-Can pull-out testing be conducted even if the anchor is already connected to a base plate?
-The initial recommendation was to install a separate test anchor near the connection, but the designer did not allow it.
Questions:
-If yes, please provide a technical reference or methodology for this testing approach.
-If not, what alternative testing options are recommended?
Pull out testing set-up is according to Standard Test Methods for Strength of Anchors in Concrete Elements ASTM E488. The document does not explicitly prohibit or require testing with attached baseplates. But it is stated in section 5.4 that unconfined test set up should permit the unrestricted development of conical concrete fracture surface. See screenshot below:
Therefore, yes we can do the pull out testing even when the baseplate is already installed given that the baseplate should not restrain the anchor during testing and will allow concrete cone failure. Note that the bracket that will be used in the test should not rest on the baseplate.