Anchor Pull-Out Test Procedure
Document Reference No.: QTC-APOT-001
Prepared by: [Your Company Name]
Revision No.: 1 | Date: [Insert Date]
1. Purpose
To verify the tensile (pull-out) capacity of mechanical or chemical anchors installed in concrete or
masonry substrates by applying axial load and measuring displacement or failure.
2. Scope
This procedure applies to post-installed or cast-in-place anchors used in construction and structural
applications, and is intended for both proof testing and qualification testing.
3. References

ASTM E488/E488M – Standard Test Methods for Strength of Anchors in Concrete Elements

ACI 355.2 – Qualification of Post-Installed Mechanical Anchors in Concrete

Manufacturer installation instructions for anchor systems
4. Equipment Required

Portable hydraulic pull tester with digital gauge (calibrated)

Anchor adaptor/fitting kit

Dial indicator or LVDT for displacement measurement

Torque wrench (if required for torque-controlled anchors)

Safety barriers and PPE
5. Test Preparation
5.1 Site Conditions

Ensure the anchor installation area is clean, dry, and accessible.

Clear the area of loose debris or obstructions.

Ensure safety perimeter is established.
5.2 Anchor Marking

Identify and mark test locations on site drawings or maps.

Visually inspect anchors for damage or installation defects.
5.3 Equipment Setup

Calibrate the pull tester and confirm zero load reading.

Attach the proper adaptor for the specific anchor size/type.

Position the pull tester perpendicular to the anchor axis.
6. Test Procedure
6.1 Apply Load

Increase axial tensile load at a steady rate (typically 1–2 kN/sec or as specified).

Monitor both load and displacement using the digital readout and displacement gauge.
6.2 Test Types

Proof Test: Apply test load (usually 50–100% of design capacity) and hold for 1 minute. No
visible movement or damage should occur.

Ultimate Load Test: Continue loading until anchor failure or slip exceeds specified threshold.
6.3 Data Recording

Record peak load, displacement at each load step, and mode of failure (pull-out, concrete
breakout, anchor yield, etc.).

Take photos if required for documentation.
7. Acceptance Criteria

Anchor must resist the test load without exceeding allowable displacement (typically <1 mm at
proof load).

No visible cracking or structural damage in the surrounding substrate.

Failure modes should be ductile (anchor stretch or pull-out), not brittle (concrete spalling or
breakout).
8. Post-Test Activities

Remove test equipment and clean the test area.

Document all findings in the pull test report including:
o
Location
o
Anchor type and size
o
Load-displacement curve
o
Observations and pass/fail status
9. Safety Precautions

Ensure load cell and test frame are rated for maximum expected loads.

Never stand in line with the pulling direction.

Wear hard hats, gloves, and eye protection at all times.