Steel Connections Without Welding or Drilling: The Smarter Way to Build
Table of Contents
- Why Steel Connections Need to Evolve
- What Makes LNA Solutions Different
- BeamClamp: The No-Weld, No-Drill Solution
- Understanding BeamClamp Loads and Design
- BoxBolt: Blind Connections Made Easy
- Steel Flooring Connections with GrateFix and FloorFix
- Real-World Applications and Projects
- FAQs
Why Steel Connections Need to Evolve
Drilling and welding have been the go-to methods for decades, but that doesn’t mean they’re ideal. Hot work permits, skilled labor, special equipment, and potential damage to protective coatings slow everything down and increase costs. Add in tight timelines, remote locations, or environments like offshore platforms, and it’s clear: traditional connection methods can be more burden than benefit.
So what if you could eliminate all that?
What Makes LNA Solutions Different
LNA Solutions specializes in steel-to-steel connections that don’t require drilling or welding. We manufacture high-performance products like BeamClamp®, BoxBolt®, and a range of steel floor fasteners. Our in-house engineers provide full technical support, drawings, and specifications at no cost. Plus, everything is tested to international standards, including ICC-ES ESR-3217.
Key benefits of LNA connection systems: – No hot work or drilling – Easy installation with basic hand tools – No damage to coatings or structural steel – ICC, DIBt, and Lloyd’s Register approvals – Site visits and consulting available
Learn more about our engineering support and how we can design your next connection.
BeamClamp: The No-Weld, No-Drill Solution
BeamClamp products let you secure steel connections without altering the base structure. Whether it’s flat, sloped, tapered, or something in between, there’s a BeamClamp configuration that fits. If you’re new to clamp-based connections, start with our complete guide to beam clamps for the fundamentals.
Common Clamp Types:
- BA/BB: Standard clamps for parallel flanges
- BT/BW: Sloped flange clamps for tapered steel
- BK1: Self-adjusting clamps for up to 15-degree slopes
- BY: High-friction clamps for critical load-bearing applications
Key Features:
- Load-tested to 5:1 safety factor
- Hot-dip galvanized for corrosion resistance
- Installation from one side only
- Compatible with location plates and packing shims for perfect fit
See the full BeamClamp catalog for options and dimensions.
If you’re looking for continuing education content around structural connection systems, check out AEC Daily or RedVector for webinars and courses.
Understanding BeamClamp Loads and Design
BeamClamp assemblies handle a range of load types: tensile, shear, frictional, and compressive. These are not theoretical numbers. Everything is tested under real-world conditions with safety factors built-in.
Typical BeamClamp Connection at 3/4″ bolt: – Standard BA/BB: 3,703 lbs tensile per bolt (14,812 lbs across a 4-bolt connection), 2,473 lbs frictional per 4 bolts – High-Capacity BY (medium friction): 7,524 lbs tensile per bolt, and up to 7,733 lbs frictional per 2 bolts on galvanized steel
For the complete safe working load tables by model and bolt size, see the BeamClamp Load Capacity Guide.
And yes, our engineering team performs flange bending analysis, prying action assessments, and load path checks as part of every design package.
For technical design reference, you may also find articles on Structure Magazine and standards from AISC helpful.
BoxBolt: Blind Connections Made Easy
Need to connect to hollow structural sections (HSS)? BoxBolt is your answer. No more drilling through both sides or cutting access holes. You get a secure, ICC-approved connection from one side, with only a drill and a wrench.
BoxBolt Highlights:
- Available in zinc-plated, hot-dip galvanized, and stainless steel
- Sizes from 1/4” to 3/4” diameter
- Clamping ranges up to 4″
- Installs in 15 seconds using our BoxSok™ installation tool
BoxBolt is ideal for curtain walls, facade supports, guardrails, and MEP system attachments. No welders. No fire watch. No delays.
Explore our BoxBolt options
BoxBolt also supports Type C options approved for seismic conditions (SDC D, E, and F), meeting ICC-ES ESR-3217 standards. Whether you’re working on infrastructure or an iconic commercial project, it’s a go-to solution for blind connections.
Steel Flooring Connections with GrateFix and FloorFix
Steel flooring fasteners don’t get much easier than this. GrateFix and FloorFix allow bar grating or floor plate to be secured from above using a cam or clamp mechanism. They’re vibration-tested, corrosion-resistant, and require no underside access.
FloorFix HT Benefits:
- Vibration tested by TUV
- +/- 1/4″ construction tolerance
- 1″ steel flange capacity out of the box
- Zero damage to protective coatings
- Hot-dip galvanized as standard
The GrateFix line supports a variety of grating bar widths and spacing, with mechanical galvanized and stainless steel options. Both fasteners install quickly, with no drilling, welding, or specialized labor needed.
Check out the FloorFix product page for specs and videos.
Real-World Applications and Projects
These aren’t theoretical systems. LNA products are trusted on some of the most demanding jobsites in the world.
Featured Projects:
- SoFi Stadium (Los Angeles Rams & Chargers): Monorail connections using BeamClamp
- One World Trade Center: BoxBolt for interior supports
- Mercedes-Benz Stadium: Modular assembly with pre-engineered BoxBolt and BeamClamp connections
- More project case studies: Signage structures, monorails, sea walls, and distribution centers across North America
We support industries from energy to infrastructure, including: – Petrochemical plants – Civil infrastructure – Modular construction – Facade and architectural detailing – Material handling and conveyor systems – Signage and stadium rigging
You can also find more industry resources at ASCE and BNP Media’s continuing education site.
Need help designing a connection for your next project? Talk to our team.
FAQs
Q: Are LNA products approved for seismic applications?
A: Yes, BoxBolt Type C is ICC-ES ESR-3217 approved for use in seismic zones D, E, and F.
Q: Can these be used on galvanized or painted steel?
A: Yes, all clamps are designed to preserve the integrity of protective coatings. No grinding or re-coating needed.
Q: What tools are required?
A: Standard wrenches or impact drivers. The BoxSok™ tool is optional for fast BoxBolt installs.
Q: Is there design support available?
A: Yes. Free drawings, calculations, and design reviews are included with all orders.
Q: Where can I buy these?
A: Visit LNASolutions.com or call 888-724-2323 for a distributor near you.
Q: Are these safe for temporary and permanent connections?
A: Absolutely. With a 5:1 safety factor and extensive testing, BeamClamp and BoxBolt are trusted for both.
Q: How long does installation typically take?
A: Most installs take under 5 minutes, especially when using the BoxSok™ tool or pre-engineered clamp kits.
Steel connections don’t have to be difficult. With BeamClamp, BoxBolt, and GrateFix from LNA Solutions, you can build safer, faster, and smarter—no welding, no drilling, no hassle.
Want to get started? Request a quote or project consult here.
Talk to an engineer
Free review · 24 hr response
Last reviewed: August 11, 2026
