Modular stackable wear-resistant panel system

A method of installing a stackable wear panel (1) onto a wall (10A) or surface of a piece of equipment (10), the stackable wear panel (1) being part of a modular stackable wear-resistant panel system (11), the method comprising the steps of:

• providing a first matrix (2) having a top surface (2A), a bottom surface (2B) opposite said top surface (2A), and a central bore (4) extending through the top (2A) and bottom (2B) surfaces and for receiving a fastener (5) or a spacing adapter (6) therein, the central bore (4) being configured to support a portion (5A, 5B) of the fastener (5) or lower outer surface portion (6E) of the spacing adapter (6);
• inserting the fastener (5) through the central bore (4) of the first matrix (2);
• supporting the fastener (5) within the central bore (4) such that the portion of the fastener (5) engages a surface portion of the central bore (4);
• preventing further passage of the fastener (5) beyond the lower surface (2B) of the first matrix (2) using the central bore (4);
• applying a nut (5E) to an outer threaded shaft (5C) of the fastener (5);
• and,
• securing the first matrix (2) against relative movement with respect to the wall (10A) or surface of a piece of equipment (10) by virtue of tightening the nut (5E) in relation to the outer threaded shaft (5C) of the fastener (5);
• providing a second matrix (2) which is substantially identical to the first matrix (2) and also having a top surface (2A), a bottom surface (2B) opposite said top surface (2A), and a central bore (4) extending through the top (2A) and bottom (2B) surfaces and for receiving a fastener (5) or a spacing adapter (6) therein, the central bore (4) being configured to support a portion (5A, 5B) of the fastener (5) or a lower outer surface portion (6E) of the spacing adapter (6);
• arranging said second matrix (2) below said first matrix (2), such that the bottom surface (2B) of said first matrix (2) is in close proximity with the top surface (2A) of the second matrix (2);
• providing the spacing adapter (6) within the central bore (4) of the second matrix (2), the spacing adapter (6) having an aperture (6B) extending completely through the spacing adapter (6) and outfitted with an inner thread (6C);
• and;
• engaging the inner thread (6C) with the outer threaded shaft (5C) of the fastener (5) and passing the fastener (5) entirely through the aperture (6B) prior to the step of applying a nut (5E) to an outer threaded shaft (5C) of the fastener (5).