Direct FixingsDirect Fixings - General Information

Direct fixings are fastening systems that attach components directly to a base material without the need for pre-installed inserts or complex substructures. They are commonly used for fast, efficient and repetitive fastening applications, particularly in building services, drywall construction and light structural attachments.

These systems are typically applied for fixing metal tracks, profiles, brackets or similar elements to concrete or steel substrates. Direct fixing solutions are widely used in residential, commercial and industrial construction, where installation speed and reliability are important factors.

The product group primarily includes:

• Fastening tools (powder-, gas- and electric-actuated)
• Direct fastening pins and fasteners
• Associated tools and accessories.

In contrast to conventional anchors, direct fixings are driven into the base material using controlled mechanical energy. Load transfer is achieved through mechanical interlock and material displacement within the substrate.

From an engineering perspective, direct fixings are typically designed for defined load ranges and specific substrate conditions, such as concrete or structural steel. Relevant considerations include pull-out resistance, shear capacity, edge distances and spacing, as well as behaviour under dynamic or repetitive loading.

As installation is carried out using dedicated tools, correct tool handling and compliance with manufacturer instructions are essential for achieving consistent fastening performance. Training and proper job-site practice therefore play an important role in ensuring safety and reliability.

Depending on the regulatory context, the components of direct fixing systems are covered by harmonized standards or European Technical Assessments (ETAs):

• Fixing tools
  • CE marking according to Machinery Regulation 2023/1230 based on
  • EN 15895:2025-10 "Powder actuated hand-held fixing and hard marking tools - Safety requirements"
• Fixing cartridges:
  • CE marking according to Directive 2007/23 on pyrotechnic articles based on
  • EN 16264:2014 "Pyrotechnic articles - Other pyrotechnic articles - Cartridges for powder actuated tools"
• Nails:
  • CE marking according to CPR based on ETAs based on
  • EAD 330083-04-0601"Power-actuated fastenings in concrete for redundant non-structural applications"
  • EAD 330965-01-0601 "Powder-actuated fastener for the fixing of ETICS in concrete"

Construction Fixings Europe represents manufacturers of direct fixing systems at European level and contributes to technical and regulatory developments aimed at ensuring clear, proportionate and harmonised requirements for this product group.