Epoxy in Masonry (High-Seismic Area) 1

[JoMoEIT]

I am working on a project out in California that requires us to use an epoxy system in fully grouted masonry cells. The Simpson catalog states

"When SET-XP adhesive is used with all threaded rod or rebar, the system can be used in tension and seismic zones where there is a risk of cracks occurring that pass through the anchor location. It is also suitable for uncracked concrete conditions."​

The Test Criteria includes Post-Installed Adhesive Anchors in Masonry Elements (AC58); however, the building official rejected the epoxy stating it is used for concrete applications only.

Has anyone else had this problem (out of 50 projects in the SDC=D areas this is the first time it has been rejected)? What does everyone else spec for epoxy in masonry at a seismically active area?

 

[woodman88]

What does the ICC ES report for the anchors state about masonry use?

Garth Dreger PE - AZ Phoenix area
As EOR's we should take the responsibility to design our structures to support the components we allow in our design per that industry standards.

 

[JedClampett]

I'm not surprised. If the ES report is for concrete, it can't be interpolated for CMU. I'd switch to an epoxy that has a CMU pedigree and ES report. There are some out there. It gets confusing, as we'd like to only have one epoxy on the project.

 

[msquared48]

If I understand correctly, he OP said it was OK for masonry too: "The Test Criteria includes Post-Installed Adhesive Anchors in Masonry Elements (AC58)"

Perhaps you should call your local Simpson rep and engage their expertise.

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering

http://mmcengineering.tripod.com

 

[JoMoEIT]

I called Simpson who directed me to an additional ER report (ER-265 for the curious). This report specifically states that the SET-XP epoxy can be used in fully grouted concrete masonry to resist earthquake loads. Further, the Simpson representative took it upon himself to speak directly with the city reviewer; wrapping up this problem quite tidily (Thank you, guys). One other question on a related note. Does masonry have a "cracked" designation like concrete design does? I haven't seen this mentioned anywhere, but it stands to reason that it would.