Engineering evaluation is required if the Cat-Tie connector provides support for larger tributary areas than the standard veneer requirements outlined by CSA CAN3-A370-04, ACI/ASCE/TMS/518 and U.B.C.

For example, if the connector is used to fasten a concrete block wall to steel columns spaced at 6,000 mm (20') on center, and the design wind load is 1.0 kPa (0.145 psi), then the lateral load applied to the columns by the block wall will be 6.0 kN/m (411 lb/ft). Thus, the spacing of the Cat-Tie, the fastening of the AB-Clip to the steel member, and the embedment of the V-Tie™ into the masonry wall need to be evaluated.

Considering the lateral load of 6.0 kN/m (411 lb/ft) and the recommended design load of the Cat-Tie of 1.50 kN (336 lbs), a Cat-Tie is required every 250 mm (10") along the column (i.e., 1.50 kN ÷ 6.0 kN/m [336 lbs ÷ 411 lb/ft x 12"/ft]). The connection of the AB-Clip to the structural steel column, and the connection of the V-Tie™ into the masonry wall must also be evaluated. As previously mentioned, bending the legs of the V-Tie™ into the cores and grouting the wall at such locations will provide for increased pull-out capacity.