Metallic-Coated Steel Marcelled Tension Wire for Use With Chain Link Fence

A824: Standard Specification for Metallic-Coated Steel Marcelled Tension Wire for Use With Chain Link Fence

When specifying materials for robust and long-lasting fencing solutions, understanding the nuances of performance-critical components is paramount. ASTM A824 provides an essential framework for metallic-coated steel marcelled tension wire, a key element in the integrity of chain-link fence systems. This authoritative standard ensures that professionals can confidently select and implement tension wire that meets stringent quality and performance benchmarks.

What is A824?

ASTM A824 is a comprehensive standard specification that defines the requirements for metallic-coated carbon steel wire with a marcelled (waved) construction, specifically designed for use as tension wire in chain-link fences. Originating from ASTM's commitment to material standards, its primary purpose is to guarantee the uniformity, durability, and functional performance of this critical fencing component through defined material properties and manufacturing processes.

Scope & Purpose

This standard governs the manufacturing and material characteristics of 0.177-inch (4.50 mm) diameter metallic-coated steel marcelled tension wire. It specifies the acceptable types of metallic coatings, including aluminum-coated, zinc-coated (galvanized), and zinc-5% aluminum-mischmetal alloy-coated, along with their respective coating classes. The standard also details the requirements for the "marcelloing" process, which introduces waves to facilitate tensioning, and references complementary ASTM standards for mechanical properties, size tolerances, coating weight, and adherence. It does not cover the chain-link fence fabric itself or other fence components.

Who Must Comply?

• • Primary audience: Materials Engineers, Quality Control Inspectors, Production Engineers, Fence Installers, and Procurement Specialists involved in the specification, manufacturing, and installation of chain-link fencing systems.
• • Industries affected: Steel Manufacturing, Wire Manufacturing, Fencing Manufacturing, Construction, Infrastructure Development, and Landscaping.
• • Compliance nature: Voluntary, but often specified as mandatory in contracts and purchase orders to ensure material quality and performance.
• • Enforcement: Compliance is typically verified through product testing, third-party inspections, and certifications, as mandated by project specifications or purchasing agreements.

Key Requirements Overview

The standard requires that the tension wire be manufactured from specified steel grades and undergo a cold-drawing and metallic coating process. Professionals must ensure the wire's diameter conforms to precise tolerances and that the marcelled construction achieves a minimum offset and a maximum pitch, as measured under a specified tensile load. Key provisions include the selection of one of three approved metallic coating types (aluminum, zinc, or zinc-aluminum alloy) and their respective classes, ensuring adequate coating weight and adherence to the steel core. Furthermore, the standard mandates that the wire meets specific breaking strength requirements as defined in referenced ASTM documents.

Related Standards & References

ASTM A824 works in conjunction with several other proven standards to provide a complete specification package. Specification A817 is particularly crucial, as it details the requirements for metallic-coated steel wire used in both chain-link fence fabric and tension wire, establishing the baseline for mechanical properties, size, coating weight, and adherence. Terminology A902 provides essential definitions for metallic-coated steel products, ensuring a common understanding