Welding Reinforcement

Welding of reinforcement must comply with AS1554.3, Structural Steel
Welding, Part 3: Welding of Reinforcing Steel.

In general, preheat is not required for welding reinforcing steel. The heat input
should be controlled to avoid changing the metallurgical properties of the steel
and hydrogen controlled electrodes should be used.

Tack welds require a minimum 4mm throat and a minimum length equal to the
diameter of the smaller bar being welded. AS3600-2009 Clause 13.2.1 (f)
prohibits welds within 3d_b from any part of the reinforcement that has been
bent and re-straightened. AS1554.3 Clause 1.7.3 (b) restricts straightening or
bending of a bar within 75mm of a weld location.

Special care is required when welding galvanised reinforcement. Welding
galvanised reinforcement should be avoided.