What is the function of anchor bolts, and which standard governs their installation?

• A. Anchor bolts secure steel to wood; ASTM A153 governs.
• B. Anchor bolts secure steel to concrete; installation is governed by project drawings and ASTM F1554 for anchor bolts.
• C. Anchor bolts are decorative.
• D. Anchor bolts govern the color of concrete.

Answer: (B)

Anchor bolts are used to transfer loads from the steel frame into the concrete foundation, tying the base plate and columns to the concrete so uplift, shear, and tension from the structure are resisted. They are embedded in concrete, either cast-in-place or post-installed, and their installation must meet established requirements to ensure proper performance.

The standard that governs their installation is ASTM F1554, which defines the materials, installation practices, tolerances, and performance criteria for anchor bolts. In practice, project drawings tell you the exact embedment depth, spacing, edge distances, and concrete strength, while F1554 provides the baseline rules for how they must be installed and how they behave under load.