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Concrete & Masonryaka: load transfer dowelaka: smooth dowel

Dowel

In Plain English

A smooth steel rod placed across concrete joints to transfer loads between slabs without preventing them from moving.

Definition

A smooth steel bar used to transfer loads across a joint in concrete pavement or flatwork without restricting horizontal movement due to thermal expansion and contraction. Dowels are typically placed at mid-depth across contraction and construction joints and are greased or coated on one end to allow slippage. They differ from reinforcing bars in that they transfer shear loads, not tension.

Example

Epoxy-coated dowels were used at all construction joints in the parking lot to prevent corrosion in the salt-heavy environment.

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