What Are Blindbolts?

The different types of Blindbolts work in a variety of ways. The original Blindbolt, for example, is operated by gravity, and utilities a toggle that rotates around a pivot pin which isn’t load-bearing. Key advantages of these Blindbolts include the fact that they can be used horizontally or vertically, and are fully removable. There are also Heavy Duty (HD) bolts designed to be used for structural connections and Thin Wall (TW) bolts which are the perfect choice for light steel frame connections. The HD and TW bolts work through expansion and this means that they can be used at any angle and in any position.

We have a worldwide distribution network for Blindbolts. Visit out worldwide distributor page for a full list of suppliers and view their locations on Google maps.

Blindbolts offer a workable solution for those situations in which areas with restricted access need to be fixed, or where there is no access whatsoever to the back face of a connection. They also provide the solution when structural hollow sections and light steel frame assemblies need to be fixed. We’re constantly becoming applications for which Blindbolts are the solution, and this includes any situation in which a connection in needed in a steel section offering limited or non-existent back face access.

Part of the USP of Blindbolts is the simplicity of the installation process. When a horizontal fixing is needed the bolt is simply inserted into a standard clearance hole and turned through 180 degrees. This activates the toggle, and the bolt can then be tightened in the standard manner. When vertical fixing is required the bolt is inserted into a clearance hole and then spun, causing centrifugal force to activate the toggle. If the Blindbolt is M16 or larger then the toggle activation has to be checked using an installation gauge provided in every box before tightening to the recommended torque can take place. If vibration is likely to be present in a particular application, then the use of a lock nut or washer is recommended.

When a HD bolt is being used the hole has to be the same size as the bolt and, after it has been inserted into the hole, an activation pin is hammered into the bolt body until it is fully flush with the end of that body. Once this has been done, the bolt can be tightened to the recommended torque.

When a TW bolt is being used it needs to be inserted into a standard clearance hole. The outer hexagonal bolt head should then be held in place with a spanner and the bit supplied with a cordless drill utilised to activate the bolt. You can find a full installation video on our web site.

The original Blindbolt, unlike the HD and TW versions, is fully removable. Doing this involves simply carrying out the installation process in reverse. You can find a full removal video on our web site.