Pull-out test

A pull-out test is a method used to assess the strength of an anchor or fixing embedded in a material, typically concrete, by measuring the force required to pull it out. This test is crucial for ensuring the reliability and safety of structures and components where fixings are used.

7/1/20251 min read

Here's a more detailed explanation:

What it measures:

  • Pull-out tests measure the tensile capacity of an anchor or fixing by determining the force needed to detach it from the surrounding material.

  • The test provides insights into the bond strength between the anchor and the material, or the mechanical interlock of the fixing.

How it works:

  • A specialized rig is attached to the anchor or fixing, and a tensile force is applied to pull it out.

  • The force is gradually increased until the anchor breaks free or reaches a predetermined level.

  • The force required to pull out the anchor is measured, providing a quantifiable measure of its strength.

Importance:

  • Pull-out tests are essential in construction and civil engineering to verify the integrity of anchors and fixings.

  • They help ensure that structures can withstand the loads they are designed to bear.

  • The tests are particularly important for safety-critical applications, where failures can have severe consequences.

Types of pull-out tests:

  • Destructive pull-out test:

    The anchor is pulled to failure, providing a measure of its ultimate strength.

  • Non-destructive pull-out test:

    The anchor is pulled to a specified load level, which is a fraction of its expected strength, to assess its performance without causing damage.