Screw Anchor

A screw anchor is a fastening product used for installation in solid, dense materials: concrete, brickwork, etc. This type of fastener consists of two elements: a plastic expansion wall plug and a metal screw, which is used to secure the structure in the hole.

Additionally, the wall plug may be fitted with a round, cylindrical, or countersunk collar that protects it from sinking into the hole. As the screw is driven in, the wall plug changes shape and locks firmly in place, which protects the fastener from pulling out.

Manufacturing features and materials

Modern plastic wall plugs have become a convenient alternative to wooden dowels, which were widely used in construction until recently. They are made from polyethylene or polypropylene; nylon wall plugs have become a common option for household use, performing reliably at any temperature. The expansion element is fitted with special ribs that ensure it is firmly fixed in concrete or other base material once the screw is driven in.

The metal part of the fastener is made from carbon steel and is given a zinc coating for corrosion protection. The screw’s length exceeds the wall plug’s length by at least 1 diameter, and it has a head with a cross recess. A hole is drilled in the material for installation, and the plastic wall plug is inserted into it. The screw is then driven into the wall plug using a power driver or hand tool.

Key product characteristics

The wall plug is held in the material by friction: expansion of the working section provides a tight fit against the material, reinforced by the ribs. When selecting such products, pay attention to the following characteristics:

• Fastener length and diameter. The hole in the material must strictly match the wall plug’s diameter so that it is held securely. The hole length should equal the wall plug’s length plus its diameter. The extra space is needed for the most reliable fixing.
• Product purpose. Wall plugs are divided into those for installation in solid and porous materials: the first group has an enlarged expansion section, while the second has an extended non-expanding section. Correct selection of fasteners ensures the most reliable fixing of structures.
• Presence of protective coating. Zinc-plated screws can perform under constant exposure to aggressive environmental conditions.

Screw anchors can be used in a variety of materials, including foam concrete and aerated concrete blocks, hollow brick, and more. A correctly selected fastener is firmly fixed in the material while avoiding excessive damage and crack formation.

Applications of screw anchors

Screw anchors are most widely used in the construction industry. They are used when mounting various structures to walls made of hollow and solid dense materials. Several common applications can be listed:

• Fastening facade finishing and insulation materials. Special wall plugs with wide collars can be used to secure insulation.
• Fastening various structures indoors and outdoors, including battens, partition framing, wall-mounted furniture, and more. Screw anchors are widely used in interior finishing.
• Fastening plasterboard sheets, particleboard, fiberboard, and other sheet materials for various purposes. This special fastener is used when cladding and leveling walls and installing partitions.
• Fastening door and window frames using special frame wall plugs.

These are only some of the possible uses — the range of applications for such products is much wider. Their main purpose is to provide a strong fixing of various structural elements to walls and floor slabs, capable of withstanding significant loads. Wall plugs are protected against pulling out and guarantee secure holding even under dynamic loads. Correctly selected sizes and materials ensure long service life.

Ordering fastener products from FLOK

FLOK supplies fasteners in a wide range of sizes; screw anchors are available in a selection from trusted manufacturers. The catalogue includes products manufactured in accordance with international standards. Sales are wholesale in any quantities, with ongoing supply available.