The results are clear. SUMO® FLEX consistently performed far above calculated design capacities, delivering controlled, predictable failure modes and demonstrating substantial reserve strength.
Testing Performance
Under tension load, SUMO® FLEX achieved a maximum of 24,800 lbs of resistance —more than double the required nominal tensile strength of 10,000 lbs (44.4 kN). Testing continued up to the equipment’s maximum capacity without any damage to the concrete or steel.
Under perpendicular shear (out-of-plane), SUMO® FLEX achieved a minimum resistance of 5,166 lbs (23 kN) before concrete breakout—more than double the calculated design strength of 2,360 lbs (10.5 kN). More importantly, the failure occurred exactly where anticipated: in the concrete, not in the steel.
Under parallel shear (in-plane loading), all valid samples reached the maximum capacity of the hydraulic jack—11,500 lbs (51.1 kN)—with no steel damage observed. Only at the end of the final test did a small concrete crack form, signaling the start of the expected breakout failure mode. For comparison, the theoretical design value was 4,720 lbs (21 kN).
What the Testing Confirms
These results validate SUMO® FLEX as a reliable, high-performance connection system that behaves exactly in line with code-based design assumptions. The tested capacities demonstrate strong safety margins, robust structural performance, and long-term reliability for precast installations.
Designed for North American Precast Producers
SUMO® FLEX is a cast-in wall panel base connection that eliminates field welding, speeds installation, and increases the number of panels that can be set per day. Developed with the needs of the North American precast market in mind, it integrates efficiently into panel production and meets CSA and CPCI requirements.
To learn more about SUMO® Flex, visit this link.
