar to expansion shields, 
but typically considered light-
duty. Many can be used with 
a variety of screws or bolts. 
Quick and simple to install. 
Can be used in concrete, 
CMU, brick, or stone. 
Anchor material is malleable 
and the threads can be 
stripped. Anchor should not be 
used in any applications. 
DO NOT USE 
FOR SEISMIC 
RESTRAINT 
Toggle or Molly-type 
Anchors 
Light- to medium-duty 
anchor with easy installation 
in many substrates. No 
drilling is required for some 
anchor types or in some 
substrates. Some anchors 
are supplied with bolts or 
screws. Anchors are made 
from variety of materials 
and colors including plastic, 
zinc alloys, and steel. 
May require a large hole. 
Anchor may or may not be 
reusable if the bolt is removed. Severe damage to the 
substrate can result if these 
anchors are removed after 
installation. 

158 159 


ELECTRICAL DANGER INSTRUCTION 
CHART 

 Only qualified personnel familiar with proper voltage 
equipment are to perform work described in this set 
of instructions. Workers must understand the 
hazards involved in working with or near electrical 
circuits. 
 Perform work only after reading and understanding all 
of the installation instructions in this manual and the 
manufacturers literature. 
 Turn off all power-supplying equipment before 
working on or inside equipment. 
 Always use a properly rated voltage sensing device to 
confirm that the power is off. 
 Beware of potential hazards. Wear Personal 
Protective Equipment (PPE) as required by NFPA-70E, 
and take adequate safety precautions. 
 Replace all devices, doors, and covers before turning 
on the power to the equipment. 
 All activities must be performed by qualified personnel 
in accordance with local codes. 
. Precautions for circuit breakers: 
 The circuit breaker must be removed from its 
compartment and isolated from the voltage. 
 Control voltage must be in the open (O) position. 
 The circuit breaker must be in the open (O) 
position. 
 All circuit breaker springs must be discharged. 
 Handle equipment carefully and install, operate and 
maintain it correctly in order for it to function 
properly. Neglecting fundamental installation and 
maintenance requirements may lead to personal 
injury, as well as damage to electrical equipment or 
other property. 
Electrical Danger Instruction Chart 

 Heavy equipment should be stabilized with straps 
and other tie-downs to reduce the possiblity of 
tipping. 
 Spreader bars must be evaluated by the appropriate 
design professional prior to lifting. 
. When lifting, do not pass ropes or cables through lift 
holes. Use slings with safety hooks or shackles. 
 Damaged vent housings can constrict proper air flow 
and expose the interior of electrical voltage 
compartment to weather. 
 Do not make any modifications to the equipment or 
operate the system with interlocks and safety 
barriers removed. Contact your manufacturers 
representative for additional instructions if the 
equipment does not fuction as described in this 
manual. 
. Complete seismic installation and proper inspection of 
work prior to enabling the circuit breakers. 
 Use out-of-service tags and padlocks when working 
on equipment. Leave tags in place until the work is 
completed and the equpment is ready to be put back 
into service. 
 Restore all seismic restraints removed for 
maintenance to their original installation 
configuration and torque all bolts/anchors to their 
proper values. 
 Carefully inspect your work area and remove any 
tools and objects left inside the equipment. 
 Remove all tools, lifting assembly, and miscellaneous 
items left on the equipment prior to enabling the 
circuit breaker. 
 All instructions in this manual and provided by the 
manufacturer are written with the assumption that 
the customer has taken these measures before 
performing any maintenance or testing. 
160 161 


GLOSSARY 

A 
Adhesive anchor  A smooth or deformed steel bar 
or threaded rod, set in a predrilled hole in hardened 
concrete or masonry (including masonry units and 
mortar joints) that derives its holding strength from 
a chemical bonding compound placed between the 
wall of the hole and the embedded portion of the 
anchor. 

Anchor  A device for connecting equipment and 
attachments to the building structure. 

Attachments  Support systems used to connect 
equipment, pipe, conduit, or ductwork to the 
building. 

Attachment type  Use of attachments to floors, 
walls, roofs, ceilings, and vibration isolators. 

B Bar joist  Ceiling joists supporting intermediate 
floors or roof made from steel angles and steel bars. 

Base plate  A steel plate used for support and 
anchorage of an angle support or vibration isolator. 

Bed joint  A horizontal seam in a brick or concrete 
block wall. Also see Head joint. 

Bolt diameter  Thickness or width of the outside of 
the threaded portion of the bolt. 

Building structure  Steel, concrete, masonry and 
wood members or surfaces that transfer the weight 
of the building and equipment to the ground. 

Bumpers  Angles or other steel shapes with 
elastomeric padding rigidly mounted to the building 
structure in a pattern around the equipment base to 
limit horizontal movement. 

Busbars  A conducting bar (usually made of copper) 
that carries currents to various electric circuits. 

C Cabinet  An enclosure designed for surface
mounting or flush mounting that houses controls
and electrical components.


D 
Glossary 

Cable brace  A steel cable designed for use as a 
seismic sway brace for suspended equipment, 
conduit, cable trays or raceways. Also see 

Pre-stretched cable. 

Cant strip  A material used to fill voids in roof 
flashing. 

Cantilevered  A support member connected at one 
end and unsupported at the other end. 

Cast-in-place  A steel shape embedded into 
concrete. 

Cast-in-place anchor  A headed steel bolt set 
within a concrete form before concrete is poured. 

Cold joint  An edge between two concrete 
surfaces. 

Construction documents  Drawings, specifications, 
and manufacturers instructions (approved by the 
appropriate design professional) that define the 
scope of a project and provide detailed information 
to seismically restrain the equipment, conduit, or 
raceways. Also known as blue prints. 

Counter flashing  A light-gauge sheet metal folded 
support or equipment frame to shed water or snow 
onto the roof. 

Curb  Raised or enclosed framework that supports 
equipment. 

Cure  To gain internal strength over time to 
withstand external forces. 

Cure time  The total time it takes for the material 
to be at an absolute full load capacity. 

Design professional  The responsible party, 
recognized by the authority having jurisdiction, 
working within their scope of qualifications and 
providing design services. 

Differential movement  The movement between 
two objects or surfaces. 

162 163 


Glossary Glossary 

E Edge distance  The distance between a concrete 
anchor and the edge of a concrete surface or 
concrete cold joint. 

Elastomeric  A material with flexibility in all 
directions that will return to its original shape if 
removed from its environment. 

Elastomeric mount  A molded one-piece mount 
with surfaces designed to attach the equipment to 
the structure without metal-to-metal contact. 

Elastomeric pad  A resilient natural or synthetic 
rubber-ike pad used to reduce sound, shock and 
high frequency vibrations. 

Embedded plate  A steel plate set into concrete to 
permit a welded attachment. 

Embedment  How far a post-installed anchor is 
inserted into a hole in concrete or wood after the 
anchor is set in place and torqued. 

Embedment depth  See Embedment. 

Enclosure  A case or housing to protect electrical 
components. 

Equipment  Any mechanical or electrical component. 

Expansion anchor  A post-installed anchor that 
uses some form of wedge or shell held against the 
edge of a drilled hole with friction. 

F Ferrule  A small metal tube that can be crimped 
around steel cables. 

Fiberglass pad  A pad with a core of resilient 
fiberglass material covered by a moisture resistent 
resilient shell used to reduce sound, shock and high 
frequency vibrations. 

Fillet weld  A type of weld between two pieces of 
steel where the welded surfaces are at right angles. 

Flashing  Metal, asphalt, or elastomeric material 
with one or more layers surrounding a roof 
penetration specifically designed to weatherproof 
the building. 

G 
H 
Flexible connector  A connector designed to allow 
slight movement between a piece of equipment, 
component, or system and another system in the 
event of an earthquake. 

Flexible mounted equipment  A piece of equipment 
supported on or from a vibration isolator. 

Gel time  A specified amount of time for an adhesive 
to form a jelly-like substance with strength to hold its 
own weight or the weight of a light steel anchor. 

Grommet  A rubber or elastomeric bushing-shaped 
ring that may be used in restrained springs, 
snubbers, or with bolts to provide a cushioned or 
flexible connection. 

Hand tight  The force applied by hand or with hand 
tools to bring two or more materials firmly in contact 
without a space. 

Head joint  A vertical joint between two concrete 
blocks in a block wall or two bricks in a brick wall. Also 
see Bed joint. 

Headed stud  A large bolt with a threaded shaft and 
a hexagonal-shaped bolt head typically used for 
embedment into concrete surfaces or in-filled masonry 
walls. 

Height-saving bracket  A bracket used to 
accommodate the height of spring isolators without 
raising the equipment base more than a few inches. 

Housed spring  A spring isolator with steel guides 
usually separated by an elastomeric sheet located on 
two opposite sides of the spring. 

Housed spring isolator  A steel coil spring designed 
to be loaded in compression along the axis of the 
spring. Housed springs have a two-piece housing and 
mounting stud for the purpose of leveling equipment. 
The housing has limited lateral restraining capabilities 
and cannot resist uplift. 

Housekeeping pad  A concrete pad under 
equipment that raises the elevation of the equipment 
above the building structure or structural slab. 

164 165 


Glossary Glossary 

I 
L 
O 
P 
Inertia base  A heavily weighted base, usually 
made of concrete, that weighs more than the 
equipment it supports. 

In-filled block  A concrete block wall whose cells 
are reinforced with rebar and filled with a sand-grout 
mixture. 

Isolators  See Vibration isolators. 

Leveling stanchions  See Stanchions. 

Load path  Seismic support of equipment and 
internal components that can be traced though 
connections and support steel to the building 
structure. 

Load transfer angles  Angles bolted to equipment 
and to the building structure, transferring the weight 
and earthquake load through the angles to the 
building structure. 

Longitudinal brace  A brace that restrains pipes, 
ducts, or raceways parallel to the longitudinal 
direction of the pipe, duct run, or raceway. 

Open spring  A spring isolator with a bolt 
attachment at the top of the spring for connecting to 
equipment without any horizontal support. 

Open spring isolator A steel coil spring designed to 
be loaded in compression along the axis of the 
spring. Open springs have a plate or cup on the 
bottom and top with a mounting stud. 

Oversized holes  Bolt holes greater than standard 
bolt holes allowed by industry standards. 

Pad-mounted  Equipment mounted on a concrete 
structure not normally part of the building structure. 

Plug weld  The weld of a plate or base plate to 
another metal surface where a plate is perforated 
with one or more holes, which are then filled with 
the weld filler material. 

R 
Point load  Weight and seismic forces that are 
focused to a single point connection to the building 
structure. 

Post and beam  An elevated structure usually made 
from beams resting on posts or stanchions 
connected to the building structure. 

Post-installed anchor  Anchors installed after the 
concrete has reached its specified strengh. 

Post-tension (pre-stressed) building  A concrete 
building structure surface with internal steel cables 
that are stretched and restrained to permanently 
compress the concrete surface. 

Pre-manufactured curb  A sheet metal curb manufactured at a factory and sent to the job site. 

Pre-manufactured vibration isolation curb  A 
factory-built curb designed to attach equipment to a 
roof and containing vibration isolators, which allow 
for slight movement of the equipment. 

Pre-stressed beam  A concrete beam bonded to 
steel in tension in the form of a beam. 

Pre-stretched cable  Cable that is stretched after it 
is manufactured. 

Raceway  A channel (conduit or open raceway) 
designed to hold wires and cables or busbars. 

Rated spring deflection  The dimension that a 
spring will compress when the weight of equipment 
is applied. 

Rehabilitation  A new installation within an existing 
facility. 

Restrained elastomeric mount  An elastomeric 
mount with an integrated seismic restraining mechanism that limits movement in all horizontal and 
vertical directions. 

Restrained spring  A vibration isolator containing a 
spring enclosed in a welded or bolted steel housing 
that limits movement of the spring equipment attachment in all directions. 

166 167 


Glossary 

Restrained spring isolator  A steel coil spring 
designed to be loaded in compression along the axis 
of the spring. Restrained springs have a housing 
with integrated seismic restraining mechanisms, that 
limit movement in all horizontal and vertical directions. 

Rigid-mounted equipment  Equipment solidly 
braced or bolted directly to the building structure 
without vibration isolation. 

S 
Screen  A tube of steel wire mesh used as an 
adhesive anchor for anchoring to block or brick walls. 

Seismic cable  A galvanized steel or stainless steel 
braided rope that is pre-stretched. 

Seismic restraint device  An attachment device 
designed to restrict movement of equipment during 
an earthquake. 

Seismic restraint submittals  Documents created 
by contractors or vendors describing the means and 
methods for installing seismic restraint devices and 
submitted for design approval. 

Seismic rod clamp  A clamping device for attaching 
rod stiffeners to a vertical threaded rod. 

Seismic separation joint  A space provided 
between buildings or portions of a building to 
prevent contact caused by differential movement 
during an earthquake. For piping, ductwork and 
conduits crossing the seismic joint, the systems are 
connected with a flexible component that allows for 
differential movement at least twice the width of the 
seismic separation joint. 

Self-drilling  A special type of concrete shell anchor 
with cutting teeth for drilling into concrete. 

Self-tapping  Either a sheet metal screw with 
blades on the end (similar to a drill bit), allowing the 
screw to drill a hole and embed itself into a steel 
shape, or a concrete screw with a point and specially 
designed threads allowing the screw to grip the 
concrete and embed itself into the concrete. 

Glossary 

Set time  The specific time required for material to 
harden when a light load may be applied. 

Shallow concrete anchor  Any anchor with an 
embedment depth measuring less than 1/8th of its 
diameter. 

Sheet metal curb  A square or rectangular box 
made from galvanized steel sheets used to connect 
equipment to a roof. 

Shim  A thin wedge of material used to fill a space. 

Snubber  A seismic restraint device used on 
isolated systems with an air gap and elastomeric 
bushing or oil-filled hydraulic cylinder (shock 
absorber) restricting the rapid motion of a pipe. 

Snug tight  The force applied by hand or with hand 
tools to bring two or more materials firmly in contact 
with one another without a space. 

Solid brace  A steel angle or strut channel 
designed for use as a seismic sway brace for 
suspended equipment, piping, ductwork, conduit, 
cable trays, or raceways. 

Spring-isolated  See Vibration-isolated. 

Stanchions  Columns or short structural steel 
shapes placed vertically that connect to equipment 
bases or horizontal structural steel frames to 
provide equipment support. 

Structural steel shapes  A manufactured steel 
component in a variety of shapes. 

Strut  A manufactured steel shape in various 
U-shaped patterns and sizes. 

Strut frame  Steel framing made from strut 
members that act as a support to transfer the 
equipment weight to the building structure. See 
Strut. 

Sway brace  Solid braces or cable braces that 
provide seismic restraint. 

168 169 


Glossary 

T 
Tendons  Steel cables used in post-tension 
buildings. Also see Post-tension building. 

Thimble  A metal spacer used on a cable to protect 
it from being bent and damaged. 

Toe of the weld  The edge of a fillet weld. 

Torque  A turning force around a bolt applied by 
twisting a bolt head or nut so the components will 
not separate. 

Transverse brace  A brace that restrains pipes, 
ducts, or raceways perpendicular to the longitudinal 
direction. 

Turn-of-nut method  A process to properly torque 
a bolt without a special tool like a calibrated torque 
wrench. See Hand tight and Snug tight. 

Vibration-isolated  Allows flexible motion between 
equipment, piping, ductwork, conduit, cable trays, or 
raceways and the building structure. 

Vibration isolators  Components containing 
resilient elements such as steel springs, air springs, 
molded pre-compressed fiberglass or elastomeric 
pads used to separate vibrating equipment, piping 
and ductwork from the building structure. 

Web  A thin metal strip in a structural steel shape. 

Weld base material  The material composition of 
an item being welded. 

WPS  Weld Procedure Specification is required for 
all welding in accordance with American Welding 
Society D1.1. The WPS defines the essential 
variables and their limits for the weld and must be 
in the vicinity where the weld is occurring. 

INDEX 
A 

acceptable gap 110 
anchor 104-132, 162 
adhesive 104, 105-110, 117, 118, 151-153, 162 
cast-in-place 72, 104, 111, 163 
concrete bolt 104 
concrete screw 114, 119 
drywall 114-121 
embedded plates 104 
externally threaded 154-156 
gap 110 
general 104 
internally threaded 157 
lag bolts 104, 112-113, 114, 120 
light-duty fastenings 158-159 
masonry 104, 114-121 
non-adhesive 104, 105-110 
post-installed 73, 105 
power-actuated 122, 151 
sheet metal screw 114, 120 
shell 104, 105-110 
sizes for equipment less than 400 pounds 130-132 

sleeve 104, 105-110, 114, 120
steel bolt 104, 123-127
through-bolt 75, 116


toggle bolt 114, 120
umbrella 114, 119
undercut 104
wedge 104, 114, 120
welding 128-129


anchor selection guide 151-159 
angle 30-33, 35, 37-39, 43-44, 47, 49, 56-58, 60, 78-80, 
83-84, 100, 110 
attachment type 51-103, 162 
rigid floor-mounted/pad-mounted 51-64 
see also rigid floor-mounted/pad-mounted attachment 
roof-mounted 65-70 
see also roof-mounted attachment 
suspended 71-86 
see also suspended attachment 
vibration-isolated/floor-mounted 87-97 
see also vibration-isolated/floor-mounted attachment 
wall-mounted 98-103 
see also wall-mounted attachment 
automatic transfer switches 4-5 

V 
W 
170 171 


Index Index 

B 

bar joist 74, 77, 162
base
inertia, concrete-filled 94, 96, 165
plate 31, 35, 162


round 58
battery racks 26-27
block walls 115
brace 32-33, 43-45, 47, 49, 100, 162
bracket 32, 81, 94, 98, 110
bumpers 89, 162
bypass-isolation switch 4


C 

cable 38, 41, 45, 49, 63, 71-78, 162 
attach using 38, 41, 45, 49, 63, 71, 76-78, 81, 

83-85, 133-138 
bolts with center holes 134-135 
ferrule clamps 135-136 
wire rope grips 137-138 

cable trays 30-50 see also raceways
capacitor banks 14
cast-in-place anchors 72


bolting equipment to 111
chain 86
circuit interrupters 16
clamp 32-33, 43-45
clevis hanger 36-42
concrete


bolt 104
drilling 107
joint 60
pouring 54, 147
screw 114, 119
slab 73


conduit 30-50 see also raceways
control panels 139-143
curb 15
isolation 166
curing 109, 163


D 

disconnects 18-19
dowel 146
drywall anchor 114-121


172 

E 

elastomertic pads 96-97 
electric unit heater 28-29 
electric water heater attachment 101 
electrical danger instruction chart 160 
embedded plates 58, 104, 128, 163 
embedment depth 107, 164 
equipment 4-29, 164 

automatic transfer switches 4-5
battery racks 26-27
control panels 6-7
generators 8-9
less than 400 pounds, anchor sizes for 130-131
lighting 10-11
load centers 12-13
low voltage: substations, capacitor banks,


switchboards, and switchgears 14-15 

medium to high voltage: switchgears,
circuit interrupters, substation circuit
breakers, and walk-in enclosures 16-17


meters and disconnects 18-19 
motor control centers and variable frequency drives 20-21 
mutli-media racks 22-23 
panelboards 12-13 
setting/moving in place 54, 59, 64 
transformers 24-25 
typical 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27, 29 
type of installation 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 

25, 27, 29
uninterruptable power supplies 26-27
unit heaters and tanks 28-29


F 

ferrule clamps 135-136, 164 
flashing 65, 67, 68, 70, 164 
floor-mounted 

anchor sizes for 130
attachments see rigid floor-mounted/pad-mounted


attachments
automatic transfer switches 4-5
capacitor bank 14-15
circuit interrupter 16-17
computer rack 22-23
control panels 6-7
equipment rack 22-23
generators 8-9
low voltage switchboard 14-15
media equipment 22-23
meter center 18-19
motor control center 20-21



Index 

floor-mounted continued 

open multi-media rack 22-23 
panelboard 13-14 
substation 14-17, 24-25 
switchgear 14-17 
transformer, dry-type 24-25 
uninterruptable power supply 26-27 
unit heaters and tanks 28-29 

flush-mounted 
control panel 6 
light 10 
load center 12 

frame 53, 81 

G 

gap see acceptable gap 
generators 8 
grouted plate 110 

H 

head joint 165 

hole 
cleaning 108 
clearance 112 

depth 107
drilling 106
lead 112
oversized, repair of 54


housekeeping pad 144-147, 165 

lag bolts 104, 112-113, 114, 120 
lighting 10-11 
load centers 12-13 
low voltage: substations, capacitor banks, 
switchboards, and switchgears 14-15 

M 

masonry and drywall anchors 104, 114-121 
medium to high voltage: switchgears, 
circuit interrupters, substation circuit 

breakers, and walk-in enclosures 16-17 
meters 18-19 
motor control center 20-21 
multi-media racks 22-23 

Index 

O 

oversized hole, repairing 54 

P 

pads 89 
pad-mounted see also rigid floor-mounted/pad-mounted 
attachment 
generator 8-9 
substation 16-17, 24-25 

transformer 24-25 
panelboard 12-13 
plate 38, 84, 128-129 
post and beam 65-67, 167 

R 

raceways 30-50 
supported from the floor 31-34 
supported from the wall 34-35 
suspended using clevis hanger braced 

at the restraining bolt 36-38
suspended using clevis hanger braced
at the hanger rod 39-40
suspended using clevis hanger and


4-way cable brace 41-42
suspended using pipe clamps 43-46
suspended with a trapeze support system 47-49
crossing seismic joints 50


raised floor 61-64, 167 
rebar 107 
repair oversized holes 54 
rigid floor-mounted/pad-mounted attachment 

anchors sizes for 130 
beneath a raised floor 61-64 
directly to the floor/pad 51-55 
using additional structural steel shapes 55-59 
using bumpers to restrict horizontal movement 60-61 

rods 36-40, 43-49, 71-81, 83-85, 125-127 

roof-mounted attachment 
anchor sizes for 130-131 
to a wood frame 68 
using leveling stanchionspost and beam 65-67 
using restrained springs on leveling stanchions 69-70 

rubber mounts 89 

174 175 


Index 

S 

safety switches 18 
screen insert 117-118 
seismic 

cable 83, 84 
joint 50 
sheet steel 52 
snubbers 88, 94-97, 168 

special cases 
cables 133-139 
control panels 139-143 
housekeeping pads 144-147 
lighting 148-150 

spring 
housed 87, 165 
isolator 82, 83, 90-97 
open 87, 94-97 
restrained 69-70, 88, 90-93, 103, 167 

stanchion 65-67, 69-70 
steel beam 53 
steel bolt connections 

bolted to a concrete floor 51-55, 123-124 
bolting two structural shapes together 125 
bolting a threaded rod to steel shapes or strut 55 ,59, 

100, 125-127 
steel shape 100-102, 128 
strap 33-35 
structural framing 53, 100-102 
strut 30-33, 35, 37-39, 43-47, 49, 78-80, 168 
substations 14, 16 
suspended attachment 

anchor sizes for 131-132 
chain mounted 86 
double rod attachmentbolted to the building 84-85 
isolated using threaded rods and horizontal 
cable supports 81-83 
rigid using 4 threaded rods with horizontal 
cable supports 71-78 
rigid using angle/strut supports 78-80 
switchboards 14 
switchgears 15, 16 

Index 

T 

t-bar ceilings 149-150 

tanks 28-29 
tendons 30, 169 
thimble 137, 169 
torque 43-45, 61, 138, 169 
transformers 24-25 
transverse supports 30, 32, 33, 37, 39, 43, 47 
trapeze support 47-48 
turn-of-nut method 124, 169 

U 

uninterruptable power supplies 26-27 
unit heaters 28-29 

V 

variable frequency drives 20-21 
vibration-isolated/floor-mounted attachment 
on elastomeric pads with isolated anchors 96097 
on open isolators combined with snubbers 94-97 
on restrained isolators 90-93 
vibration isolators 87-97, 102-103 

W 

walk-in enclosures 14 

wall-mounted attachment 
directly to the wall 98-99 
to additional structural shapes 100-102 
vibration-isolated 102-103 

webs 169 
weld 45, 55, 57, 59, 65-66, 70, 92, 93, 100, 128-129, 169 
wire rope grips 137-138 
wood beam 73 
wood frame 68 

Z 

Z bar 146 

176 177