Construction is a rapidly evolving domain, and so are the construction materials. They play a dominant role in determining the affordability, longevity, and stability of the building structures. TMT bars and rebars are critical materials that provide the necessary strength to the building while ensuring a concrete foundation.
While they sound similar, they have unique properties, applications, and characteristics. In this blog post, we have highlighted the major differences between TMT bars and rebars to help you choose the right steel reinforcement for your building. Read on!
What is the difference between a bar and a rebar?
Definition and application:
A bar is a generic term that refers to a metal piece with a consistent cross-section. They are generally used as beams, columns, and reinforcement bars to distribute the load evenly across structures.
Rebar is the short form for reinforcement bars. It is a type of steel bar specifically designed for reinforcing concrete and masonry structures. Generally, concrete has high compression but goes weak in tension. So, rebars are primarily used to increase the tensile strength of concrete structures and prevent them from cracking under high tension.
Composition and characteristics:
Bars are usually made from metals like aluminium and copper, depending on the desired application. They may be in circular, rectangular, or square shapes.
On the other hand, rebars are generally made of steel. They are usually circular in shape with textured ridges and grooves to promote strong bonding with the concrete. Rebars are usually available in different grades, classified based on their strength and flexibility.
TMT bar vs. TMT rebar
TMT stands for Thermo-Mechanically Treated bars. TMT bars are manufactured from high-strength steel and have versatile applications in construction projects.
On the other hand, TMT reinforcement bars are a subset of TMT bars specifically designed to provide concrete with the required tensile strength.
Manufacturing process
Both TMT bars and rebars undergo rapid quenching and tempering processes. This helps create a hard and strong outer surface and a flexible, soft core.
On the other hand, rebars are additionally treated on the surface to enhance the bonding with the concrete. The quenching process adds strength and ductility to the structure while the ribbed surface imparts a better bond with the concrete.
Rebars are highly susceptible to corrosion and must be treated. So, they are subject to corrosion resistance treatments and processes like epoxy coating or galvanisation.
Strength and durability
The Thermo-mechanically treated bars can withstand high stress levels and so are apt for buildings in areas vulnerable to natural disasters like earthquakes. Generally, TMT rebars have less strength, and must be appropriately coated to improve their longevity.
The TMT bars must have an elongation of at least 14.5% to ensure flexibility and resistance to seismic events. The rebars must have bonding properties as specified in IS 1786.
Functionality and applications
TMT bars are used in diverse applications, including high-rise buildings, dams, bridges, and large-scale infrastructure projects. They help enhance the strength of structures prone to earthquakes and high-speed winds. So, they are appropriate for buildings located in seismic zones and coastal areas.
On the other hand, TMT rebars are generally used to provide the necessary strength to concrete. Unlike TMT bars, they are more appropriate for less dynamic environments.
Corrosion resistance
TMT bars have greater corrosion resistance as they acquire a protective layer out of the thermo-mechanical treatment. This makes TMT bars ideal for buildings located in humid areas or in close proximity to the coastline. The tMT bars must pass corrosion tests as per IS 1786 to ensure longevity in different conditions.
On the other hand, the TMT rebars have relatively low corrosion resistance. They must be appropriately treated during the manufacturing process to improve this. The rebars must have proper coating with corrosion resistance and this must meet the BIS standards.
Cost advantage
On a relative scale, TMT bars have a high initial cost when compared to TMT rebars. This is because the TMT bars are generally subject to additional processes to enhance their corrosion resistance and overall strength. However, their durability, longevity, and versatility justify the high upfront costs.
TMT rebars have a lower upfront cost than bars. However, they may not be appropriate for use in dynamic environments.
Primary standards and governing body
Both the TMT bars and rebars manufacturing in India are governed under the standards set by BIS- Bureau of Indian Standards. They are primarily covered under IS 1786.
TMT bars are also covered under IS 13920, which is the standard for seismic design. The TMT rebars are covered under IS 456, which governs reinforced concrete construction.
Installation
The TMT bars must be installed following the standard reinforcement techniques. You must check for bends or kinks to ensure stability and structural integrity.
The TMT rebars can be positioned with their ribbed surface along the concrete. Ensure that they are properly positioned following standard techniques to drive a strong bond with the concrete.
Wrapping Up
While TMT bars and rebars have unique features and applications, selecting one for your building depends on several considerations. For high-rise buildings and those located along the coastline exposed to dynamic environments, TMT bars work the best. They are also appropriate for buildings in areas with high vulnerability to earthquakes and natural calamities, as they have a greater corrosion resistance.
TMT bars are relatively costlier than TMT rebars as they are subject to additional processes to drive greater strength and corrosion resistance. However, they have low maintenance costs and this compensates for the high upfront costs. So, the choice of TMT bars and rebars depends on the desired functionality, type, and location of the building and your affordability constraints.
Suryadev TMT is a leading steel manufacturing company in Chennai. The TMT bars and rebars are available in different grades and sizes, and they can be customised to meet your unique requirements for a project.
For more information and to buy TMT bar online, contact us at https://suryadev.in/
FAQs
1. What is the use of TMT bars?
The TMT bars are used to add strength to the concrete structures. They are generally used in beams, columns, bridges, and other load-bearing structures to support equal distribution of load across the structure. They have versatile applications including dams, airports, high-rise buildings, flyovers, highways, etc.
2. What is the TMT steel bar price?
At Suryadev, we offer a lower price on TMT steel bars in the market. However, the exact price of the TMT bars depends on the size, grade, and customisation. So, get in touch with our sales lead, convey your requirements, and learn the exact price.