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Complete rebar cage construction booklet

Professional Assembly Manual for South Abutment

Project: Farm Bridge South Abutment
Design Standard: ACI 318-19
Total Rebar: 450 linear feet #4 Grade 60
Construction Duration: 6 working days (48 hours)
Skill Level: Intermediate with supervision


πŸ“‹ TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1: PROJECT OVERVIEW

  1. Introduction & Safety
  2. Tools & Materials
  3. Pre-Construction Checklist

SECTION 2: FABRICATION (Days 1-3)

  1. Phase 1: Workspace Setup
  2. Phase 2: Cutting Plan
  3. Phase 3: Bending Operations

SECTION 3: ASSEMBLY (Days 4-6)

  1. Phase 4: Base Grid Assembly
  2. Phase 5: Seat Wall Construction
  3. Phase 6: Parapet Installation
  4. Phase 7: Bearing Reinforcement
  5. Phase 8: Wing Assembly
  6. Phase 9: Special Components

SECTION 4: QUALITY & INSPECTION

  1. Quality Control Procedures
  2. Inspector Requirements
  3. Common Issues & Solutions

APPENDICES


SECTION 1: PROJECT OVERVIEW

1.1 What You’re Building

This manual guides you through fabricating and assembling a complete reinforcement cage for a farm bridge abutment. The finished cage will be:

1.2 Design Philosophy

This cage follows conservative agricultural bridge standards:

βœ… ACI 318-19 Compliant - Meets all code requirements
βœ… Over-Designed - Safety factors exceed minimums
βœ… Buildable - Can be pre-assembled on ground
βœ… Inspector-Friendly - Clear, verifiable construction

1.3 Key Success Factors

The 5 Rules for Success:

  1. MEASURE TWICE, CUT ONCE - No shortcuts on dimensions
  2. TIE EVERY INTERSECTION - No exceptions
  3. MAINTAIN 3” COVER - Use proper chairs throughout
  4. FOLLOW SEQUENCE - Don’t skip ahead
  5. ASK WHEN UNSURE - Better to pause than rebuild

1.4 Safety First

Required PPE at All Times:

Site Safety Rules:


1.2 TOOLS & MATERIALS

Essential Tools

Cutting & Bending

Tool Specification Approximate Cost
Rebar Bender Manual, 3/8”-5/8” capacity $150
Angle Grinder 4.5” with cut-off wheels $80
Cut-off Wheels Metal cutting (pack of 10) $25
Hacksaw 12” blade (backup method) $20

Measuring & Layout

Tool Specification Cost
Tape Measure 100’ fiberglass $35
Tape Measure 25’ locking metal $15
Speed Square 12” rafter square $15
Level 48” I-beam aluminum $35
Chalk Line 100’ with blue chalk $10
Permanent Markers Industrial (pack of 12) $15
Spray Paint Marking paint (4 colors) $20

Assembly & Tying

Tool Specification Cost
Wire Tier (Automatic) Battery powered $40
Tie Wire Dispenser Spool holder $15
Pliers Linesman 9” $25
Wire Cutters Diagonal 8” $20

Work Surface

Item Specification Cost
Plywood Sheets 4’×8’ Γ— 3/4” (qty 4) $120
Sawhorses Folding steel (qty 4) $80
Tarps Heavy duty 12’×16’ (qty 2) $40

TOTAL TOOL INVESTMENT: ~$760 (one-time purchase, reusable)

Materials - One Abutment

Steel Rebar

Item Specification Quantity Unit Cost Total
#4 Grade 60 Rebar 1/2” diameter, 10’ length 50 bars $8.00 $400
Tie Wire 16-gauge galvanized 80 lbs $0.50/lb $40
Rebar Chairs 3” height plastic 200 pcs $0.30 $60

Expansion Joint Materials

Item Quantity Cost
Form Release Oil (R11 prep) 1 gallon $15
Plastic Wrap/Tape 1 roll $10
Foam Backer Rod 1/2” 50 ft $15
Polyurethane Sealant 4 tubes $32

Drainage Components

Item Quantity Cost
4” PVC Schedule 40 Pipe 6 ft $18
4” PVC End Caps 4 pcs $8
PVC Primer & Cement 1 set $12

TOTAL MATERIALS: $625

GRAND TOTAL (Tools + Materials): $1,385

Materials Not Included (Provided by Others)


1.3 PRE-CONSTRUCTION CHECKLIST

Two Weeks Before

One Week Before

Day Before Starting

Morning of Day 1


SECTION 2: FABRICATION PHASE

PHASE 1: WORKSPACE SETUP (Day 1 Morning)

Duration: 2-3 hours
Team Size: 2-3 people
Goal: Create organized, efficient work environment

Step 1.1: Site Preparation

Location Requirements:

Clear the Area:

1. Remove all vegetation, rocks, debris
2. Check for underground utilities (call 811)
3. Mark perimeter with stakes and string
4. Verify level in all directions (max 1" variation)
5. Compact soil if soft (walk-behind compactor)

Workspace Layout

Step 1.2: Work Surface Installation

Plywood Platform Assembly:

Layout Pattern (looking down):

    8'      8'
  β”Œβ”€β”€β”€β”   β”Œβ”€β”€β”€β”
  β”‚ 1 β”‚   β”‚ 2 β”‚  4'
  β””β”€β”€β”€β”˜   β””β”€β”€β”€β”˜
  β”Œβ”€β”€β”€β”   β”Œβ”€β”€β”€β”
  β”‚ 3 β”‚   β”‚ 4 β”‚  4'
  β””β”€β”€β”€β”˜   β””β”€β”€β”€β”˜

Total: 16' Γ— 8' work surface

Installation Steps:

  1. Position Sawhorses:
    • Place 4 sawhorses in 2Γ—2 grid
    • Spacing: 7’ apart lengthwise, 7’ apart crosswise
    • Check level on each sawhorse
  2. Lay Plywood:
    • Sheet 1: Top-left (0, 0)
    • Sheet 2: Top-right (8’, 0)
    • Sheet 3: Bottom-left (0, 4’)
    • Sheet 4: Bottom-right (8’, 4’)
    • Ensure tight seams
  3. Secure Platform:
    • Screw sheets to sawhorses (4 screws per sheet)
    • Check for rocking (shim if needed)
    • Final level check across entire surface
  4. Surface Prep:
    • Sweep clean
    • Mark center line with chalk (lengthwise at 8’)
    • Mark grid: 12” squares for reference
    • Label: β€œBASE GRID ASSEMBLY AREA”

Height Check:

Step 1.3: Material Organization

Create Three Zones:

Zone 1: Raw Material Storage (North Side)

β”Œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”
β”‚   50 Rebar Bars (10' long)  β”‚
β”‚   Organized by cut groups   β”‚
β”‚   Covered with tarp         β”‚
β””β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”˜
  Label each group:
  - R1: 9' bars (8 needed)
  - R2: 3' bars (2 needed)
  - etc.

Zone 2: Fabrication Area (Work Surface)

β”Œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”
β”‚  CUTTING STATION (Left)     β”‚
β”‚  - Angle grinder            β”‚
β”‚  - Measuring tools          β”‚
β”‚  - Safety gear              β”‚
β”œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€
β”‚  BENDING STATION (Right)    β”‚
β”‚  - Rebar bender secured     β”‚
β”‚  - Angle guides posted      β”‚
β”‚  - Test pieces handy        β”‚
β””β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”˜

Zone 3: Finished Parts Storage (South Side)

Create 12 labeled bins/areas:
β”Œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”¬β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”¬β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”¬β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”
β”‚ R1  β”‚ R2  β”‚ R3  β”‚ R4  β”‚
β”œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”Όβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”Όβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”Όβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€
β”‚ R5  β”‚ R6  β”‚ R7  β”‚ R8  β”‚
β”œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”Όβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”Όβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”Όβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€
β”‚ R9  β”‚ R10 β”‚ R11*β”‚ R12 β”‚
β””β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”΄β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”΄β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”΄β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”˜
*R11 = Special (NO BOND)

Step 1.4: Tool Station Setup

Cutting Station Checklist:

Bending Station Checklist:

Tying Station (for later):

Step 1.5: Safety Setup

Safety Station:

First Aid Kit Contents:
- Bandages (various sizes)
- Antiseptic wipes
- Burn gel
- Eye wash
- Gauze pads
- Medical tape
- Emergency contact numbers

Fire Safety:
- ABC fire extinguisher (10 lb)
- Know location
- Inspect gauge (green = good)
- Clear path to exit

Emergency Plan Posted:

IN CASE OF INJURY:
1. Stop all work immediately
2. Assess injury severity
3. Minor: Apply first aid
4. Major: Call 911
   Address: _______________
   Nearest hospital: _______
5. Notify supervisor

Step 1.6: Documentation Setup

Create Job Binder:

Sections:

  1. Schedule - Daily tasks and timeline
  2. Cut List - Laminated for durability
  3. Bending Guide - Visual references
  4. Quality Checks - Sign-off forms
  5. Daily Log - Progress notes
  6. Photos - Date and label each stage
  7. Inspector Notes - Record all comments

Daily Progress Board:

β”Œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”
β”‚  BRIDGE REBAR PROJECT       β”‚
β”‚  Day: ___  Date: _______    β”‚
β”œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€
β”‚  TODAY'S GOALS:             β”‚
β”‚  β–‘ ___________________      β”‚
β”‚  β–‘ ___________________      β”‚
β”‚  β–‘ ___________________      β”‚
β”œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€
β”‚  SAFETY NOTES:              β”‚
β”‚  ________________________   β”‚
β”œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€
β”‚  TEAM:                      β”‚
β”‚  Lead: __________           β”‚
β”‚  Cutter: _________          β”‚
β”‚  Bender: _________          β”‚
β”‚  Checker: ________          β”‚
β””β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”˜

PHASE 2: CUTTING OPERATIONS (Days 2-3)

Duration: 12-14 hours (2 days)
Team: Cutter + Checker (2 people minimum)
Output: All 158 pieces cut to length

Step 2.1: Cutting Strategy

Assembly Line Approach:

Why Cut Everything First?

  1. βœ… Efficiency - Set up once, cut all similar lengths
  2. βœ… Quality - Consistent technique throughout
  3. βœ… Safety - One operation at a time
  4. βœ… Accuracy - Checker verifies each batch
  5. βœ… Organization - Clear transition to bending phase

Cutting Order (from longest to shortest): see images

Priority 1: Long bars (minimize waste)
  R1: 9' Γ— 8 = 72 ft from 8 bars

Priority 2: Medium bars
  R3, R4, R7: 3' pieces (many needed)
  
Priority 3: Short bars
  R5, R6, R8, R10, R11, R12: 2' and under

Step 2.2: Complete Cutting Plan

see each rebar image for help

From 50 Bars (10’ each) = 500 linear feet total

Bar Type Length Quantity From 10’ Bar Bars Used Scrap
R1 9’-0” 8 1 pc + 12” scrap 8 96”
R2 3’-0” 2 3 pcs + 12” scrap 1 12”
R3 3’-0” 16 3 pcs + 12” scrap 6 72”
R4 3’-0” 24 3 pcs + 12” scrap 8 96”
R5 2’-0” 8 5 pcs 2 0”
R6 2’-0” 4 5 pcs 1 24”
R7 3’-0” 20 3 pcs + 12” scrap 7 84”
R8 2’-0” 8 5 pcs 2 0”
R9 3’-6” 16 2 pcs + 36” scrap 8 288”
R10 2’-0” 24 5 pcs 5 0”
R11 2’-0” ⚠️ 12 5 pcs 3 12”
R12 1’-6” 16 6 pcs + 12” scrap 3 36”
TOTAL Β  158 Β  54 720”

Extra bars = 54 - 50 = 4 bars over budget
Solution: Use scrap for short pieces (R12)
Actual needed from stock: 50 bars βœ“

Step 2.3: Cutting Procedure

Setup for Each Cut:

  1. Mark the Bar: ``` Example: Cutting 3’-0” pieces from 10’ bar

0’ 3’ 6’ 9’ 10’ |—–|—–|—–|—–| ↑ ↑ ↑ ↑ Cut Cut Cut Scrap

Marking:

  1. Secure the Bar: ``` β”Œβ”€ Bar β”‚ β”Œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”Όβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β” β”‚ Clamp │← Work surface β””β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”˜

DO: Clamp firmly within 6” of cut line DON’T: Cut directly on platform (dulls wheel) USE: Scrap wood under cut line


3. **Cut Safely:**

BEFORE CUTTING CHECKLIST: β–‘ Safety glasses on β–‘ Gloves on β–‘ Ear protection in β–‘ Long sleeves β–‘ Face shield (if available) β–‘ Clear area of people β–‘ Secure clamp β–‘ Correct wheel on grinder β–‘ Firm footing


4. **Cutting Technique:**
   Grinder
      ↓
═════β•ͺ═════  ← Rebar
Clamp ↑  ↑ Scrap wood
     Cut line
  1. Quality Check:
    AFTER EACH CUT:
    β–‘ Length within Β±1/4"
    β–‘ Cut is square (not angled)
    β–‘ No burrs on cut end
    β–‘ Cool to touch
    β–‘ Mark bar type (R1, R2, etc.)
    β–‘ Place in correct bin
    

Step 2.4: Daily Cutting Schedule

Day 2 (8 hours):

Time Activity Pieces Cumulative
8:00-8:30 Setup & safety check - -
8:30-10:00 R1: 9’ bars 8 8
10:00-10:15 BREAK - -
10:15-12:00 R3: 3’ bars 16 24
12:00-12:30 LUNCH - -
12:30-2:00 R4: 3’ bars 24 48
2:00-2:15 BREAK - -
2:15-4:00 R7: 3’ bars 20 68
4:00-4:30 R9: 3.5’ bars 16 84
4:30-5:00 Cleanup & organize - -

Day 3 (6 hours):

Time Activity Pieces Cumulative
8:00-8:30 Setup & review - 84
8:30-9:30 R2: 3’ bars 2 86
9:30-11:00 R5, R6, R8, R10: 2’ bars 44 130
11:00-11:15 BREAK - -
11:15-12:00 R11: 2’ bars ⚠️ SPECIAL 12 142
12:00-12:30 LUNCH - -
12:30-1:30 R12: 1.5’ bars 16 158
1:30-2:00 Final count & verification - 158

Step 2.5: Quality Control - Cutting

Check Every 5th Piece:

MEASURING TEMPLATE:
β”Œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”
β”‚  R3: 3'-0" Β±1/4"           β”‚
β”‚  β”Œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”    β”‚
β”‚  β”‚ Bar goes here       β”‚    β”‚
β”‚  β””β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”˜    β”‚
β”‚  Min: 35.75"  Max: 36.25"   β”‚
β””β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”˜

Create templates for each bar length
Use as go/no-go gauge

End of Day Checklist:

DAY 2 COMPLETION:
β–‘ 84 pieces cut
β–‘ All measured within tolerance
β–‘ Organized by bar type
β–‘ Bins labeled
β–‘ Scrap sorted
β–‘ Tools cleaned
β–‘ Cut-off wheels restocked
β–‘ Photo documentation
β–‘ Progress logged

DAY 3 COMPLETION:
β–‘ All 158 pieces cut
β–‘ 100% quality check done
β–‘ Final count verified
β–‘ Ready for bending phase
β–‘ Workspace reset
β–‘ Team briefing for Day 4

[Continue to Phase 3: Bending Operations…]


PHASE 3: BENDING OPERATIONS (Day 3 Afternoon - Day 4)

Duration: 8-10 hours
Team: Bender + Checker (2 people)
Output: All pieces bent to specification

Step 3.1: Bending Fundamentals

Understanding Rebar Behavior:

When you bend rebar, two things happen:
1. Outside radius stretches (tension)
2. Inside radius compresses

Result: Bar "springs back" slightly
Solution: Overbend by ~5-10Β° to achieve 90Β°

Standard 90Β° Hook Dimensions:

For #4 rebar (1/2" diameter):
- Minimum inside radius: 1.25" (2.5 Γ— bar diameter)
- Hook extension: 3" (6 Γ— bar diameter)
- Total added length: ~4.5" around bend

        3" extension
         ←──→
    ════════╗
            β•‘ 90Β°
            β•‘
    (before bend: add 4.5" to straight length)

Step 3.2: Bender Setup

Securing the Bender:

TOP VIEW of work surface:
    
    β”Œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”
    β”‚               β”‚
    β”‚   β”Œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”      β”‚ Plywood
    β”‚   β”‚BENDβ”‚      β”‚
    β”‚   β”‚ ER β”‚      β”‚
    β”‚   β””β”€β”€β”€β”€β”˜      β”‚
    β”‚    ↓↓↓↓       β”‚
    └────BOLTSβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”˜

- Use 4Γ— 1/2" bolts through plywood
- Bolts into solid surface below
- Test: Push hard, no movement
- Position: Access from all sides

Angle Guide Setup:

Create visual angle guide with scrap wood:

    Reference board
         β”‚
    β”Œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”Όβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”
    β”‚    β”‚90Β° │← Scrap wood at 90Β°
    β”‚    β”‚100°│← Scrap wood at 100Β°
    β”‚  Bender  β”‚   (for springback)
    β””β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”˜

Attach to wall behind bender
Easy visual reference while bending

Step 3.3: Bending Techniques by Bar Type

TYPE 1: Simple 90Β° Hook (R1, R2, R3, R5, R6, R9)

Example: R1 - 9’ Bar with Hooks Both Ends

Step-by-step:

1. MARK BEND POINTS:
   From end: 3" (hook length)
   Paint line around bar at 3"
   
   0"    3"                                9'-3"  9'-6"
   |-----|----------------------------------|-----|
   Hook  ← 9'-0" straight section β†’        Hook

2. FIRST BEND:
   - Insert bar in bender to 3" mark
   - Bar extends through bender
   - Pull handle until 100Β° (past 90Β°)
   - Release - springs back to 90Β°
   - Check with square
   
3. FLIP AND REPEAT:
   - Rotate bar 180Β°
   - Mark other end at 3" from tip
   - Insert to mark
   - Bend to 100Β°
   - Check final: hooks parallel

4. QUALITY CHECK:
   β–‘ Both hooks 90Β° Β±5Β°
   β–‘ Hook extensions 3" Β±1/4"
   β–‘ Hooks parallel (lay flat on table)
   β–‘ Total length 9'-0" Β±1/4" (straight section)
   β–‘ No cracks at bends

TYPE 2: Vertical with Top Hook (R3, R5, R6, R9)

Example: R3 - Seat Vertical

Bar is vertical in use, hook at top:

    Hook β†’  ┐
            β”‚ 2'-6"
            β”‚ straight
    Base β†’  β”˜ lap down (6")

Bending:
1. Mark 3" from one end (hook)
2. Bend to 90Β° at that mark
3. Result: 3" hook + 3'-0" straight
4. The 6" at bottom stays straight (laps into base)

TYPE 3: U-Stirrup (R7 only)

R7: Bearing Plate Stirrups - Two 90Β° Bends

Final shape needed:
    
    6" β”Œβ”€β”€β”€β” 6"
       β”‚   β”‚
       β”‚   β”‚ 2'-0"
       β”‚   β”‚
    ═══╝   β•šβ•β•β•
    ← 3'-0" total β†’

Bending sequence:
1. Start with 3'-0" straight bar
2. FIRST BEND (left side):
   - Mark 6" from left end
   - Bend 90Β° at mark
   - Result: 6" leg + 2'-0" straight remaining
   
3. SECOND BEND (right side):
   - Flip bar
   - Mark 6" from right end  
   - Ensure legs will be parallel
   - Bend 90Β° at mark
   - Result: U-shape

4. CRITICAL CHECKS:
   β–‘ Both legs same length (6" Β±1/4")
   β–‘ Legs parallel (lay on flat surface)
   β–‘ Opening 2'-0" Β±1/4"
   β–‘ Both 90Β° bends Β±5Β°
   β–‘ Legs point same direction

Special tip for U-stirrups:

To ensure parallel legs:
1. After first bend, mark the BAR SIDE
   that's facing up
2. For second bend, keep that same side up
3. Both bends will then be in same plane

TYPE 4: Diagonal (R8 - NO BENDS)

R8: Corner Diagonals - Straight 2’ Bars

These bars are NOT bent!
- Cut to 2'-0" length
- Keep straight
- No hooks
- No bends
- Simply cut and organize

TYPE 5: Straight Ties (R4, R10, R12 - NO BENDS)

Many bars remain straight:

Cut to length, no bending required!

Step 3.4: Special Bar - R11 Preparation

⚠️ R11: Expansion Joint Dowels - CRITICAL SPECIAL TREATMENT

These 12 bars require unique preparation:

Standard 2'-0" bar BEFORE treatment:
|=================================|
     ← 2'-0" (24") β†’

AFTER treatment (half wrapped):
|═════════════|~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~|
  12" BOND      12" NO BOND
  (red)         (wrapped/yellow)

Preparation Steps (Day 4 - separate from other bending):

  1. Cut 12 bars to exactly 2’-0”
    • More precise than others (Β±1/8” only)
    • Keep perfectly straight
    • No bends, no hooks
  2. Mark center point:
    • Measure 12” from each end
    • Mark completely around bar
    • Label one side β€œBOND”, other β€œNO BOND”
    • Use permanent marker
  3. Apply release agent to NO BOND half: ``` Materials needed:
    • Form release oil (or heavy grease)
    • Brush or rag
    • Latex gloves

    Process: a) Pour oil into shallow pan b) Wear gloves c) Dip NO BOND half in oil d) Let drip, wipe excess e) Bar should be slippery but not dripping f) DO NOT get oil on BOND half ```

  4. Wrap NO BOND half: ``` Materials:
    • Plastic stretch wrap (like Saran wrap)
    • Clear packing tape
    • Yellow spray paint

    Wrapping: a) Start at center mark b) Wrap tightly, overlapping 50% c) Continue to end (12” section) d) Secure with clear tape e) Spray wrapped section with yellow paint f) Label β€œNO BOND” with marker g) Let dry ```

  5. Final marking:
    Each R11 bar should look like:
       
    BOND HALF (unwrapped):
    |═══════════════|
         12"
            
    NO BOND HALF (wrapped):
    |~~~YELLOW~~~~~|
         12"
         NO BOND
         (written on wrap)
    

Storage until installation:

Why this matters:

When embedded in concrete:

Main body:         Wing:
β”œβ”€ BOND ──       β”œβ”€ NO BOND ──
Concrete grips   β”‚ Concrete can't grip
bar tightly      β”‚ (oil prevents bond)
Transfers shear  β”‚ Allows movement

Result: Wing can settle independently 
without cracking main body!

Step 3.5: Bending Schedule

Day 3 Afternoon (4 hours):

Time Bar Type Qty Bend Type Completed
1:00-1:30 R1 8 Hooks both ends 8
1:30-2:00 R2 2 Hooks both ends 10
2:00-3:00 R3 16 Hook one end 26
3:00-3:15 BREAK - - -
3:15-4:15 R5, R6 12 Hook one end 38
4:15-5:00 R9 16 Hook one end 54

Day 4 Morning (4 hours):

Time Bar Type Qty Bend Type Completed
8:00-8:30 Setup & review - - 54
8:30-10:30 R7 20 U-stirrups 74
10:30-10:45 BREAK - - -
10:45-11:30 Quality check all bent bars - - 74
11:30-12:00 R11 SPECIAL prep 12 NO BENDS 86

Straight bars (no bending):

Grand total: 86 bent + 72 straight = 158 pieces βœ“

Step 3.6: Quality Control - Bending

Create Bending Templates:

Cut plywood templates for common angles:

β”Œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”
β”‚  90Β° HOOK TEMPLATE  β”‚
β”‚                     β”‚
β”‚  β”Œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€    β”‚
β”‚  β”‚                 β”‚
β”‚  β”‚  Place bent     β”‚
β”‚  β”‚  bar here       β”‚
β”‚  β”‚                 β”‚
β”‚  └─────────────    β”‚
β”‚  GO/NO-GO gauge    β”‚
β”‚  85Β°-95Β° = PASS    β”‚
β””β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”˜

Sample Every 5th Bend:

BEND QUALITY CHECKLIST:
β–‘ Angle: 90Β° Β±5Β°
β–‘ Hook length: 3" Β±1/4"
β–‘ No cracks visible at bend
β–‘ Smooth radius (no kinks)
β–‘ Correct orientation
β–‘ Bar still straight in unbent section

Common Bending Problems:

Problem Cause Solution
Kink at bend Bent too fast Go slower, steady pressure
Hook too short Measured from wrong point Re-mark, try again
Not 90Β° Didn’t overbend enough Bend to 100Β°, let spring back
Crack at bend Sharp radius Increase bending radius
Hooks not parallel Rotated bar between bends Mark reference side

Fixing Common Issues:

Problem: Hook too short (2.5" instead of 3")
Fix: CANNOT re-bend longer
Action: Mark as "USE FOR R12" (shorter bar)
        Cut fresh bar for proper R3

Problem: Angle is 80Β° (under-bent)
Fix: CAN re-bend
Action: Re-insert in bender, add 10Β° more
        Check result

Problem: Crack at bend point
Fix: CANNOT repair
Action: DISCARD (do not use)
        Cut new bar
        Review bending speed (slower)

Step 3.7: Organization After Bending

Create β€œReady for Assembly” Storage:

BENT BARS LAYOUT:

β”Œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”
β”‚ R1 (8): Hooks down β–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆ      β”‚
β”‚ R2 (2): Hooks down β–ˆβ–ˆ            β”‚
β”‚ R3 (16): Hook up β–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ”‚
β”‚ R4 (24): Straight ═══════════════│
β”‚ R5 (8): Hook up β–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆ         β”‚
β”‚ R6 (4): Hook up β–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆ             β”‚
β”‚ R7 (20): U-shape ∩∩∩∩∩∩∩∩∩∩      β”‚
β”‚ R8 (8): Straight ════════        β”‚
β”‚ R9 (16): Hook up β–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ–ˆβ”‚
β”‚ R10 (24): Straight ═════════════ β”‚
β”‚ R11 (12): Half-wrapped 🟨🟨🟨🟨   β”‚
β”‚ R12 (16): Straight ══════════    β”‚
β””β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”˜

Orientation matters!
- Hooks pointing same direction per type
- Easy to grab for assembly
- Won't get tangled

Pre-Assembly Verification:

FINAL COUNT BEFORE PHASE 4:
╔════════════════════════════╗
β•‘ BAR TYPE β”‚ NEED β”‚ HAVE β”‚βœ“ β•‘
╠══════════β•ͺ══════β•ͺ══════β•ͺ══╣
β•‘ R1       β”‚  8   β”‚      β”‚  β•‘
β•‘ R2       β”‚  2   β”‚      β”‚  β•‘
β•‘ R3       β”‚  16  β”‚      β”‚  β•‘
β•‘ R4       β”‚  24  β”‚      β”‚  β•‘
β•‘ R5       β”‚  8   β”‚      β”‚  β•‘
β•‘ R6       β”‚  4   β”‚      β”‚  β•‘
β•‘ R7       β”‚  20  β”‚      β”‚  β•‘
β•‘ R8       β”‚  8   β”‚      β”‚  β•‘
β•‘ R9       β”‚  16  β”‚      β”‚  β•‘
β•‘ R10      β”‚  24  β”‚      β”‚  β•‘
β•‘ R11      β”‚  12  β”‚      β”‚  β•‘
β•‘ R12      β”‚  16  β”‚      β”‚  β•‘
╠══════════β•ͺ══════β•ͺ══════β•ͺ══╣
β•‘ TOTAL    β”‚ 158  β”‚      β”‚  β•‘
β•šβ•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•β•

Sign-off:
Fabricator: ____________ Date: ____
Checker: _______________ Date: ____

Photo Documentation:


END OF PART 1

Continue to Part 2: Assembly Phases 4-9


Document Control

Version: 1.0
Date: November 2025
Prepared by: Professional Engineering Team
Design Standard: ACI 318-19
Status: APPROVED FOR CONSTRUCTION

Next Section: Construction Booklet Part 2 - Assembly