Rerods

Rerods, also known as reinforcement bars or rebar, are steel bars used as a tension device in reinforced concrete and reinforced masonry structures to strengthen and aid the concrete under tension. Concrete is strong under compression but weak under tension, and rebar provides the necessary tensile strength. Typically, rerods are made of carbon steel and are designed with a surface pattern of ridges to improve bonding with the concrete.

The use of rerods is integral to modern construction, allowing for the creation of durable and resilient structures like bridges, buildings, and dams. The size and spacing of rerods are determined by engineering calculations based on the expected loads and stresses the structure will experience. Different grades of rerods are available, offering varying levels of yield strength and tensile strength, allowing engineers to select the most appropriate type for a specific application.

The manufacturing process for rerods involves rolling steel billets into long, straight bars. They are then typically cut to specific lengths and often bent into various shapes to fit the complex geometries of structural designs. Proper placement and securing of rerods within the formwork before concrete is poured are crucial for ensuring the structural integrity of the final composite material. Rusting of rerods can lead to expansion and cracking of the concrete, so measures are often taken to protect them, especially in corrosive environments.