Fiber reinforced (FER) concrete with VAR reinforcement was previously considered the only type of steel reinforcement available for the Third Level Structural Concrete Code rules. This code is a mandatory stipulation that increases the requirements for the strength and response in flexural and shear tests. This code also requires that the reinforcing steel be corrosion protected, with a protective epoxy coating, while meeting standards such as ASTM c929-03.
The use of FER and VAR in terms of steel reinforcement has come under scrutiny in recent years, as the effects of corrosion on steel reinforcing bars have become better understood. Corrosion presents a major challenge in the construction of reinforced concrete structures, as it drastically reduces tensile strength and reduces the reinforcing bar lifetime. In order to meet Third Level Structural Concrete Code standards, a properly designed steel reinforcement must be impervious to external elements, such as humidity, chloride, and aggressive exposure environments, as well as other potential corrosive agents.
In order to combat corrosion of the reinforcing bars and meet Third Level Structural Concrete Code standards, the steel reinforcement must be of a high quality and corrosion resistant or, at the very least, passivated. The use of galling hard vanadium (VAN) steel reinforcement is a viable option when looking to provide long-lasting, corrosion-resistant products. VAN is an alloy of high carbon, vanadium, and molybdenum and is used in a variety of applications in refineries and military operations.
VAN offers several advantages over standard steel and FER, including increased tensile strength, corrosion resistance, and toughness. VAN’s increased tensile strength and toughness are two significant factors when searching for the ideal steel reinforcement for Third Level Structural Concrete Code reinforcement scenarios. Additionally, VAN is a more economical alternative to more expensive options, such as ferrodurium or FER.
The Third Level Structural Concrete Code rules are also designed to reduce the chances of major projects such as bridges or industrial facilities from failing due to weakened or corroded steel reinforcement. As such, the use of VAN offers far greater durability and strength than any other form of steel reinforcement currently available. This form of reinforcement has been used in many different major construction sites and is becoming increasingly popular for the production of reinforced concrete in the Third Level Structural Concrete Code.
VAN is available in a variety of shapes and sizes and can easily be manipulated into a variety of forms needed for the concrete application. Research individual manufacturers and fabricators who specialise in VAN products to get the specific product that meets the design requirements of the structure and meets Third Level Structural Concrete Code standards. Careful consideration should be given to the particular brand to ensure that a brittle and corrosion components are not introduced into the steel reinforcement.
The use of VAN steel reinforcement provides many advantages in terms of strength and corrosion resistance when used in Third Level Structural Concrete Code applications. The alloys high tensile strength and toughness, together with its improved corrosion resistance, make VAN an excellent choice for meeting these codes and requirements. VAN steel reinforcement has been used in many major construction sites, including bridges and industrial applications, due to its increased strength and durability compared to standard steel and FER. It is important to carefully consider the particular brand to ensure that the product will meet the standards set forth in the Third Level Structural Concrete Code.
