A615 vs A996 1

[Gumpmaster]

I'm working on a project where the contractor would like to use ASTM A996 rebar in lieu of A615. I'm not familiar at all with A996. Are there any pluses/minuses between the two? Can A996 grade 60 be substituted straight for A615 grade 60? Why isn't A996 in greater use? Is there any real reason to reject A996?

thanks.

 

[MrHershey]

A996 is allowed under ACI 318 so long as it's type R. Would make sure the grade is right as well.

 

[TXStructural]

ASTM A996 axle steel is available in grade 60 and is a direct substitute for ASTM A615 grade 60. The one US producer of axle steel rebar make a product to A615 standards, but since A615 in "new billet steel" the axle steel cannot be spec'd as A615.

As I said, there is only one producer of A996 that we know of, and they consume most of the north American railroad axles. Rail axles are a tightly graded steel so quality is well controlled. There is no reason to exclude A996 axe steel from your projects.

I do not think anyone is making rail steel in the US, and it is not an acceptable substitute for most uses.

John Turner CSP PE
CRSI Greater Southwestern Regional Manager

 

[Gumpmaster]

Thanks John, That's exactly the type of information I was looking for.

I was especially wondering why it wasn't just graded A615, but that answer makes sense.