Advantages of stainless steel reinforcements

Techniques

Good Resistance to corrosion inherent in the material.

The life of the concrete is the life of the steel. Therefore, one of the most effective ways of ensuring the durability of the concrete is that the steel is stainless.

Corrosion increases with the presence of chlorides in the concrete, which are abundant in the aggregates and in the water; also in areas exposed to marine waters and de-icing salts.

Stainless steels are characterised by forming a layer rich in chromium oxides, which is immune to corrosion.

It oes not need maintenance, in comparison to other treatments against corrosion.

Increased reliability of reinforced concrete regarding its behaviour in aggressive environments.

Good mechanical properties.

The increase of the mechanical characteristics of corrugated stainless steels is achieved either by cold forming or by a thermomechanical treatment.

Economic

Reduction of the total cost of the structure over its useful life.

As a result of the rapid deterioration of some infrastructures, governments and consultants are paying attention to applying an analysis of the cost of the structure, during its useful life for new projects in progress, and rather than considering the initial cost of the project, also considering the cost of maintenance and future interventions.

The use of stainless steel corrugated steel bars increases the initial cost of the project, but this initial difference disappears on reducing the maintenance costs, and the costs of interruption.

Repair work on a structure that has its reinforcements damaged by corrosion phenomena can be very expensive, especially in marine environments or on transport routes with a high volume of traffic. Therefore, a small increase in the total initial cost of the structure is justifiable to guarantee long-term durability.