Steel reinforcement in Australia is a vital component of the building industry, and can be used to strengthen structures and protect them from damage. Steel reinforcement is used in concrete structural elements such as beams, columns and slabs to resist fracturing, cracking and other forms of structural stress.
The most common type of steel reinforcement used in Australia is Grade 250 steel. Grade 250 steel is a structural-grade reinforcing bar and is specified in Australian Standard AS/NZS 4671:2001. This grade steel offers the highest level of construction strength and durability and is most commonly used to reinforce residential and commercial building projects.
Grade 250 Deformed Bars are the most commonly used type of concrete reinforcement within Australia. Deformed bars are manufactured as a continuous hot-rolled product using a combination of plain, high-strength and low-alloy steels. Their symmetrical cross-sectional profile, combined with a number of deformations on the bar surface, significantly increases their bond strength in concrete.
Deformed bars are one of the strongest reinforcing metals used in the building industry, which provides greater strength in bending, compressive and torsional stresses. Deformed bars are available in a variety of standard diameters, ranging from 6mm up to 32mm, and in a range of different lengths and weights dependent on their diameter.
In Australia, Grade 250 Deformed Bars are used for various purposes such as:
• Reinforcing columns, beams and walls in slabs and foundations
• Reinforcing circular columns, such as those found in multi-level buildings
• Providing reinforcement in precast concrete wall panels
• Connecting adjacent members of construction elements
• Creating walls and barriers
• Reinforcing swimming pools, driveways and footings
• Steel mesh reinforcing in concrete
• Steel rods or ties in masonry
• Cable tie systems
Finally, Grade 250 Deformed Bars can be tested for strength and compliance with both national and international standards. This is to ensure that the product suits the application and environment in which it will be used. Tests include chemistry and corrosion testing, strength testing, dimensional accuracy testing, surface pressure testing and core testing to determine the embedded bars strength.
Australias use of steel reinforcing continues to be an important part of the countrys economy. Steel reinforcing bars are safe and reliable products and critical components for the buildings and structures of today. The attention to detail during manufacturing ensures that these products meet all national and international standards and will continue to be used in the future.
