Choosing the right TMT bars is crucial for the strength and safety of any building. However, fake and low-quality bars are widely available in the market. Using these bars can weaken your structure and increase the risk of collapse. This guide will help you understand how to check original TMT bars and avoid fake or substandard steel.
Why Fake TMT Bars are Dangerous
Fake TMT bars may look like original ones but they lack proper strength and flexibility. They often have poor chemical composition and uneven rib patterns. These bars may crack, bend unevenly, or rust faster. Using such bars puts your building at serious risk.
Common Signs of Fake TMT Bars
No ISI Mark or Certification
All genuine TMT bars come with an ISI mark printed on the bar. The ISI mark confirms the bar meets Indian standards. Fake bars often have no mark or a faded, unclear mark.
Inconsistent Rib Pattern
Original TMT bars have deep, uniform ribs that run along the length of the bar. These ribs improve bonding with concrete. Fake bars often have shallow, uneven, or irregular ribs.
Unbranded or Duplicate Branding
Original TMT bars from brands like Sugna TMT have their brand name, grade, and size clearly printed. Fake bars may have missing branding or poorly copied brand names with spelling errors.
Wrong Weight or Size
Genuine TMT bars follow standard length and weight per meter for each diameter. Fake bars are often lighter than they should be because of poor manufacturing practices. Always check weight per meter to ensure correct size.
How to Check Original TMT Bars on Site
Check for Brand Marking
Every original TMT bar has the manufacturer’s name, logo, and grade printed on the bar. This marking should be clear and deep. If the marking is missing, shallow, or poorly printed, the bar could be fake.
Check the ISI Mark
Look for a visible ISI mark on every bar. It confirms the bar meets Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) requirements. If the mark is missing or blurred, do not use the bar.
Check the Flexibility Test
A quick way to check quality is the bend test. Original TMT bars bend smoothly without cracks. Fake bars may crack or break when bent. Ask your supplier to demonstrate this test before delivery.
Perform the Weight Check
Use a weighing scale to check the weight of a random bar. Compare it with the standard weight per meter for that diameter. Fake bars often weigh less than standard bars.
Check for Rust and Surface Defects
High-quality TMT bars have a smooth, clean surface. Fake bars may have rust spots, uneven coloring, or visible defects. Bars with surface rust or pitting should be rejected.
Conduct the Spark Test (Optional)
This is an advanced test done at metal workshops. When you grind the bar using a grinder, genuine steel produces bright, short sparks. Substandard steel produces dull or irregular sparks.
Why ISI Certification Matters
The ISI mark is the official certification for TMT bars in India. It ensures:
- Correct chemical composition
- Proper heat treatment process
- Standard weight and dimensions
- Strong bonding ribs
- Adequate flexibility and strength
Bars without ISI certification are likely substandard or fake.
Always Buy from Trusted Brands
The best way to avoid fake TMT bars is to buy only from trusted manufacturers like Sugna TMT. Established brands:
- Use certified raw materials
- Follow strict manufacturing processes
- Provide accurate size, weight, and flexibility
- Offer product certification and quality assurance
Sugna TMT bars come with clear branding, ISI certification, and guaranteed strength.
Why Low Prices Are a Red Flag
If a dealer offers TMT bars at unusually low prices, it’s often a sign of fake or recycled steel. Quality TMT bars have fixed production costs, so excessively low prices are suspicious. Always compare with market rates before buying.
Importance of Lab Testing for Large Projects
For large construction projects, you can send samples for lab testing before purchase. Certified labs test:
- Chemical composition
- Tensile strength
- Elongation and flexibility
- Corrosion resistance
This step helps ensure you receive genuine TMT bars.
How Sugna TMT Ensures Quality
At Sugna TMT, every bar undergoes:
- Chemical composition checks
- Rib pattern quality checks
- Flexibility and bend tests
- Corrosion resistance tests
We print clear brand markings and provide quality certificates with every order. This ensures you get 100% original TMT bars for your project.
Hire Experts Like Sugna TMT
Avoiding fake TMT bars is easy when you work with experts like Sugna TMT. We provide:
- Guaranteed original steel
- Certified quality with ISI marks
- Expert advice on choosing the right grade
- Fast delivery at competitive prices
Contact Sugna TMT today to buy genuine TMT bars for your project.
Conclusion
Fake TMT bars are a serious risk to any construction project. By checking for ISI marks, weight, rib patterns, and brand names, you can avoid fake or substandard steel. Always choose trusted brands like Sugna TMT to ensure your building stays strong and safe for decades.