Reinforcement, Connectors, and Embed Placement
Reinforcement
Verify bar size, grade, spacing, lap length, and cover. Common reinforcement standards are ASTM A615/A615M for deformed bars, A951 for joint reinforcement, and A153 for galvanized coatings. Epoxy-coated bars must meet A775 and be handled without damage.
Connectors and embeds
Anchors, ties, bearing plates, dowels, and embedded items must match approved submittals. Place them before grouting and secure them against displacement. Check corrosion protection, embedment depth, and connection to structural members.
Tolerances
TMS 602 sets placement tolerances; keep bars within the specified tolerance and maintain required cover. Lap splices must be in approved locations and of the specified length; do not accept field adjustments that shorten laps.
Worked example
A drawing requires a 40-bar-diameter lap for a No. 5 bar: 40 x 0.625 in. = 25 in. The field provides a 20-in. lap. The inspector measures 20 in., finds it short, and requires correction before grouting. A 20-in. lap is only 32 bar diameters and may not develop the design force.
Traps
- Counting grout cover as clear cover to reinforcement.
- Accepting unapproved bar substitutions by diameter alone.
- Missing displaced anchor bolts after grouting.