What is Shear Stud?
A Small but Critical Component in Structural Safety
Definition of a Shear Stud
A shear stud is a special, weldable fastener made of high-strength steel that must be manufactured in accordance with TS EN ISO 13918 standards. It ensures a secure connection between steel structures and reinforced concrete surfaces. This connection prevents the concrete from slipping on the steel surface, and the structural elements work together to increase load-bearing capacity.
Shear stud lengths can range from 50 mm to 250 mm. Shear studs are welded to the steel surface using specialized welding machines; during this process, the head of the shear stud melts and bonds to the surface. Please contact us for more detailed information.
Shear Stud Apllications
Shear studs are used in many structures, primarily bridges, viaducts, stadiums, dams, and high-rise buildings. They are particularly preferred in composite slabs where concrete is poured over trapezoidal steel sheets to prevent the concrete from slipping off the steel surface. These studs connect the steel profile to the trapezoidal composite deck, eliminating potential slippage issues that may occur during concrete pouring.
In regions subject to dynamic loads such as earthquakes, studs ensure that structural elements work together, resulting in a more homogeneous load distribution. This enhances structural safety.
Application Techniques
Stud welding is performed using specialized welding machines. These machines secure the stud by welding it to the steel surface. Factors such as the carbon content of the steel, paint thickness, and surface cleanliness directly affect the quality of the weld. For example, while 1600 amps of power and a welding time of 1.4 seconds are recommended for ST37, ST42, and ST44 steels, this value increases to 1650 amps for ST52 steel.
The use of non-flammable paint can prevent the stud from welding properly. Therefore, the surface must be properly prepared before application. Additionally, embedding the studs into the concrete not only protects them from external factors but also helps the concrete hold the studs securely in place.
Technical Specifications and Performance
Shear studs are exceptionally strong in terms of shear and tensile strength. For example, a 19×75 mm stud nail, when properly welded, has a shear strength of approximately 2,000 kg and a tensile strength of 12,000 kg. These values are of critical importance for structural safety, particularly in regions where dynamic loads—such as those caused by earthquakes—are prevalent.
Larger-diameter shear studs (such as metric 22 and 25 mm) are used in structures requiring high load-bearing capacity, such as bridge piers, viaducts, and dams. In these applications, they are used in conjunction with special ceramic ferules (welding rings).
Industry Significance and Quality Control
Quality control is of great importance in stud fastener applications. Post-welding tests are conducted to verify that the studs are properly secured and provide the required strength. In particular, the presence of surface coatings such as fire-resistant paint can negatively affect weld quality. Therefore, surface preparation must be carried out meticulously prior to installation.
Additionally, it is a critical requirement for structural safety that companies manufacturing shear studs possess quality certificates for their products and demonstrate compliance with international standards.
Conclusion
The shear stud is an indispensable fastener that enhances structural safety and facilitates the effective interaction between steel and concrete. When properly installed, it significantly increases the durability and lifespan of structures. It also serves as a key revenue source for companies in terms of production and sales strategies. In countries with high earthquake risk, such as Turkey, the use of shear stud is not merely a technical preference but a safety requirement.
More Information
With our specially designed production line for shear stud production, we manufacture 150,000 shear studs per month in compliance with TS EN ISO 13918 standards. In addition to standard shear studs in sizes ranging from 50mm to 250mm in lengths and diameters of 16, 19, 22, and 25, we also offer custom production for customer projects in lengths such as 60, 90, 110, and 220 mm. For more detailed information about shear studs and applications tailored to your needs, please contact us.