AAI Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield AAI facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is the most important competency assessed in Project Planning & Scheduling for professionals in this field? → Applied knowledge and practical problem-solving ability
2. When drilling into cracked concrete for adhesive anchors, what additional design consideration is required? → Use of crack-rated adhesive and reduced characteristic resistance values
3. What is the role of the static mixing nozzle? → To mix resin and hardener
4. What is the most important competency assessed in Electrical Systems & Wiring for professionals in this field? → Applied knowledge and practical problem-solving ability
5. When anchor holes are drilled but installation is delayed, what protection must be provided? → Cover or plug the holes to prevent debris re-contamination until installation
6. Which load combination controls the design of adhesive anchors according to ACI 318 for a typical gravity load case? → 1.2D + 1.6L
7. What environmental conditions can affect adhesive anchor curing? → Temperature and humidity levels.
8. Which failure mode for adhesive anchors involves pulling out a cone of concrete around the anchor? → Concrete cone breakout
9. If an adhesive anchor is installed with an embedment depth less than the minimum specified in the MPII, the installer should: → Stop work and consult the engineer of record before proceeding
10. What does curing time affect in adhesive anchors? → Bond strength
11. When should pull-out testing be performed on adhesive anchors? → As specified by the engineer or project requirements.
12. Which PPE is mandatory when handling chemical adhesives? → Gloves, safety goggles, and appropriate respirators.
13. What documentation is required for adhesive anchor installations? → Material certifications, installation records, and inspection reports.
14. According to ACI 318, what term describes the minimum edge distance below which the anchor capacity must be reduced due to proximity to a free edge? → Critical edge distance (c_ac)
15. An installer notices that achieving the specified center-to-center spacing is impossible due to existing reinforcement. The correct action is to: → Notify the engineer of record and await revised instructions before drilling
16. What is the most important competency assessed in Troubleshooting & Diagnostics for professionals in this field? → Applied knowledge and practical problem-solving ability
17. What is the minimum concrete compressive strength (f'c) typically required for adhesive anchor installations per ACI 318? → 2,500 psi (17 MPa)
18. Which of the following is a critical inspection step before adhesive injection? → Confirming hole diameter, depth, and cleanliness.
19. What is the primary purpose of industry regulations in this field? → To protect the public and ensure consistent professional standards
20. What is the recommended approach to staying current in Blueprint Reading & Technical Drawings? → Regular professional development, industry publications, and peer collaboration
21. How often should compliance procedures be reviewed and updated? → Regularly, and whenever regulations change or new risks are identified
22. When anchor rods are installed in a rectangular pattern (group anchorage), the 'anchor influence area' concept is used to: → Calculate the projected failure area for concrete breakout capacity of the group
23. What does "system integration" mean in a technology context? → Connecting different technology systems to work together and share data seamlessly
24. What does the phi (φ) factor in ACI 318 anchor design represent? → A strength reduction factor that accounts for variability and uncertainty in capacity
25. What common challenge do professionals face when applying Troubleshooting & Diagnostics principles? → Balancing theoretical best practices with practical constraints and real-world conditions
26. How should adhesive fill volume be verified during inspection? → Observing adhesive overflow at the hole entrance or using inspection probes.
27. Which primary U.S. code document governs the design requirements for post-installed adhesive anchor spacing and edge distances in concrete structures? → ACI 318 — Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete, Chapter 17
28. What is the consequence of insufficient adhesive in the hole? → Reduced bond strength and potential anchor failure.
29. What must be verified before loading an adhesive anchor? → That the adhesive has fully cured.
30. Which type of concrete substrate may require a lower design bond strength value for adhesive anchors? → Concrete with high moisture content or standing water