Why does the flexibility of the TMT bar matter?

In construction, the role of durability, and strength is of utmost importance, but what makes the structure strong in seismic waves is the ability to bend without deforming/breaking. This is where TMT bar stands, TMT bars are thermo mechanically treated bars that add strength, flexibility and durability to any constructed structure.

The flexibility of TMT bars refers to their ability to undergo deformation without fracturing. The flexibility of it determines buildings’ structural integrity and resilience, especially in regions prone to seismic activity. These bars are unlike conventional mild steel bars, TMT bars undergo a specialised manufacturing process involving controlled cooling, which imparts superior flexibility and strength to the bars.

Why TMT bars are flexible?

TMT bars are manufactured after they go through thermal processing in the manufacturing plant. During the manufacturing process, the iron billets are heated, and then the sheets are rolled and cooled, cut and twisted to manufacture ribbed TMT bar.

During quenching, which is the rapid cooling of rolled coil within a controlled environment helps in transforming the coil harder from the outside and softer from the inside. In this, cooling water is added on the exterior so the bar only cools from the exterior surface and the core retains heat. Then the process of self-temping by adding heat to the surface, in this process the outer layer hardens and transforms into martensite, keeping the inner core soft, austenite.

When the bars go through the final stage of manufacturing, that is twisting, the microstructure arrangement in the TMT bar ensures that the properties are incorporated.

Why flexibility matters?

i) Resilience against earthquakes

India is on the tectonic plate named “The Indian Plate”, any movement in the plate leads to earthquakes. India has different earthquake zones, from high-risk to low-risk zones. Places like Delhi, or Northeast India get tremors or low-intensity earthquakes now and then, and in this situation, if the structures are not strong enough, it can lead to the demolition of construction.

As TMT bars have high flexibility, with high yield strength it ensures not to break or deform even in high-ritcher scale earthquakes. At Adukia Industries UltraMax TMT bars have a yield strength of 570 N/sq. mm, ultimate tensile strength of 630 N/Sq. mm, and elongation is min 20% which not only meets but exceeds the requirement of BIS-approved TMT bars.

ii) Structural stability

The flexibility of TMT bars ensures uniform distribution of stress throughout the structure. It can absorb more load and successfully absorb external stresses and force during natural disasters, hence adding structural strength to the construction.

The even load distribution due to the flexibility of the TMT bars reduces the risk of localised damage and the overall stability and longevity of the buildings.

iii) Ease of construction

Flexible bars are easier to manipulate into any shape during construction. With fluidity in architecture and versatility in construction, having a material offers great adaptability makes it useful for various architectural designs. The TMT bars when manufactured undergo high heating and rapid cooling, in the process the bars are softer on the inside and have a harder outside. This makes the bars highly flexible enough to be bent into any shape. Apart from giving ease in construction, these bars are easier to transport and store.

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Adukia Industries’ commitment to flexibility

Adukia Industries has earned a stellar reputation for its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. Our TMT bars are engineered to deliver optimal flexibility while meeting stringent industry standards. Here’s how Adukia Industries ensures flexibility in their TMT bars:

• State-of-the-art manufacturing: To deliver high-quality products we employ advanced thermo-mechanical processes that precisely control the cooling of TMT bars, resulting in a fine-grained microstructure conducive to flexibility and strength.
• Quality control measures: Rigorous quality control measures are implemented at every stage of the manufacturing process to maintain consistency and integrity in their products. At Adukia Industries, we conduct bending and re-bend tests on various parameters to measure the flexibility of the TMT bars. Other than that, we have 0.20-0.25% Carbon Max. in our bars which makes the TMT bars highly flexible.
• Research and development: To constantly improve the quality and be technologically advanced we heavily invest in research and development. This helps us to stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends. This proactive approach enables them to continuously enhance the flexibility and performance of their TMT bars.

Conclusion

In conclusion, flexibility is not just a desirable attribute but a critical necessity in TMT bars for ensuring the safety and durability of structures. Adukia Industries’ unwavering focus on producing flexible and high-quality TMT bars underscores their commitment to excellence. By prioritizing flexibility, builders can construct resilient and sustainable buildings capable of withstanding the test of time and environmental challenges.