Reinforcement fiberglass or metal - expert comparison

Before comparing the two materials, one must take into account that the fiberglass (it is the "composite") fittings - is fiberglass strands bonded together with epoxy resin.This "core" has a surface coating of a polymer, and the role of the "ribs" (cuts) plays a dusting of quartz.This explains many of the properties of products, in some of which it certainly compares favorably with metal reinforcement.

Features composite reinforcement

on various sites you can find many examples in which on the basis of different calculation compares the properties of the two types of reinforcement.We do not give specific figures, because we believe it is incorrect, especially when you consider the huge range of products.Therefore, all the data below - only approximate, average.

In addition, it is clear that almost all articles of the valve made of fiberglass or initiated by the manufacturer, or made up their own employees.Consequently, they can not claim to be completely objective.

strength

When manufacturers are considering this option, the present data that the composite rod is almost 4 times more.But somehow always our attention is focused on the "stretching".It is understood that any substantially elastic plastic metal.But what about the compressive strength and flexural strength?But this is - an important indicator of the durability of any concrete structure.

design Reliability

It provided, among other things, high-quality coupling materials.In this regard, the plastic loses the metal.Experts point out that the appearance of cracks in the concrete defects with the "composite" can be a lot more, and sometimes it just crumbles into pieces.

Economical use of "fiberglass

This is indisputable.It is worth a few points.

First , convenient transportation.If the transportation of metal bars (because of their standard length) will need a truck, the composite product can be taken away and by car or, for example, "Gazelle" (depending on volume purchases), since it is sold bays.

Second , and this implies the advantage of a reduction in the cost of delivery to the place of use.

Third , the cost of fiberglass rod about 2 times lower than metal.

as one of the arguments for composite reinforcement manufacturers result of the fact that when using the samples can be used with a section smaller than that of the metal products.But all the calculations provided only to the attention of mean tensile strength.Therefore, this advantage is somewhat doubtful.

By some indicators composite reinforcement can put bold "PLUS" without further comment:

• resistance to corrosion;
• does not conduct electrons / current.It is advisable to apply where it is necessary the use of dielectrics;
• low weight;
• inertness to most aggressive chemical / connections;
• flexibility;
• not create interference with the electronic devices (in contrast to metal analogues) as well as "transparent" for EM waves.

Disadvantages of composite reinforcement

Since similar products made of fiberglass - a material in construction is relatively new, at present practically no legal framework (installation requirements, its methods, and so on) for its implementation.In principle, there are certain manufacturers' recommendations, but then again, as far as they are objective?

First , they are somewhat different, as there are differences (sometimes substantial) in the manufacture of materials technology.

Second , they are not official legal documents, as all conclusions are based only on the results of various experiments, and conducted by specialists of the enterprise.In the case of negative effects will have to try hard to defend their case, especially (if it comes before that) - in the courts.

Despite the fact that all manufacturers give different arguments underlining the advantages of its composite products, they are united in one - fiberglass reinforcement should not be used in structural elements subjected to considerable stress in bending (for example, beams, slabs).

installation complexity.For example, each be able to qualitatively seal bars together?Indeed, in this case, welding is not applicable.This is one of the main "cons" composite products.

Based on the above, this valve can be safely used in coating any basis plaster structure (arrangement of the reinforcing carcass).There are no special requirements on installation.If it is used for the construction of concrete structures, one should not blindly trust advertising.This is the case when you need professional advice, and "independent", disinterested in sales.

The fact that there are some differences in the properties of the concrete mix (its components) and fiberglass.How manifest is the "neighborhood" in certain conditions (temperature jumps, ground displacement, and the like), one definitely will not be able to answer.Yes, and it is impossible to make accurate calculations of the lack of appropriate regulations.

Conclusion

composite reinforcement in the private housing construction should be used only in certain cases or in an auxiliary frame, fiber and so on.Completely replace metal rods it can not.Given its characteristics, it is best to use this material in the construction of non-residential facilities.For example, various auxiliary buildings on the site, the strengthening of the waterfront.

Who wants to get acquainted with the specifics of the use of glass-fiber reinforcement in more detail, further information can be found in the SNP of 2003 for the number 52-01.Although there basically - the general rules.