SikaFiber®-1050 B&BA HF is a new steel fibre solution launched by Sika in order to provide a cost-effective, ‘no fuss’ alternative to steel mesh-reinforced structural topping installations.
Recipient of BBA Certification (No. 21/5872) together with NHBC Acceptance for a dosage of 11.5kg/m3, SikaFiber®-1050 B&BA HF enhances concrete topping durability, reduces shrinkage cracking and is ideal for block and beam floors. It is also compliant with EN 14889-1:2006.
Why use SikaFiber®-1050 B&BA HF?
Put simply, SikaFiber®-1050 B&BA HF is safer and easier to use than traditional reinforcement. The product reduces construction time because it can be pumped into place with concrete; completely removing the need for costly and laborious mesh installation.
SikaFiber®-1050 B&BA HF is capable of increasing concrete durability and also improves impact, abrasion and shatter resistance.
The product’s steel fibres work in low doses to enhance concrete topping durability and reduce shrinkage cracking – meaning a lower-cost mix that’s easier to install. In addition, it requires no minimum amount of concrete cover, potentially reducing the volume of concrete versus traditional mesh reinforcement.
An alternative, cost-saving solution
Andy Taurah, national fibre manager at Sika, comments: “With the price of steel rebar more than 30 per cent higher than it was in July 2020*, contractors and developers are looking for alternative solutions to keep projects within budget and timescale restrictions.
“Generally speaking, whilst steel mesh is a trusted, traditional way of reinforcing concrete slabs, it has costly purchase, logistic and installation implications. SikaFiber®-1050 B&BA HF is an alternative to rather than a replacement for steel mesh-reinforcement and works in low doses.
“Cold drawn segment wire fibres are continuously deformed to provide optimum performance and are evenly distributed throughout the mix in order to provide consistent strength and durability.”
Characteristics/advantages of SikaFiber®-1050 B&BA HF
- Controls drying shrinkage cracking
- Increases impact, abrasion and shatter resistance
- Increases concrete durability
- Reinforcement can pumped into place with concrete
- Alternative system to traditional mesh reinforcement
- Requires no minimum amount of concrete cover
- Always positioned in compliance with codes
- Safe and easier to use than traditional reinforcement
- Reduces construction time
To find out more about SikaFiber®-1050 B&BA HF or any of Sika’s FRC (Fibre-Reinforced Concrete) solutions, email concrete@uk.sika.com or call 0800 292 2572.
*Source: Sika pricing manager – correct at time of publishing.
