Red Seal Ironworker (Reinforcing) Practice Exam

What is the role of a rebar chair during installation?

1. To enhance aesthetic appeal

2. To provide support and keep rebar in position

3. To distribute weight evenly

4. To prevent corrosion

The correct answer is: To provide support and keep rebar in position

The primary function of a rebar chair during installation is to provide support and keep the rebar in the correct position. Rebar chairs are designed to elevate the rebar above the formwork or ground, ensuring that the rebar will be properly embedded in the concrete once it's poured. This positioning is crucial because it guarantees that the rebar will perform its intended role of reinforcing the concrete, enabling it to withstand tensile forces and improve overall structural integrity. By keeping the rebar at the designated height, rebar chairs help maintain the correct clear cover, which is the distance from the surface of the concrete to the rebar. Proper clear cover is essential for the durability of the structure, as it protects the rebar from potential exposure to environmental elements, which could lead to corrosion. While some of the other options may have relevance in different contexts, they do not pertain to the core function of a rebar chair during installation. For instance, enhancing aesthetic appeal is not a consideration in reinforcement work, and distributing weight evenly is more about the overall design and engineering of the structure rather than the specific task of rebar placement. Similarly, while preventing corrosion is crucial for concrete structures, it is not a direct function of a rebar chair itself.