Standards Development

Scope

This British Standard specifies requirements and test methods for reinforcement couplers (hereafter called couplers) to be used for the mechanical splicing of steel reinforcing bars. It specifies requirements for couplers to be used for mechanical splices in reinforced concrete structures under predominantly static loads and additional requirements for couplers to be used in elements of structures subject to high cycle elastic fatigue loading. It also specifies requirements for the evaluation of conformity of couplers.

This British Standard does not cover couplers which are to be used for mechanical splices in reinforced concrete structures subject to low cycle loading in the elastic‑plastic range, or in nuclear safety-related or seismic structures.

This British Standard specifies performance requirements for couplers. The couplers are tested as part of a mechanical splice between two lengths of reinforcing steel, manufactured in accordance with BS 4449 or BS 6744. The performance tests specified are therefore for mechanical splices incorporating the coupler being assessed. This British Standard applies to the mechanical splice as supplied by the manufacturer, as well as the mechanical splice, as supplied by the fabricator.

NOTE Instructions for assembly or installation of couplers can be obtained from the manufacturer.