Question

What kind of rebar would be most cost effective for foundation? Would it be to design for the smallest diameter of rebar and largest amount of distance O.C.?

Answer 1

* There are various types of rebars which are used in our construction industry and for different types of construction elements different types of rebars are used.

* One of the most important characteristic that should be present in these rebars is that they must be cost effective but note that cost effective must not be confused only with respect to more economical, of course it should be available at low cost but at the same time time it is able to withstand corrosion, cracking, spalling of concrete, durable, more life, easily weldable, should be able to adhere with the concrete, should develop design strength, should develop adequate bond with concrete, should not buckle easily, less weight per metre length( generally circular bar have less weight per metre length as compared to square bar) etc.

* Based on the above criteria we arrive at situation which include whether our foundation is of light or normal residential rcc structure or it is of heavy and megastructure foundation like railway bridges, expressway and highway bridges, foundation of special commercial buildings and skyscrapers.

* For the first criterion foundation we may prefer plain mild steel also if we go only for cost effective without considering other safety factors but generally we do not use it we go for heat treated deformed steel bars which is also cost effective along with all features as discussed above.

* For the foundation of megastructures stainless steel rebars are used which has all qualities to serve as discussed in earlier bullets but it's use is limited only to developed countries like u.s.a , Australia, European countries etc.

* It is feasible to use small diameter bars in more numbers as compared to large diameter bars in small number as the former proves to be safe in bond and development length and spacing should be as per requirement generally less spacing for more safety as we tend to be conservative in our design process.

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