I was always told to specify non-metallic for packing under baseplates, so that it wouldn't corrode or react with other metals. What is the application, or is it a general question?
Metalic is usually used in situations where you have vibration or impact - the metallic particles are supposed to increase ductility in the grout and thus durability.
I am working on a project where the steel columns are sitting on concrete grade beams with base plates and grouts as usual. Some of the steel columns are inside the building and some are outside exposed to weather. We specified non-metallic grout everywhere, and the county reviewer is asking "how about metallic grout?". I am not sure what the intent of this question is. I guessed he is asking why not "non-mettalic?". I need to respond to him.
Not to be disrespectful, but I see this a lot on project specifications.
So you specified a requirement without knowing why"? And you go to an online forum to find justification?
Very typical these days in which specs are cut and paste from somewhere else and in which the engineers sometimes do not really understand what they are asking for or have unrealistic, or even stupid specifications but then, it is, of course, the contractor's fault for not following them.
My apologies for the rant and the fact that I got out of topic. Subject too close to my heart
