Dywidag threads: why should you know them?
Dywi – what? Admittedly, the name doesn't exactly roll off the tongue. Nevertheless, it should be familiar to you, not only if you're a thread expert. Even the average citizen has probably benefited from a Dywidag thread at some point. So, any idea which field we're delving into? Today, we're bringing out the big guns and entering the construction industry. Dywidag threads can be found in numerous concrete structures, ensuring a solid anchoring and secure support. Whether it's a shopping center, bridge, or football stadium – if it's large and made of concrete, there's a good chance that Dywidag threads played a role. This is made possible by the standardized Dywidag threaded rods, which have a firm place on construction sites worldwide. Let's take a closer look at how this works and what makes the Dywidag thread so special.
The Company Behind the Dywidag Thread
First, let's clarify the unusual name "Dywidag." The meaning behind this name dates back to the mid-19th century when Eugen Dyckerhoff and his father-in-law Gottlieb Widmann laid the foundation to expand Dyckerhoff's father's small cement factory into a successful construction company – Dyckerhoff & Widmann AG, or Dywidag for short. From the 1880s onwards, Dywidag specialized in bridge construction and eventually developed the predecessors of today's Dywidag threaded rods, for which the company is now globally renowned. This is where the Dywidag thread takes the stage – evolving into an international standard. Pronouncing it in the USA can still be a head-scratcher, so a note here: pronounce the "y" like an "i". And just like that, the tongue twister is unraveled!
The System Surrounding Dywidag Threaded Rods
Today, Dywidag is an internationally operating company offering numerous products for the construction and reinforced concrete industry. In this article, we are especially interested in components with Dywidag threads, which still form the core of the formwork anchor system. These include Dywidag threaded rods, compatible nuts for various applications, and other specialized components. Dywidag threaded rods are generally used to anchor components in the ground or establish connections to surrounding rocks, for example, in tunnels or mining. Threads with Dywidag threads are also used to lift heavy loads or connect components.
In addition to straight Dywidag threaded rods, there are other anchor forms such as helical anchors, hook anchors, or loop anchors. Moreover, Dywidag offers threaded rods in several product lines, each designed to meet specific requirements regarding load capacity and application.
What Makes the Dywidag Thread Special
The Dywidag thread consists of rolled thread ribs that do not run continuously around the threaded rod but are regularly interrupted. This makes the thread particularly robust and resistant to mechanical influences and contamination. This is an unbeatable advantage considering the locations where most Dywidag threaded rods serve. After all, mining and construction are not known for handling threads gently. The large thread pitch also ensures that Dywidag threaded rods and other accessories can be quickly assembled and disassembled. This is practical and often an essential feature when working with large components on the construction site.
Overview of the Dywidag Thread
The Dywidag thread is also referred to as DW thread or sometimes as D&W thread, and it has a flank angle of 90°. The complete thread designation includes the nominal diameter. The most common sizes are DW 15, DW 20, or DW 26.5. The Dywidag thread is a metric thread, so not only the nominal diameter but also the pitch is specified in millimeters. The DW 15 thread, like the DW 20 thread, has a pitch of 10 mm, while the DW 26.5 thread has a pitch of 13 mm.
When working with the DW thread, it's essential to note that different product lines of components with Dywidag threads have different thread tables, offering various dimensions. Also, threads with the same nominal diameter may have different pitches within each product line. This, along with the fact that some threaded rods are also manufactured with DW left-hand threads, makes different rod types and their associated components rarely cross-compatible.
When Do You Need a Dywidag Thread?
Now you know what a Dywidag threaded rod is, but do you actually need it in your daily life as a craftsman? Since DW threads are at home on the major construction sites of the world, where they anchor massive concrete components, you'll likely need them less for small projects in your home workshop. However, even for smaller construction projects, Dywidag threaded rods can be useful. So, if you have ambitions in this direction or occasionally deal with such projects professionally, you may soon find yourself holding a Dywidag threaded rod. And when that time comes, you now know exactly what it is – and how to pronounce Dywidag correctly.
As a tap manufacturer, we at BAER are also well-versed in both large and small threads. Fulfill your need for threading tools in our online shop or bombard our customer service with your questions. We look forward to serving you!