7 Types of Industrial Steel Strands

What are the types of industrial steel strands?

1. Unbonded Steel Strands
2. Bonded Steel Strands
3. Spiral Ribbed Steel Strands
4. Indented Steel Strands
5. Multistrand Steel Strands
6. Coated Steel Strands
7. Prestressed Steel Strands

Ever wondered how several construction designs for tower construction, such as long-span bridges and overhead crane beams, stay intact and secured? Industrial steel strands are an essential piece of hardware used in these concrete structures for reinforcement and security. 

This blog will explore the different types of industrial steel strands, each with unique characteristics and applications. Only the strongest, most long-lasting materials should be chosen because industrial strands must sustain thousands of pounds of concrete. Several distinct types of industrial strands are created for various applications, even though almost all of them are composed of steel.

What are the distinctions between these types, and which industrial steel strand is the best to use? Keep reading to find out!

Unbonded Steel Strands

Most uses for unbonded steel strands involve post-tensioning because they are adaptable steels. The steel strand in use can separate from the concrete thanks to anti-corrosion grease and polyethylene plastic, allowing the steel strand to move freely in the layer and making the construction more convenient. The friction between unbonded PC strand tendons is minimal and easily bendable into various curved shapes. 

Not to mention, they are made of high-strength steel wire coated in a corrosion-preventing substance. Due to its strong bonding properties, this steel strand is appropriate for unique structures such as cast-in-place concrete floors, heavy precast beam loads, massive concrete constructions like bridges, and high-rise buildings.

Bonded Steel Strands

High tensile strength, firm connection with concrete, stable construction and good combination with steel-reinforced concrete are all bonded PC Strand or bonded steel strand characteristics. It also saves material, reduces distortion and construction weight, and increases stiffness, abrasion, and water resistance. Precast concrete elements like beams and columns are normally built using bonded steel strands, sometimes called fully anchored steel strands. This steel strand is also used in large structures because of its strength, toughness, and great bonding properties.

Spiral Ribbed Steel Strands

One of the classic forms of steel strands is the spiral ribbed steel strand. Regarding strength and endurance, spiral ribbed steel strands are comparable to bonded steel strands and are utilized in precast concrete components. The steel wire’s surface features a spiral ribbed design, which makes a difference. This distinctive design has better adhesion to the concrete, making it an excellent option for construction under stress. Additionally, it is frequently used in water pipes, hollow slabs, and telegraph poles.

Indented Steel Strands

Indented steel strands resemble spiral ribbed steel strands in terms of surface texture. However, they are constructed from a single steel wire instead of numerous wires. Because of its high strength and longevity, this steel strand is frequently used to manufacture precast concrete parts like beams and columns. It has many uses in numerous industries, including construction, hollow slabs, and high-speed railway sleepers.

Multistrand Steel Strands

The tiny steel wires that make up multistrand steel strands are twisted together to create a single strand. Due to its strength and flexibility, this steel strand is perfect for precast concrete components like beams and columns. In contrast to other steel strands, Multistrand steel strands are reasonably simple to bend, making them an excellent option for use in curved or oddly shaped buildings.

Coated Steel Strands

In terms of elasticity, coated steel strands are comparable to unbonded steel strands, but they include a protective coating to fend off corrosion. This steel strand has better bonding qualities and weather resistance, making it perfect for post-tensioning applications.

Prestressed Steel Strands

In terms of strength and durability, pre-stressed steel strands are comparable to bonded steel strands; however, they are pre-stressed to increase the strength and stability of the concrete construction. This kind of steel strand is well known for its capacity to withstand high-stress levels and is frequently used in the building of precast concrete parts, such as beams and columns.

Key Takeaway

Industrial steel strands are essential to construction because they strengthen and stabilize concrete constructions. Steel strands come in various forms, each with particular properties and uses. It’s important for engineers and contractors to know the types of industrial steel strands so that they can choose the right ones for specific projects.

At Metal Exponents, one of the best steel manufacturers in the Philippines, we can provide you with industrial steel strands that can be galvanized or made out of high-carbon steel. This makes them more durable in large-scale structures such as bridges, high-rise buildings, railway lines, and the like.

Do you have questions in mind? Feel free to express your concerns or questions to us! Get in touch with Metal Exponents today.