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A girder is one of the components commonly used in the construction process of a bridge. A girder is a beam made of concrete or steel and is positioned between two supports (which can be piers or abutments).

In the process of manufacturing, quality control of girders is essential to ensure that they meet the specified specifications and standards. 

How is the Quality Control Stage of Girders Implemented?

Quality control of girders can be carried out at various stages, starting from material selection to the production process. Here's an explanation: 

1. Material Selection

One of the primary stages of girder quality control is material selection. At this stage, it includes the inspection of raw materials, accessory materials, and structural materials that will be installed. 

The materials used must meet the specified specifications and standards, such as concrete quality, reinforcement steel quality, and so on.

2. Production Process

After material selection, the next stage of girder quality control is the production process. This involves inspecting the fabrication process, checking the installed design, assessing the feasibility of the equipment used, inspecting products for moulding processes, and product identification.

Inspection and testing are carried out at various stages to ensure that the girder production process complies with the specified specifications and standards. 

The stages that require inspection and testing include: 

• Cutting and shaping of reinforced steel.
• Assembling reinforcement.
• Cleaning and lubricating the bedding mold.
• Fabrication of reinforcing iron, materials stressing, and accessories
• Cleaning and lubrication of side forms (mold walls).
• Casting process.
• Demoulding
• product repair after demoulding process.
• Product identification

3. Final Inspection

After the girder is finished, a final inspection is necessary to ensure that it meets the specified specifications and standards, making it suitable for use. This final inspection includes:

• Dimensional inspection.
• Strength inspection.
• Durability inspection.

This stage also involves the maintenance and storage of the products. 

Impact of Poor Quality Control

If quality control does not proceed as intended, several consequences may occur: 

• Strength.The strength of the product may not be optimized. 
• Cost. Additional costs may be incurred for repairs or, in the case of rejection, for production repetition. 
• Time. Additional time may be needed for any necessary repairs. 

Therefore, the importance of quality control for girders is to ensure compliance with established specifications and standards, thereby guaranteeing strength in supporting the structural load of the bridge.