Asphalt Installation
Guidelines for Station Installation on Asphalt Surfaces (Chemical Anchors – Technical Instructions)
Note: The following recommendations are based on the use of BoltHold SP12 asphalt anchors and EPX2 / EPX3 epoxy compounds. Other types of anchors and adhesives may be acceptable, provided they deliver comparable mechanical performance, particularly in terms of pull-out strength and shear resistance.
1. Recommended anchor type and length
Anchor model: BoltHold SP12
Length: 6 inches (152 mm)
Type: Chemical anchor for asphalt (installation requires epoxy)
Required quantity: Always use 8 anchors per station base, evenly spaced
Minimum asphalt thickness: 2.25 inches (57 mm) – thinner asphalt may not provide sufficient holding capacity
2. Torque specifications
Maximum torque: 200 lb-in (~23 Nm) for SP12 anchors
If the quality of the asphalt is uncertain (e.g., aged, cracked, or unknown strength):
- Reduce the torque applied to prevent overstressing the adhesive bond
Asphalt can deform under sustained or variable loads, making careful torque application crucial
3. Maximum leveling allowance
Recommendation: Avoid leveling that exceeds 2° (~1.15 inches / ~29 mm) between the lowest and highest anchor points
Maximum allowable leveling: 6° (~3.31 inches / ~84 mm) – permitted only with proper shimming and structural reinforcement
If leveling exceeds ~0.6 inches (~1.5 cm), which corresponds to approximately 1°:
A concrete collar around the station base is mandatory. This:
stabilizes the installation,
protects shim stacks from damage or displacement,
transfers lateral forces away from the anchor connection
4. Types of shims
Acceptable shim types:
Steel shims (galvanized or stainless)
High-strength composite shims
Installation requirements:
Ensure full surface contact with the base plate
Shims must not extend beyond the outer edge of the station base
Must be installed symmetrically on both sides of the anchor axis for balanced support
5. Concrete slab or epoxy requirements
SP12 anchors require epoxy adhesive at all times
Recommended types: EPX2 or EPX3 (by BoltHold), specifically designed for asphalt anchoring
In cases where:
asphalt is too thin or poorly compacted,
the surface is highly uneven,
consider pouring a full concrete pad before installation
After anchor installation:
If leveling exceeds ~0.6 inches (~1°)
A concrete collar must be poured around the base to ensure structural stability, secure the shims, and protect the anchoring system