Double-Twisted Hexagonal Mesh Gabions and Revet Mattresses (Metallic-Coated Steel Wire or Metallic-Coated Steel Wire ...

A975: Standard Specification for Double-Twisted Hexagonal Mesh Gabions and Revet Mattresses (Metallic-Coated Steel Wire or Metallic-Coated Steel Wire With Polymer Coating)

For engineers and designers involved in civil infrastructure and environmental projects, understanding the material specifications for critical erosion control and retaining structures is paramount. ASTM A975 provides an essential framework for the procurement and manufacturing of double-twisted hexagonal mesh gabions and revet mattresses, offering a proven standard for durability and performance in demanding applications.

What is A975?

ASTM A975 is an authoritative industry standard that defines the material and manufacturing requirements for gabions and revet mattresses constructed from double-twisted metallic-coated steel wire. It also specifies requirements for associated components like lacing wire, stiffeners, and fasteners, ensuring product integrity from raw material to finished unit. The standard addresses both basic metallic coatings and those with an additional polymer coating for enhanced protection.

Scope & Purpose

This comprehensive standard governs the production of double-twisted wire mesh used in gabions and revet mattresses, as well as the metallic-coated or polymer-coated steel wire components used for their assembly and installation. Its purpose is to ensure that these widely used erosion control and retaining structures are manufactured to consistent quality and performance criteria. The scope specifically covers the wire, mesh, and associated hardware, but does not extend to the fill material (typically stone) or the final installation procedures, which are addressed by other project-specific designs and standards.

Who Must Comply?

• • Primary audience: Civil Engineers, Geotechnical Engineers, Materials Engineers, Quality Control Inspectors, and Construction Managers.
• • Industries affected: Construction, Civil Engineering, Mining, Environmental Engineering, and Infrastructure Development.
• • Compliance nature: Voluntary, but often mandated by project specifications and design documents.
• • Enforcement: Compliance is typically verified through material certifications, laboratory testing, and site inspections by project engineers or third-party quality assurance personnel.

Key Requirements Overview

• • The standard requires that gabion and revet mattress mesh be manufactured from double-twisted hexagonal wire, forming a non-raveling structure.
• • Professionals must ensure the steel wire used for the mesh and accessories meets specific metallic coating requirements (e.g., zinc, zinc-aluminum-mischmetal, or aluminum) and, where applicable, an additional polymer coating.
• • Key provisions include detailed specifications for the wire's mechanical properties, including tensile strength, and the weight and adherence of the metallic coating, ensuring corrosion resistance.
• • The standard outlines different styles of coating, allowing specifiers to select the appropriate level of protection based on environmental exposure and service life expectations.
• • Requirements for lacing wire, stiffeners, and fasteners are also detailed to ensure seamless integration and structural integrity of the assembled units.

Related Standards & References

ASTM A975 frequently references other industry-leading ASTM standards to ensure material compatibility and testing consistency. Complementary standards include:

• • ASTM A90/A90M (Test Method for Weight [Mass] of Coating on Iron and Steel Articles with Zinc or Zinc-Alloy Coatings) and ASTM A428/A428M (