Material Testing - Rebar

[sticksandtriangles]

I have a project where ASCE 41 requires material testing of rebar on an existing building.

After researching what ASTM specs this testing should follow, I have found ASTM spec A370 and ASTM A615 (which points back to A370 for material testing procedures) to govern this testing.

Reading A370 leaves me scratching my head on what I should expect my testing agency to do. A370 is setup for your typical steel coupon lab type test, not for a piece of rebar.

I called up a few local material testing agencies and they stated that they just throw the whole piece of rebar in their pulling machine. Should they be necking this thing down to ensure yielding in a specified spot? I was hoping someone out there has done this before and could give me some guidance.


S&T -

http://www.re-tug.com

 

[TXStructural]

Test full samples. Do not mill or neck them. The nature of rebar leads to differential characteristics across the cross section so milling it gives you incorrect values. If the sample fails outside the measured length (i.e., in the grip), try another sample. This is how every mill tests bar after production.

 

[sticksandtriangles]

Thanks TXStructural, sounds like the testing agencies I called follow the same method you described.

I wish A370 would be a little more specific on rebar testing.

I hope none of the rebar fails outside of the measured length, we are trying to be as minimally intrusive as possible.

S&T -

http://www.re-tug.com