Structural differences between Steel mesh reinforcement and Rebar reinforcement
Structural differences between Steel mesh reinforcement and Rebar reinforcement
(OP)
Are there any differences between the usage of prefabricated welded reinforcement mesh and manually on site rebar reinforcement in a flat slab? So if we have a 250 mm flat slab with welded prefabricated mesh, would it behave in anyway shape or form better than the same exact slab but with rebar reinforcement that has been tied on the spot by a worker.
**Let's assume that there are no differences in the placement of the steel in the two slabs. They were meticulously executed and the only difference is that the connection points between the vertical and horizontal rebar are welded vs. tied.
Thanks in advance!
**Let's assume that there are no differences in the placement of the steel in the two slabs. They were meticulously executed and the only difference is that the connection points between the vertical and horizontal rebar are welded vs. tied.
Thanks in advance!






RE: Structural differences between Steel mesh reinforcement and Rebar reinforcement
But be real, I've never seen mesh installed on site with the same amount of care and chairing that regular reinforcing gets.
RE: Structural differences between Steel mesh reinforcement and Rebar reinforcement
Professional and Structural Engineer (ME, NH, MA)
American Concrete Industries
www.americanconcrete.com
RE: Structural differences between Steel mesh reinforcement and Rebar reinforcement
- Different development length equations etc. Not much potential for development hooks etc.
- It might be difficult to adjust your rebar quantity per foot to match the lateral distribution of bending moments. I'd be reluctant to use it for top steel.
- Since WWM is often stronger than rebar, for the same tensile force resistance, you would get less stiffness and therefore possibly more deflection.
- You might be able to maximize your effective flexural depth better.
- Stud rail placement might be tricky.
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.
RE: Structural differences between Steel mesh reinforcement and Rebar reinforcement
"It is imperative Cunth doesn't get his hands on those codes."
RE: Structural differences between Steel mesh reinforcement and Rebar reinforcement
RE: Structural differences between Steel mesh reinforcement and Rebar reinforcement
Because of this Australian type mesh cannot be used in any application that requires ductile action, so no redistribution, no robustness, no seismic action.
That pretty well limits its use!
PS If you let us know what country you are talking about it might make it easier to reply more specifically!
RE: Structural differences between Steel mesh reinforcement and Rebar reinforcement
One thing that hasn't been mentioned. If you have a supported concrete slab exposed to chlorides, the welded wire reinforcement will deteriorates without spalling the concrete. Failure has been sudden and without warning. Rebar will expand enough to pop the concrete and let people know there is a problem.