The construction of bridges is an integral part of development and improving transportation, it is worth noting that bridges are a testament to engineering prowess. Bridges stand as impressive feats of engineering, serving as crucial links that connect cities, businesses, and people worldwide. Iconic examples include the Golden Gate Bridge in the USA and the Howrah Bridge in Kolkata.
Central to the construction of bridges are materials like steel, with a particular emphasis on TMT (Thermo-Mechanically Treated) Steel Bars. These best-quality TMT bars are essential components in building flyovers, bridges, and overhead metro railroads due to their superior strength and durability.
The significance of TMT bars is more pronounced in India, with a focus on infrastructural developments that connect geographic divides, facilitate transport and foster economic growth. PM Gatishakti’s National Master Plan (NMP) project focussed on Bharatmala Yojna and Sagarmala Yojna which is a multi-model framework to improve transportation across the nation. As steel is fundamental in bridge construction due to its strength-to-weight ratio, durability and versatility, the government has classified BIS approved to ensure the quality and safety of construction.
In this blog, let’s understand how TMT bars play a key role in bridge construction, and what features make it an integral part of civil construction.
TMT bars offer incredible bond-ability which makes it the right choice for reinforcement in concrete structures, which includes bridges and enhances their load-bearing capacity. TMT bars effectively distribute loads between bars and the surrounding concrete mix which allows engineers to mitigate the risk of cracking and improve the structural stability of the structure.
Tensile strength is the maximum load the bridge can withstand without deforming. To ensure stability and safety, high tensile strength of the materials involved is required. The best quality TMT bars can withstand significant tension without compromising their structural integrity, ensuring the safety and longevity of bridges.
SEL Tiger has the widest range of TMT bar grade offerings from Fe-415 grade TMT bars to Fe-600 TMT. With 0.2% proof stress, the yield strength of the TMT bars ranges from 415 to 600.
Corrosion is one of the biggest threats in construction with iron and steel, which is why choosing SEL Tiger TMT which has been tested on stringent parameters for corrosion resistance ensures even with exposure to moisture and environmental factors it won’t corrode. The use of Thermax technology for manufacturing and the chemical composition of the bars makes it well-suited for long-term use in bridge infrastructure.
The ductility and elongation property of TMT bars allows it to be flexible and not break due to high impact stress which is critical in bridge construction. This is important for bridge construction in areas with high seismic events or construction connecting water bodies. The ductility and flexibility of the bars help in dissipating energy and load and preventing catastrophic events.
Weldability is the ability to join two metal parts seamlessly. SEL Tiger TMT bars offer the best quality TMT bar that has incredible weldability and facilitates the construction of complex bridge structures. By welding together steel elements with precision, engineers can create connections that are both strong and aesthetically pleasing.
As we are pacing in infrastructural development it is important to reduce overall cost and time. With SEL Tiger TMT, in which you get a unique rib design in each bar it helps in better concrete reinforcement compared to other mild steel bars and has better strength that eventually reduces labour and material costs. Additionally, TMT bars are available in different sizes from 5.5mm to 32mm, this allows you to select the weight depending on your requirements and reduce the overall cost of construction.
As sustainability becomes increasingly important in infrastructure development, the environmental impact of construction materials like TMT bars is a key consideration. Manufacturers are exploring eco-friendly production methods and recyclable materials to reduce the carbon footprint of TMT bars and promote sustainability in bridge construction.
As we are bridging the gap between cities and remote locations around India, we know bridges are an indispensable part of it. TMT bars are an integral part of bridge construction laying necessary strength, stability, durability and flexibility in the construction to create safe and resilient infrastructure.
To make construction safer, and have high longevity we at SEL Tiger are constantly experimenting with new technologies and designs that make the best quality TMT bar capable of meeting and exceeding construction requirements.
Read Also: Exploring the Role of TMT Bars in Reinforced Concrete Structure
TMT bars are versatile, they can be utilised in various construction projects and any type of bridge construction, including beam bridges, arch bridges, and suspension bridges.
SEL Tiger TMT has incredible weldability, bondability, and rebendability that make it apt for all types of construction needs.
Innovations such as advanced alloy compositions and manufacturing processes improve the performance and durability of TMT bars, leading to safer and more sustainable bridge infrastructure.