Powers P3801 Operating Instructions Manual Download

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Tensile strength of the steel

Shank diameter of the fastener

Depth of point penetration through the steel

Fastener spacing and edge distance.

When a powder actuated fastener is driven into steel, it displaces the steel laterally 360˚ around
the shank of the fastener. Since steel is an elastic material, it presses back against the shank of
the fastener to hold it in place. As the diameter of the fastener shank is increased, the load
capacity obtained will generally increase provided the steel thickness is sufficient to accept the
fastener. To further increase fastener performance in steel, some fasteners have a knurled shank
which allows the steel to form a key lock into the grooves to provide higher capacities than those
obtained with a smooth shank. For optimum performance, the fastener point should completely
penetrate the steel. Normally, a minimum of 1/4" is allowed for the point length. An increase in
performance can be expected until the fastener no longer completely penetrates through the
steel. At this point, the elastic properties of the steel cause a compression force to be developed
at an angle against the fastener point which reduces load capacity. In thicker steel base materials,
adequate load capacities may be obtained for applications in which the point of the fastener
does not fully penetrate the steel. Job site performance tests are recommended.
Fasteners should not be used in areas that have been welded or cut with a torch as these
procedures may have caused local hardening of the steel. Over driving of the fastener should be
avoided as the rebound created may reduce the load capacity or cause damage to the fastener.
When fastening into unsupported long steel members, it may be necessary to provide support in
the area of the fastening to prevent spring action which can cause inconsistent penetration and
a reduction in load capacity.

SUITABLE BASE MATERIAL

While powder actuated fasteners can be used successfully in concrete, certain masonry
materials, and A 36 steel, some materials are completely unsuitable. Fasteners should never be
fired into hard or brittle materials such as cast iron, tile, glass, or rock. These materials can
shatter easily resulting in a potential safety hazard. In addition, soft base materials such as
wallboard, plaster, or wood are not appropriate as the fastener could pass completely through
these materials. The user should never guess when fastening into any base material. Failure to
follow the recommended installation and safety guidelines can result in severe injury or death to
the tool operator and/or bystanders.

CENTER PUNCH TEST

A center punch test should always be performed to determine the suitability of the base
material for a powder actuated fastening. This test is relatively simple and can help to insure a
safe, successful fastening. Be sure to wear the appropriate eye protection when performing this
test. To begin, select the fastener to be used for the job. Then, place the point of the fastener
against the proposed base material. Strike the fastener with a single hammer blow, then
examine the point. If the point of the fastener is not blunted and the base material has a clear
point indentation, it is acceptable to proceed with the first test installation.
Use of a powder actuated system is not recommended if the following occurs during the center
punch test:

The fastener point has been blunted. This indicates that the base material is too hard.

The base material cracks or shatters. This indicates that the base material is too brittle.

When using an average hammer blow, the fastener penetrates the base material easily. This
indicates that the base material is too soft.

FASTENER INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS

It is important to understand the required minimum base material thickness requirements along
with the minimum spacing and edge distance requirements. Failure to follow these requirements
can result in an unsuccessful fastening and create a safety hazard.

MODEL

P3801

CAT. NO.

52008/Deluxe Kit

3801

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