Wire rod and rebar (reinforcing bar) are both long steel products used extensively in construction and manufacturing, but they have distinct characteristics and primary functions. Confusing them can lead to incorrect material selection.
Here's a breakdown of the key differences:
- Primary Function: Wire rod is primarily a semi-finished product used as feedstock for drawing into wire, which then goes into various applications (nails, mesh, springs, etc.). Rebar is a finished product designed specifically for reinforcing concrete structures, providing tensile strength to compensate for concrete's weakness in tension.
- Surface Profile: Wire rod typically has a smooth surface (though sometimes ribbed versions exist for specific uses like drawing into PC strand). Rebar almost always features surface deformations (ribs or lugs) designed to create a strong mechanical bond with concrete, preventing slippage.
- Size Range: Wire rod generally comes in smaller diameters, commonly 5.5 mm to 19 mm. Rebar typically starts at larger diameters, commonly from 6 mm or 8 mm up to 40 mm or even 50 mm for heavy construction.
- Form of Supply: Wire rod is almost always supplied in large, tightly wound coils. Rebar is supplied in straight lengths (e.g., 6, 12, or 18 meters) or, for smaller diameters (typically up to 12mm or 16mm), sometimes in coils.
- Manufacturing Process: Both are hot-rolled, but the rolling process and subsequent cooling can be different to achieve the desired properties. Rebar often undergoes specific heat treatments (like TMT - Thermo-Mechanically Treated) to enhance its strength and ductility for concrete reinforcement.
In summary, while both are steel long products, wire rod is the precursor to wire, usually smaller, smooth, and coiled, while rebar is a ready-to-use concrete reinforcement material, typically larger, deformed, and often supplied in straight lengths.