Embedded plate as cover to tension rebar
Embedded plate as cover to tension rebar
(OP)
Hi,
We provided embedded plate in a slab of 400 mm thick. the cover to tension re bar is 50mm. Clear distance between bottom of embedded plate and re bar is 30mm. Can this embedded plate thickness could be considered as cover to tension re bar as shown in the figure.
The slab is exposed above the ground but the environment is of corrosive one.
We provided embedded plate in a slab of 400 mm thick. the cover to tension re bar is 50mm. Clear distance between bottom of embedded plate and re bar is 30mm. Can this embedded plate thickness could be considered as cover to tension re bar as shown in the figure.
The slab is exposed above the ground but the environment is of corrosive one.






RE: Embedded plate as cover to tension rebar
RE: Embedded plate as cover to tension rebar
1) I believe that most engineers would allow the plate to count as cover. I usually do unless it's a critical application that I'm really worried about.
2) Logically, I don't think that the plate counts as cover. Consider:
2a) Splitting around developed/developing rebar. It'll be the concrete under the plate that splits and the presence of the plate may not do much to prevent that. Effectively 30 mm cover.
2b) Fire. The steel plate will probably transmit heat pretty effectively to the 30 mm of concrete below. Effectively 30 mm cover.
2c) Corrosion. The plate does not add alkalinity related passivity to the rebar protection. Also, suppose moisture gets under the plate? Effectively 30 mm cover.
One can, of course, make the argument that the localized compromising effect does not compromise the member as a whole in a significant way.
I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.