Types of Concrete Wire and How to Determine Their Size for a Project

Reinforced concrete wire is an essential material in construction, especially for tying reinforcing steel to columns, beams, foundations, and various other structural elements. Selecting the correct type and size of reinforcing steel ensures stronger, neater, and safer reinforcement bonds during the casting process.

This article discusses the types of reinforcing steel commonly used and how to determine the appropriate size for your project.

What is Reinforced Concrete Wire?
Reinforced concrete wire is a low-carbon steel wire that is flexible yet strong. Its function is to tie reinforcing steel to prevent shifting during construction.

Reinforced concrete wire is available in various standard sizes:

• BWG (Birmingham Wire Gauge)
• Diameter in millimeters (mm)

Types of Reinforced Concrete Wire Based on Size
1. BWG 16 Reinforced Concrete Wire (± 1.6 mm)

• The thinnest and very easy to bend.
• Suitable for non-structural ties and light work.

2. BWG 14 Reinforced Concrete Wire (± 2.1 mm)

• Flexible yet strong.
• Widely used for 1-2 story houses.

3. BWG 12 Reinforcement Wire (± 2.7 mm)

• Balance between strength and flexibility.
• Suitable for tying medium-sized reinforcing bars.

4. BWG 10 Reinforcement Wire (± 3.4 mm)

• Thicker and stronger.
• Used in structures with large reinforcement diameters.

5. BWG 8 Reinforcement Wire (± 4.2 mm)

• The thickest and strongest.
• Ideal for heavy structural work such as bridges or multi-story buildings.

Types of Reinforcement Wire Based on Material Type
1. Black Annealed Wire

• Most commonly used.
• More flexible, easy to tie, and economical.
• Suitable for everyday tying in construction projects.

2. Galvanized Reinforcement Wire

• Zinc-coated surface for greater rust resistance.
• Suitable for outdoor projects or damp areas.

3. High Tensile Wire

• Higher tensile strength than regular wire.
• Used for projects requiring extra strong ties.

How to Determine the Size of Reinforcing Wire for Your Project
1. Adjust to the Diameter of the Reinforcing Steel

• Large steel (D16, D19, D22) → use BWG 10–12.
• Small steel (D8, D10) → use BWG 14.

2. Consider the Bonding Strength Requirements

• For heavy structures such as beams and columns, use thicker wire.
• For residential buildings, BWG 14 wire is generally sufficient.

3. Consider Ease of Work

• Thinner wire is easier to use, but don't use too thin wire for structural ties.

4. Adapt to Environmental Conditions

• If the project is in a humid area or near the coast, use galvanized wire to prevent rust.

5. Follow Project Specifications

• Some large projects have standard sizes of reinforced concrete wire that must be followed.

Conclusion
The selection of the type and size of rebar wire significantly affects the strength of the reinforcing steel bond. For light work, BWG 14–16 wire is sufficient, while for heavy structures, BWG 8–12 is required. Selecting the correct size helps maintain construction safety, strength, and efficiency.

Need Quality Rebar Wire for Your Project?
ISBS provides various sizes of rebar wire with the highest quality for your construction project needs.

📞 Phone: 021-66675999
🌐 Website: intisumberbajasakti.com
✉️ Email: info@intisumberbajasakti.com

Back to List