Why are they so important for construction? - iSTEEL

Many would have witnessed TMT bar constructions in Chennai. These are high-strength reinforcement steels with a soft inner core and a robust outer core. TMTs, otherwise known as Thermo-Mechanically Treated bars are manufactured using a specific methodology. 

First, steel wires are loaded into a mill stand, and they again pass through a water cooling system. Due to optimized water pressure and sudden change in temperature, the steel bars get a tough and durable outer layer. 

Once completed, they are subjected to an atmospheric cooling process to equalize the difference in temperature. As a result, the core material remains soft for better tensile strength. This unique design also gives TMT bars their renowned ductility strength. 

What are TMT grades? 

The TMT bars used for construction in Chennai are available in multiple variations. These are also used for residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects. One should choose the right grade of TMT bars to ensure the proper strength and durability of a structure. 

As per the Bureau of Indian Standard Grades, chemical composition and mechanical properties are the prominent factors evaluated to decide the grade of the TMT steel bar. Most importantly, the bars are reviewed based on their yielding capacity in Newtons per square millimeters. 

As per the standards, here are the three main grades available: 

Fe 415 

The highly cost-effective option in this list is the Fe 415 TMT. These bars are ductile reinforced and used for small construction projects. Because of their high uniform elongation factor, these bars are an ideal component for constructions in earthquake-prone areas. 

Mechanical and chemical properties

Ultimate Tensile Strength – 485/sq.mm 

Minimum yield strength – 415/sq.mm 

Carbon content – 0.30 

Fe 500 

The standard TMT bar preferred for many construction projects is Fe500 grade. It is a popular choice because of its high ductility and seismic stability. These bars are used for a wide range of projects ranging from residential and commercial. They are also perfect for regions with high seismic activity. 

Mechanical and chemical properties

Minimum Yield Strength – 550/sq.mm 

Ultimate Tensile Strength – 585/sq.mm 

Carbon content – 0.30 

Fe 600 

The strongest TMT bars are the Fe 600 grade ones. These are procured for heavy-duty industrial projects and marine constructions. This grade of bars is reinforced with optimal tensile strength and load-bearing capacity. They also ensure less steel congestion when compared with other types. 

Mechanical and chemical composition 

Minimum Yield strength – 600/sq.mm 

Ultimate Tensile strength – 660/sq.mm 

Carbon content – 0.30 

Why are TMT bars important for construction? 

TMT steel bars are crucial for the construction industry in Chennai. The robust appearance and high-strength build allow for optimum balance between durability and flexibility. It is also extremely viable for reinforcing concrete and products from lots of compressive forces. 

The following are some constituents that make TMT steel bars so important: 

As cited multiple times before, TMT bars have a softer inner core and strong outside crystalline surface. This property makes these steel bars superior for a range of construction projects. They can reinforce any structures when integrated with concrete. 

The optimal carbon content of TMT bars makes them an ideal component for construction. Contractors can wield the joints without any reduction of strength. During the severe seismic activity, the constructed structure will stay stable sans deviated to tilting in exterior positions. These bars can also be re-bent by applying stress.

TMT bars also offer great flexibility in shape, texture, and color. As a result, builders get a range of options to reinforce their construction structures. The ideal combination of strength and durability helps to create free-from curves like facades or domes. Contractors can also use these steels for large open spaces. 

Contractors can assemble these TMT bars efficiently regardless of the seasons or conditions. The lightweight property of these bars makes for creating a solid foundation by combining with concrete. Because of this property, construction managers can complete schedules and reduce management costs. 

Another great benefit of using TMT bars is the swift completion of construction structures in Chennai. Because of their soft inner core structure, project contractors can make alterations to suffice the space and requirement factors. As a result, alterations are made through electrical wiring, communication cables, and other systems. 

The superior load-bearing capacity of TMT steel bars allows for economical construction completions. Contractors can purchase bars at cheaper costs when compared to other steel bars. The overall expenses are also reduced because of the reduced alterations expenses. Therefore, these bars often have a healthy potential for acquiring high returns on investments. 

Because of frequent natural disaster events, modern constructions should ensure optimal longevity and durability. Using TMT bars for construction reduces the risks of corrosion or long-term damage at various points. The chemical and mechanical properties also reduce any negative effects on the environment. On the positive side, these TMT bars can be recycled and reused. 

Opting for the best TMT bars 

Based on the construction project requirements, you should procure the best TMT steel bars offering great strength and flexibility. i Steel is the leading manufacturer of TMT steel bars in Chennai, using state-of-the-art technologies and methodologies to provide the best quality TMT bars for all types of construction projects.