Construction And Installation of GFRP Rebar

Installation-of-GFRP-Rebar

The use of traditional construction materials and techniques is associated with complexities both in terms of installation and manufacturing. From delay in the opening of facilities to inconvenience for road users, traditional construction materials make it difficult to ensure quick project delivery.

GFRP or fiberglass rebar enables structural engineers to carry out fast, easier, and less expensive installation without creating too much inconvenience for the public. The use of glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) rebar is tested to be the most promising solution to overcome concrete deterioration issues due to corrosion of traditional reinforcement materials.

The fact that composite materials are inherently lightweight and can be manufactured off-site and be assembled on-site using light equipment reduces the production costs in terms of installation and transportation; rapid construction reduces cost and inconvenience experienced by the traveling public. In addition, less noise pollution is produced and less fuel is consumed by slowing, stopping or detouring traffic.

When an old bridge is rehabilitated, it is taken out of service for at least 30 days so that concrete can be placed and cured. This could lead to traffic congestion and accidents. GFRP construction products provide economically viable and fast rehabilitation solutions. The lightweight composites also allow for transportation and installation in inaccessible and environmentally restrictive areas. Data has shown that the replacement of a structurally deficient bridge and installation of a new GFRP bridge structure can be achieved in a much more effective manner.

By implementing GFRP reinforcement instead of traditional reinforcement materials, the weight of the structure can be significantly reduced. Another benefit of using low weight GFRP composites is that excessive loading of long span bridges in terms of dead weight is eliminated enabling increased live load capacity which is advantageous considering the increasing traffic ratings.

Achieving accurate dimensions of the members is a common problem faced during construction with traditional building materials. GFRP rebar manufactured using the pultrusion process ensures full repetition of dimensionally accurate forms. The pultrusion process enables the manufacturer to produce high-quality fiberglass rebar which is ¼ the weight of steel and offers 2x the tensile strength.

GFRP reinforcement has been in service as complete load bearing superstructures and bridge decks in North America for over a decade. These concrete structures are performing exceptionally well and gaining significant popularity.

About us

TUF-BAR manufactures GFRP fiberglass rebar using the highest quality corrosion resistant vinylester resin and fiberglass materials. We also produce GFRP rock bolts, form ties and concrete anchors. Contact us to get more information!