Dowel

Definition

A steel bar extending into two adjoining portions of a concrete construction, such as at a joint in a pavement slab, to connect the portions and transfer shear loads.

Purpose

Dowels are used to provide structural continuity and load transfer across joints in concrete construction. They help to prevent differential movement between adjoining sections, ensuring the stability and longevity of the structure.

Examples of Use

1. Pavement Joints: Used in road construction to maintain alignment and load transfer between concrete slabs.
2. Bridge Decks: Installed in bridge decks to ensure stability and load distribution across expansion joints.
3. Retaining Walls: Utilized to connect concrete sections in retaining walls, providing additional strength and stability.

Related Terms

• Rebar: Reinforcing steel bars used in concrete to provide tensile strength.
• Shear Key: A key cast into a concrete joint to transfer shear loads.
• Expansion Joint: A joint that allows for thermal expansion and contraction in construction materials.

Notes

• Dowels must be properly aligned to ensure effective load transfer.
• Corrosion-resistant dowels are used in environments where exposure to moisture and chemicals is a concern.