ASTM A1034/A1034M-24

Standard Specification for Mechanical Splices for Steel Reinforcing Bars

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Significance:  
5.1.1 The bar-splice assembly test specimen shall closely represent the mechanical splice used in practice. The behavior of the bar-splice assembly embedded in concrete, however, may differ from its behavior during testing where it is not embedded in concrete.  
5.2 Usefulness:  
5.2.1 Testing of mechanical splices for reinforcing bars shall establish the behavior of the bar-splice assembly under the loading conditions described herein for the various test methods to determine the acceptability of the mechanical splice for use in reinforced concrete structural members under specific design criteria.  
5.3 Interpretation of Test Results:  
5.3.1 Similar or better performance of mechanical splices installed in structural members shall be expected only if materials and methods of assembly are similar to the materials and methods used in the tests.
SCOPE
1.1 General—This specification covers the qualification requirements and test methods of mechanical splices for reinforcing bars. Qualification requirements are located in Annex A1. The various tests herein described can be specified in total or individually.  
1.2 The test methods herein described are applicable to any type of mechanical splice manufactured to join steel reinforcing bars of any grade (specified minimum yield strength), uncoated or coated.
Note 1: Various code-writing bodies specify various parameters, such as test loads, number of cycles and test temperature, for testing.  
1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Dec-2023
• ICS: 77.140.50 - Flat steel products and semi-products
• Technical Committee: A01 - Steel, Stainless Steel and Related Alloys
• Drafting Committee: A01.05 - Steel Reinforcement

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM A1034/A1034M-23 - Standard Test Methods for Testing Mechanical Splices for Steel Reinforcing Bars
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2024
• Refers: ASTM A370-24 - Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM E8/E8M-24 - Standard Test Methods for Tension Testing of Metallic Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2024
• Refers: ASTM A370-23 - Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
• Effective Date: 15-Sep-2023
• Refers: ASTM E8/E8M-22 - Standard Test Methods for Tension Testing of Metallic Materials
• Effective Date: 01-May-2022

Overview

ASTM A1034/A1034M-24: Standard Specification for Mechanical Splices for Steel Reinforcing Bars is a globally recognized ASTM standard providing comprehensive qualification requirements and test methods for evaluating mechanical splices used with steel reinforcing bars. These splices are critical for achieving structural integrity in reinforced concrete construction by joining reinforcing bar segments, ensuring the transfer of tension and compression loads, and enabling continuity and strength in structural elements. The standard applies to mechanical splices of any grade and type, whether the bars are uncoated or coated.

This specification is vital for material suppliers, testing laboratories, contractors, and designers to ensure mechanical splicing systems meet the necessary performance criteria under realistic loading scenarios.

Key Topics

ASTM A1034/A1034M-24 addresses several essential aspects of mechanical splices for steel reinforcing bars:

• Qualification and Test Methods: Defines procedures for qualifying mechanical splices using test methods under tension, compression, cyclic loading, fatigue, slip, and low-temperature conditions.
• Test Apparatus and Measurements: Specifies requirements for testing equipment, load measurement devices, elongation measurement tools, and data acquisition systems to ensure accurate and repeatable results.
• Materials and Test Specimens:
  • Ensures representative sampling from the same heat of steel for reliable statistical analysis.
  • Documents dimensions, material certifications, and preparation practices in alignment with manufacturer recommendations.
• Test Procedures:
  • Monotonic tension and compression tests to failure or specified loads.
  • Cyclic and fatigue tests simulating service conditions such as seismic or repetitive loading.
  • Slip and differential elongation tests to assess movement between spliced bars.
  • Low-temperature testing to evaluate performance in cold environments.
• Reporting:
  • Robust documentation requirements including test data, graphical summaries, equipment details, and traceability.
  • Electronic data retention and reporting recommendations.

Applications

Mechanical splices tested in accordance with ASTM A1034/A1034M-24 find application across the construction and civil infrastructure sectors, including:

• Reinforced Concrete Structures: Buildings, bridges, parking garages, and other structures requiring continuity and strength in reinforcement.
• Seismic Design: Evaluation of mechanical splicing systems for use in earthquake-prone regions, where splices must perform under cyclic and dynamic loading.
• Bridge and Infrastructure Projects: Splices subjected to high-cycle fatigue in bridges and transport infrastructure are tested for durability and resilience.
• Prefabrication and Repair: Essential for modular construction, precast systems, and repair works where conventional lap splices are impractical.

By following the ASTM A1034/A1034M-24 standard, stakeholders can ensure that mechanical splices will perform as expected in the actual structure-provided field installation emulates the tested methods and materials.

Related Standards

Several other ASTM standards and industry specifications are referenced or complement ASTM A1034/A1034M-24, including:

• ASTM A370: Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
• ASTM E4: Force Calibration and Verification of Testing Machines
• ASTM E8/E8M: Tension Testing of Metallic Materials
• ASTM E9: Compression Testing of Metallic Materials at Room Temperature
• ASTM E29: Use of Significant Digits in Test Data
• ASTM E83: Verification and Classification of Extensometer Systems
• ASTM E466 & E467: Fatigue Testing Methods
• ASTM A706: Deformed and Plain Low-Alloy Steel Bars for Concrete Reinforcement

Practical Value

Complying with ASTM A1034/A1034M-24 assures engineers, contractors, and owners that mechanical splices for reinforcing bars are thoroughly evaluated for strength, durability, and suitability in the intended environment. The standard supports code compliance, quality assurance, and risk mitigation in reinforced concrete construction. Using tested and qualified mechanical splices helps minimize structural failures and ensures long-term performance and safety.

Keywords: mechanical splices, steel reinforcing bars, reinforced concrete, ASTM A1034, splicing systems, testing, qualification, construction standards, structural integrity, cyclic loading, fatigue performance.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: A1034/A1034M − 24
Standard Specification for
Mechanical Splices for Steel Reinforcing Bars
This standard is issued under the fixed designation A1034/A1034M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the
year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last
reapproval. A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope* A706 Specification for Deformed and Plain Low-Alloy Steel
Bars for Concrete Reinforcement
1.1 General—This specification covers the qualification re-
E4 Practices for Force Calibration and Verification of Test-
quirements and test methods of mechanical splices for rein-
ing Machines
forcing bars. Qualification requirements are located in Annex
E8/E8M Test Methods for Tension Testing of Metallic Ma-
A1. The various tests herein described can be specified in total
terials
or individually.
E9 Test Methods of Compression Testing of Metallic Mate-
1.2 The test methods herein described are applicable to any
rials at Room Temperature
type of mechanical splice manufactured to join steel reinforc-
E29 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to
ing bars of any grade (specified minimum yield strength),
Determine Conformance with Specifications
uncoated or coated.
E83 Practice for Verification and Classification of Exten-
NOTE 1—Various code-writing bodies specify various parameters, such
someter Systems
as test loads, number of cycles and test temperature, for testing.
E466 Practice for Conducting Force Controlled Constant
1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
Amplitude Axial Fatigue Tests of Metallic Materials
are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in
E467 Practice for Verification of Constant Amplitude Dy-
each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each
namic Forces in an Axial Fatigue Testing System
system shall be used independently of the other. Combining
3. Terminology
values from the two systems may result in non-conformance
with the standard.
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.1.1 bar-splice assembly, n—an assembled specimen con-
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
sisting of two reinforcing bars connected with a mechanical
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
splice.
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
3.1.2 clip gauge, n—an electrical device used to measure
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
small displacements in test specimens whose voltage output is
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
convertible into strain.
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
3.1.3 coupler, n—threaded device for joining reinforcing
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
bars for the purpose of providing transfer of either axial
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
compression or axial tension or both from one bar to the other.
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
3.1.4 coupling sleeve, n—non-threaded device for joining
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
reinforcing bars for the purpose of providing transfer of either
axial compression or axial tension or both from one bar to the
2. Referenced Documents
2 other.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
3.1.5 data acquisition system, n—a computer based data
A370 Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing
logging system to record the output of electrical transducers
of Steel Products
reporting load, strain or displacement.
1 3.1.6 differential elongation, n—the difference between the
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee A01 on Steel,
Stainless Steel and Related Alloys and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
total movement measured on the splice specimen from zero
A01.05 on Steel Reinforcement.
load to a predetermined test load and the total movement
Current edition approved Jan. 1, 2024. Published January 2024. Originally
measured on an unspliced bar specimen under the same
approved in 2004. Last previous edition approved in 2023 as A1034/A1034M – 23.
predetermined load.
DOI: 10.1520/A1034_A1034M-24.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
3.1.7 linear variable differential transformer (LVDT), n—an
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
electrical device used to measure displacements, whose voltage
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. output is convertible into strain.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
A1034/A1034M − 24
3.1.8 mechanical splice, n—the complete assembly of a 5. Significance and Use
coupler or a coupling sleeve and possibly additional interven-
5.1 Significance:
ing material or other components to accomplish the splicing of
5.1.1 The bar-splice assembly test specimen shall closely
two reinforcing bars.
represent the mechanical splice used in practice. The behavior
3.1.9 slip, n—the difference in extensometer readings over
of the bar-splice assembly embedded in concrete, however,
the gauge length across the splice, measured at an initial
may differ from its behavior during testing where it is not
nominal zero load and, after having loaded the bar-splice
embedded in concrete.
assembly to a test load and unloaded it again, at the same
5.2 Usefulness:
nominal zero load.
5.2.1 Testing of mechanical splices for reinforcing bars shall
3.1.10 splice components, n—all components that make up a
establish the behavior of the bar-splice assembly under the
mechanical splice for reinforcing bars, including coupler,
loading conditions described herein for the various test meth-
coupling sleeve, locknuts, bolts, grout, epoxy, ferrous filler
ods to determine the acceptability of the mechanical splice for
metal and/or other components.
use in reinforced concrete structural members under specific
design criteria.
4. Summary of Specification
5.3 Interpretation of Test Results:
4.1 Various test methods are used to determine the perfor-
5.3.1 Similar or better performance of mechanical splices
mance of a mechanical splice under loading.
installed in structural members shall be expected only if
4.1.1 Monotonic Tension Test—This test measures the per-
materials and methods of assembly are similar to the materials
formance of the bar-splice assembly under an increasing
and methods used in the tests.
tension load. The specimen is placed in the testing machine and
pulled to failure.
6. Apparatus
NOTE 2—Testing of specimens in tension to failure should be ap-
6.1 Equipment:
proached with caution. Some types of mechanical splices may shatter
6.1.1 A suitable testing machine or load frame shall be used.
while failing in tension.
The test apparatus shall have sufficient capacity to prevent
4.1.2 Monotonic Compression Test—This test is used to
yielding of its components and shall ensure that the applied
ascertain the performance of the bar-splice assembly under an
tension loads or compression loads or both remain parallel to
increasing compressive load. The specimen is placed in the
the axis of the test specimen during testing. The equipment
testing machine and is loaded in compression until failure or a
shall be capable of applying cyclic loads within the time
specified load is applied.
periods specified herein for the individual tests.
NOTE 3—Typical maximum compressive load imposed in this test is
6.2 Load Measurements:
125 % of the specified yield strength of the reinforcing bar. Testing of
6.2.1 The load in the specimen shall be measured by load
specimens in compression should be approached with caution. The
cell or other external load measuring method. The load cell
buckling load predicted by Euler Column formula may be less than the
shall be capable of providing electronic output of load mea-
compression load specified.
surements and sending to a data acquisition system for later
4.1.3 Cyclic Load Test—This test is used to ascertain how
data reduction. If a data acquisition system is used, it shall be
the bar-splice assembly performs when the specimen is sub-
capable of recording at least one measurement per second.
jected to alternating tension and compression cycles. The
Strain gages or other instrumentation that may be damaged or
specimen is placed in the testing machine and is loaded in
lose accuracy when the bar yields shall not be used to measure
tension, then in compression until the specified number of
force.
cycles is reached. Each cycle may exceed the yield strain of the
6.2.2 It shall be permissible to mark bars and couplers or
bar and is intended to simulate the demands of earthquake
coupling sleeves with punch marks, or other legible scribe or
loading on the specimen.
stylus markings for measuring elongation at post yield rupture.
4.1.4 High-Cycle Fatigue Test—This test is conducted with
6.2.3 The loading systems shall be calibrated in accordance
alternating tension load cycles or alternating tension to com-
with Practices E4.
press load cycles, with the load staying below the yield
strength of the reinforcing bar. This test is conducted until
6.3 Elongation Measurements:
failure or a specified number of cycles are reached and
6.3.1 The displacements of the reinforcing bar ends within
simulates the demands on mechanical splices placed in bridges
the coupler or coupling sleeve, as well as elastic and plastic
or other structures subjected to frequent elastic load cycles.
deformations in the reinforcing bar and coupler or coupling
4.1.5 Slip Test—This test is used to ascertain the plastic sleeve materials, shall be measured, if required, using a
movement (slip) between reinforcing bars within the bar-slice
mechanical extensometer or an LVDT, clip gauge or other
assembly, when loaded in tension. electronic means. The equipment need only be capable of
4.1.6 Low-Temperature Test—This test is run using the test measuring the sum of all displacements and elongations. The
methods described in 4.1.1 through 4.1.5, to ascertain the elongation measuring devices shall be at least of Class C, in
behavior of the bar-splice assembly under low temperatures. accordance with Practice E83.
4.1.7 Combination Tests—Features of one or more of the 6.3.2 The motion of the testing machine grips or cross head
test methods described in 4.1.1 through 4.1.6 can be combined. shall not be used for determining specimen elongation.
A1034/A1034M − 24
6.4 Compression Test Measurements: 8.3.1 The test specimens shall be prepared following the
6.4.1 Unless otherwise specified, it shall not be required to splice manufacturer’s recommendations for the type of steel,
monitor strain in monotonic compression tests. minimum yield strength (grade) and size of the reinforcing bar,
for which the mechanical splice is being tested.
NOTE 4—Only the compressive strength of the test specimen is of
interest for evaluating a mechanical splice in compression and not the
NOTE 6—Construction project conditions that may affect the perfor-
strain.
mance of certain types of mechanical splices include the position of the
splice during assembly (vertical, diagonal or horizontal position),
7. Materials
temperature, humidity, degree of rusting on the reinforcing bar, and bar
end preparation.
7.1 Steel Reinforcing Bars:
7.1.1 The minimum yield strength (grade) of the reinforcing
8.3.2 The mechanical splice shall be installed on the bar
bars shall be specified. The pattern and the dimensional aspects ends in accordance with the splice manufacturer’s recommen-
of the reinforcing bar deformations shall be representative of
dations and safety instructions. The amount of torque or other
the bars used in practice. means for installing the splice shall be measured and recorded.
8.3.3 Mechanical splices where grout or other cementitious
7.2 Splice Components:
or epoxy material is used to secure the reinforcing bars within
7.2.1 The couplers or coupling sleeves and any other
the splice shall be prepared in conformance with the splice
components needed for the proper functioning of the mechani-
manufacturer’s requirements. Curing of the grout material shall
cal splice shall correspond to the size and specified minimum
be conducted in conformance with the splice manufacturer’s
yield strength (grade) of the reinforcing bars tested.
requirements.
7.3 Mechanical properties of the splice components used in
the test shall be documented prior to testing of the bar-splice
9. Conditioning
assembly. Certified mill test reports shall be considered ad-
9.1 When low-temperature testing is required, the splice
equate proof of these properties. Properties to be documented
specimens shall be cold soaked for a minimum of 24 h prior to
for these components shall include the yield and tensile
testing at a temperature equal to or less than the temperature
strength, as well as the ultimate elongation. For components
specified for this test.
made by forging or casting, a chemical analysis and hardness
NOTE 7—Some Building Codes require such testing on mechanical
tests shall be considered to be sufficient.
splices.
8. Sampling and Test Specimens
10. Test Procedures
8.1 Sampling:
10.1 Test Set-up:
8.1.1 The samples for one series of tests of the reinforcing
10.1.1 The test specimen shall be placed into the testing
bars, as well as the mechanical splice components, shall be
machine such that tension and/or compression loads can be
selected from the same respective heat of steel.
applied axially and without any eccentricity. The ends of the
NOTE 5—Using samples from the same respective heat permits an
specimen shall be held in the test machine such that tension
improved statistical evaluation of the test results.
loads or compression loads or both can be applied to the
8.1.2 Testing of mechanical splices from different heats of
specimen without movement of the specimen within the grips
steel shall be permitted, unless otherwise specified.
of the test apparatus.
8.1.3 The reinforcing bar segments within a test specimen
10.1.2 Suitable means for avoiding buckling of the test
shall be nominally of equal length and shall be clean and free
specimen under compression loads shall be employed.
of surface imperfections that would cause the sample to fail to
10.1.3 At least two elongation measuring devices
conform to either the specified tensile or the specified bending
(extensometers), that continuously monitor elongation, equally
requirements.
spaced around the test specimen, shall be attached to the
8.1.4 The heat numbers, mill certificates and essential di-
reinforcing bars next to the coupler or coupling sleeve such that
mensions of all splice components used in the test shall be
the resulting total gauge length equals the length of the coupler
documented.
or coupling sleeve plus two to six bar diameters. A suitable test
8.2 Specimen Length: set-up is shown in Fig. 1.
8.2.1 The length of the reinforcing bar segment for tension 10.1.4 If required for the test, additional extensometers shall
and cyclic load tests shall be chosen such that there is sufficient be placed on the coupler or coupling sleeve or the reinforcing
bar segments at one or both ends of the mechanical splice or
space in between the cross beams of the testing machine and
either side of the coupler or coupling sleeve to allow the both.
attachment of the elongation measuring device at a distance 10.1.5 Gauges for measuring compressive strain in mono-
equal to one to three bar diameters from the coupler or tonic compression tests shall not be required.
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: A1034/A1034M − 23 A1034/A1034M − 24
Standard Test Methods Specification for
Testing Mechanical Splices for Steel Reinforcing Bars
This standard is issued under the fixed designation A1034/A1034M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the
year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last
reapproval. A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope*
1.1 These test methods cover the testing of mechanical splices for reinforcing bars. The various tests herein described can be
specified in total or individually.
1.2 The test methods herein described are applicable to any type of mechanical splice manufactured to join steel reinforcing bars
of any grade (specified minimum yield strength), uncoated or coated.
1.3 This standard describes only the methods for testing mechanical splices for steel reinforcing bars, but does not quantify the
parameters for testing nor acceptance criteria, which must be specified.
NOTE 1—Various code-writing bodies specify various parameters, such as test loads, number of cycles and test temperature, for testing.
1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each
system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the
two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of
regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
A370 Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
E4 Practices for Force Calibration and Verification of Testing Machines
E8/E8M Test Methods for Tension Testing of Metallic Materials
E9 Test Methods of Compression Testing of Metallic Materials at Room Temperature
E29 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to Determine Conformance with Specifications
E83 Practice for Verification and Classification of Extensometer Systems
E466 Practice for Conducting Force Controlled Constant Amplitude Axial Fatigue Tests of Metallic Materials
These test methods are This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee A01 on Steel, Stainless Steel and Related Alloys and are the direct responsibility
of Subcommittee A01.05 on Steel Reinforcement.
Current edition approved July 1, 2023Jan. 1, 2024. Published July 2023January 2024. Originally approved in 2004. Last previous edition approved in 20152023 as
A1034/A1034M – 10a (2015).A1034/A1034M – 23. DOI: 10.1520/A1034_A1034M-23.10.1520/A1034_A1034M-24.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
A1034/A1034M − 24
E467 Practice for Verification of Constant Amplitude Dynamic Forces in an Axial Fatigue Testing System
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.1.1 bar-splice assembly, n—an assembled specimen consisting of two reinforcing bars connected with a mechanical splice.
3.1.2 clip gage, n—an electrical device used to measure small displacements in test specimens whose voltage output is convertible
into strain.
3.1.3 coupler, n—threaded device for joining reinforcing bars for the purpose of providing transfer of either axial compression or
axial tension or both from one bar to the other.
3.1.4 coupling sleeve, n—non-threaded device for joining reinforcing bars for the purpose of providing transfer of either axial
compression or axial tension or both from one bar to the other.
3.1.5 data acquisition system, n—a computer based data logging system to record the output of electrical transducers reporting
load, strain or displacement.
3.1.6 differential elongation, n—the difference between the total movement measured on the splice specimen from zero load to a
predetermined test load and the total movement measured on an unspliced bar specimen under the same predetermined load.
3.1.7 linear variable differential transformer (LVDT), n—an electrical device used to measure displacements, whose voltage
output is convertible into strain.
3.1.8 mechanical splice, n—the complete assembly of a coupler or a coupling sleeve and possibly additional intervening material
or other components to accomplish the splicing of two reinforcing bars.
3.1.9 slip, n—the difference in extensometer readings over the gage length across the splice, measured at an initial nominal zero
load and, after having loaded the bar-splice assembly to a test load and unloaded it again, at the same nominal zero load.
3.1.10 splice components, n—all components that make up a mechanical splice for reinforcing bars, including coupler, coupling
sleeve, locknuts, bolts, grout, epoxy, ferrous filler metal and/or other components.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 Various test methods are used to determine the performance of a mechanical splice under loading.
4.1.1 Monotonic Tension Test—This test measures the performance of the bar-splice assembly under an increasing tension load.
The specimen is placed in the testing machine and pulled to failure.
NOTE 2—Testing of specimens in tension to failure should be approached with caution. Some types of mechanical splices may shatter while failing in
tension.
4.1.2 Monotonic Compression Test—This test is used to ascertain the performance of the bar-splice assembly under an increasing
compressive load. The specimen is placed in the testing machine and is loaded in compression until failure or a specified load is
applied.
NOTE 3—Typical maximum compressive load imposed in this test is 125 % of the specified yield strength of the reinforcing bar. Testing of specimens
in compression should be approached with caution. The buckling load predicted by Euler Column formula may be less than the compression load
specified.
4.1.3 Cyclic Load Test—This test is used to ascertain how the bar-splice assembly performs when the specimen is subjected to
alternating tension and compression cycles. The specimen is placed in the testing machine and is loaded in tension, then in
compression until the specified number of cycles is reached. Each cycle may exceed the yield strain of the bar and is intended to
simulate the demands of earthquake loading on the specimen.
A1034/A1034M − 24
4.1.4 High-Cycle Fatigue Test—This test is conducted with alternating tension load cycles or alternating tension to compress load
cycles, with the load staying below the yield strength of the reinforcing bar. This test is conducted until failure or a specified
number of cycles are reached and simulates the demands on mechanical splices placed in bridges or other structures subjected to
frequent elastic load cycles.
4.1.5 Slip Test—This test is used to ascertain the plastic movement (slip) between reinforcing bars within the bar-slice assembly,
when loaded in tension.
4.1.6 Low-Temperature Test—This test is run using the test methods described in 4.1.1 through 4.1.5, to ascertain the behavior of
the bar-splice assembly under low temperatures.
4.1.7 Combination Tests—Features of one or more of the test methods described in 4.1.1 through 4.1.6 can be combined.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 Significance:
5.1.1 The bar-splice assembly test specimen shall closely represent the mechanical splice used in practice. The behavior of the
bar-splice assembly embedded in concrete, however, may differ from its behavior during testing where it is not embedded in
concrete.
5.2 Usefulness:
5.2.1 Testing of mechanical splices for reinforcing bars shall establish the behavior of the bar-splice assembly under the loading
conditions described herein for the various test methods to determine the acceptability of the mechanical splice for use in
reinforced concrete structural members under specific design criteria.
5.3 Interpretation of Test Results:
5.3.1 Similar or better performance of mechanical splices installed in structural members shall be expected only if materials and
methods of assembly are similar to the materials and methods used in the tests.
6. Apparatus
6.1 Equipment:
6.1.1 A suitable testing machine or load frame shall be used. The test apparatus shall have sufficient capacity to prevent yielding
of its components and shall ensure that the applied tension loads or compression loads or both remain parallel to the axis of the
test specimen during testing. The equipment shall be capable of applying cyclic loads within the time periods specified herein for
the individual tests.
6.2 Load Measurements:
6.2.1 The load in the specimen shall be measured by load cell or other external load measuring method. The load cell shall be
capable of providing electronic output of load measurements and sending to a data acquisition system for later data reduction. If
a data acquisition system is used, it shall be capable of recording at least one measurement per second. Strain gages or other
instrumentation that may be damaged or lose accuracy when the bar yields shall not be used to measure force.
6.2.2 It shall be permissible to mark bars and couplers or coupling sleeves with punch marks, or other legible scribe or stylus
markings for measuring elongation at post yield rupture.
6.2.3 The loading systems shall be calibrated in accordance with Practices E4.
6.3 Elongation Measurements:
6.3.1 The displacements of the reinforcing bar ends within the coupler or coupling sleeve, as well as elastic and plastic
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deformations in the reinforcing bar and coupler or coupling sleeve materials, shall be measured, if required, using a mechanical
extensometer or an LVDT, clip gage or other electronic means. The equipment need only be capable of measuring the sum of all
displacements and elongations. The elongation measuring devices shall be at least of Class C, in accordance with Practice E83.
6.3.2 The motion of the testing machine grips or cross head shall not be used for determining specimen elongation.
6.4 Compression Test Measurements:
6.4.1 Unless otherwise specified, it shall not be required to monitor strain in monotonic compression tests.
NOTE 4—Only the compressive strength of the test specimen is of interest for evaluating a mechanical splice in compression and not the strain.
7. Materials
7.1 Steel Reinforcing Bars:
7.1.1 The minimum yield strength (grade) of the reinforcing bars shall be specified. The pattern and the dimensional aspects of
the reinforcing bar deformations shall be representative of the bars used in practice.
7.2 Splice Components:
7.2.1 The couplers or coupling sleeves and any other components needed for the proper functioning of the mechanical splice shall
correspond to the size and specified minimum yield strength (grade) of the reinforcing bars tested.
7.3 Mechanical properties of the splice components used in the test shall be documented prior to testing of the bar-splice assembly.
Certified mill test reports shall be considered adequate proof of these properties. Properties to be documented for these components
shall include the yield and tensile strength, as well as the ultimate elongation. For components made by forging or casting, a
chemical analysis and hardness tests shall be considered to be sufficient.
8. Sampling and Test Specimens
8.1 Sampling:
8.1.1 The samples for one series of tests of the reinforcing bars, as well as the mechanical splice components, shall be selected
from the same respective heat of steel.
NOTE 5—Using samples from the same respective heat permits an improved statistical evaluation of the test results.
8.1.2 Testing of mechanical splices from different heats of steel shall be permitted, unless otherwise specified.
8.1.3 The reinforcing bar segments within a test specimen shall be nominally of equal length and shall be clean and free of surface
imperfections that would cause the sample to fail to conform to either the specified tensile or the specified bending requirements.
8.1.4 The heat numbers, mill certificates and essential dimensions of all splice components used in the test shall be documented.
8.2 Specimen Length:
8.2.1 The length of the reinforcing bar segment for tension and cyclic load tests shall be chosen such that there is sufficient space
in between the cross beams of the testing machine and either side of the coupler or coupling sleeve to allow the attachment of the
elongation measuring device at a distance equal to one to three bar diameters from the coupler or coupling sleeve on each side,
plus sufficient clearance and gripping length.
8.2.2 The length of compression test specimens shall be such that the distance between the ends of the coupler or coupling sleeve
and the grips does not exceed one bar diameter.
8.3 Specimen Preparation:
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8.3.1 The test specimens shall be prepared following the splice manufacturer’s recommendations for the type of steel, minimum
yield strength (grade) and size of the reinforcing bar, for which the mechanical splice is being tested.
NOTE 6—Construction project conditions that may affect the performance of certain types of mechanical splices include the position of the splice during
assembly (vertical, diagonal or horizontal position), temperature, humidity, degree of rusting on the reinforcing bar, and bar end preparation.
8.3.2 The mechanical splice shall be installed on the bar ends in accordance with the splice manufacturer’s recommendations and
safety instructions. The amount of torque or other means for installing the splice shall be measured and recorded.
8.3.3 Mechanical splices where grout or other cementitious or epoxy material is used to secure the reinforcing bars within the
splice shall be prepared in conformance with the splice manufacturer’s requirements. Curing of the grout material shall be
conducted in conformance with the splice manufacturer’s requirements.
9. Conditioning
9.1 When low-temperature testing is required, the splice specimens shall be cold soaked for a minimum of 24 h prior to testing
at a temperature equal to or less than the temperature specified for this test.
NOTE 7—Some Building Codes require such testing on mechanical splices.
10. Test Procedures
10.1 Test Set-up:
10.1.1 The test specimen shall be placed into the testing machine such that tension and/or compression loads can be applied axially
and without any eccentricity. The ends of the specimen shall be held in the test machine such that tension loads or compression
loads or both can be applied to the specimen without movement of the specimen within the grips of the test apparatus.
10.1.2 Suitable means for avoiding buckling of the test specimen under compression loads shall be employed.
10.1.3 At least two elongation measuring devices (extensometers), that continuously monitor elongation, equally spaced around
the test specimen, shall be attached to the reinforcing bars next to the coupler or coupling sleeve such that the resulting total gage
length equals the length of the coupler or coupling sleeve plus two to six bar diameters. A suitable test set-up is shown in Fig. 1.
10.1.4 If required for the test, additional extensometers shall be placed on the coupler or coupling sleeve or the reinforcing bar
segments at one or both ends of the mechanical splice or both.
10.1.5 Gages for measuring compressive strain in monotonic compression tests shall not be required.
10.1.6 Testing of specimens, which use components that need time to cure, shall not commence before these components have
reached sufficient strength.
10.2 Baseline Tension Test:
10.2.1 A tension test shall be conducted on a reinforcing bar of the same size and heat of steel as those used in the bar-splice
assembly specimens. The stress-strain behavior of the reinforcing bar shall be recorded in accordance with the provisions of Test
Methods A370, including the yield and tensile strength of the bar. If specified, the strain shall be measured at the determined or
specified yield strength. If the reinforcing bar tested does not have a well-defined yield point, the yield strength shall be determined
in accordance with the instructions of Test Methods A370, Annex A9.
10.2.2 When certifying or qualifying a mechanical splice, if the baseline tension test result is lower than the minimum load
requirement for the mechanical splice, the tests of the mechanical splices shall not be conducted, and new specimens shall be
produced from another lot of steel reinforcement.
10.3 Monotonic Tension Tests:
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FIG. 1 Specimen Set-up and GageGauge Length
10.3.1 Monotonic tension tests shall be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Test Methods A370. Up to the yield point,
loads shall be applied at a rate between 70 MPa ⁄min [10 ksi/min] and 700 MPa/min [100 ksi/min].
10.3.2 The elongation of the test specimen shall be measured and recorded continuously.
10.3.3 Tests shall proceed until the load in the test specimen reaches the yield strength of the bar. After yield, the test can be paused
to remove any instrumentation that could be damaged. The test shall then continue to failure. Post yield loading rates shall be in
accordance with the provisions of Test Methods E8/E8M, subsection 7.6, unless otherwise specified.
NOTE 8—Rugged instruments that can remain mounted to the specimen up to and through failure are commercially available. Care needs to be exercised
to ensure the safety of the personnel witnessing the test.
10.4 Monotonic Compression Tests:
10.4.1 Monotonic compression tests shall be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Test Methods A370 and E9. For strain
rate controlled tests, the load shall be applied in accordance with subsection 8.7 of Test Methods E9. For machines with loading
rate control or with cross head speed control, the specimen shall be loaded at a minimum strain rate equal to 0.005/min in the elastic
range.
NOTE 9—Care needs to be exercised to ensure the safety of the personnel witnessing the test.
10.4.2 Testing shall proceed until the compressive load in the specimen reaches that specified.
10.5 Cyclic Load Test:
10.5.1 The test specimen shall be loaded following the provisions of 10.3.1 and 10.3.2 until the strain specified has been reached.
10.5.2 The crosshead loading direction shall be reversed until the specimen has reached the compressive loads specified. The
loading rate shall conform to 10.4.1. After reaching yield, the test specimen shall be loaded at the strain rates and the strain ranges
specified.
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NOTE 10—As with the compression testing, care needs to be exercised to ensure the safety of the personnel witnessing the test.
10.5.3 The specimen shall then be reloaded in tension to the specified tensile strain and then loaded in compression again. This
procedure shall be repeated until the specified number of cycles at this maximum tensile strain is completed.
10.5.4 This procedure shall be repeated for each strain group increment until all of the tension-compression cycles for all strain
group increments specified have been completed.
NOTE 11—Various code bodies or regulatory agencies have developed standards for cyclic testing. These standards may differ in the exact nature of the
testing and in the acceptance criteria.
10.5.5 Following the last cycle, the specimen shall be loaded to failure in tension.
10.6 High-Cycle Fatigue Test:
10.6.1 The test specimen shall be loaded to the upper tensile stress specified following the provisions of 10.3.1.
10.6.2 The tensile force then shall be decreased to the lower tensile or compressive force specified.
10.6.3 For cyclic fatigue tests of 10 000 cycles or less, in the absence of a specified wave form and frequency, a sinusoidal wave
form shall be used with a frequency of 0.5 Hz for No. 36 (No. 11) and larger diameter bars and 0.7 Hz for smaller bars. The varying
stress amplitude, as determined by a suitable dynamic verification (see Practice E467), should be maintained at all times within
2 % of the desired test value.
10.6.4 This procedure shall be repeated until the number of cycles specified has been reached.
10.6.5 Following cyclic loading, the specimen shall be tested in tension to failure.
10.6.6 For cyclic fatigue tests with greater than 10 000 cycles, in absence of a specified wave form and frequency, the test shall
be conducted in accordance with the guide lines of Practice E466.
10.7 Slip Test:
10.7.1 The bar-splice assembly shall be loaded in tension to a nominal zero load, not exceeding 4 MPa [600 psi]. A zero
extensometer reading over the gage length across the splice shall be taken at that point and recorded.
10.7.2 The bar-splice assembly shall then be loaded in tension to a predetermined load. The loading rate shall conform to 10.3.1.
10.7.3 The specimen shall then be unloaded to the same near zero load and the extensometer measured and recorded.
10.7.4 The difference between the extensometer readings recorded at the near zero load under 10.7.3 and under 10.7.1 shall be
recorded as slip within the bar-splice assembly.
10.8 Differential Elongation Test:
10.8.1 Differential elongation tests shall be carried out without any preloading of the test specimens.
10.8.2 The bar-splice assembly shall be loaded in tension to a predetermined load. The loading rate shall conform to 10.3.1. The
elongation of the specimen shall be measured over the gage length shown in Fig. 1 and recorded at this point.
10.8.3 A reinforcing bar of the same size and heat shall be loaded in tension to the same predetermined load, following the loading
rate as in 10.3.1. The elongation of the specimen shall be measured over the same gage length as in the test performed under 10.8.2
and recorded at this point.
10.8.4 The difference between the elongation measured under 10.8.2 and the elongation measured under 10.8.3 shall be recorded
as differential elongation.
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10.9 Low-Temperature Test:
10.9.1 When low-temperature testing is required, the temperature at the critical zone shall be maintained at the test temperature
until the test has been completed.
10.10 Invalid Test Results:
10.10.1 When testing to qualify or certify mechanical splice systems, if both the baseline tensile test result (see 10.2) and the
monotonic splice tension test result (see 10.3) are below the minimum stress requirement for the splice, and tensile failure occurs
in the reinforcing steel while performing the monotonic splice tension test (see 10.3), the entire mechanical splice test shall be
considered invalid. The splice test result shall be discarded, and the entire test method shall be repeated using a base material with
an actual tensile strength that exceeds the minimum requirements of the mechanical splice (see 10.2.2).
10.10.2 When testing to verify performance of random jobsite samples, monotonic splice tension test results (see 10.3) that meet
or exceed the reinforcing steel minimum specified tensile strength shall not be cause for rejection of the mechanical splice.
NOTE 12—With the addition of higher strength grades to reinforcing steel specifications, it is possible for the minimum requirements for the mechanical
splice to exceed the actual tensile strength of the base material.
11. Report
11.1 A report shall be prepared with the data obtained from the tests. Certification of the report shall be provided in accordance
with the specified requirements.
11.2 The report shall contain summaries for each test including the following data:
11.2.1 Date of test and report.
11.2.2 Type, size and grade of steel of each component of the specimen tested. Mill certificates shall be included.
11.2.3 Manufacturer and lot identification of reinforcing steel bar, coupler or coupling sleeve and any additional components.
11.2.4 Type of testing machine and displacement measuring devices used. A copy of the testing machine calibration certificate
shall also be included when specified.
11.2.5 Description of the test specimen assembly and any deviations from the fabrication of the test specimen and the
specifications for the test procedure.
11.2.6 Performance data in the form of graphs and summaries of maximum load and elongation values, including gage lengths,
shall be reported using Practice E29. Further, loading rates, unit strains and test temperature shall be reported. Graphical data shall
include plots of load versus elongation across the splice. If additional extensometers have been placed on the reinforcing bar,
coupler or coupling sleeve, then load versus elongation plots also shall be provided for these additional data.
11.2.7 Mechanical splice tests that are determined to be invalid shall not be reported.
11.3 Electronic data shall be furnished, as requested, in ASCII or other acceptable format.
11.4 The testing laboratory shall retain copies of the report and data for a minimum of five years.
11.5 Test Report or similar documents printed from or used in electronic form from an electronic data interchange (EDI)
transmission shall be regarded as having the same validity as a counterpart printed in the certifier’s facility. The content of the EDI
transmitted document must conform to any existing EDI agreement. Notwithstanding the absence of a signature, the organization
submitting the EDI transmission is responsible for the content of the report.
NOTE 13—The industry definition as invoked here is: EDI is the computer-to-computer exchange of business information in a standard format such as
ANSI ASC X12.
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12. Precision and Bias
12.1 No statement is made on the precision or bias of this test method, since the test results indicate only whether there is
conformance to given criteria and since no generally accepted method for determining precision and use of the results of this test
for mechanical splices embedded in concrete is currently available.
13. Keywords
13.1 bar splicing; mechanical splices; reinforced concrete; reinforcing bars; reinforcing bar testing
SUMMARY OF CHANGES
Committee A01 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(A1034/A1034M – 10a (2015)) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved July 1, 2023.)
(1) Added new subsections 10.2.2, 10.10, and 11.2.7. Added new Note 12 and renumbered subsequent notes.
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1. Scope*
1.1 General—This specification covers the qualification requirements and test methods of mechanical splices for reinforcing bars.
Qualification requirements are located in Annex A1. The various tests herein described can be specified in total or individually.
1.2 The test methods herein described are applicable to any type of mechanical splice manufactured to join steel reinforcing bars
of any grade (specified minimum yield strength), uncoated or coated.
NOTE 1—Various code-writing bodies specify various parameters, such as test loads, number of cycles and test temperature, for testing.
1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each
system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independ
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