Every construction project, be it commercial or residential, can’t be imagined without using TMT bars. When it comes to buying TMT bars, the diameter is the most crucial factor rather than the TMT steel price per kg. Price-based selection is a big no, as size-based selection will ensure the safety of the building for the years to come.
The most commonly available TMT bar sizes are 8mm, 10 mm, 12 mm, 16 mm, 20 mm, and 32 mm.
In this article, let’s explore more about TMT, their grades, specifications etc.
Understanding The Meaning
TMT stands for Thermo Mechanical Treatment. Basically, it refers to the process involving using heat along with mechanical force. The TMT steel bars are the basic raw material employed in the construction industry as they provide enhanced protection against natural calamities such as earthquakes. To maximise a building’s strength, these bars must have excellent anti-corrosion properties as they will provide a longer lifespan for your construction.
How To Calculate Bar’s Weight?
When anyone buys TMT bars, by default, they need to buy them in bundles. Each bundle would have the same total weight. For regulatory reasons, the manufacturers must adhere to the standard IS:1786-208 so that the uniformity of the weight is maintained.
For example, in order to calculate 12mm rod weight in kgs for each square metre, the following equation can be used:
Weight = D x D x L/162
In this equation, D stands for diameter, and L stands for length.
Size-wise Specifications
Let’s explore different specifications of different sizes.
- 8 mm: In most cases, a single 8-bar mm will have a mass of 4.6 kg. Each bundle has 10 rods and it weighs approximately 45 kg-46 kg. 22 bundles will weigh around 1 ton.
- 10 mm: Generally, a single 10 mm bar has a mass of approximately 7.1 kg. Each bundle has 10 rods and it weighs approximately o 49-50 kg. 20 bundles will weigh around 1 ton.
- 12 mm: Typically, a single 12 mm bar has a mass of approximately 10.4 kg. Each bundle has 5 rods and it weighs approximately 51 to 52 kg. 20 bundles will weigh around 1 ton.
- 16 mm: Typically, a single 16 mm bar weighs approximately 18.3 kg. Each bundle has 3 rods and it weighs approximately 54 to 56 kg. 8 bundles will weigh around 1 ton.
- 20 mm: Typically, a single 20 mm bar has a mass of approximately 30 kg. Each bundle has 2 rods and it weighs approximately 58 kg-60 kg. 17 bundles will weigh around 1 ton.
- 25 mm: Typically, a single 25 mm bar has a mass of approximately 44 kg-48 kg. This bar doesn’t come in a bundle, rather it comes in an individual pack. Approximately kg. 22 packs will weigh around 1 ton.
Different Grades
Listed below are the various grades:
- FE 600: The bars offer the best tensile strength to yield ductility, flexibility, and durability when compared to other steel grades. These bars are employed in building heavy-duty projects that need exceptional tensile strength along with endurance for extreme climatic conditions and earthquakes.
- FE 550: The steel bars also have greater tensile strength and are employed in projects where FE 500 would be difficult to use. Commonly, it is used to build marine structures.
- FE 500: Loaded with flexibility, these steel bars are ideal for use in high-rise as well as subterranean building projects. These bars’ resilience knows no bounds when it comes to shock absorption and exposure to environment-related catastrophes.
- FE 415: These bars are not just highly cost-effective but have great elongation properties as well. This is why these are ideal for use in regions that experience high-seismic activity on a frequent basis. Additionally, these have high-corrosion-resisting properties as well.
Please Note: TMT steel price per kg varies from one grade to the other due to differentiating properties in them.
Points To Keep In Mind
Before you buy TMT bars, make sure to factor in the following points:
- Generally, the standard length of these bars is 12 metres.
- As per IS guidelines, the bulk acceptance standard for these bars is IS 1786:2008.
- The most commonly used units of measurement for TMT steel bars are kgs, tons, or quintals.
Over To You
When it comes to price comparison, TMT prices are different from stainless steel 304 price per kg due to the difference in product specifications and properties. In the article, we discussed the importance of TMT bar diameter over cost to ensure the structural integrity of the building. Different TMT grades offer different features and specifications. Additionally, we touched upon the crucial considerations, such as industry standards adherence so that before even commencing any construction projects one prioritises safety and durability and makes an informed material selection.