ENGINEERING PROCUREMENT FAQGrade 500E Rebar Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers on earthquake ductility, grades, mill certificates, sizing and contract requirements.
What does Grade 500E mean?
500 refers to the lower characteristic yield stress of 500 MPa, and E denotes earthquake (seismic) ductility under AS/NZS 4671:2019. D500E20 identifies a deformed 20 mm bar.
Is AS/NZS 4671:2019 the edition used here?
Yes. The page references AS/NZS 4671:2019. Confirm the governing contract edition, amendments and project approval requirements at ordering.
Is 500E stronger than 500N?
Both have a 500 MPa lower characteristic yield. 500E has a tighter upper characteristic yield of 600 MPa, a tensile/yield ratio between 1.15 and 1.40 and Agt at least 10%; 500N has different normal-ductility limits.
What is the Grade 500E Agt requirement?
The lower characteristic uniform elongation at maximum force is at least 10.0%, assessed in accordance with the standard’s specified test and conformity procedures.
What is the nominal D500E25 weight?
AS/NZS 4671:2019 New Zealand Table 7.5(B) lists 3.85 kg/m for nominal 25 mm bar. A 12 m bar is 46.20 kg and 100 such bars total approximately 4.620 metric tonnes.
Which bar diameters appear in the New Zealand weight table?
The nominal New Zealand reference table includes 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 20, 25, 32, 40 and 50 mm. A published table does not mean every diameter is currently offered in Grade 500E.
Can Australian N24 be substituted for D500E25?
Not automatically. Australian 500N and New Zealand 500E are different grades with different common nominal diameters and properties. Obtain engineering approval of any proposed substitution.
What chemistry limits apply to Grade 500E?
The 2019 table specifies cast analysis maxima of C 0.22%, P/S 0.050%, CEV 0.49%; product analysis maxima of C 0.24%, P/S 0.055%, CEV 0.51%.
Can Grade 500E rebar be welded?
Welding is subject to the approved joint design, relevant AS/NZS 1554.3 requirements, the producing mill’s chemistry and the project welding procedures.
What bend and rebend tests apply?
For deformed E-class bars up to 16 mm, the standard uses a 4d mandrel with 90° bend and the specified rebend process. For sizes above 16 mm, a 4d mandrel and 180° bend are specified for the material test. Site bends are a separate design matter.
Does compliance mean a building will be earthquake-proof?
No. 500E is a material ductility classification. Seismic resistance depends on the full structural design, detailing, construction and inspection.
What information do you need to quote D500E?
Provide the edition, grade D500E, required diameters, straight/coil form, lengths, total quantity, producer approvals, certificates, destination and requested delivery terms.