Fibermesh steel fibers are referred to as structural fibers and are intended to carry load and therefore, used to replace traditional reinforcement in certain structural applications.
Batching Tips – Blended Fibers
Fibermesh Steel fibers should never be the first item in the concrete mix. Fibermesh steel fibers may be added to the concrete mix:
Aggregate during weighing
Aggregate during charging
Central mixer
Ready mix truck after charging
Introduce steel fibers into the concrete mix either manually or with a conveyor at an even and continuous flow (ribbon feed) to avoid the fibers piling up on the concrete mix or on the mixer blades since this can lead to fiber balling.
Some steel fibers, with higher aspect ratios (length/diameter), are collated or glued together in clips to aid the batching process. The clips are added to the concrete, which are dispersed during mixing. The mixing action of the concrete breaks up the collated clips into individual fibers.
The concrete must be mixed at high speed for 5 minutes, or 70 revolutions, after the addition of Fibermesh steel fibers to ensure uniform distribution. Mixing time may vary due to wear on blades, blade arrangement and cleanliness of mixer.
Fibermesh steel fibers are compatible with admixtures.
The concrete must be mixed at high speed for 5 minutes, or 70 revolutions, after the addition of Fibermesh steel fibers to ensure uniform distribution. Mixing time may vary due to wear on blades, blade arrangement and cleanliness of mixer.
The use of super-plasticizers or mid-range water reducers will assist in increasing the workability without altering the water cement ratio.
It is recommended that a trial batch is performed, to ensure that any adjustments necessary are made.