Drop-In Anchors vs Rod Hangers

Incorrect installation is one of the most common causes of anchor failure. Drop-in anchors are particularly sensitive to installation technique, making them one of the most commonly misinstalled anchors on site.

Drop-ins require a dedicated setting tool and must be installed into a hole drilled to the correct depth. Proper setting involves repeated hammer strikes until either a witness mark appears on the anchor or the installer hears a change in hammer tone, indicating that the anchors’ internal cone has fully expanded.

Because this process relies on a specific tool and can be quite labour-intensive, especially if being installed overhead, it is not uncommon for anchors to be under-set or incorrectly installed. When this occurs, the anchor may not achieve its intended load performance, increasing the risk of failure.

But there is a much simpler and faster alternative: Rod Hangers.

Rod hangers screw directly into a pre-drilled hole and are installed by tightening to a specified torque. This creates a more controlled and repeatable installation process with fewer opportunities for error. In many cases, installation can be completed in less than half the time required for a drop-in anchor.

KFX Rod Hangers are ETA approved, providing independently verified performance. When installed in accordance with the ETA and project requirements, they can eliminate the need for pull testing, helping to save both time and cost on site.

While both anchor types can provide strong fixings when installed correctly, Rod Hangers are becoming the preferred option thanks to their faster, simpler, and more reliable installation process.

Find out more about our Rod Hangers