This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

ICS 77.140.15; 77.140.60; 91.080.40

SANS 920:2005
ISBN 0-626-16712-4 Edition 2.2

Any reference to SABS 920 is deemed

to be a reference to this standard
(Government Notice No. 1373 of 8 November 2002)

SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL STANDARD

Steel bars for concrete reinforcement

Published by Standards South Africa

1 dr lategan road groenkloof private bag x191 pretoria 0001
tel: 012 428 7911 fax: 012 344 1568 international code + 27 12
www.stansa.co.za
© Standards South Africa
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

SANS 920:2005
Edition 2.2

Table of changes
Change No. Date Scope
Amdt 1 1994 Amended to incorporate cold-reduced steel bars and to make
editorial corrections.
Amdt 2 2005 Amended to change the designation of SABS standards to SANS
standards, to update the definition of "acceptable" and
referenced standards, to replace the formula for the calculation
of the rib area in the test for deformed bars (5.6.1.4), to add a
note to 5.6.2.4, to delete reference to the standardization mark
and to add a bibliography.

Abstract
Covers the physical and mechanical requirements for carbon steel bars intended for use as
reinforcement for concrete.

Keywords
bars (materials), bend testing, dimensions, mechanical testing, reinforced concrete, reinforcing
steels, steels, tensile testing.

Foreword
This South African standard was approved by National Committee StanSA SC 5120.61A,
Construction standards – Cement, lime and concrete, in accordance with procedures of Standards
South Africa, in compliance with annex 3 of the WTO/TBT agreement.

This edition cancels and replaces edition 2.1 (SABS 920:1985).

A vertical line in the margin shows where the text has been technically modified by amendment
Nos 1 and 2.
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

SANS 920:2005
Edition 2.2

Contents
Page

Abstract

Keywords

Foreword

1 Scope ..................................................................................................................................... 3

2 Definitions .............................................................................................................................. 3

3 Requirements ......................................................................................................................... 5

4 Marking .................................................................................................................................. 8

5 Inspection and methods of test .............................................................................................. 8

5.1 Inspection ...................................................................................................................... 8

5.2 Dimensions and mass per metre .................................................................................. 8
5.3 Tensile test .................................................................................................................... 8
5.4 Bending test .................................................................................................................. 9
5.5 Rebending test .............................................................................................................. 9
5.6 Test for deformed bars .................................................................................................. 9

Appendix A Applicable standards ............................................................................................ 14

Appendix B Notes to purchasers ............................................................................................. 14

Appendix C Cross-sectional area and nominal mass per metre of steel bars ........................ 15

Appendix D Weldability of steel bars ....................................................................................... 15

Appendix E Chemical composition of steel bars ..................................................................... 16

Appendix F Quality evaluation of steel bars produced to the requirements laid

down in the specification ...................................................................................... 16

Appendix G Cold-reduced steel bars ....................................................................................... 17

Amdt 1

Bibliography .............................................................................................................................. 17
Amdt 2

1
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

SANS 920:2005
Edition 2.2

This page is intentionally left blank

2
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

SANS 920:2005
Edition 2.2

Steel bars for concrete reinforcement

1 Scope
1.1 This specification covers the physical and mechanical requirements for carbon steel bars
intended for use as reinforcement for concrete.

1.2 It does not cover any surface treatment of the steel bars.
NOTE

a) The attention of users of steel bars for concrete reinforcement is drawn to the following standards:
SANS 282, SANS 1200 G, SANS 10100-1, SANS 10100-2 and SANS 10144.

b) The standards referred to in the specification are listed in appendix A.

c) Requirements that must be specified by the purchaser are listed in appendix B.

d) Values for the cross-sectional area and the nominal mass per metre of steel bars are given in appendix C.

e) Details on the weldability of steel bars are given in appendix D.

f) A test that may be used to determine the chemical composition of steel bars is given in appendix E.

g) Guidance on the verification of the quality of steel bars for concrete reinforcement produced to this
specification is given in appendix F.

h) Requirements for cold-reduced steel bars are given in appendix G. Amdt 1

2 Definitions
For the purposes of this specification, the following definitions and the definitions of other relevant
terms given in SANS 6892 shall apply: Amdt 1

acceptable
acceptable to the authority administering this standard, or to the parties concluding the purchase
contract, as relevant Amdt 1; amdt 2

bar
a steel product of plain round or deformed cross-section, as rolled, including a rod, a coil and a
portion cut from a coil

batch mass
the mass, as stated by the manufacturer, of bars of the same type, nominal size and cast number,
delivered at any one time

3
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

SANS 920:2005
Edition 2.2

bundle
bars of the same type, nominal size and cast number, bound together for delivery purposes

characteristic strength
the specified value of the yield stress or, when this cannot be identified, the proof stress below
which not more than 5 % of the results of the tests on a batch of reinforcing steel bars fall

coil
one continuous as-rolled bar in the form of a coil

cold-worked bar
a bar that has been so twisted (or otherwise worked) at atmospheric temperature as to increase its
yield stress

deformed bar
a bar whose surface has been so shaped that the bar complies with the requirements for deformed
bars given in 3.9. Amdt 1

longitudinal rib
a uniform continuous rib that is parallel to the axis of the bar (In the case of a twisted bar, a uniform
continuous rib that was parallel to the axis of the bar before the bar was twisted.)

nominal size
the nominal diameter of a plain bar or, in the case of a deformed bar, the diameter of a circle of area
equal to the equivalent cross-sectional area of the bar, calculated as follows1):

K
Equivalent cross-sectional area, mm2 =
0,007 85 L
where

K = mass, kg

L = length (of a bar of length at least 0,5 m), m

both K and L being measured to an accuracy of at least 0,5 %.

proof stress
RP
<non-proportional elongation> the nominal stress that produces a non-proportional elongation equal
to a specified percentage of the extensometer gauge length, as deduced from a load-extension
diagram or a stress-strain diagram (see figure 1)

3
1) Based on a steel density of 7 850 kg/m .

4
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

SANS 920:2005
Edition 2.2

Figure 1 — Determination of proof stress RP

transverse rib
any rib other than a longitudinal rib, on the surface of the bar

yield stress
the tensile stress at which elongation of a test piece initially increases without increase of load

3 Requirements

3.1 General
The steel shall have been made by the open hearth (acid or basic) process, the electric process or
the basic oxygen process, and the bars shall be

a) hot-rolled mild steel bars of plain round cross-section;

b) hot-rolled mild steel deformed bars, cold-worked to increase yield stress;

c) hot-rolled high yield stress steel deformed bars; or

d) hot-rolled mild steel bars of plain round cross-section, deformed and cold-reduced to increase
yield stress. Amdt 1

3.2 Finish
a) The bars shall be well and cleanly rolled.

b) Rust, seams, surface irregularities and mill scale shall not be cause for rejection, provided that
the mass per metre, dimensions, cross-sectional area and tensile properties of a test specimen
comply with the applicable requirements of this specification.

NOTE If necessary, the test specimen may be brushed by hand with a wire brush, prior to testing.

3.3 Nominal size

The nominal size of a bar, determined in accordance with 5.2, shall be one of the following:

6; 8; 10; 12; 16; 20; 25; 32 or 40 mm.

5
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

SANS 920:2005
Edition 2.2

3.4 Length
When bars of a specific length are required, the actual length, determined in accordance with 5.2,
shall be at least equal to the specified value and shall not exceed that value by more than 50 mm.

3.5 Mass
a) The mass per metre of a bar, determined in accordance with 5.2, shall not differ from the nominal
value by more than the appropriate tolerance given in column 2 of table 1.

b) In addition, the actual batch mass of a consignment of bars shall be equal to the value stated in
the relevant consignment document(s) subject, except in the case of a coil2), to the appropriate
tolerance given in column 3 of table 1.

Table 1 — Tolerances on mass

1 2 3
Tolerance
Nominal size
%, max.
On mass per metre of
mm On batch mass
individual bars*
6 ±8 +6
−4
8; 10 ±6 +4,5
−3,5
12 and over ±4 ± 2,5
*The nominal mass per metre is calculated from the nominal size
3
and a steel density of 7 850 kg/m .

3.6 Pitch (cold-twisted bars)

In the case of cold-twisted bars, the pitch, determined in accordance with 5.2, of one complete twist
through 360o shall be not less than 8 times and not more than 12 times the nominal size of the bar.

3.7 Tensile properties

When a bar is tested in accordance with 5.3,

a) the characteristic strength and elongation of the steel shall be at least as given in columns 3 and
4 of table 2;

b) the ultimate tensile strength of the bar shall be at least 15 % greater than the yield stress or
0,20 % proof stress, as relevant, determined in the tensile test; and

c) in the case of a mild steel bar, the yield stress of the bar shall not exceed 400 MPa.

2) When reinforcing steel is supplied in the form of a coil, the nominal mass of the coil, as stated by the
manufacturer, is, in practice, taken to represent the actual mass of the coil.

6
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

SANS 920:2005
Edition 2.2

Table 2 — Tensile properties

1 2 3 4
Elongation (on gauge
Nominal size d Characteristic strength
Type of steel length of 5,65 A *)
mm MPa, min. %, min.
Mild All sizes 250 22
High yield All sizes 450 14
*A = Equivalent cross-sectional area.

3.8 Resistance to cold bending

3.8.1 Bending

When tested in accordance with 5.4, a bar shall withstand, without transverse rupture of the surface
of the metal, being bent through an angle of 180° round a mandrel of the appropriate diameter given
in column 3 of table 3.

Table 3 — Mandrel size

1 2 3
Nominal size of bar d Diameter of mandrel
Type of steel
mm mm
Mild All sizes 2d
High yield All sizes 3d

3.8.2 Rebending

When tested in accordance with 5.5, a bar shall withstand, without fracture,

a) being bent through an angle of 45° round a mandrel of twice the nominal size of the bar in the
case of a mild steel bar and five times the nominal size of the bar in the case of a high yield
stress steel bar; and then

b) being bent back (partially restraightened) by a steadily applied force through an angle of at least
23°.

3.9 Deformed bars

A bar shall be deemed to be deformed if it complies with either (a) or (b) below:

a) Geometrical properties. When measured in accordance with 5.6.1, a bar shall have two or
more rows of transverse ribs as shown in figure 2, with a substantially uniform spacing of not
more than 0,8 d, where d is the nominal size of the bar. The included angle of the transverse rib
at the longitudinal axis of the bar shall be at least 45°. The mean area of ribs (per unit length of
bar) above the core of the bar projected on a plane normal to the axis of the bar shall be at least
0,15 d mm2/mm. Amdt 1

NOTE A bar may have continuous helical ribs in addition to the transverse ribs.

b) Resistance to pull-out. When a bar is tested in accordance with 5.6.2, the average free-end slip
of the bar shall not exceed 0,2 mm.

7
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

SANS 920:2005
Edition 2.2

4 Marking
4.1 Bars
In the case of hot-rolled high yield steel bars, each bar shall bear a pair of longitudinal stripes rolled
into the bar at intervals not exceeding 1,5 m.

(If transverse ribs intersect these stripes, the ribs may be discontinued at the point of intersection.)

4.2 Bundles
Each bundle or coil dispatched from the rolling mills shall have securely attached to it a metal label
that bears the following information:

a) the manufacturer’s name or trade name or trade mark;

b) the type, cast number and nominal size of the bar(s);

c) the number or mass of bar(s) in the bundle or coil, as relevant;

d) when relevant, an indication that the steel was made by the basic oxygen process.

5 Inspection and methods of test

5.1 Inspection
After establishing compliance with the requirements of 3.5(b) and 4.2, inspect each bar in the
sample for compliance with the requirements of 3.2 and, when applicable, 4.1.

5.2 Dimensions and mass per metre

Using any method that will give the required accuracy, measure, to the nearest 0,1 mm, the
dimensions of each bar in the sample and check for compliance with the requirements of 3.3 and,
when relevant, 3.6. Then, by weighing each bar to an accuracy of at least 0,5 % and measuring its
length to the nearest 5 mm, check for compliance with the requirements of 3.5(a) and, when
relevant, 3.4.

5.3 Tensile test

5.3.1 Test specimens

From each bar under test, cut three specimens of the appropriate gauge length (see table 2).

NOTE In the case of tests on deformed bars, use specimens in the as-rolled condition (i.e. without machining).

5.3.2 Procedure

Use the relevant methods given in SANS 6892, and use the average results to assess compliance
with the relevant requirements of 3.7. Amdt 1

8
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

SANS 920:2005
Edition 2.2

5.4 Bending test

5.4.1 Apparatus

An apparatus that ensures

a) continuous and uniform application of force throughout the bending operation;

b) unrestricted movement of the specimen at points of contact with the apparatus, e.g. by using an
aluminium sheet insert, with a maximum thickness of 6 mm, for tests on deformed bars;

c) close wrapping, during bending, of the specimen round a mandrel of the appropriate size
(see 3.8.1).

5.4.2 Test specimens

From each bar under test, cut a specimen of length great enough to ensure free bending.

5.4.3 Procedure

Ensure that the temperature of the specimen is within the range 10-30 °C. Place the specimen in
the apparatus and bend it through 180°, then remove it and examine the bend for transverse
rupture of the surface.

5.5 Rebending test

5.5.1 Apparatus

Use the apparatus described in 5.4.1 and a mandrel of appropriate size (see 3.8.2(a)).

5.5.2 Test specimens

Cut test specimens (see 5.4.2) from bars other than those from which specimens were cut for the
test described in 5.4.3.

5.5.3 Procedure

Ensure that the temperature of the specimen is within the range 10-30 °C. Place the specimen in
the apparatus and bend it through an angle of 45°, then remove the specimen from the apparatus
and immerse it in boiling water for at least 30 min. Remove the specimen from the water and allow it
to cool to a temperature in the range 10-30 °C. Place the bent specimen in the apparatus and, using
a uniformly applied force, bend it back through an angle of at least 23°, and examine the specimen
for signs of fracture.

5.6 Test for deformed bars

5.6.1 Geometrical properties

5.6.1.1 Apparatus

A measuring device that is capable of measuring to an accuracy of 0,02 mm, or better.

9
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

SANS 920:2005
Edition 2.2

5.6.1.2 Test length

The length, measured parallel to the axis of the bar under test, between the centres of two
transverse ribs (on the same side of the bar) that are separated by at least 10 d, where d is the
nominal size of the bar.

5.6.1.3 Procedure

a) Measure the included angle (see figure 2) and the average height of the transverse ribs in the
test length of the bar.

NOTE For the height, take the average of the measurements from the centre and quarter points of the
overall length of each transverse rib (see figure 2).

b) Determine the average spacing of the transverse ribs by dividing the test length by the number of
spaces between the transverse ribs on one side of the test length.

5.6.1.4 Recommended formulae for calculating projected rib area

The projected rib area R, in millimetres squared per millimetre length of bar, should be calculated
for ribbed bars using one of the following equations:

a) for as-rolled deformed bars:

l ht sin β
R = n( )
c

b) for cold twisted bars:

Nh1π ϕ
R =n( )+(
l h t sin β
)
c p

where

n is the number of rows of transverse ribs (see note 1);

l is the length of the transverse rib, in millimetres (see note 2);

ht is the height of the transverse rib, in millimetres (see note 3);

β is the angle between the centre line of the transverse rib and the bar axis, in degrees;

c is the centre to centre spacing between transverse ribs, in millimetres (see note 4);

N is the number of longitudinal ribs;

h1 is the height of the longitudinal rib, in millimetres (see note 5);

ϕ is the nominal bar size, in millimetres;

p is the pitch of twist measured parallel to the bar axis, in millimetres (see note 6).

NOTE 1 If more than one pattern of transverse ribs exists, e.g. alternate ribs are set at different angles, or
there are different rib patterns in each row, the term containing n should be calculated for each different set of
ribs, and the summation of the values obtained. Amdt 1; amdt 2

10
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

SANS 920:2005
Edition 2.2

NOTE 2 The length of the transverse rib is measured at the rib-to-core interface. The length should be
determined as the average of three measurements on each row or of a set of transverse ribs.

NOTE 3 The height of the transverse rib is measured perpendicular to the core of the bar. The height should
be determined as the average of three measurements on each row or of a set of transverse ribs. (Using
Simpson’s rule for approximation under a curve, with rib height measurements at the midpoint and quarter
point, the rib height for each rib profile may be established as a proportion of its midpoint height. For transverse
ribs of parabolic profile, the rib height should be taken as two thirds of the midpoint height.)

NOTE 4 The centre-to-centre spacing between transverse ribs is determined by dividing the distance,
measured parallel to the axis of the bar, between the midpoints of two ribs, of about ten ribs apart, by the
number of rib spaces in between. For twisted bars, the rib spaces should be counted in a helical fashion.

NOTE 5 The height of the longitudinal rib is determined as the average of three measurements on each rib.

NOTE 6 The pitch of twist measured parallel to the bar axis is determined as the average of three
measurements. Amdt 1; amdt 2

Figure 2 — Transverse ribs on deformed bars

5.6.2 Pull-out test

5.6.2.1 Apparatus

a) Testing machine. A machine that is capable of applying the required tensile force
(see 5.6.2.4(d) below) with an accuracy of 1 % and that

1) is so rigidly constructed that its structural components (members) are at no time subjected to
a tensile force greater than half of that applied to the test specimen;

2) has an upper cross-head with a central hole of diameter at least 50 mm, and that is large
enough to support a spherically seated platen and seat with a central hole of the same
diameter; and

11
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

SANS 920:2005
Edition 2.2

3) is so equipped with a device (fixed to the lower cross-head) for gripping the end of a steel bar
that no lateral forces are applied to the bar when the test prism (see 5.6.2.3 below) is in
position in the test machine (see 5.6.2.4(b) and (c) below).

b) Concrete moulds. Use moulds that are suitable for the casting, as described in 5.6.2.3 below, of
concrete prisms that conform to the relevant dimensions given in table 4.

Table 4 — Dimensions of concrete test prisms

1 2 3
Nominal size of bar Length of prism Cross-section of prism
mm mm mm
6 95 150 × 150
8 130 150 × 150
10 160 150 × 150
12 195 150 × 150
16 255 150 × 150
20 320 150 × 150
25 400 250 × 250
32 510 250 × 250
40 640 250 × 250

c) Measuring device. A measuring device capable of measuring a slip in the test specimen to the
nearest 0,02 mm.

d) Steel yoke. A steel yoke for attaching the measuring device to the test prism.

e) Helical reinforcement. Helical reinforcement of plain round mild steel bar of diameter 6 mm and
at 25 mm pitch, with an outside diameter of the helix 10 mm less than the internal length of the
side of the mould.

f) Steel plate. A mild steel plate, of nominal thickness 12 mm and of superficial size at least equal
to that of the square end of the appropriate test prism, and that has a central hole of diameter not
more than 2 mm greater than that of the specimen under test.

g) Packing. A packing of nominal thickness 10 mm, of shape similar to that of the steel plate
(including the central hole) and made of an insulation board that complies with the relevant
requirements of SANS 540.

5.6.2.2 Test specimens

From each of six of the bars under test, cut a specimen that is long enough to be cast in a prism as
described in 5.6.2.3 below.

5.6.2.3 Preparation of test prisms

a) After ensuring that the condition of the surfaces of all the test specimens is similar (see NOTE to
3.2(b)), so place each test specimen vertically in the centre of a mould of the appropriate size
(see table 4) that

1) one end of the specimen protrudes approximately 10 mm beyond the bottom of the mould;

2) the specimen and the mould are co-axial; and

3) the other end of the specimen extends far enough beyond the top of the mould as to allow it to
be gripped in the testing machine (see 5.6.2.4 below).

12
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

SANS 920:2005
Edition 2.2

b) Insert the helical reinforcement and fill (through the top) each mould with concrete, so
compacting the concrete as to minimize the occurrence of voids. Ensure that all six test prisms
are of the same mix, age and compaction.

c) Prepare also in accordance with the method given in SANS 5863 six cubes of concrete without
reinforcement but of the same mix, age and compaction as the six test prisms.

d) Cure all concrete prepared as in (b) and (c) above in accordance with the method for site-made
test specimens given in SANS 5863.

5.6.2.4 Procedure

a) Determine, at least 14 d and not more than 28 d after casting, and in accordance with the
procedure given in SANS 5863, the compressive strength of the concrete cubes. Apply the
results as follows:

1) If the average compressive strength is greater than 45 MPa, repeat the test in its entirety; and

2) If any result is less than 40 MPa, cure the remaining cubes and prisms for a further period and
then test three cubes for compressive strength. If any result is less than 40 MPa, or if the
average of the three results is greater than 45 MPa, repeat the test in its entirety.

NOTE Experience has shown that it is not feasible to predict how long it might take for the cubes to
reach the required strength. Amdt 2

b) When test prisms of the required strength have been obtained, i.e. when the average
compressive strength of the three cubes is not greater than 45 MPa, with no result being less
than 40 MPa, place the mild steel plate on the spherically seated platen that is situated on the
upper cross-head of the testing machine, and superimpose the packing on the steel plate.

c) So mount each test prism (in turn) on the packing that the 10 mm protrusion of the specimen is
uppermost and that the other end passes through the holes in the packing, the steel plate, the
spherically seated platen and its seat, and the upper cross-head, and is gripped in the lower
cross-head of the testing machine. So secure the measuring device and yoke on the upper
surface of the test prism that the measuring device records the relative slip between the upper
(free) end of the specimen and the test prism.

d) Apply a suitable initial tensile force to the test assembly and increase the force steadily over a
period of approximately 2 min, until the stress in the specimen attains the characteristic strength
(see table 2) of the steel from which the bars are made. Hold the force constant for a further
2 min and then record the extent of the free-end slip of the specimen. Calculate the average free-
end slip of the six specimens, and check for compliance with the requirement of 3.9(b).

13
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

SANS 920:2005
Edition 2.2

Appendix A
Amdt 1
Applicable standards
(This appendix does not form part of the requirements of the specification) Amdt 1

Reference is made to the latest issues of the following standards:

SANS 282, Bending dimensions and scheduling of steel reinforcement for concrete.

SANS 540-1 (SABS 540-1), Fibreboard products – Part 1: Uncoated fibreboard. Amdt 2

SANS 540-2 (SABS 540-2), Fibreboard products – Part 2: Coated fibreboard. Amdt 2

SANS 1200 G (SABS 1200 G), Standardized specification for civil engineering construction –
Section G: Concrete (structural).

SANS 5863 (SABS SM 863), Concrete tests – Compressive strength of hardened concrete.

SANS 6892/ISO 6892, Metallic materials – Tensile testing at ambient temperature. Amdt 1

SANS 9001/ISO 9001, Quality management systems – Requirements. Amdt 2

SANS 10100-1 (SABS 0100-1), The structural use of concrete – Part 1: Design.

SANS 10100-2 (SABS 0100-2), The structural use of concrete – Part 2: Materials and execution of
work.

SANS 10144 (SABS 0144), Detailing of steel reinforcement for concrete.

Appendix B

Notes to purchasers
(This appendix does not form part of the requirements of the specification) Amdt 1

The following requirements shall be specified in tender invitations and in each order or contract:

a) The type (see 3.1)

b) The nominal size (see 3.3)

c) When relevant, the length (see 3.4)

d) When relevant, that the steel is to be supplied in the form of a coil (see 3.5)

14
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

SANS 920:2005
Edition 2.2

Appendix C
Cross-sectional area and nominal mass per metre of steel bars
(This appendix does not form part of the requirements of the specification) Amdt 1

1 2 3
Size of bar Cross-sectional area Nominal mass
mm mm2 kg/m
6 28,3 0,222
8 50,3 0,395
10 78,5 0,617
12 113 0,888
16 201 1,58
20 314 2,47
25 491 3,85
32 804 6,31
40 1 260 9,86

Appendix D
Weldability of steel bars
(This appendix does not form part of the requirements of the specification) Amdt 1

D.1 Mild steel

A mild steel bar that complies with the applicable requirements of this specification may be
considered capable of being welded, provided that the correct welding procedures are followed.

D.2 High yield stress steel

A high yield stress steel bar may only be considered capable of being welded if the carbon
equivalent (CE) value does not exceed 0,51 %, where

Cr + Mo + V Ni + Cu
CE %(m/m ) = C + + +
Mn
6 5 15

and C = carbon content, % (m/m)

Mn = manganese content, % (m/m)

Cr = chromium content, % (m/m)

Mo = molybdenum content, % (m/m)

V = vanadium content, % (m/m)

Ni = nickel content, % (m/m)

Cu = copper content, % (m/m)

as determined by means of ladle analysis.

15
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

SANS 920:2005
Edition 2.2

Appendix E

Chemical composition of steel bars

E.1 The chemical composition, as determined by means of ladle analysis, of the steel should
comply with the appropriate requirements given in table E.1. If a purchaser requires tests for
chemical composition, those given in E.2 are recommended. It should be borne in mind that
chemical composition as determined on the finished steel bar can vary slightly from the ladle
analysis.

Table E.1 — Chemical composition

1 2 3
High yield stress
Mild steel
Element steel
%, max. %, max.
Carbon 0,30 0,50
Sulphur 0,06 0,06
Phosphorus 0,06 0,05
Nitrogen 0,008* –
*Applicable only to steel made by the basic oxygen
process.

E.2 To determine the chemical compositions of the steel use the relevant current methods
published by ISO, ASTM or BSI.

Appendix F

Quality evaluation of steel bars produced to the

requirements laid down in the specification
(This appendix does not form part of the requirements of the specification) Amdt 1

When a purchaser requires quality verification on an ongoing basis of steel bars produced to this
specification, it is suggested that, rather than to the evaluation of the final product only, he also
direct his attention to the quality management system applied by the manufacturer. In this
connection it should be noted that SANS 9001 covers the provision of an integrated quality
management system. Amdt 2

16
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

SANS 920:2005
Edition 2.2

Appendix G
Cold-reduced steel bars
(This appendix forms part of the requirements of the specification)

G.1 General
Cold-reduced steel bars shall also comply with the relevant requirements of this specification.

G.2 Tensile properties

G.2.1 Requirements
When a cold-reduced steel bar is tested in accordance with G.2.2,

a) the tensile properties shall be as given in table G.1;

b) the ratio of the tensile strength to proof stress, Rm/Rp0,2, for each test piece shall be at least 1,03;
and

c) by agreement between manufacturer and purchaser, the values in table G.1 may be used as
guaranteed minimum values.

Table G.1 — Tensile properties

1 2 3
Proof stress Tensile strength Elongation
Rp0,2, MPa Rm, MPa A5,65*, %
500 550 12
*By agreement between the purchaser and the manufacturer, a
total elongation (Agt) of 2,0 %, at maximum force, shall be used
instead of A5,65.

G.2.2 Tensile test

Determine tensile properties in accordance with SANS 6892. Use an original gauge length of five
times the nominal diameter, and ensure that the free distance between the grips is not less than
180 mm.

For calculation of proof stress and tensile strength, use the nominal cross-sectional area of the bar.

G.3 Chemical composition

The chemical composition of the steel shall comply with the appropriate recommendations given in
appendix E. Amdt 1

Bibliography
Cement and Concrete Institute. 2001. Fulton's concrete technology (8th ed.). South Africa: Cement
and Concrete Institute. Amdt 2

© Standards South Africa

17