Ugitech, a company of the Swiss Steel Group, has developed a duplex stainless steel rebar with exceptionally high corrosion resistance. This special steel also has special mechanical properties that protect building structures such as multi-storey car parks, prefabricated concrete structures or maritime constructions.
Bars and wire rods made of Ugitech stainless steel have a high yield strength of over 500 N/mm² and meet the requirements of Eurocode 8, Class M for earthquake-resistant constructions. It offers improved fire resistance compared to conventional steel rebar and is therefore creep and stretch resistant – even at high temperatures. A low thermal conductivity of 15 W/(mK) prevents thermal bridging and minimises heat loss. The homogeneous steel surface and formation of the passive layer between the metal and the surrounding medium results in the maximum corrosion resistance. Extreme chloride loads, for example from de-icing salts or contact with seawater, cannot therefore harm these stainless reinforcing steels.
Customers benefit from these new steel grades, 1.4062, 1.4362 and 1.4462, in several ways: they can dispense with corrosion protection measures, minimise maintenance costs and considerably extend the service life of these structures. Furthermore, it is also possible to build lighter constructions by reducing the concrete cover.
These stainless reinforcing steels are also available as a non-magnetic variant for buildings with special requirements, such as airports or hospitals.