Prime T1000 Operating Instructions Manual page 4

5. Fastener spacing and edge distance.
When a powder actuated fastener is driven into steel, it displaces the steel laterally 360˚ around the shank of
the fastener. Since steel is an elastic material, it presses back against the shank of the fastener to hold it in place.
As the diameter of the fastener shank is increased, the load capacity obtained will generally increase provided the
steel thickness is sufficient to accept the fastener. To further increase fastener performance in steel, some fasten-
ers have a knurled shank which allows the steel to form a key lock into the grooves to provide higher capacities
than those obtained with a smooth shank. For optimum performance, the fastener point should completely pene-
trate the steel. Normally, a minimum of 1/4" is allowed for the point length. An increase in performance can be
expected until the fastener no longer completely penetrates through the steel. At this point, the elastic properties
of the steel cause a compression force to be developed at an angle against the fastener point which reduces load
capacity. In thicker steel base materials, adequate load capacities may be obtained for applications in which the
point of the fastener does not fully penetrate the steel. Job site performance tests are recommended.
Fasteners should not be used in areas that have been welded or cut with a torch as these procedures may
have caused local hardening of the steel. Over driving of the fastener should be avoided as the rebound created
may reduce the load capacity or cause damage to the fastener. When fastening into unsupported long steel
members, it may be necessary to provide support in the area of the fastening to prevent spring action which can
cause inconsistent penetration and a reduction in load capacity.
SUITABLE BASE MATERIAL
While powder actuated fasteners can be used successfully in concrete, certain masonry materials, and A 36
steel, some materials are completely unsuitable. Fasteners should never be fired into hard or brittle materials
such as cast iron, tile, glass, or rock. These materials can shatter easily resulting in a potential safety hazard. In
addition, soft base materials such as wallboard, plaster, or wood are not appropriate as
the fastener could pass completely through these materials. The user should never guess
when fastening into any base material. Failure to follow the recommended installation
and safety guidelines can result in severe injury or death to the tool operator and/or
bystanders.
CENTER PUNCH TEST
A center punch test should always be performed to determine the suitability of the
base material for a powder actuated fastening. This test is relatively simple and can help
to insure a safe, successful fastening. Be sure to wear the appropriate eye protection
when performing this test. To begin, select the fastener to be used for the job. Then, place
the point of the fastener against the proposed base material. Strike the fastener with a
single hammer blow, then examine the point. If the point of the fastener is not blunted
and the base material has a clear point indentation, it is acceptable to proceed with the
first test installation.
Use of a powder actuated system is not recommended if the following occurs during the
center punch test:
1. The fastener point has been blunted. This indicates that the base material is too hard.
2. The base material cracks or shatters. This indicates that the base material is too brittle.
3. When using an average hammer blow, the fastener penetrates the base material
easily. This indicates that the base material is too soft.
Point
1
Flattens
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No
Indent
Surface
2
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Shatters
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Material
Cracks
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3
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Fastener Sinks in
with Average
Hammer Blow