As global infrastructure projects push into increasingly difficult geological conditions—from Alpine tunnels to deep mines—engineers demand rock support solutions that combine immediate load capacity with long-term corrosion resistance. SupAnchor, a leading Chinese manufacturer of self-drilling anchor systems, has introduced the SupCT Bolt System, a combination bolt engineered to provide both temporary and permanent support in a single installation. The system addresses the challenges of weak rock, aggressive groundwater, and tight project schedules, offering a robust alternative to conventional multi-component support systems.
The SupCT Bolt System comprises two main categories: Steel Bolts (including solid bar and hollow bar types) and GFRP Bolts (including solid bar and hollow bar types). Steel bolts offer high ductility, while GFRP bolts provide permanent corrosion resistance, ensuring suitability for a wide range of rock support scenarios. By integrating a self-drilling anchor bolt design with factory-preassembled components, SupAnchor reduces on-site labor and accelerates installation, making it an attractive option for tunnelling, mining, and slope stabilization projects.
The SupCT Bolt System is distinguished by its duplex corrosion protection, which combines hot dip galvanization and epoxy powder coating. The rebar bolt is placed inside a plastic grouting pipe and fully embedded in mortar, creating a barrier that withstands aggressive environments. According to SupAnchor, this system achieves a service life ranging from 50 years for the black type to 150 years for the SupCoat type, matching or exceeding the durability of stainless steel in many applications.
Key advantages of the SupCT-Bolt® include:
The steel bolt lineup includes the solid bar models SSB-M20, SSB-M22, and SSB-M33, and the hollow bar models SHB-R2715 and SHB-R2712. These self-drilling anchor bolts offer impressive load capacities. For example, the SSB-M33 delivers a fully grouted yield load of 402 kN and an ultimate load of 482 kN, while the hollow bar SHB-R2712 achieves 246 kN yield and 270 kN ultimate. The table below summarizes key technical data for selected steel bolt models:
| Model | Weight (Kg/m) | Thread | Fully Grouted Yield Load (kN) | Fully Grouted Ultimate Load (kN) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SSB-M20 | 2.47 | M20 | 157 | 186 |
| SSB-M22 | 2.98 | M22 | 239 | 300 |
| SSB-M33 | 6.43 | M33 | 402 | 482 |
| SHB-R2715 | 2.47 | R27 | 159 | 191 |
| SHB-R2712 | 2.98 | R27 | 246 | 270 |
In contrast, the GFRP Bolt line provides permanent corrosion resistance and low weight, making it ideal for environments where steel may corrode or where electromagnetic transparency is required. Models include the solid GSB-R22, GSB-R25, GSB-R32, and hollow GHB-R25, GHB-R28, GHB-R32. The GSB-R32, for example, achieves a fully grouted ultimate load of 560 kN, while weighing only 1.45 kg/m. GFRP bolts are tested in accordance with CSA S807, ACI 440.6M, and ASTM D7957M, and they offer a permanent service life.
The system's torque and pre-tension values ensure reliable installation: steel bolts require torque between 150 and 400 Nm depending on model, and GFRP bolts require 120 to 450 Nm. Pre-tension values typically range from 20 to 60 kN, allowing for active support in squeezing ground. Borehole diameters are 45–48 mm for most models and 64–68 mm for larger sizes, with borehole depth equal to bolt length plus 150 mm.
By offering both steel and GFRP options in solid and hollow configurations, the SupCT Bolt System functions as a comprehensive geotechnical reinforcement system. The hollow bar anchor variants (SHB and GHB) enable simultaneous drilling and grouting, a drill-and-grout bolt technique that saves time and improves bond quality in fractured rock.
The SupCT Bolt System is engineered to meet the demands of modern underground construction, including tunnels, caverns, mines, and slopes. In tunneling, the ability to install a single bolt that provides immediate support and long-term durability reduces the need for secondary lining or additional rock bolts. For mining operations, the high ductility of steel bolts absorbs dynamic loads from rockbursts, while GFRP bolts are often used in areas where cuttability is required, such as in coal mining or TBM tunnels.
In geotechnical reinforcement projects, such as soil nailing and slope stabilization, the self drilling anchor system simplifies installation in difficult ground conditions where conventional drilling and casing are problematic. The hollow bar anchor design allows grout to be injected through the bar, creating a strong bond with the surrounding ground. This technique is particularly effective in soft soils, fractured rock, and water-bearing strata.
Market demand for durable, low-maintenance rock support is growing as infrastructure ages and environmental regulations tighten. The SupCT Bolt System's 150-year service life (SupCoat) reduces life-cycle costs and aligns with sustainability goals. Its factory-preassembled components also improve site safety and logistics, making it an attractive choice for contractors in Europe and North America.
SupAnchor has established itself as a leading soil nail system manufacturer and ground anchor bolt factory, exporting self-drilling anchor bars, hollow bars, and related accessories worldwide. The company's commitment to research and development is evident in the SupCT Bolt System's design, which integrates advanced corrosion protection, optimized grouting, and safe handling features. SupAnchor holds ISO certifications and adheres to international standards such as NS-EN-ISO 1461 and NS-EN 13438 for coatings, and DIN, ASTM, and CSA standards for materials and testing.
With a focus on collaboration and customer support, SupAnchor provides technical guidance and on-site testing to ensure optimal performance in each project. The company's global project references include major tunnels, mines, and infrastructure developments, demonstrating the system's reliability across diverse geological conditions. By combining professional engineering, innovative design, and collaborative service, SupAnchor continues to advance the field of rock support.
As infrastructure demands grow, the SupCT Bolt System stands out as a future-ready solution that balances performance, durability, and efficiency. Whether for a deep mine in Canada, a high-speed rail tunnel in the Alps, or a highway slope in California, this self-drilling anchor system provides the reliability engineers need to ensure safety and project success.
SupAnchor's hollow bar anchor technology stabilizes a critical slope with micropile anchors, overcoming fractured rock and groundwater challenges.
SupAnchor launches SupCT Bolt System, a self-drilling anchor system combining steel and GFRP options with duplex corrosion protection for long-term geotechnical reinforcement.
SupAnchor's self drilling anchor system was recently used in a major European infrastructure project to stabilize deep excavations and retaining walls, overcoming difficult geology with high-performance hollow bar anchors and drill-and-grout bolts.
SupAnchor launches SupFRP GFRP Solid Bolt, a high-strength, corrosion-resistant anchor for slopes, tunnels, and mines. Features lightweight design and long service life.
SupAnchor's advanced self-drilling anchor system supports challenging slope stabilization on a key European highway, demonstrating superior geotechnical reinforcement in difficult ground conditions.
