Hollo-Bolt: The ONLY highly approved blind bolt for structural steel

Written by: Edina Ciuchilan



24/10/24 - 7 Min read

Lindapter's Hollo-Bolt revolutionised structural steelwork connections, providing a dependable solution for Hollow Structural Sections (HSS). Since its launch in 1995, Hollo-Bolt has become the industry's leading blind fastener, offering efficient installation on site, aesthetic appeal, and international recognition for its outstanding performance in safety-critical applications.

Why Choose Hollo-Bolt?

The main advantage of Hollo-Bolt lies in its blind connection capability, making provision for installation with access to just one side of the steel. This makes it a convenient and cost-efficient alternative to traditional methods like welding or through-bolting, helping to simplify complex projects, lower labour costs, and speed up installation?. Available in various head types and corrosion-resistant finishes, Hollo-Bolt is versatile, well suited to a broad selection of applications, from high-rise fa�ades to offshore installations.

The Hexagonal Head is well-suited for standard applications, while the Countersunk Head and Flush Fit options provide a low-profile, aesthetic solution for architectural projects?.

Unmatched Performance and Approvals

Hollo-Bolt is the only blind bolt to have earned global approvals, including CE, UKCA and ICC-ES for seismic applications, and fire-rated to ASTM E-119, making it the most reliable blind fastener for safety-critical applications, particularly in regions prone to seismic activity or those with strict fire regulations?

Additionally, its High Clamping Force (HCF) variant delivers three times more clamping force than standard products, making it appropriate for demanding structural connections?.

Comparison with Alternative Methods

Compared to alternative connection methods, such as welding, brackets, or cutting access holes, Hollo-Bolt outshines them all. Welding, for example, requires specialist labour and hot work permits, which can lead to risks like distortion or damage to thin-walled sections. Hollo-Bolt eliminates these concerns, offering a safe, easy-to-install solution without requiring hot work permits. It also delivers superior resistance to shear and tension, significantly outperforming conventional fasteners.

Simple Installation

Hollo-Bolt's installation is straightforward. Simply insert the fastener into pre-drilled holes and tighten with a standard torque wrench. This reduces labour and speeds up construction times. The Hollo-Bolt HCF variant, with its patented mechanism, enhances clamping force, ensuring a secure and high-strength connection?.

International Recognition and Project Examples

Hollo-Bolt's global reputation is reflected in its use across high-profile projects across international markets.

The ITER Nuclear Fusion Megaproject in Cadarache, France, is the largest nuclear fusion experiment globally, aiming to demonstrate the viability of fusion as a large-scale, safe, and environmentally friendly energy source. Lindapter's Hollo-Bolts were chosen to securely connect Hollow Structural Section (HSS) beams and pipe supports, which transport piping throughout the expansive facility.

Given the seismic risks associated with constructing nuclear plants, the engineers needed a connection solution that adhered to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) guidelines on seismic safety. Hollo-Bolts were chosen for their numerous certifications, including ICC-ES seismic approval for seismic design categories A through F, alongside CE marking and T�V certification.

The project utilised 20 mm hot-dip galvanised Hollo-Bolts for connecting large structural beams, and 10 mm stainless steel Hollo-Bolts for securing smaller pipe brackets. The installation was quick and straightforward, as each bolt was inserted into pre-drilled holes and tightened using a torque wrench to the specified torque level. This method avoided the need for welding or through-bolting, which would have required more time and additional safety measures.

The use of Hollo-Bolts allowed the project to meet stringent safety standards while saving on time required for installation. The reactor is expected to be completed by 2025, with full-scale fusion experiments commencing in 2035.

Principal advantages of using Hollo-Bolts include:

Swift on-site installation with access needed from just one side No requirement for specialist tools or hot work permits High corrosion resistance because of galvanised and stainless-steel finishes

The ITER project highlights the effectiveness of Hollo-Bolts in large-scale, safety-critical construction environments.

Corrosion Resistance and Custom Solutions

Lindapter offers Hollo-Bolt in a variety of finishes, including Hot-Dip Galvanised, Sheraplex, and Stainless Steel, ensuring durability even in harsh environments, from industrial plants to coastal areas. In addition, Lindapter's Engineered Solutions service allows for the creation of customised Hollo-Bolts, tailored to meet unique project demands.

Combining ease of installation, global recognition, and superior performance, Lindapter's Hollo-Bolt sets the benchmark for structural steelwork connections. Its versatility, high safety standards, and aesthetic options make it the ideal choice for engineers and architects looking for a reliable, visually appealing fastening solution.

For more information on Hollo-Bolt: The ONLY highly approved blind bolt for structural steel talk to Lindapter International