Prime T1000 Operating Instructions Manual page 3

FASTENER FUNCTIONING
Prior to learning the safe operating procedures for this tool, it is important to understand how a powder actuat-
ed fastener works. A powder actuated fastener is considered to be a direct drive or forced entry type of fastener
because it is driven directly into the base material. The driving action causes tremendous forces to be applied to the
fastener. Powers powder actuated fasteners are specially designed and manufactured using an austempering
process to withstand the forces imposed during the driving operation. Only fasteners manufactured or supplied by
Powers Fasteners should be used in this tool.
FUNCTIONING IN CONCRETE
The performance of a powder actuated fastener when installed into concrete or
masonry base materials is based on the following factors:
1. Strength of the base material
2. Hardness and concentration of the aggregate
3. Shank diameter of the fastener
4. Depth of embedment into the base material
5. Fastener spacing and edge distance
In addition to these factors, installation tool accessories such as a stop spall which reduces the tendency of
the concrete surface to spall during the driving action can increase the performance of the fastener.
When a powder actuated fastener is driven into concrete, it displaces the volume of concrete around the
embedded area of the fastener shank. As this occurs, the concrete directly surrounding the fastener is com-
pressed and in turn presses back against the shank of the fastener. Additionally, the driving action generates
heat which causes particles within the concrete to fuse to the shank of the fastener. This combination of com-
pression and fusion
holds the fastener in the concrete base material. A similar action occurs when fastening into block masonry.
Generally, the performance of the fastener in a given concrete strength will increase with greater embed-
ment depths in a certain range. Depending on the fastener style and base material
strength, embedment depths range from 5/8" to 1-1/2". For depths greater than this
range, there is the possibility of the fastener bending or fishhooking which may
decrease expected load capacities and create a safety hazard.
During the driving action, some localized surface spalling of the concrete may occur.
Normally, this is a surface effect which does not effect the performance of the fastener.
However, it may pose an aesthetic problem for exposed applications where a fixture
is not used. In cases such as this, two methods can be used to improve the appearance
of the fastening.
1. Another method used is to drive the fastener through a steel washer to improve
the appearance of the application.
2. A stop spall adapter mounted on the powder actuated tool can help to reduce
surface spalling.
FUNCTIONING IN STEEL
The load performance of a powder actuated fastener when installed into steel base
materials is based on the following factors:
1. Thickness of the steel
2. Tensile strength of the steel
3. Shank diameter of the fastener
4. Depth of point penetration through the steel
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Washer
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Washer
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