Anchors are essential components in the precast concrete industry, but not all anchors are designed for the same purpose. Among the categories most frequently confused are concrete anchors and lifting anchors. Although both involve connecting, embedding, or securing components to concrete, their working conditions, installation methods, and load requirements are entirely different.
Choosing the wrong anchor can lead to structural damage, lifting accidents, and project delays. This comprehensive guide explains the key differences to help engineers, precast factories, and contractors select the right anchor for each application.
What Are Lifting Anchors?
Lifting anchors are embedded insert systems placed inside precast concrete elements before casting. They are engineered specifically for lifting, rotating, tilting, transporting, and positioning precast components safely.
Common Uses of Lifting Anchors:
Lifting wall panels
Moving beams, columns, stairs, band, and lconies
Handling hollow-core slabs and double tees
Rotating large architectural panels
Transporting precast manholes and utility boxes
To hold the anchor in position during concrete pouring, factories commonly use：
Insert magnets
Rubber recess formers
Magnetic recess formers
These ensure precise positioning and prevent shifting during vibration.
What Are Concrete Anchors?
Concrete anchors are post-installed fastening systems used to secure secondary components to cured concrete surfaces. They are designed to resist static or low-dynamic loads and provide durable, permanent attachment.
Common Uses of Concrete Anchors
Installing handrails, guardrails, brand ackets
Fixing machinery bases or equipment
Mounting façade panels or signs
Securing electrical boxes, conduits, and HVAC systems
Attaching steel plates or frame connectors
Concrete anchors are not suitable for lifting or handling concrete elements.
Types of Concrete Anchors
Expansion/wedge anchors
Sleeve anchors
Drop-in anchors
Chemical/epoxy anchors
Heavy-duty mechanical anchor
Installation Method: Completely Different Approaches
Concrete Anchors Installation
Installed after the concrete has fully cured
Requires drilling into hardened concrete
May require torque tightening or adhesive curing
Load depends on embedment depth, anchor type, and concrete strength
Lifting Anchors Installation：
Installed before concrete casting
Positioned with insert magnets for perfect alignment
Embedded inside the concrete and connected to reinforcing bars
Used only with certified lifting clutches during hoisting
Lifting anchors require factory-level precision because any misalignment can cause dangerous lifting angles.
Load Capacity & Safety Requirements
Concrete Anchors：
Designed for static structural loads
Not certified for overhead lifting
Failure risk includes:
Pull-out failure
Cone breakout
Bolt shear
Concrete cracking
Lifting Anchors：
Designed for high dynamic loads
Must resistangled lifting, rotation, or shock loads
Strict compliance with EN 1992 / ISO standards
Must be paired with compatible lifting clutches
Specially shaped to prevent concrete breakout during lifting
Structural & Material Design Differences
Concrete Anchors
Stainless steel, zinc-plated steel, or alloy
Simple bolt or sleeve geometry
Designed for ease of drilling and installation
Lifting Anchors
High-strength forged alloy steel
Engineered shapes such as head anchors, eye anchors, and spread anchors
Integrated ribs or grooves for load transfer
Designed to distribute stress deep into concrete
Lifting anchors are safety-critical devices and much more heavily engineered than concrete anchors.
When to Use Each Anchor?
Use Concrete Anchors When:
✔ Attaching accessories to existing concrete
✔ Loads are static or lightly dynamic
✔ On-site installation flexibility is needed
✔ Lifting operations are NOT involved
Use Lifting Anchors When:
✔ Handling, transporting, or rotating precast elements
✔ High safety standards and test certification are required
✔ Insert magnets or formers are used for accurate positioning
✔ Multi-directional loads must be controlled
Conclusion
Concrete anchors and lifting anchors share similar names, but their applications, installation methods, load capacities, and safety requirements differ significantly.
Concrete anchors are for post-installed, permanent fixation.
Lifting anchors are for safe handling and transportation of precast components.
Understanding the differences is essential for safe construction practices and high-quality precast production. By using the correct anchors—along with proper tools such as insert magnets, recess formers, and certified lifting systems—manufacturers can significantly improve efficiency, accuracy, and safety.
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