Dynamic Tests of Large Reinforcing Bar Splices

Abstract : Dynamic tensile tests were conducted at rapid, intermediate, and slow rates of strain on specimens of No. 11 reinforcing bars of Grades 60 and 75 A615 billet steel. As-rolled bars, machined bars, butt-welded splices, Thermit splices, and Cadweld splices were prepared. The as-rolled and machined specimens were tested primarily to determine the tensile strength characteristics of the Grades 60 and 75 bars for use when assessing how effective the various spliced specimens were when tested. All tests were conducted in a 200,000-pound-capacity dynamic loader.