Changes to the Rondo MAXIframe® Bracket Range
Change is often inevitable in life and the same is true for our industry. Updates are made and better knowledge is acquired to ensure buildings are a safe place for occupants.
On 1 May 2016 the National Construction Code (NCC) was updated. SA TS 101:2015, which is a Technical Specification document for post-installed anchors into concrete.
What was the update? And how does it relate to Rondo?
Well...
First - this means that all post-installed concrete anchors, used in safety critical applications, must comply with the requirements of SA TS101:2015.
For our part, Rondo has reviewed the requirements and intent of the standard and taken the position that all fasteners used in external wall applications will be deemed “safety critical” and therefore will be designed in accordance with the standard.
Second - although Rondo does not technically manufacture post installed concrete anchors, we have decided to work through the code requirements with an anchor supplier and provide a solution within our external wall framing designs.
Next - In reviewing the code requirements, it was evident a greater concrete edge distance is necessary.
This subsequently involved, moving the fixing hole of our 92mm MAXIframe® Brackets 201 and 203 off centre and providing a second hole for symmetry, therefore allowing one bracket to be used for left and right handed applications.
Fortunately, our 150mm MAXIframe® Brackets 205 and 207 already utilise an offset hole so no changes were required.
Simply stated, the standard installation requires that the concrete anchors are installed in the hole furthest from the slab edge and the design capacity of the connection has been developed through testing, considering the fastener in the rear fixing hole.
And Finally - Rondo does not recommend changing the nominated fasteners, as the solution provided has undergone rigorous review and testing and cannot be simply substituted.
To Summarise:
1. New code has been released and now anchors and details need to be compliant.
2. Rondo has provided a solution in accordance with the code provisions, in consultation with the anchor manufacturer and after extensive in-house testing.
3. Rondo does not recommend changing the connection details.
Q&A
DO I NEED TO INSTALL TWO ANCHORS IN THE NEW BRACKETS?
No, the detailed connection only requires one anchor. The hole furthest away from a concrete edge shall be used for installation, in all applications.
DO THE ORIGINAL BRACKETS COMPLY?
Yes, however anchors carrying a current ETA (European Technical Assessment) should be nominated by the anchor manufacturer based on the minimum concrete edge distances achievable.
The benefit of the new bracket and connection details will be in the assurance that you are compliant without referring to the anchor manufacturer for approval.
WHEN WILL RONDO RELEASE THE CONNECTION DETAILS?
The new brackets are available now.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I DON’T HAVE A BASE OR HEAD TRACK?
The connection capacity has been developed based on the connection as detailed. Removal of the wall track will allow rotation of the joint. If you require further guidance, please contact your local Rondo Technical Sales Representative.