Final answer:
The maximum anchor spacing in a foundation has evolved from an older guideline of 5 diameters side-to-side and 7-8 diameters deep to a more recent suggestion of 8 diameters wide and 15 diameters deep, which is reflective of a more up-to-date understanding of structural engineering necessities for safety and stability.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question of maximum anchor spacing in a foundation is important in the field of structural engineering, particularly when designing foundations that include anchor bolts or rebar used to secure structures to their concrete foundations. The anchor spacing is critical to the structural integrity and safety of the building.
An older rule of thumb for anchor spacing was to space anchors 5 diameters side-to-side and 7 to 8 diameters deep. However, more recent research suggests that a larger spacing might be more appropriate, with recommendations of up to 8 diameters side-to-side and 15 diameters deep.
These dimensions are based on the diameter of the anchor itself, meaning that the spacing between anchors should not exceed eight times the diameter from one anchor center to the next, side-by-side, and similarly, the depth of embedding in concrete should not be less than fifteen times the diameter of the anchor.