Difference Between Main Bars And Distribution Bars


In any reinforcement detailing there are two sizes of bars used in the slab. That is main reinforcement bars and distribution bars. In this article, we will discuss the difference between main bar and distribution bar.

To understand properly we need to know the bending moment on slab.

Let’s take an example.

When load is applied to a slab the bottom of the slab will experience positive moment (Sagging) and the supports will experience negative moments (Hogging). The bottom part, as well as the top part of the slab, will experience high tension at the same time.

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The deflection will be very high in shorter span and low in longer span. High amount of tension will be acting in the support which is near than the other one.

Function Of Main Reinforcement Bars:

Main reinforcement bar is provided at the shorter span direction in order to transfer the bending moment developed at the bottom of the slab. The purpose of providing main bar is to transfer the bending load developed at the bottom of the slab to the beams.

main bar

1. Main reinforcement bar is provided at the bottom of the slab at the shorter direction.

2. Stronger dimension bar is used as main bar.

In one way slab, the slab is supported by beams on the two opposite sides where main reinforcement bar is provided.

In two way slab, the slab is supported by beams on all four sides. So there will be no difference in bar size because each side will have to transfer equal amount of stress evenly.

main bar

Function Of Distribution Bars:

  • Distribution bars are provided to resist the shear stress, cracks developed in the longer span.
  • Distribution bars are provided perpendicularly with the top of the main bar.
  • Lesser dimension bars are used.
  • Distribution bars are provided in the longer span direction.

Difference Between Main Bars And Distribution  Bars:

  • Main reinforcement bar is normally used at the bottom of the slab.

Distribution bars are placed on the top of the main bar.

  • Main bar is used in shorter direction but distribution bar is used in longer span.
  • Higher dimension bar is used as main reinforcement bar.

Lower dimension bar is used as distribution bars.

  • Main reinforcement bar is used to transfer the bending moment to beams.

Distribution bars are used to resist the shear stress, and cracks developed at the top of the slab.

Also Read

Difference Between Plinth Beam & Tie Beam
Why Are Cover Blocks Used In Slab
Why Are Crank Bars Provided In Slab?

Bar Bending Schedule Basics Rules


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15 thoughts on “Difference Between Main Bars And Distribution Bars”

    • Normally yes
      Main bars resist high moments And it’s the most important parts but distribution bars resist shrinkage, cracks, and temperature. So the main bar’ diameters should be bigger than the distribution bars
      If you design for slab it will be proved automatically and you will see that the main bars are bigger

      Reply
  1. The bottom most sectional view is incorrect it should be like this
    ______________________________________________________________

    ______________________________________________________________ <– Distribution steel
    * * * * * * * * * * * <- – Main steel
    ______________________________________________________________

    Reply
  2. Hi your updates very useful to us … we are from irrigation department, can you please update regarding irrigation oriantated information also .. design s , plans etc etc

    Reply

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