Multi Fix Anchors

About Multi Fix Anchors

Multi Fix anchors represent a modern approach to heavy-duty fastening, offering a stress-free, non-expansion solution for anchoring into concrete, brick, stone, wood and concrete block. Unlike traditional fixings such as throughbolts, shield anchors, sleeve anchors and drop-in anchors, these innovative fasteners combine ease of installation with exceptional holding power. The unique high-low parallel thread design allows for straightforward insertion whilst delivering impressive pull-out values, making them ideal for both structural and general purpose applications.

Available at Tooled-Up.com in various head configurations including hex head, countersunk Torx and pan head designs, Multi Fix anchors provide versatility for different fixing requirements. The countersunk options offer a flush finish for applications where aesthetics matter or where protrusion could cause snagging hazards, whilst hex head variants allow for high-torque installation using standard spanners or socket sets. These non-expansion through fixings eliminate the stress forces associated with traditional expansion anchors, reducing the risk of cracking in concrete edges or thin sections.

A key advantage of Multi Fix anchor systems is their removability and adjustability – features rarely found in conventional concrete fixings. This makes them particularly valuable for temporary installations, maintenance access points, or situations where fixtures may need repositioning. The concave thread configuration cuts cleanly into base materials, creating a secure mechanical lock without the aggressive expansion forces that can compromise substrate integrity in sensitive applications.

Jargon Buster

Non-Expansion Fixing

A fastener that achieves holding power through mechanical thread engagement rather than outward pressure against the hole walls, reducing stress on the substrate and minimising cracking risks in concrete edges or thin sections.

High-Low Thread Pattern

A thread design featuring alternating high and low peaks that facilitates easier insertion whilst maintaining excellent pull-out resistance. The high threads cut into the material whilst low threads reduce insertion torque.

Through Fixing

A fastening method where the screw or bolt passes completely through both the fixture being mounted and the substrate material, providing superior load distribution compared to blind fixings.

Pull-Out Value

The maximum axial load (tension force) a fixing can withstand before failing or withdrawing from the substrate, typically measured in kilonewtons (kN) and critical for structural applications.

Torx Drive

A six-pointed star-shaped drive system that provides superior torque transfer and resistance to cam-out compared to traditional Phillips or slotted drives, particularly important for high-torque concrete fastening applications.

Countersunk Head

A fastener head design that tapers to sit flush with or below the surface of the fixture, providing a neat finish and eliminating protrusion for safety and aesthetic purposes.

Who Uses Multi Fix Anchors?

Multi Fix anchors are essential fastening solutions for a diverse range of trades and applications:

• General Builders and Main Contractors – for structural fixings, framework installation and heavy-duty anchoring on construction sites
• Shopfitters and Joiners – securing fixtures, shelving systems, partitions and architectural joinery to masonry substrates
• Electricians – mounting cable management systems, consumer units, containment and electrical equipment to concrete and blockwork
• Plumbers and Heating Engineers – fixing pipework brackets, boiler mountings and sanitary ware to various masonry surfaces
• Steel Fabricators and Metalworkers – anchoring structural steelwork, handrails, balustrades and metal framework to concrete bases
• Facilities Maintenance Teams – removable fixings for equipment that requires periodic access or repositioning
• Shopkeepers and Retail Fitters – installing racking, display systems and security fixtures in commercial premises
• DIY Enthusiasts – home improvement projects requiring reliable anchoring into masonry without specialist tools or techniques

How to Choose the Right Multi Fix Anchors

Selecting appropriate Multi Fix anchors requires consideration of several factors to ensure reliable, safe and code-compliant installations:

Substrate Type: Verify that Multi Fix anchors are suitable for your base material. Whilst these fasteners work excellently in concrete, brick, stone and concrete block, confirm the substrate density and condition can accept the thread-forming action without crumbling or excessive dust formation.

Head Configuration: Choose between hex head, countersunk Torx or pan head designs based on your application. Countersunk heads provide flush finishes for applications where protrusion poses safety concerns or aesthetic issues. Hex heads allow standard tool usage and high installation torque. Pan heads offer larger bearing surfaces for softer fixture materials.

Length and Diameter: Calculate the required embedment depth into the substrate plus the thickness of materials being fixed. The range available from Tooled-Up includes various sizes to accommodate different fixing scenarios, with longer lengths necessary for thicker fixtures or where greater pull-out resistance is required.

Load Requirements: Assess the static and dynamic loads the fixing must support. Multi Fix anchors deliver high pull-out values, but selecting the appropriate diameter and embedment depth ensures adequate safety margins for your specific application, particularly for structural or safety-critical fixings.

Environmental Conditions: Consider exposure to moisture, chemicals or corrosive atmospheres. For outdoor applications or environments with high humidity, verify the corrosion resistance specifications to ensure longevity and maintained holding power throughout the fixture's service life.

Installation Access: The Torx drive variants require appropriate driver bits, whilst hex head options work with standard spanners or sockets. Ensure you have suitable tools available before commencing installation, particularly for high-volume fixing operations.

Popular Accessories

Maximise efficiency and results with these complementary products and accessories:

• Masonry Drill Bits – quality tungsten carbide-tipped or SDS drill bits in appropriate diameters for pre-drilling pilot holes
• Torx Driver Bits – impact-rated Torx bits for power driver installation of countersunk Multi Fix anchors
• Hex Socket Sets – for installing hex head variants with cordless impact drivers or wrenches
• Torque Wrenches – ensuring correct installation torque for structural applications requiring documented compliance
• Vacuum Dust Extractors – HSE-compliant dust suppression when drilling into masonry substrates
• Depth Stops and Measuring Gauges – for consistent hole depth when preparing for Multi Fix anchor installation
• Thread-Locking Compounds – medium-strength threadlockers for applications subject to vibration or where additional security is required
• Washers and Spacers – distributing loads across softer fixture materials or creating stand-off distances

Safety Information

Safe installation of Multi Fix anchors requires attention to several important considerations:

Personal Protective Equipment: Always wear safety glasses or goggles when drilling into masonry to protect against dust and debris. Use hearing protection when operating power tools for extended periods, and wear appropriate dust masks or use on-tool extraction to minimise respirable crystalline silica exposure in accordance with HSE guidelines.

Structural Considerations: Consult structural engineers or building control authorities for load-bearing applications, particularly in safety-critical installations. Maintain appropriate edge distances and spacing between fixings to prevent substrate failure. Never exceed the manufacturer's stated load capacities or working load limits.

Installation Technique: Pre-drill pilot holes to the correct diameter and depth as specified by the manufacturer. Over-torquing can damage the thread engagement or strip the drive recess, whilst under-torquing may result in inadequate holding power. Follow torque specifications where provided for structural applications.

Substrate Assessment: Inspect the fixing location for hidden services including electrical cables, water pipes and gas lines before drilling. Use appropriate detection equipment to locate concealed services. Avoid fixing into damaged, crumbling or moisture-saturated masonry where holding power may be compromised.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main advantage of Multi Fix anchors over traditional expansion anchors?
Multi Fix anchors use a non-expansion thread-forming design that eliminates the outward stress forces associated with conventional expansion anchors. This significantly reduces the risk of substrate cracking, particularly near edges or in thin sections of concrete. They're also removable and adjustable, unlike most expansion anchors which are permanent once installed.

Can Multi Fix anchors be reused after removal?
Yes, one of the key benefits of Multi Fix anchors is their reusability. Because they don't rely on expansion forces and instead use mechanical thread engagement, they can typically be removed and reinstalled. However, inspect threads for damage before reuse, and avoid reinstalling into the same hole if thread engagement has been compromised.

Do I need special tools to install Multi Fix anchors?
Installation requirements depend on the head type. Hex head variants can be installed with standard spanners, socket sets or hex drivers. Countersunk Torx versions require Torx driver bits, which are widely available and fit standard drill drivers or impact drivers. Impact-rated bits are recommended for larger diameter fixings or high-volume installations.

What drill bit size should I use for Multi Fix anchors?
Always refer to the manufacturer's specifications for the correct pilot hole diameter, as this varies with anchor size. The pilot hole must be sized precisely – too small and installation becomes difficult or impossible; too large and thread engagement is compromised, reducing holding power. Tooled-Up stocks the major brands including Timco and Rawlplug, with sizing information available on product pages.

Are Multi Fix anchors suitable for outdoor applications?
Multi Fix anchors can be used outdoors provided you select appropriate corrosion-resistant variants for the environmental conditions. Check the product specifications for corrosion resistance ratings, particularly for coastal environments or areas with industrial pollution. Stainless steel or specially coated versions offer enhanced durability in demanding outdoor conditions.