Common Types of Steel Bars in Beam
The following types of steel bars in construction are normally included in a beam :-
- Top Bar
- Bottom Bar
- Extra Top Bar
- Extra Bottom Bar
- Stirrup
- Face Bar
Top bar
Top bar is provided in the compression zone of beam. It should be set 2 inches underneath (typical) from the top exterior face of beam for retaining clear cover. It should contain 90 degree hook in the both end where beam is finished. Hook length should remain minimum 12 times of bar diameter. If it is required to arrange lap than provide the lap in the center of beam. Lap length should remain minimum 48 times of bar dia.
Bottom bar:
Bottom bar should be provided in the tension zone of beam. The process for placing the bottom bar in beam is identical to top bar. But lap of bottom bar should remain on the beam support.
Extra top bar:
There should be additional top on the beam support at top of beam and it should be expanded up to one-third of beam’s clear span both side of support.
Extra bottom bar:
There should be extra bottom bar in the center of beam’s bottom portion.
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Stirrup:
Building stirrup is also known as ring in the construction sector. It belongs to the share reinforcement. The standard size of the stirrup should be 3 inches below beam size in both direction for retaining clear cover. Hook of beam stirrup should be arranged to 135 degree angle and hook length should not be under 3 inches. The hooks should be provided on both sides of beam top alternatively. The spacing of beam in stirrup should be indicated in the structural drawing by the designers.
Face bar:
It is also described as middle bar or additional bar. Face bar is mainly arranged if the height of the beam surpasses 2′-6″ feet. It is arranged on the center of the beam.