Types of Mechanical Splices for Reinforcing Bars

Description

In reinforced concrete design, the engineer is faced with sizing individual members and establishing reinforcing steel types, placement requirements, and types of splices that will be used throughout the structure. Design drawings or specifications should clearly show or describe all splice locations and the required performance. The importance and necessity of clearly prescribing splice requirements is evident in ACI 318. Chapter 1 describes specific items to be included on the design drawings, details, and specifications. These items include showing the location and length of lap splices, reinforcement anchorage lengths, and the type and location of mechanical and welded splices.

Chapter 12 also addresses this subject, and states: “Splices of reinforcement shall be made only as required or permitted on design drawings, or in specifications, or as authorized by the engineer. ”In beams, columns, walls and slabs, mechanical, welded and lap splices are usually permitted. The merits of each type of splice should always be considered. The selection of the preferred mechanical or welded splice typically must address project- and location-specific problems in addition to cost, installation ease, and other factors.