Episode 118 - Do You Really Need Rebar?

In this episode, we sit down with Claire Gandee from Bekaert to explore how steel fiber reinforced concrete is changing the way engineers design slab-on-grade and industrial floor systems. Using two comparable projects, one with conventional reinforcement and one with steel fibers, we discuss how the design process changes, what the fibers are actually doing after concrete cracks, and when steel fibers can replace traditional reinforcing steel. Claire explains how fibers influence crack control, joint spacing, durability, constructability, and long-term performance, while also addressing common misconceptions and practical considerations for specifying fiber reinforced concrete. We also dive into the real-world impacts on cost, schedule, sustainability, and field construction, highlighting where engineers can unlock the greatest value and where conventional reinforcement still has an important role. Whether you design warehouses, data centers, manufacturing facilities, or other concrete slabs, this episode provides practical guidance to help you confidently evaluate when steel fiber reinforced concrete is the right solution. Guest Profile: Claire Gandee, ME, is a senior technical manager at Bekaert, where she works with engineers, owners, and contractors to optimize slab-on-ground and industrial floor systems using steel fiber reinforced concrete. Drawing on her background in concrete design software and structural applications, Claire helps project teams improve constructability, performance, and sustainability through innovative reinforcement solutions. She is a frequent speaker and educator on industrial concrete floors, steel fiber reinforcement, and practical design methodologies. Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Bekaert Corporation. Links & Resources: (https://www.ideastatica.com/product-d...) StructurEd (our free study tool): TheEngineeringPodcast.com/StructurEd (https://theengineeringpodcast.com/str...) Reach out to us: TheEngineeringPodcast.com (https://theengineeringpodcast.com/) Instagram (  / struct_engineer_podcast  ) Linkedin (  / structural-engineering-podcast  ) Disclaimer: Here (https://www.theengineeringpodcast.com...)