A binding wire is a common structural component for construction aimed at keeping the structure intact by tying the joints. The binding wire which is typically made of steel is created by the process of annealing, a form of heat treatment, which gives the material the softness and flexibility for its usage.
Depending on the length and the thickness of the joints, the binding wires are available in a variety of diameters, from 0.61 mm to 1.22 mm. The binding wire must be strong and flexible enough to tie the joints and hold them in place.
Steel is typically used as a binding wire because of its high tensile strength and the ductility it offers at higher temperatures.
Why are Binding Wires Used?
The major purpose of binding wire is to keep the reinforcement free from any motion, because if it does move, then it can lead to changes in structural cross – sections and spacing within a structure. This can be detrimental to the strength of the structure and can also augment the probability of failure.
- The binding wires are used to hold the steel bars in place such that they do not exhibit motion when concrete is applied over them, or when the workers walk over them during construction.
- They hold the bars that are lapped in an ideal position.
- They are also useful in securing the secondary attachment like spacer bars into a rigid position.
Another alternative to using binding wires is welding but they are a more expensive process and also less flexible. Wrong or poor weld can disrupt a part of the entire structure and make it unusable.