ACI Adhesive Anchor Installer Certification Practice Exam

Piston plugs and retaining caps are specifically designed for what type of adhesive anchor installations?

1. Underwater installations

2. Heavy-duty applications

3. Overhead and horizontal installations

4. Vertical wall applications

The correct answer is: Overhead and horizontal installations

Piston plugs and retaining caps are essential components specifically designed for overhead and horizontal adhesive anchor installations. Their primary function is to control the flow of adhesive from the cartridge and prevent it from leaking during the installation process. This design is particularly crucial in overhead and horizontal applications where gravity can cause the adhesive to flow uncontrollably if not properly managed. By using piston plugs and retaining caps, installers can ensure that the adhesive is correctly dispensed and remains in place until it sets, which is vital for achieving a strong bond and ensuring the integrity of the anchor in these challenging orientations. In contrast, other types of installations, such as underwater or vertical wall applications, may not require the same considerations concerning adhesive flow and containment, making the specific features of piston plugs and retaining caps less relevant in those contexts. Thus, the correct answer highlights the unique purpose of these components in the specific scenario of overhead and horizontal adhesive anchor installations.