ASTM A497 and A185 testing fixtures are used to determine the shear strength of welded steel wire mesh. There is no substantial difference between the two standards ASTM A 497 and ASTM A 185, so they use the same testing fixture.

Cut a welded joint from the steel wire mesh, with the transverse wire extending approximately 1 inch on each side of the longitudinal wire. The longitudinal steel wire extends 2 inches or more above the joint and approximately 5 inches below the joint. The fixture is adjustable to accommodate steel wires of different diameters. The V-shaped groove roller restricts the longitudinal steel wire to keep the transverse steel wire at the top of the support platform. There is a threaded hole on the top of the device. In this way, the connection with the crossbeam of the tensile testing machine is ensured. The bottom of the longitudinal steel wire is straightened until the weld fails, and this failure load will be reported.

Additional Information Source: 

ASTM Standard A 497-01 (2001), "Standard Specification for Welded Steel Wire Mesh and Deformation for Concrete Reinforcement," 

ASTM Standard A 185-02 (2002), "Standard Specification for Welded Steel Wire Mesh and General Use for Concrete Reinforcement,"

Ensuring Quality

The A 185/A 185M standard ensures that quality is not just a theoretical concept but is tested and proven. Tensile strength, reduction of area, and weld shear strength are thoroughly examined. The wire is put to the test, ensuring that when it finds its place in concrete structures, it performs optimally, adding to the structure’s strength and durability.