Metallic-Coated Steel Smooth High-Tensile Fence and Trellis Wire

A854/A854M: Standard Specification for Metallic-Coated Steel Smooth High-Tensile Fence and Trellis Wire

For engineers and designers involved in agricultural infrastructure, landscape architecture, and construction, ensuring the reliability and longevity of fencing and trellis systems is paramount. ASTM A854/A854M provides the essential technical framework for specifying high-quality, metallic-coated steel wire, offering a proven foundation for durable and resilient applications.

What is A854/A854M?

ASTM A854/A854M is an authoritative industry standard that defines the requirements for smooth, high-tensile steel wire intended for use in fence and trellis applications. Originating from ASTM's commitment to material excellence, this specification ensures that the wire possesses specific mechanical properties and protective metallic coatings to withstand environmental stresses and mechanical loads effectively.

Scope & Purpose

This comprehensive standard governs the manufacturing and performance characteristics of 12½-gage (approximately 0.099-inch or 2.5-mm) metallic-coated steel wire designed for non-electrified fence and trellis structures. It specifically addresses two types of metallic coatings: Type I (zinc-coated, galvanized) and Type II (zinc-5% aluminum mischmetal alloy coated). While it details requirements for tensile strength, ductility, coating weight, and dimensional tolerances, it does not cover fabricated fence panels or other finished products.

Who Must Comply?

• • Primary audience: Materials Engineers, Manufacturing Engineers, Quality Control Inspectors, and Procurement Specialists.
• • Industries affected: Agriculture, Construction, Landscaping, and Manufacturing of fencing materials.
• • Compliance nature: Voluntary, but essential for manufacturers seeking to meet industry expectations and for specifiers requiring guaranteed performance.
• • Enforcement: Typically enforced through contractual agreements and quality assurance programs by manufacturers and end-users.

Key Requirements Overview

Professionals utilizing A854/A854M must ensure adherence to several core provisions:

• • Material Composition: The standard dictates that the base steel wire be produced via open-hearth, electric-furnace, or basic oxygen processes, and then cold-drawn to achieve desired properties.
• • Coating Types and Quality: Wire must be coated with either Type I (zinc) or Type II (zinc-5% aluminum mischmetal alloy), with specific minimum coating weight requirements (0.80 oz/ft² of uncoated wire surface).
• • Mechanical Properties: The wire must meet defined minimum tensile strength grades (e.g., 140 ksi, 180 ksi, 200 ksi) and ductility requirements, verified through tension and wrap tests.
• • Adherence and Finish: The metallic coating must demonstrate sufficient adherence to prevent flaking or cracking during bending and wrapping tests, and the wire must be free from manufacturing defects.
• • Dimensional Accuracy: The finished coated wire diameter must conform to specified tolerances (±0.004 inches or ±0.10 mm for the 0.099-inch diameter).

Related Standards & References

A854/A854M is often used in conjunction with other ASTM standards to ensure complete material characterization and quality control. Complementary standards include:

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