Unlike Nital testing, the chemical testing of TMT bars is used to test various elements or compositions of TMT bars using Spectrometer
In Chemical Analysis, the TMT reinforced bar is tested for various elements or compositions using Spectrometer. Spectromax using arc and spark excitation is the preferred method to determine the chemical composition of the samples.
Chemical analysis results in the percentages of carbon, sulphur, and phosphorus which are important as per BIS. As per IS:1786, the maximum allowed percentages of elements are:
Elements
Maximum value
Fe 415
Fe 500
Fe 550
Fe 600
Carbon
0.30
0.30
0.300
0.30
Sulphur
0.060
0.055
0.055
0.040
Phosphorus
0.060
0.055
0.055
0.040
Sulphur & Phosphorus
0.110
0.105
0.100
0.075
These are the tests used for evaluating the accurate strength of the reinforced TMT steel bar. Most of the tests can only be done in laboratories. So the point is do not fall for false marketing by spurious sellers. Always buy the right TMT reinforced steel bar for construction and never hesitate to do the tests if needed.