CEO’s Note

First of all, I would like to congratulate and express my deepest appreciation to the team on their hard
work and contribution to this handbook.

Yung Kong Metal Works Co Bhd. (YKMW) has been in the steel wire production business since 1970. It
started as a small factory along Abell Road, Kuching, Sarawak. Today, as one of the leading steel fabric
manufacturers with its production plants located in Pending Industrial Estate, the company is equipped
with automated welding machines with distinctive welding features.

YKMW had received its ISO 9002: 1994 award certification in 1999. Further improvements in its
management system, it was also awarded the ISO 9001: 2000 Certification in 2001 and ISO 9001: 2015
in 2018. It has also been recognized by Malaysia certification body, SIRIM QAS Sdn. Bhd. (SIRIM) for
its welded steel fabric certified to MS 145: 2001 in 2005. The company has succeeded to upgrade this
certification to MS 145: 2006 in 2009 and furthermore MS 145: 2014 in 2018.

YMC Mesh Sdn. Bhd. has been one of the subsidiaries of YKMW Group since 2008. It supplies custom-
made YMC welded steel fabric (YMC). It also provides fabric designed drawing and technical presentation
as value-added services to customers.

YMC is one of the latest solutions for our construction industry. It is certified by SIRIM to MS 145: 2014
Steel Fabric for the Reinforcement of Concrete – Specification (Fourth Revision) and is recognized by
Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) Malaysia as a quality product for construction. This
product and its manufacturing processes would be audited and tested by SIRIM yearly to ensure its
compliance throughout the certification.

YMC is fabricated from a series of high-strength cold reduced steel wires arranged at right angles to
each other and electrically resistance welded at all intersections in square or rectangular grids. This
automated welding process employs the fusion of pressure and heat, which combines the intersecting
wires into a homogenous section without losing the strength or area.

The welded intersections of YMC provide basic anchorage and further higher level of bonding is obtained
by the positive rib profile on the wire. This will control and limit any development of crack line due to its
close and consistent spacing of smaller wires.

This YMC technical handbook is mainly served for the purposes of

1) providing the latest industrial standard and information as reference for design engineers;
2) providing the information as reference for the construction engineers in application; and
3) as a reference material for our local college students especially from the school of structural and
civil engineering.

Finally, I hope that this technical handbook will benefit all parties both in academic and industry.

LOUIS HII
The CEO of YKMW Groups

1
CONTENTS
CEO’s Note .............................................................................................................................. 1

LIST OF TABLES .................................................................................................................... 5

LIST OF FIGURES ................................................................................................................... 6

LIST OF SYMBOLS ................................................................................................................. 7

CHAPTER 1: SPECIFICATION AND PRODUCT PROPERTIES

1.1 Specification …............................................................................................................ 10
1.2 MS 146: 2014 ............................................................................................................. 10
1.2.1 Scope ............................................................................................................ 10
1.2.2 Chemical Composition ….............................................................................. 11
1.2.3 Quality of Finished Steel …............................................................................ 11
1.2.4 Tensile Properties …...................................................................................... 11
1.2.5 Fatigue Strength …........................................................................................ 12
1.2.6 Rebend Test ….............................................................................................. 12
1.2.7 Dimensions, Mass per Meter and Tolerances ............................................... 12
1.2.8 Surface Geometry ......................................................................................... 13
1.3 MS 145: 2014 ............................................................................................................. 15
1.3.1 Scope ............................................................................................................ 15
1.3.2 Fabric Reference ........................................................................................... 15
1.3.3 Chemical Composition .................................................................................. 17
1.3.4 Condition of Testing ....................................................................................... 17
1.3.5 Tensile Properties .......................................................................................... 17
1.3.6 Shear Force of Welded Joints ....................................................................... 17
1.3.7 Bend Performance ........................................................................................ 18
1.3.8 Dimensions and Tolerance ............................................................................ 18
1.3.9 Packing and Marking ..................................................................................... 20

2
CHAPTER 2: DESIGN CONVERSION
2.1 Substitution of Steel Reinforcement ........................................................................... 20
2.1.1 Conversion Formula ...................................................................................... 20

CHAPTER 3: DETAILING OF REINFORCEMENT

3.1 Concrete Cover .......................................................................................................... 26
3.2 Spacing of Reinforcement .......................................................................................... 26
3.3 Bend ........................................................................................................................... 26
3.4 Anchorage .................................................................................................................. 27
3.4.1 Ultimate Bond Stress .................................................................................... 27
3.4.2 Basic Anchorage Length ............................................................................... 29
3.4.3 Design Anchorage Length ............................................................................. 31
3.4.4 Example of Anchorage Calculation ............................................................... 32
3.5 Lapping ....................................................................................................................... 33
3.5.1 Laps ............................................................................................................... 33
3.5.2 Laps for Welded Steel Fabrics Made of Ribbed Bars ................................... 34
3.5.2.1 Laps of the main reinforcement ....................................................... 34
3.5.2.2 Laps of secondary or distribution reinforcement .............................. 35
3.5.3 Type of Laps .................................................................................................. 36
3.6 Overhang .................................................................................................................... 37

CHAPTER 4: DETAILING OF MEMBERS AND PARTICULAR RULES

4.1 Solid Slab .................................................................................................................... 39
4.1.1 One-Way Spanning Slab ............................................................................... 39
4.1.2 Two-Way Spanning Slab ............................................................................... 42
4.1.3 Minimum Area of Reinforcement, As min ...................................................... 44
4.1.3.1 Minimum area for principal reinforcement ....................................... 44
4.1.3.2 Minimum area for secondary reinforcement .................................... 45
4.1.4 Maximum Area of Reinforcement, As max .................................................... 45
4.1.5 Spacing for Reinforcement ............................................................................ 45
4.1.5.1 Minimum spacing for reinforcement ................................................ 45
4.1.5.2 Maximum spacing for reinforcement ............................................... 45
4.1.6 Reinforcement at Free Edge ......................................................................... 46
4.1.7 Simplified Detailing Rules for Slab ................................................................ 47
4.1.8 Shear Reinforcement .................................................................................... 48

3
4.2 Flat Slab ...................................................................................................................... 49
4.2.1 Slab at Internal Columns ............................................................................... 52
4.2.2 Slab at Edge and Corner Columns ................................................................ 53
4.2.3 Punching Shear Reinforcement .................................................................... 53
4.3 Reinforced Concrete Wall ........................................................................................... 54
4.3.1 Load Bearing Wall (Shear Wall) .................................................................... 54
4.3.2 Non-Load Bearing Wall ................................................................................. 54
4.3.3 Vertical Reinforcement .................................................................................. 56
4.3.3.1 Maximum area of reinforcement ...................................................... 56
4.3.3.2 Minimum area of reinforcement ....................................................... 57
4.3.4 Horizontal Reinforcement .............................................................................. 57
4.3.4.1 Minimum area of reinforcement ....................................................... 57
4.3.5 Transverse Reinforcement ............................................................................ 57
4.4 Retaining Wall ............................................................................................................. 58
4.4.1 Vertical Reinforcement .................................................................................. 58
4.4.2 Horizontal Reinforcement .............................................................................. 59
4.5 Reinforcement for Pad Footing ................................................................................... 59
4.5.1 Fabric up to Depth of Footing ........................................................................ 59
4.5.2 Hook Fabric ................................................................................................... 60
4.6 Reinforcement for Drainage and Box Culvert ............................................................. 60

REFERENCE ........................................................................................................................... 63

ANNEX ..................................................................................................................................... 64

4
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1.1 : Industrial standards
Table 1.2 : Chemical composition in percentage
Table 1.3 : Characteristic tensile properties
Table 1.4 : Fatigue test condition
Table 1.5 : Mandrel diameter for rebend test
Table 1.6 : Nominal cross-sectional area and mass per meter
Table 1.7 : Tolerance on mass per meter
Table 1.8 : Ranges for the rib parameters
Table 1.9 : Characteristic relative rib area
Table 1.10 : Fabric reference
Table 2.1 : Substitution of fabric for high yield bars (fy,Bar = 500 MPa)
Table 3.1 (a) Minimum mandrel diameter to avoid damage of reinforcement for bar
Table 3.1 (b) Minimum mandrel diameter to avoid damage of reinforcement for welded bent
reinforcement and mesh bend after welding
Table 3.2 : Values of α1, α2, α3, α4, α5, coefficients
Table 3.3 : Required lap lengths for secondary wires of fabric
Table 4.1 : Minimum percentage of reinforcement

5
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1.1 : Rib geometry
Figure 1.2 : Fabric notation
Figure 1.3 : Product label of YMC
Figure 3.1 : Typical bends
Figure 3.2 : Method of anchorage
Figure 3.3 : Description of bond conditions
Figure 3.4 : Values of K for beams and slabs
Figure 3.5 : Adjacent laps
Figure 3.6 : Lapping of welded fabric
Figure 3.7 : Overhang
Figure 4.1 : One-way spanning slab diagram
Figure 4.2 : Load distribution for one-way spanning slab
Figure 4.3 : One-way spanning slab fabric design layout (Bottom fabric)
Figure 4.4 : One-way spanning slab fabric design layout (Top fabric)
Figure 4.5 : Two-way spanning slab diagram
Figure 4.6 : Load distribution for two-way spanning slab
Figure 4.7 : Two-way spanning slab fabric design layout (Bottom fabric)
Figure 4.8 : Two-way spanning slab fabric design layout (Top fabric)
Figure 4.9 : Edge reinforcement for a slab
Figure 4.10 : Simplified detailing rules for slab
Figure 4.11 : Rules for curtailment of reinforcement of slab
Figure 4.12 : Types of flat slab
Figure 4.13 : Flat slab fabric design layout (Bottom fabric)
Figure 4.14 : Flat slab fabric design layout (Top fabric)
Figure 4.15 : Division of panels in flat slab
Figure 4.16 : Effective width, be, of a flat slab
Figure 4.17 : Punching shear layout
Figure 4.18 : Reinforced concrete wall cut section
Figure 4.19 : Reinforced concrete wall fabric design layout
Figure 4.20 : Reinforced concrete retaining wall fabric
Figure 4.21 : Fabric up to depth of footing
Figure 4.22 : Hook fabric for footing
Figure 4.23 : U-Bend fabric
Figure 4.24 : L-Bend fabric
Figure 4.25 : Closed drain
Figure 4.26 : Box culvert

6
LIST OF SYMBOL
Symbol Description Unit
Chapter 1
Re Yield strength MPa
Rm Tensile strength MPa
Agt Percentage total elongation at maximum force %
Ø Nominal diameter of the reinforcement steel mm
h Rib height mm
c Transverse rib spacing mm
β Angle of transverse rib inclination degrees
α Transverse rib flank inclination degrees
An Nominal cross-sectional area mm2
Chapter 2
As,Fabric Equivalent area of steel fabric mm2/m
As,Bar Area of steel bar mm2/m
fy,Bar Yield strength of steel bar MPa
fy,Fabric Yield strength of fabric MPa
r Radius of steel bar mm
Chapter 3
dg Maximum size of aggregate mm
Øm,min Minimum mandrel diameter mm
Ø Diameter mm
d Distance mm
fbd Ultimate bond stress N/mm2
lb Basic anchorage length mm
lb,rqd Basic required anchorage length mm
lb,min Minimum anchorage length mm
lbd Design length mm
p Transverse pressure MPa
l0 Lap length mm
As,Prov Area of steel fabric provided mm2/m
s Spacing of wires mm

7
 Symbol Description Unit
Chapter 4
ly Longer span mm
lx Shorter span mm
As,min Minimum area of reinforcement mm2/m
Asw,min Minimum area of a link leg for vertical punching shear mm2/m
reinforcement
As,max Maximum area of reinforcement mm2/m
As,vmin Minimum area of vertical reinforcement mm2/m
As,vmax Maximum area of vertical reinforcement mm2/m
As,hmin Minimum area of horizontal reinforcement mm2/m
Ac Gross area of concrete section mm2
At Top reinforcement area mm2
fctm Mean tensile strength MPa
fyk Characteristic yield strength of reinforcement MPa
fck Characteristic cylinder strength MPa
bt/be Effective width mm
d Effective depth mm
h Depth of slab mm
L Effective length m
y Distance from the edge of the slab to the innermost face of mm
the column
smax Maximum spacing mm
α Inclination of the shear reinforcement °
VEd Shear force kN
VRd,max’ Design value of the maximum shear force which can
be sustained by the member, limited by crushing of the kN
compression struts
sr Spacing of shear links in the radial direction mm
st Spacing of shear links in the tangential direction mm

8
Chapter 1
SPECIFICATION AND
PRODUCT PROPERTIES
Malaysia steel mills produce and supply several kinds of steel products for
construction industry such as hot rolled bar and wire rod. Low carbon wire
rod complying with MS 16120-2 is widely used by downstream factories in
producing cold drawn bar and welded steel fabric.

The usage of welded steel fabric in construction industry is strictly

controlled by Malaysian Government on its quality. Malaysian Standard
MS 145: 2014 is the industrial standard to specify the properties and quality
of welded steel fabric as the reinforcement of concrete. Furthermore, MS
146: 2014 controls the raw material used to fabricate this welded steel
fabric complying with MS 145: 2014. The enforcement unit CIDB ensures
only the certified products being used at construction sites. This chapter
is mainly describing on the specifications and requirements of these
Malaysian Standards, and the supporting notes to describe the properties
of YMC (brand of YKMW) as a certified welded steel fabric.

9
1.1 SPECIFICATION

Department of Standard Malaysia publishes specifications for steel bar and welded steel
fabric. And the Standard and Industrial Research Institute of Malaysia (SIRIM) will audit and
issue product certificates for the compliances. The appropriate Malaysian Standards are
given in Table 1.1.

Table 1.1: Industrial standards

Standard Title
MS 146: 2014 Steel for The Reinforcement of Concrete – Welded Reinforcing
Steel – Bar, Coil and Decoiled Product – Specification (Fourth
Revision)
MS 145: 2014 Steel Fabric for The Reinforcement of Concrete – Specification
(Fourth Revision)

Note 1.1 YMC is certified to MS 145: 2014 with license number PY007001. Yearly
renewal of license is required and approval is subject to the result of audit and
laboratory test conducted by SIRIM.

YMC is further recognized by CIDB as a quality product with registration number

1141119SR0015.

Note 1.2 Bar used for the fabrication of YMC is strictly complying with MS 146: 2014.

1.2 MS 146: 2014

1.2.1 Scope

This Malaysian Standard specifies requirements for ribbed weldable reinforcing steel
used for the reinforcement of concrete structures. It contains provisions for three
steel grades, all of 500 MPa characteristic yield strength, but with different ductility
characteristics. The three grades are B500A, B500B and B500C.

Note 1.3 Bar quality of YMC is defined as cold worked ribbed bar grade B500A.

Note 1.4 Rib pattern of bar with grade B500A is described in MS 146: 2014 as the
following. Bars shall have two or more series of parallel transverse ribs
with the same angle of inclination and the same direction for each series.

Example of rib pattern of grade B500A

Note 1.5 Annex 2: The difference between the reinforcing bars B500A, B500B and
B500C.

10
 1.2.2 Chemical Composition

The values of individual elements and the carbon equivalent shall not exceed the limits
given in Table 1.2.

Table 1.2: Chemical composition in percentage

Carbon Sulphur Phosphorus Nitrogen Copper Carbon
max. max. max. max. max. equivalent
max.
Cast
0.22 0.05 0.05 0.012 0.80 0.50
analysis
Product
0.24 0.055 0.055 0.014 0.85 0.52
analysis

1.2.3 Quality of Finished Steel

All bars shall be free from harmful defects which can be shown to adversely affect the
mechanical properties of the steel. Rust, seams, surface irregularities or mill scale
shall not be the cause of rejection provided the mass, dimensions, cross-sectional
area and the mechanical properties of a hand wire brushed test specimen are not less
than the requirements of this standard.

Therefore, any surface rust which remains on the fabric is not harmful but in fact
will increase the bond and anchorage properties of fabric. Loose rust can be easily
removed during handling and shaking of fabric.

1.2.4 Tensile Properties

MS 146: 2014 states the minimum requirements for characteristic tensile properties of
bar used for welded steel fabric as described in Table 1.3.

Table 1.3: Characteristic tensile properties

Grade Yield Strength Tensile/ Total Elongation at
Re Yield Strength Ratio Maximum Force
Rm/Re Agt
(MPa) (%)
B500A 500 1.05 2.5
B500B 500 1.08 5.0
B500C 500 ≥ 1.15, < 1.35 7.5

Note 1.6 Rm/Re characteristic is 1.02 for sizes below 8 mm.

Note 1.7 Agt characteristic is 1.0 % for sizes below 8 mm.

Note 1.8 The absolute maximum permissible value of yield strength is 650 MPa.

11
 1.2.5 Fatigue Strength

Reinforcing bars shall be subjected to fatigue testing. When submitting to axial force
controlled fatigue testing, using a stress ratio (σmax/σmin) of 0.2, and stress range as in
Table 1.4, test samples shall survive five million stress cycles.

Table 1.4: Fatigue test condition

Bar size, Ø Stress range
(mm) (MPa)
≤ 16 200
16 < Ø ≤ 20 185
20 < Ø ≤ 25 170
25 < Ø ≤ 32 160
> 32 150

1.2.6 Rebend Test

Bend the test piece through an angle of 90°, around a mandrel with a diameter not
exceeding those specified in Table 1.5, age the test piece (refer to 1.3.4 Condition of
Testing) and then bend back by minimum 20°. After the test, the specimen shall show
no sign of fracture or cracks visible to a person of normal or corrected vision.

Table 1.5: Mandrel diameter for rebend test

Bar size, Ø Maximum mandrel diameter
(mm)
≤ 16 4Ø
> 16 7Ø

1.2.7 Dimensions, Mass per Meter and Tolerances

The preferred nominal diameters (unit in mm) are 8, 10, 12, 16, 20, 25, 32 and 40. If
bar is used for the manufacture of welded fabric in accordance with MS 145: 2014,
then preferred nominal diameter shall include 6, 7 and 9 mm.

12
 Table 1.6: Nominal cross-sectional area and mass per meter
Nominal diameter Cross sectional area Mass per meter
(mm) (mm2) (kg)
6 28.3 0.222
7 38.5 0.302
8 50.3 0.395
9 63.6 0.499
10 78.5 0.617
12 113 0.888
16 201 1.58
20 314 2.47
25 491 3.85
32 804 6.31
40 1257 9.86

Table 1.7: Tolerance on mass per meter

Bar size, Ø Tolerance on mass per meter
(mm) (%)
Ø>8 ± 4.5
Ø≤8 ± 6.0

Note 1.9 The preferred millimeter nominal sizes of bar for YMC fabrication are 6,
7, 8, 9, and 10.

1.2.8 Surface Geometry

Rib is the protrusion on the outside of the bar produced through cold rolled process.
It benefits in enhancing the bond and anchorage characteristics of the bar, better
consistent properties and ductility. It also helps to minimize the crack widths in concrete
elements as the force is well distributed through bond effect of ribbed bar as compared
to plain bar. The values for the spacing, height and rib inclination of transverse ribs
shall be within the range given in Table 1.8.

Table 1.8: Ranges for the rib parameters

Rib height, Rib spacing, Rib inclination,
h c β
0.03Ø – 0.15Ø 0.4Ø – 1.2Ø 35° – 75°

13
 Figure 1.1: Rib geometry

The projection of the transverse ribs shall extend over at least 75 % of the circumference
of the product, which shall be calculated from the nominal diameter. The transverse rib
flank inclination α shall be greater than or equal to 45°, and the transition from the rib
to the core shall be radiused.

Where longitudinal ribs are present, there height shall not exceed 0.10Ø, where Ø is
the nominal diameter of the product.

Table 1.9: Characteristic relative rib area

Nominal bar size, Ø Relative rib area
(mm)
Ø≤6 0.035
6 < Ø ≤ 12 0.040
Ø > 12 0.056

Note 1.10 Bar of YMC is certified for its rib pattern and unique bar marking which
can be found on the surface along the bar.

Bar Mark Description

\Y\M\C\ Brand
\8\ Bar size
\1\ Local manufacturing
\x\ Start of bar mark
\9\ Country code
\1\5\ Registration number of CIDB


14
1.3 MS 145: 2014

1.3.1 Scope

This Malaysian Standard specifies requirements for sheets of factory-made machine

welded steel fabric for the reinforcement of concrete, manufactured from ribbed bars
conforming to MS 146: 2014.

1.3.2 Fabric Reference

The fabric reference has been reviewed from nominal size to steel area in MS 145:
2014.

Table 1.10: Fabric reference

MS 145: 2006 MS 145: 2014
Square mesh
A4 A63
A5 A98
A6 A142
A7 A193
A8 A252
A9 A318
A10 A393
A11 A475
A12 A565
A13 A664
Rectangular mesh Structural mesh
B5 B196
B6 B283
B7 B385
B8 B503
B9 B636
B10 B785
B11 B950
B12 B1131
B13 B1328

15
 Long mesh
C5 C196
C6 C283
C7 C385
C8 C503
C9 C636
C10 C785
C11 C950
C12 C1131
C13 C1328
Small square mesh Wrapping mesh
D4 D126
D5 D196
D6 D283
D7 D385
D8 D503
D9 D636
D10 D785
D11 D950
D12 D1131
D13 D1328

Note 1.11 The preferred fabrics of YMC are stated as below.

Type Fabric Reference Pitch (mm)

A Square mesh 200 × 200
B Structural mesh 100 longitudinal bars spacing
200 transverse bars spacing
D Wrapping mesh 100 x 100

Note 1.12 Custom-made YMC refers to the fabrics which are different in dimensions
according to the designed structures. However, it complies with MS 145:
2014 in the aspects of size, pitch, cross-sectional area and mass.

Element Description
Longitudinal bar Diameter from 6 to 10 mm
Transverse bar Diameter from 6 to 10 mm
Fabric length Up to 6.0 m
Fabric width Up to 2.4 m
Overhang length From 75 mm to 2.0 m

16
 1.3.3 Chemical Composition

The chemical composition of bars shall conform to the requirements of MS 146: 2014.
Refer to Table 1.2 Chemical composition in percentage.

1.3.4 Condition of Testing

Test piece shall be in aged condition: heat the test piece to 100 °C, maintain at this
temperature (± 10 °C) for a period of not less than 60 minutes (maximum 75 minutes)
and then cool in still air to room temperature.

1.3.5 Tensile Properties

Refer to Table 1.3: Characteristic tensile properties.

Note 1.13 YMC is certified to grade B500A. Therefore, it shall comply with the
requirements stated below.

YMC Yield Strength Tensile/Yield Total Elongation Shear Force of

Re Strength at Maximum Welded Joints
Ratio Force

Agt

(MPa) Rm/Re (%) (kN)

A142 500 – 650 1.02 1.0 3.53
A193 500 – 650 1.02 1.0 4.81
A252 500 – 650 1.05 2.5 6.28
A318 500 – 650 1.05 2.5 7.95
A393 500 – 650 1.05 2.5 9.82
B283 500 – 650 1.02 1.0 4.81
B385 500 – 650 1.02 1.0 4.81
B503 500 – 650 1.05 2.5 6.28
B636 500 – 650 1.05 2.5 7.95
B785 500 – 650 1.05 2.5 9.82
D503 500 – 650 1.05 2.5 6.28
D636 500 – 650 1.05 2.5 7.95
D785 500 – 650 1.05 2.5 9.82

1.3.6 Shear Force of Welded Joints

MS 145: 2014 states that the shear force of welded joints in welded fabric shall not be
less than
0.25 x Re x An
Where
Re is the specific characteristic yield strength; and
An is the nominal cross-sectional area of the larger bar of the welded joint.

17
 The number of broken welds shall not exceed 4 % of the total number of cross welded
joints in the sheet, nor exceed half the number of cross welded joints along any one
bar.

Note 1.14 Note 1.13 describes the shear force of welded joints of YMC in minimum.

1.3.7 Bend Performance

Refer to 1.2.6 Rebend Test. The bend test shall be conducted on the thicker bar.

1.3.8 Dimensions and Tolerance

The pitch of longitudinal bars and transverse bars shall not less than 50 mm. The
permitted deviation of welded steel fabric are:

(a) length and width: ± 25 mm or ± 0.5 % whichever is the greater;

(b) bar pitch: ± 10 mm or ± 5 % whichever is the greater; and
(c) overhangs: to be agreed at the time of enquiry and order.

Note 1.15 Certified reference of YMC.

Reference Nominal Bar Size Nominal Pitch Steel Area Mass

(mm) (mm) (mm2/m) (kg/m2)
Longitudinal Transverse Longitudinal Transverse Longitudinal Transverse
Square mesh
A142 6 6 200 200 142 142 2.22
A193 7 7 200 200 193 193 3.02
A252 8 8 200 200 252 252 3.95
A318 9 9 200 200 318 318 4.99
A393 10 10 200 200 393 393 6.16
Structural mesh
B283 6 7 100 200 283 193 3.73
B385 7 7 100 200 385 193 4.53
B503 8 8 100 200 503 252 5.93
B636 9 8 100 200 636 252 6.97
B785 10 8 100 200 785 252 8.14
Wrapping mesh
D503 8 8 100 100 503 503 7.90
D636 9 9 100 100 636 636 9.98
D785 10 10 100 100 785 785 12.3

18
 Figure 1.2: Fabric notation

O1

Pm

O2

O4 Pc O3

Key:
L Length of the longitudinal bar (which are not necessarily the longer bar) in the
sheet
W Length of the transverse bar
O1 and O2 Overhangs of the longitudinal bar
O3 and O4 Side overhangs of the transverse bar
Pm Pitch of the longitudinal bar
Pc Pitch of the transverse bar

19
 1.3.9 Packing and Marking

The manufacturer shall ensure that each bundle of output is securely tied with not
less than four binders, and shall attach to bundle a durable label with the following
information:
(a) standard number, MS 145: 2014;
(b) the grade of fabric;
(c) the type of fabric;
(d) the name of fabric manufacturer;
(e) the dimension of fabric; and
(f) number of sheet.

Figure 1.3: Product label of YMC

20
Chapter 2
DESIGN CONVERSION
This chapter includes the substitution for steel reinforcement from
conventional steel bar to welded steel fabric and shows the conversion
formula. As we know, using welded steel fabric drastically speeds up the
construction process. It is available in wide range of bar diameters each
suited for a particular reinforcing design application. The conventional
steel bar reinforcement can be substituted with welded steel fabric
resulting in easier controls, increase speed of installation, reducing offcuts
and wastage.

21
2.1 SUBSTITUTION OF STEEL REINFORCEMENT

Welded steel fabric is the product used to reinforce concrete in construction. Fabric is made
up of high tensile steel bars which are welded together using the modern technology. This
welded steel fabric is used as a substitution for the conventional method of reinforcement
using steel bars. YMC is one of the local brands of welded steel fabric which supplies
custom-made fabric for local construction industries.

2.1.1 Conversion Formula

Previously, according to MS 146: 2006, the high yield tensile bar is 460 MPa. By
referring to the latest version of MS 146: 2014 (Chapter 1, Table 1.3: Characteristic
tensile properties), the new high yield tensile bar is 500 MPa.

To determine equivalent fabric area, As,Fabric, the general conversion formula is defined
below:

fy,Bar
As,Fabric = As,Bar ×
fy,Fabric

Where
As,Bar is the area of steel bar in mm2/m;
fy,Bar is the yield strength of steel bar in MPa; and
fy,Fabric is the yield strength of fabric in MPa.

Since the yield strength for high tensile bar and steel fabric are both 500 MPa, we can
assume that:

As,Fabric = As,Bar

Note 2.1 High yield bar, fy,Bar = 500 MPa

Note 2.2 YMC welded steel fabric, fy Fabric = 500 MPa

Table 2.1 shows the conversions of common bar diameter and spacing for easy
reference purpose. Suitable fabric reference could be selected from fabric table based
on converted equivalent fabric area. The area of recommended fabric reference should
be equal or greater than the equivalent fabric area.

22
 Table 2.1: Substitution of fabric for high yield bars (fy,Bar = 500 MPa)
Bars Fabric
Nominal Size Spacing Area of steel Equivalent fabric Recommended
Ø bar, As,Bar area, As,Fabric YMC Fabric Reference
(mm) (mm) (mm2/m) (mm2/m)
8 100 503 503 B503 (B8), D503 (D8)
150 335 335 A393 (A10), B385 (B7)
200 251 251 A252 (A8)
250 201 201 A252 (A8)
300 168 168 A193 (A7)
10 100 785 785 B785 (B10), D785 (D10)
150 524 524 B636 (B9), D636 (D9)
200 393 393 A393 (A10)
250 314 314 A318 (A9), B385 (B7)
300 262 262 A318 (A9), B283 (B6)
12 150 754 754 B785 (B10), D785 (D10)
200 565 565 B636 (B9), D636 (D9)
250 452 452 B503 (B8), D503 (D8)
300 377 377 A393 (A10), B385 (B7)
16 300 670 670 B785 (B10), D785 (D10)

Note 2.3 Certified reference for YMC is shown in Chapter 1, Note 1.15.

To determine the area of steel bar, As,bar as stated in Table 2.1, the formula below is
given:

Step 1: Area of steel bar, As,bar = πr 2

Step 2: No.of bar per m = 1000
(bar spacing)

Step 3: Area of steel bar per m = As,bar × no.of bar per m

Where
π is 3.142; and
r radius of steel bar.

Work example below shows the substitution from steel bar to welded steel fabric.

Parameter
Bar diameter 8 mm
Bar spacing 150 mm
1 metre run 1000 mm
π 3.142 -
fy,bar 500 MPa
fy,fabric 500 MPa

23
 Calculation
8
Area of steel bar = πr 2 = 3.142 × ( ) 2 = 50.272 mm2
2


= 1 m
1000
No. of bar per metre = = 6.667 no.of bar/m
bar spacing 150

Area of steel bar Area of steel bar

per m = × no.of bar per m = 50.272 × 6.667 = 335.16 ~ 335 mm /m
2

fy,Bar 500
Equivalent area of fabric = As,bar × = 335 × = 335 mm2/m
fy,Fabric 500

Hence, the recommended YMC Fabric is A393 (A10) or B385 (B7).

24
Chapter 3
DETAILING OF REINFORCEMENT
This chapter will explain the detailing for the reinforcement. Reinforcement
is important to resist internal tensile forces calculated from analysis.
Also, reinforcement is provided in compression zones to increase the
compression capacity, enhance ductility, reduce long term deflections,
or increase the flexural capacity for beams. In addition, reinforcement
is required to prevent excessive cracking resulting from shrinkage or
temperature changes in restrained structural elements. It is important
to provide the adequate area of reinforcement required to resist internal
tensile or compression forces required to attain the design strength.
The provided area of reinforcement is not fully effective unless it is fully
developed, it may be developed by bending, anchorage, lapping and etc.
In addition to provide the sufficient areas of reinforcement, good detailing
should be done considering the overall structural integrity.

25
3.1 CONCRETE COVER

As stated in Clause 4.4.1.1, MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010, the concrete cover is the distance
between the surface of the reinforcement closest to the nearest concrete surface (including
links and stirrups and surface reinforcement where relevant) and the nearest concrete
surface. The nominal cover shall be specified on the drawings.

3.2 SPACING OF REINFORCEMENT

The spacing of bars shall be such that the concrete can be placed and compacted satisfactorily
for the development of adequate bond. The clear distance (horizontal and vertical) between
individual parallel bars or horizontal layers of parallel bars should be not less than the
maximum of k1 x bar diameter, (dg + k2 mm) or 20 mm where dg is the maximum size of
aggregate.

Where bars are positioned in separate horizontal layers, the bars in each layer should be
located vertically above each other. There should be sufficient space between the resulting
columns of bars to allow access for vibrators and good compaction of the concrete. Lapped
bars may be allowed to touch one another within the lap length.

Note 3.1 Clause 8.2, MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

Note 3.2 The recommended value of k1 and k2 are 1 and 5 mm respectively.

3.3 BEND

The minimum diameter to which a bar is bent shall be such as to avoid bending cracks in the
bar, and to avoid failure of the concrete inside the bend of the bar. In order to avoid damage
to the reinforcement the diameter to which the bar is bent (mandrel diameter) should not be
less than Øm,min (Refer Table 3.1).

Note 3.3 Clause 8.3 MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

Table 3.1 (a): Minimum mandrel diameter to avoid damage of

reinforcement for bar
Bar size, Ø Minimum mandrel diameter for bends,
(mm) hooks and loops
≤ 16 4Ø
> 16 7Ø

Note 3.4 Adapted from Table 8.1N MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

26
 Table 3.1 (b): Minimum mandrel diameter to avoid damage of reinforcement for
welded bent reinforcement and mesh bend after welding
Minimum mandrel diameter

d
or or

5Ø For d ≥ 3Ø, use 5Ø

For d < 3Ø or welding between the curved
zone, use 20Ø

Note 3.5 The mandrel size for welding within the curved zone may be reduced to 5Ø where the
welding is carried out in accordance with MS EN ISO 17660 Annex B.

Figure 3.1: Typical bends

Longitudinal bar

Transverse bar

Single Bend Double Bend

27
3.4 ANCHORAGE

Reinforcing bars or welded steel fabrics should be anchored so that the bond forces are
safely transmitted to the concrete avoiding longitudinal cracking or spalling. Transverse
reinforcement shall be provided if necessary. Method of anchorage are shown in Figure 3.2.

Note 3.6 Clause 8.4.1, MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

Figure 3.2: Method of anchorage

3.4.1 Ultimate Bond Stress

The ultimate bond strength shall be sufficient to prevent bond failure. The design value
of the ultimate bond stress, fbd for ribbed bars as shown below:

fbd = 2.25η1 η2 fctd

Where
fctd is the design value of concrete tensile strength according to 3.1.6 (2)P. Due to
the increasing brittleness of high strength concrete, fctk,0.05 should be limited here
to the value for C60/75, unless it can be verified that the average bond strength
increases above this limit.
η1 is the coefficient related to the quality of the bond condition and the position of
the bar during concreting, η1=1.0 when ‘good’ conditions are obtained.
η1 = 0.7 for all other cases and for bars in structural elements built with slip-
forms, unless it can be shown that ‘good’ bond conditions exist.

28
 η2 is related to the bar diameter
η2 = 1.0 for Ø ≤ 32 mm
η2 = (132 – Ø)/100 for Ø > 32 mm

Figure 3.3: Description of bond conditions

Direction of concreting

a) and b) “good” bond conditions c) and d) unshaded area: “good” bond conditions
for all bars shaded area: deficient bond conditions

Note 3.7 Clause 8.4.2, MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

3.4.2 Basic Anchorage Length

The basic required anchorage length, lb,rqd, for anchoring the force As.σsd in a straight
bar assuming constant bond stress equal to fbd follows from:

lb,rqd = (Ø/4)(σsd/fbd)

Where
σsd is the design stress of the bar at the position from where the anchorage is
measured from.

Where pairs of wires/bars form welded fabrics the diameters, Ø should be replaced by
the equivalent diameter Øn = Ø√2.

Note 3.8 Clause 8.4.3, MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

29
 3.4.3 Design Anchorage Length

The design anchorage length, lbd is:

lbd = α1 α2 α3 α4 α5 lb,rqd ≥ lb,min

Where α1,α2,α3,α4,α5 are coefficients given in Table 3.2

α1 is for the effect of the form of the bars assuming adequate cover
α2 is for the effect of concrete minimum cover

C1
a a
C1
C C

a) Straight bars b) Bent or hooked bars c) Looped bars

cd = min (a/2, c1, c) cd = min (a/2, c1) cd = c

α3 is for the effect of confinement by transverse reinforcement

α4 is for the influence of one or more welded transverse bars (Øǀ > 0.6Ø) along
the design anchorage length, lbd
α5 is for the effect of the pressure transverse to the plane of splitting along the
design anchorage length
The product (α2 α3 α5) ≥ 0.7
lb,min is the minimum anchorage length if no other limitation is applied:
- For anchorages in tension: lb,min > max {0.3lb,rqd ;10Ø;100 mm}
- For anchorages in compression: lb,min > max {0.6lb,rqd ;10Ø;100 mm}

The tension anchorage of certain shape in Figure 3.2 may be provided as an equivalent
anchorage length, lb,eq. lb,eq is defined :
- α1 lb,rqd for shapes shown in Figure 3.2b to 3.2d
- α4 lb,rqd for shapes in Figure 3.2e

Note 3.9 Clause 8.4.4, MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

30
 Table 3.2: Values of α1, α2, α3, α4, α5 coefficients
Reinforcement bar
Influencing factor Type of anchorage
In tension In compression
Straight α1 = 1.0 α1 = 1.0
Shape of bars Other than straight α1 = 0.7 if cd > 3Ø α1 = 1.0
otherwise α1 = 1.0
Straight α1 = 1-0.15 (cd - Ø)/Ø α2 = 1.0
Concrete cover ≥ 0.7
≤ 1.0
Other than straight α1 = 1-0.15 (cd - 3Ø)/Ø α2 = 1.0
≥ 0.7
≤ 1.0
Confinement All types α3 = 1 - Kλ α3 = 1.0
by transverse ≥ 0.7
reinforcement not ≤ 1.0
welded to main
reinforcement
Confinement by All types α4 = 0.7 α4 = 0.7
welded transverse
reinforcement
Confinement All types α5 = 1 - 0.04p -
by transverse ≥ 0.7
pressure ≤ 1.0

Note 3.10 Adapted from Table 8.2 MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

Where
λ (ΣAst - ΣAst,min)/As
ΣAst cross-sectional area of the transverse reinforcement along the design
anchorage length, lbd
ΣAst,min cross-sectional area of the minimum transverse reinforcement = 0.25 As
for beams and 0 for slabs
As area of a single anchored bar with maximum bar diameter
K values shown in Figure
p transverse pressure (MPa) at ultimate limit state along lbd

Figure 3.4: Values of K for beams and slabs

As Øt , Ast As Øt , Ast As Øt , Ast

K = 0,1 K = 0,05 K=0

31
 3.4.4 Example of Anchorage Calculation

Parameter:
Concrete cover = 25 mm
fy = 500 N/mm2
fck,cube =30 N/mm2
Ø = 7 mm
As = 193 mm2 (A193)
No. of bar = 5

Assume bot area of rebar near support is 50% As

0.5As = 193 × 0.5 = 96.50 mm2

0.87 x 500 x 96.5
Fb = 0.87fy As = = 41.98 kN
103

From Table 3.1 (MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010),
fck,cube = 30 N/mm2, fctd = 1.8
η1 = 0.7
η2 = 1.0

Design value of the ultimate bond stress

fbd = 2.25η1 η2 fctd = 2.25(0.7)(1.0)(1.8) = 2.835 N/mm2

Design stress of bars

Fb 41.98 × 103
σsd = = = 218.14 N/mm2
no. of bar × πr2 5 × π × 3.52

Basic required anchorage length

lb,rqd = ( )( ) (
∅ σsd
4 fbd
5 × 7 218.14
=
4 2.835 )( ) = 673.27 mm

32
 Tension
α1 = 1

0.15(cd - ∅ 0.15(25 - (5 × 7))
α2 = 1 - = 1 - = 1.043
∅ 5x7

a
2 ( ) (
200 - 14
cd = min ,c1 ,c = ,25,25 = 25 mm
2 )
α3 = 1 - Kλ = 1 - 0 = 1
α4 = 1
α5 = 1

lb,min = max
0.3
5 {
lb,rqd
,10∅,100 mm = max }
0.3
673.27
5 {
,10(7),100 mm = 100 mm/bar }
Design anchorage length
lbd = α1 α2 α3 α4 α5 lb,rqd ≥ lb,min = (1)(1.043)(1)(1)(1)(673.27) = 702.22 mm (for 5 no.of bar)

Hence, 1 bar length = 702.22 = 140.44 mm ≥ lb,min = 100 mm
5

3.5 LAPPING

3.5.1 Laps

The detailing of laps between bars shall be such that:

(a) the transmission of the forces from one bar to the next is assured;
(b) spalling of the concrete in the neighbourhood of the joints does not occur; and
(c) large cracks which affect the performance of the structure does not occur.

Laps between bar should normally be staggered and not located in areas of high
moments/forces. The arrangement of lapped bars should comply with Figure 3.4, as
set out below:
(a) the clear distance between lapped bar should not be greater than 4Ø or 50
mm, otherwise the lap length should be increased by a length equal to the clear
space where it exceeds 4Ø or 50 mm;
(b) the longitudinal distance between two adjacent laps should not be less than 0.3
times the lap length, l0; and
(c) in case of adjacent laps, the clear distance between adjacent bars should not be
less than 2Ø or 20 mm.

33
 When the provisions comply with the statement above, the permissible percentage of
lapped bars in tension may be 100% where the bars are all in one layer. Where the
bars are in several layers, the percentage should be reduced to 50 %.

All bars in compression and secondary (distribution) reinforcement may be lapped in

the same location.

Note 3.11 Clause 8.7.2, MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

Figure 3.5: Adjacent laps

≥ 0,3l 0 l0
≤ 50 mm
Fs ≤ 4Ø Ø Fs

Fs a ≥ 2Ø
≥ 20 mm Fs
Fs
Fs

3.5.2 Laps for Welded Steel Fabrics Made of Ribbed Bars

3.5.2.1 Laps of the main reinforcement

Laps may be made either by intermeshing or by layering fabrics. For

intermeshed fabric, the lapping arrangements for the main longitudinal bars
should conform to Clause 3.5.1.

For layered fabric, the laps of the main reinforcement should be generally be
situated in zones where the calculated stress in the reinforcement at ultimate
limit state is not more than 80 % of the design strength. The permissible
percentage of the main reinforcement that may be spliced by lapping in any
section, depends on the specific cross-section area of the welded fabric
provided (As/s)prov, where s is the spacing of wires:
(a) 100 % if (As/s)prov ≤ 1200 mm2/m
(b) 60 % if (As/s)prov > 1200 mm2/m

Note 3.12 Clause 8.7.5.1, MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

34
 Figure 3.6: Lapping of welded fabric

Fs Fs

l0

a) intermeshed fabric (longitudinal section)

Fs
Fs

l0

b) layered fabric (longitudinal section)

3.5.2.2 Laps of secondary or distribution reinforcement

All secondary reinforcement may be lapped at the same location. The

minimum values of the lap length, l0 are shown in the Table 3.3 below.

Table 3.3: Required lap lengths for secondary wires of fabric

Diameter of secondary bar, Ø Lap lengths
(mm)
Ø≤6 ≥ 150 mm; at least 1 wire pitch within
the lap length
6 < Ø ≤ 8.5 ≥ 250 mm; at least 2 wire pitches
8.5 < Ø ≤ 12 ≥ 350 mm; at least 2 wire pitches

Note 3.13 Clause 8.7.5.2, MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

35
 3.5.3 Type of Laps

Full yield strength lap - The most common type lapping used.

- Transfer the full yield strength of the

reinforcement.

- Staggered arrangement is to avoid

accumulation of laps.

Half yield strength - Half yield strength laps with overlap

of only one cross weld are acceptable
in side laps of one-way slab. This is
commonly used in top (negative)
reinforcement.

- Transfer half the yield strength of the

reinforcement

- May be use for side laps across beams

Reversed or nested-in-plane lap -

Particularly useful in situations of
maximum stress to maintain the
lapped reinforcement in the same
plane

Flying ends lap - Alternative method in plane lapping

where one sheet is provided with a
lap length overhang without welded
intersections

- The lap length is determined as for

lapped bars (plain or deformed wires),
and without welded intersection on
lapped wires, the ultimate anchorage
bond stress of fabric do not apply

Non-yield strength transfer splice lap - May be used for secondary direction
lapping over beam or secondary
direction lapping where splice transfer
is not important

36
3.6 OVERHANG

Overhang refers to the distance between the tip of the wire and the first weld joint. Other
than the overall dimensions and spacings of the wires that determine the overhang to be
provided, the usage of the fabric also plays and important role in deciding the suitable length
of overhang.

Figure 3.7: Overhang

Specified length
of overhangs

37
 Chapter 4
DETAILING OF MEMBERS AND
PARTICULAR RULES
The detailing of members and particular rules is very important with regard
to the safety, serviceability and durability. It should be consistent with the
design models adopted. Therefore, the minimum areas of reinforcement
are given in order to prevent brittle failure, wide cracks and to resist forces
arising from restrained actions. This chapter includes the detailing of
members and particular rules for solid slab, flat slab, wall and retaining
wall. The application of welded steel fabric in pad footing and drainage
also shown in this chapter.

38
4.1 SOLID SLAB

4.1.1 One-Way Spanning Slab

One-way spanning slab is a slab which is supported by beams on the two opposite
sides to carry the load along one direction. In one-way spanning slab, the ratio of
longer span (ly) to shorter span (lx) is equal or greater than 2, i.e. longer span (ly) /
shorter span (lx) ≥ 2.

Figure 4.1: One-way spanning slab diagram

Figure 4.2: Load distribution for one-way spanning slab

A B

lx

C D
ly

39
 Figure 4.3: One-way spanning slab fabric design layout (Bottom fabric)

Bottom fabric

40
Figure 4.4: One-way spanning slab fabric design layout (Top fabric)

Top fabric

41
 4.1.2 Two-Way Spanning Slab

When a reinforced concrete slab is supported by beams on all the four sides and
the loads are carried by the supports along both directions, it is known as two-way
spanning slab. In two-way spanning slab, the ratio of longer span (ly) to shorter span
(lx) is less than 2, i.e. longer span (ly) / Shorter span (lx) < 2.

Figure 4.5 Two-way spanning slab diagram

Figure 4.6: Load distribution for two-way spanning slab

A B

E F
lx

C D
ly

42
Figure 4.7: Two-way spanning slab fabric design layout (Bottom fabric)

Bottom fabric

43
 Figure 4.8: Two-way spanning slab fabric design layout (Top fabric)

Top Fabric

4.1.3 Minimum Area of Reinforcement, As,min

4.1.3.1 Minimum area for principal reinforcement

The minimum area of principal reinforcement in the main direction is shown

below:

As,min = 0.26fctmbtd
fyk
Where
fctm mean tensile strength;
fyk characteristic yield strength of reinforcement; and
bt effective width; and d = effective depth

44
 Table 4.1: Minimum percentage of reinforcement
fck fctm Minimum percentage
(0.26 fctm/fyk2)
25 2.6 0.13
28 2.8 0.14
30 2.9 0.15
32 3.0 0.16
35 3.2 0.17
40 3.5 0.18
45 3.8 0.20
50 4.1 0.21


Note 4.1 Adapted from Table 3.1, MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

Note 4.2 Assume fyk = 500 MPa

4.1.3.2 Minimum area for secondary reinforcement

Secondary transverse reinforcement of not less than 20 % As,min should be

provided in one way slabs. In area of near supports, transverse reinforcement
is not necessary where there is no transverse bending moment.

4.1.4 Maximum Area of Reinforcement, As,max

Outside lap locations, the maximum area of tension or compression reinforcement

should not exceed As,max = 0.04 Ac.

4.1.5 Spacing for Reinforcement

4.1.5.1 Minimum spacing for reinforcement

The minimum clear distance between bars should be greater than:

(a) bar diameter;
(b) aggregate size plus 5 mm; and
(c) 20 mm.

4.1.5.2 Maximum spacing for reinforcement

For slab which is less than 200 mm thick, the following maximum spacing,
smax,slabs rules are apply.
(a) For the principal reinforcement: 3h but not more than 400 mm.
(b) For the secondary reinforcement: 3.5h but not more than 450 mm.

45
 The exception is in areas with concentrated loads or areas of maximum
moment where the following applies.
(a) For the principal reinforcement: 2h but not more than 250 mm.
(b) For the secondary reinforcement: 3h but not more than 400 mm.
Where h = the depth of the slab

Note 4.3 Clause 9.3.1.1, MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

4.1.6 Reinforcement at Free Edge

Along a free (unsupported) edge, a slab should normally contain longitudinal and
transverse reinforcement, generally arranged as shown in Figure 4.9. The normal
reinforcement provided for a slab may act as edge reinforcement.

Figure 4.9: Edge reinforcement for a slab

≥ 2h

Note 4.4 Clause 9.3.1.4, MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

4.1.7 Simplified Detailing Rules for Slab

The detailing rules are used for slabs in the following circumstances:
(a) The slabs are designed for predominantly uniform distributed loads.
(b) In the case of continuous slab, design has been carried out for the single load
case of maximum design load on all spans and the spans are approximately
equal.

46
 Figure 4.10: Simplified detailing rules for slab

Face of support Reinforcement for

100% maximum hogging moment

0.15l ≥ lbd 50%

0.30l

a) Continuous member, top reinforcement

40%

0.2l
Position of 100%
effective
support Reinforcement for
maximum sagging moment

b) Continuous member, bottom reinforcement

15%

lbd

Face of 100%
support

c) Simple support, bottom reinforcement

Figure 4.11: Rules for curtailment of reinforcement of slab

0.15L or
45ø 0.3L 0.3L

50% As 100% As 40% As

47
 4.1.8 Shear Reinforcement

A slab in which shear reinforcement is provided should have a depth at least 200 mm.
The shear reinforcement should form an angle, α of between 45° to 90° to the longitudinal
axis of the structural element. In slab, if |VEd| ≤ 13 VRd,max', the shear reinforcement may
consist entirely of bent-up-bars or of shear reinforcement assemblies.

Where
VRd,max' is the design value of the maximum shear force which can be sustained
by the member, limited by crushing of the compression struts; and
VEd is shear force

The maximum longitudinal spacing of successive series of links is given by

smax = 0.75d(1 + cot α)

Where
α is inclination of the shear reinforcement; and
d is effective depth.

The maximum longitudinal spacing of bent-up bars is given by

smax = d

The maximum transverse spacing of shear reinforcement should not exceed 1.5 d.

Note 4.6 Clause 9.3.2, MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

48
4.2 FLAT SLAB

Flat slab is a reinforced concrete slab supported directly by concrete columns without the use
of beams. Flat slab is defined as one sided or two-sided support system with sheer load of
the slab being concentrated on the supporting column and a square slab called ‘drop panel’.

Figure 4.12: Types of flat slab

Flat slab

Flat slab with column head

Flat slab with drop panel

49
 Figure 4.13: Flat slab fabric design layout (Bottom fabric)

Bottom fabric

50
Figure 4.14: Flat slab fabric design layout (Top fabric)

Top fabric

51
 A flat slab should be divided into column and middle strips as shown in Figure 4.15.

Figure 4.15: Division of panels in flat slab

lx > ly

l y /4 l y /4 Middle strip = lx - ly /2

l y/ 4

l y/ 4

Middle strip = l y /2 ly

Column strip = l y /2

4.2.1 Slab at Internal Columns

At internal columns, unless rigorous serviceability calculations are carried out, top
reinforcement of area 0.5 At should be placed in a width equal to the sum of 0.125 times
the panel width on either side of the column. At represents the area of reinforcement
required to resist the full negative moment from the sum of the two half panels each
side of the column. It is also advisable to apply this requirement to perimeter columns
as far as is possible. At internal columns at least two bars of bottom reinforcement
in each orthogonal direction should be provided and they should pass between the
column reinforcement.

Note 4.5 Clause 9.4.1, MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

52
 4.2.2 Slab at Edge and Corner Columns

Reinforcement perpendicular to a free edge required to transmit bending moments

from the slab to an edge or corner column should be placed within the effective width,
be, shown in Figure 4.16.

Figure 4.16: Effective width, be, of a flat slab

cz cz
A
A
cy
y cy
y

z
be = cz + y
A
be = z + y/2 A Slab edge

Note: y can be > cy Note: z can be > cz and y can be > cy

b) Edge column b) Corner column

Note 4.6 y is the distance from the edge of the slab to the innermost face of the column.

Note 4.7 Clause 9.4.2, MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

4.2.3 Punching Shear Reinforcement

Where punching shear reinforcement is required, it should be placed between the

loaded area/column and kd inside the control perimeter at which shear reinforcement
is no longer required. It should be provided in at least two perimeters of shear links.
The radial spacing of the links of should not exceed 0.75d. The tangential spacing of
the links should not exceed 1.5d within the 2d from the column face, and should not
exceed 2d for any other perimeter. The distance between the face of the column and
the nearest shear reinforcement should be less than 0.5d.

Note 4.8 From Clause 6.4.5 (4) MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010, the recommended value of k is 1.5.

53
 Figure 4.17: Punching shear layout

Section A - A

The minimum area of a link leg for vertical punching shear reinforcement is:

1.5 Asw,min /(sr.st) ≥ 0.08 √fck/fyk

Where
sr is spacing of shear links in the radial direction; and
st is spacing of shear links in the tangential direction.

Note 4.9 Clause 9.4.3, MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

4.3 REINFORCED CONCRETE WALL

4.3.1 Load Bearing Wall (Shear Wall)

Load bearing wall carries loads imposed on it from beams and slabs above including its
own weight and transfer it to the foundation. These walls support structural members
such as beams, slabs and walls on above floors above.

4.3.2 Non-Load Bearing Wall

Non-load bearing walls only carry their own weight and does not support any structural
members such as beams and slabs. These walls are just used as partition walls or to
separate rooms from outside.

54
 Figure 4.18: Reinforced concrete wall cut section

125

125mm THK. R.C. WALL TO DETAIL

2 LAYERS YMC A8

(LAP)
R.C. WALL TO DETAIL

400
T10–200C/C E.F. GROUND BEAM TOP LEVEL
STARTER BARS

R.C. SLAB TO DETAIL

650

400

R.C. STRIP FOOTING

75

55
 Figure 4.19: Reinforced concrete wall fabric design layout

4.3.3 Vertical Reinforcement

4.3.3.1 Maximum area of reinforcement

The maximum nominal reinforcement area, As,vmax for columns and walls
outside laps is 0.04Ac. However, this area can be increased provided that the
concrete can be placed and compacted sufficiently.

56
 4.3.3.2 Minimum area of reinforcement

The minimum area of vertical reinforcement in walls is given by: As,vmin =

0.002Ac. Half the area should be provided in each face. The distance between
two adjacent vertical bars should not exceed the lesser of either three times
the wall thickness or 400 mm.

Note 4.10 Clause 9.6.2, MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

4.3.4 Horizontal Reinforcement

Horizontal reinforcement running parallel to the faces of the wall (and to the free edges)
should be at each surface. It should not be less than As,hmin.

4.3.4.1 Minimum area of reinforcement

The minimum area of horizontal reinforcement in walls is given by: As,hmin =

0.001Ac or 25 % whichever is greater. The spacing between two adjacent
horizontal bars should not be greater than 400 mm.

Note 4.11 Clause 9.6.3, MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

4.3.5 Transverse Reinforcement

In any part of a wall where the total area of the vertical reinforcement in the two faces
exceeds 0.02Ac, transverse reinforcement in the form of links should be provided in
accordance with the requirements for columns which is the diameter of the bars of
welded steel fabric for transverse reinforcement should not be less than 5 mm.

Where the main reinforcement is placed nearest to the wall faces, transverse
reinforcement should also be provided in the form of links with at least of 4 per m2 of
wall area.

Note 4.12 Transverse reinforcement need not to be provided where welded steel
fabric and bars of diameter less than 16 mm are used with the concrete
cover larger than 2Ø.

Note 4.13 Clause 9.6.4, MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010.

57
4.4 RETAINING WALL

A retaining wall is a structure designed and constructed to retain earth or other material
in vertical (or nearly vertical) position at locations where an abrupt change in ground level
occurs. It is to prevent retained earth from assuming its natural angle of repose. The retained
earth exerts lateral pressure on the wall by stability analysis – overturn, slide and settlement.
Therefore, the wall must be design to be stable under the effects of lateral pressure.

Figure 4.20: Reinforced concrete retaining wall fabric

4.4.1 Vertical Reinforcement

Where axial forces dominate, the minimum area of vertical reinforcement is 0.002Ac;
half this area should be placed in each face. Outside lap locations, the maximum area
of vertical reinforcement is 0.04Ac; this may be doubled at lap locations. The distance
between two adjacent vertical bars should not exceed the lesser of either three times
the wall thickness or 400 mm.

For walls with a high axial load, the main reinforcement placed nearest to the wall
faces should have transverse reinforcement in the form of links with at least four per
m2 of wall area. Where welded fabric and bars of diameter less than 16 mm are used
with cover larger than 2Ø, transverse reinforcement is not required.

58
 4.4.2 Horizontal reinforcement

The minimum area of horizontal reinforcement is greater of either 25 % of vertical

reinforcement or 0.001Ac. However, where crack control is important, early age
thermal and shrinkage effects should be considered. Where flexural forces dominate,
these requirements may be relaxed to 20 % of the vertical reinforcement area.

4.5 REINFORCEMENT FOR PAD FOOTING

Foundations which carry and spread concentrated loads to the soil from superstructures is
called pad footing. They are usually placed to transfer point loads from the column or framed
structures and consists of a concrete block or concrete pad. The pads are usually placed at
a shallow depth, but they can also be used as deep foundation depending on the loads to be
transferred and condition of the subsoil. Pad footing may be square, rectangular or circular in
shape. If the pad is subjected to a heavy loaded structure, the pad footing may be stepped.
The loads from the structure are simply distributed by the pad to the bearing layer of soil.
Below shows the footing using fabric reinforcement.

4.5.1 Fabric up to Depth of Footing

In this type of fabric, the bars are bent at ends up to a height of footing. The concrete
cover is provided in all the sides of the footing.

Figure 4.21: Fabric up to depth of footing

59
 4.5.2 Hook Fabric

This type of fabric is adopted in low rise and also high-rise building. The footing is
reinforced as grid and at the ends of the fabric, the bars are hooked. Bending the bars
ends helps in the proper anchorage of reinforcement, where the hook length is 9Ø, Ø
is the diameter of bar.

Figure 4.22: Hook fabric for footing

4.6 REINFORCEMENT FOR DRAINAGE AND BOX CULVERT

For drainage and box culvert, the cut to size fabric can be because it is easier to install and
will minimize the installation time at the site. Below shows the figure of drainage and box
culvert using cut to size fabric.

Figure 4.23: U-Bend fabric

U-Bend Fabric

60
 Figure 4.24: L-Bend fabric

Width varies

L-Bend
Fabric

Depth
varies

Additional tie bars for hunching to engineer's

requirement

Figure 4.25: Closed drain

61
 Figure 4.26: Box culvert

62
REFERENCES
1. MS 145: 2014, Steel Fabric for the Reinforcement of Concrete – Specification (Fourth
Revision)

2. MS 146: 2014, Steel for the Reinforcement of Concrete – Weldable Reinforcing Steel – Bar,
Coil and Decoiled Product – Specification (Fourth Revision)

3. MS EN 1992-1-1: 2010, Malaysia National Annex to Eurocode 2: Design of Concrete

Structures – Part 1-1: General Rules and Rules for Buildings

4.
The Concrete Centre, (2006). How to Design Concrete Structure using Eurocode 2. Retrieved
from
https://greganagno.com/download/Reinforced%20Concrete/How%20to%20design%20
concrete%20structures%20using%20Eurocode%202.pdf

5. Krishna (2017). Types of Reinforcement or Mesh used in Different Footings (Foundations).

Retrieved from https://civilread.com/types-of-reinforcement-in-footings/

6. Farid, N.M. (2010). Reinforced Slab. Retrieved from

https://www.slideshare.net/MatNik1/reinforced-slab

7. Ibrahim, I.S. (2017). Design of Retaining Walls. Retrieved from

http://civil.utm.my/iznisyahrizal/files/2017/05/Lecture-5-Design-of-Retaining-Wall.pdf

63
ANNEX 1
PROCESS FLOW

1. SIRIM certified wire rod as

raw material of welded steel
fabric

2. Drawing process to reduce

size and rib wire rod to
required bar size.

3. Electronically controlled
welding process combines
the intersecting wires into a
homogenous section

64
4. Bending machine to bend the
welded steel fabric

5. Sample will be taken during

welding process for laboratory
test on its properties

6. Output with unique label from

production will be stored
inside warehouse under the
roof

7. Delivery and unloading of

welded steel fabric at site

65
 8. Formwork installation at site

9. Installation of welded steel

fabric at site

10. Concreting of slab at site

66
ANNEX 2
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE REINFORCING
BARS B500A, B500B AND B500C
Reinforcing Steel Type B500A B500B B500C
Surface Smooth, dented, ribbed Dented, ribbed Ribbed
Delivery form Rollers, bars, point welded reinforcement meshes, lattice Rollers, bars, welded
girders reinforcement meshes
Nominal diameter (mm) 4 – 16 6 – 50 6 – 50
Min. yield / yield strength Re 500 500 500
(Mpa) Re, act / Re, nom <1.25
Min. ratio Rm / Re 1.05a 1.05 1.15c; <1.35
Min. elongation at max. load 3.0a, b 5.0b 7.5b, c
Agt (%)
Min. fatigue strength 2σad 100 d ≤ 28 mm: 175 d ≤ 28 mm: 175
(MPa) d > 28 mm: 145 d > 28 mm: 145
Min. shear force
- gepuntl.wap. Fs 0.25 x An x Re 0.25 x An x Re 0.25 x An x Renvt
- lattice gripper Fw / d (kN) 0.25 x Ao / bx Re, o / b 0.25 x Ao / bx Re, o / b
or 0.6 x Ad x Re, d or 0.6 x Ad x Re, d
Tolerance nominal diameter ± 4.5 ± 4.5 ± 4.5
(%)
Chem. composition (mass%) C < 0.22, etc C < 0.22, etc C < 0.22, etc
Ceq < 0.50 Ceq < 0.50 Ceq < 0.50
Min. relative opp. cross-rib d = 4.0 – 6.0: 0.039 d = 9.0 – 10.5: 0.052
(dent), fr / pf d = 6.5 – 8.5: 0.045 d = 11.0 – 50: 0.056
a) Rm / Re1.03 and Agt 2.0 for diameters ≤ 5.5 mm
b) Agt for rolls + 0.5%
c) Rm / Re min. 1.13 and Agt 7.0% for diameters ≤ 12 mm
d) Maximum stress ripple 2σa at top tension 0.6Read (300 MPa) and 1 million voltage changes. For top welded reinforcement
meshes B500B and B500C, 2σa is at least 100 MPa. For roll-oriented products, 2σa minus 100 MPa, unless a higher value (≤
175 MPa) has been statistically demonstrated for the maximum diameter used and for the target machine (type).
e) In the case of lattice girders, the lower rods must comply with B500A and / or B500B with the fR / P requirement. The top bars
and diagonals may be reinforcing bars with only the requirements of Re, d and the chemical composition.
f) For rolls fR (ribbed) + 15%, fP (dented) + 5%. No requirement for weakly profiled / dented reinforcing steel (lattice girders).

Source: www.betonstaal.nl/en/blog/reinforcing-steel-b500a-b-c-what-is-the-differencer/

67
ANNEX 3
PREFERRED RANGE OF DESIGNATED FABRIC
TYPES GRADE B500A
Nominal Bar Size Nominal Pitch Steel Area Mass
Reference (mm) (mm) (mm2/m) (kg/m2)
Longitudinal Transverse Longitudinal Transverse Longitudinal Transverse

Square mesh

A63 4 4 200 200 63 63 0.99

A98 5 5 200 200 98 98 1.54
A142 6 6 200 200 142 142 2.22
A193 7 7 200 200 193 193 3.02
A252 8 8 200 200 252 252 3.95
A318 9 9 200 200 318 318 4.99
A393 10 10 200 200 393 393 6.16
A475 11 11 200 200 475 475 7.46
A565 12 12 200 200 565 565 8.88
A664 13 13 200 200 664 664 10.42

Structural mesh

B196 5 7 100 200 196 193 3.05

B283 6 7 100 200 283 193 3.73
B385 7 7 100 200 385 193 4.53
B503 8 8 100 200 503 252 5.93
B636 9 8 100 200 636 252 6.97
B785 10 8 100 200 785 252 8.14
B950 11 8 100 200 950 252 9.44
B1131 12 8 100 200 1131 252 10.86
B1328 13 8 100 200 1328 252 12.40

Long mesh

C5 5 5 100 400 196 49 1.93

C6 6 5 100 400 283 49 2.61
C7 7 5 100 400 385 49 3.41
C8 8 5 100 400 503 49 4.34
C9 9 6 100 400 636 71 5.55
C10 10 6 100 400 785 71 6.72
C11 11 8 100 400 950 126 8.44
C12 12 8 100 400 1131 126 9.87
C13 13 8 100 400 1328 126 11.41

Wrapping mesh

D126 4 4 100 100 126 126 1.97

D196 5 5 100 100 196 196 3.08
D283 6 6 100 100 283 283 4.44
D385 7 7 100 100 385 385 6.04
D503 8 8 100 100 503 503 7.90
D636 9 9 100 100 636 636 9.98
D785 10 10 100 100 785 785 12.32
D950 11 11 100 100 950 950 14.92
D1131 12 12 100 100 1131 1131 17.76
D1328 13 13 100 100 1328 1328 20.85

68
YUNG KONG METAL WORKS CO BHD (10181-U)
Lot 1144, Jalan Kemajuan, Pending Industrial Estate,
93450 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.
Tel : 082-484 327
Fax : 082-337 177
Email : ykmw@ykmw.com.my
Website : www.ykmw.yungkong.my

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Jalan Kwong Lee Bank, 93450 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
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