Types of Sigmafor wall reinforcement systems
Types of Sigmafor wall reinforcement systems
Five different types can be identified.
All types are available in various widths, depending on the used width of the bricks or aerated concrete blocks.
SFR
The round, galvanised SIGMAFOR is used in standard brickwork that is not exposed to damp or only slightly so, and in non-aggressive environments.
SFP
The flat, galvanised SIGMAFOR (SFP) is used for aerated concrete blocks.
SFR/E
The round, epoxy-coated SIGMAFOR is used for standard masonry that is heavily exposed to damp and/or in very (industrial) aggressive environments, as well as for extra adhesion to mortar with chromate-free cement.
Further details about the SFR/E
SFP/E
The epoxy version of flat Sigmafor is used for glued joints in damp or aggressive environments and is recommended for use in glued joints on exterior facades to prevent oxidation (corrosion).
Further details about the SFP/E
SFR/I
The stainless-steel version of Sigmafor is used for mortar joints in aggressive environments.
Further details about the SFR/I
Which Sigmafor materials to choose from?
It is extremely important to select the right material in order to avoid possible corrosion problems during the lifetime of masonry reinforcement systems
This is established according to European regulations on the basis of the MX classes of Eurocode 2 (see EN 1996 – 2). The most common areas of application are mentioned, ranging from indoor masonry to applications for outside walls, as well as in aggressive environments.
For most masonry work, the normal galvanised version (60gr/ mÇ) is sufficient, but in damp environments, the epoxy version must be used because in a damp alkaline environment, the corrosion rate on galvanised steel reinforcement is so high that the maximum life cycle cannot be ensured. (fresh mortar with a pH of about 12 can be reduced over time to a pH of about 9). Consequently, it is preferable that the use of galvanised steel be limited to masonry reinforcement in dry environments.