What Are the Different Types of TMT Steel Bars Used in Construction?

Steel, an iron alloy primarily made up of iron and 0.2 to 2 percentage of carbon is the most widely used construction material. It is used in the construction of skyscrapers, residential complexes, bridges, reservoirs, commercial buildings and more. The steel rods used for construction strengthen the foundation and increase the overall life of the structure based on the quality of steel bar used.

To begin with it is important to understand the various types of steel bars available in the market and their respective uses, advantages and disadvantages. In India TMT bars come in various sizes ranging from 8mm, 10mm, 12mm and 16mm. However, TMT bars can be custom made to meet a thickness as specified by the structural engineer and designers.

Let’s look at the various grades of steel bars, types and uses in detail.

Grades of TMT Bars

Steel rods used in construction come in various grades ranging from mild steel to High yield strength deformed bars of grade Fe500, Fe550, Fe550D and Fe600. HYSD bars provide greater ductility, flexibility and strength.

Types of Steel Bars

Hot rolled deformed bars, cold rolled deformed bars, mild steel bar, twisted steel bars and welded steel bars are the five different types of steel bars available in the market.

TMT bars, also known as thermo-mechanically treated bars are widely accepted in the construction world owing to their immense strength and ductility. In addition to the above, they are earthquake resistant and provide maximum protection during earthquakes or floods.

Uses of TMT Bars

• TMT steel bars are used in the construction of one way, two way and flat slabs. The size generally varies from 8mm steel rods to 10mm rods and 12mm rods.

• Steel bars of thickness varying from 12mm to 25mm are used in the construction of beams and columns. However, TMT bars of thickness greater than 32mm are used in the construction of certain types of foundations such as Raft foundation and can be availed upon ordering in advance.

• TMT bars used in the formations of stirrups are of minimal thickness where TMT bars of 8mm and 10mm are generally used. Stirrups are provided to hold the primary reinforcement in the right place and prevent the structure from buckling and cracking.

• TMT steel bars of sizes ranging from 32mm to 50mm are used in the formation of Hydraulic structure such as Bridges, Dams, Reservoirs etc. However, TMT bars of higher diameter can be made based on the design requirement.

Last but not the least, it is important to note that the rib pattern present on steel bars provides superior bonding with cement.