A series of couplers is used to connect reinforcing bars, requiring neither bar end preparation to form threads nor bar rotation.

The bar ends are supported within the coupler by two serrated saddles, and as the lock-shear bolts are tightened, the conical ends embed themselves into the bar. As this happens the serrated saddles bite into both the bar and the shell of the coupler. When the pre-determined tightening torque for the bolts is reached, the heads shear off leaving the top of the installed bolt slightly proud of the coupler. This provides an instant visual check of correct installation.

Features and benefits:

Easy to install and achieve failure loads higher than 115% of the characteristic yield strength of grade 500 reinforcing bar.
The lock-shear bolts of couplers up to and including the ET20 can be tightened using a ratchet wrench. For larger couplers a nut runner is recommended.
MBT Couplers can also be used to join imperial, plain round or deformed reinforcing bars.
Designed and manufactured in accordance with BS EN ISO 9001.
The most common sizes of ET Series Couplers are approved by the BBA and are covered by the Roads and Bridges Agrèment Certificate No. 98/R102.
Sizes ET10–ET28 [LA1] have been tested and approved by the DIBt and are covered by Approval No Z 1.5-10. In addition the coupler has been tested to show compliance with the following international design codes: BS EN 1992-1-1: 2004 (Eurocode 2), BS 5400, BS 8110, ACI 318 and DIN 1045 German code.

CARES Certificate 5083 Technical Approval TA1-A-B 5083 MBT ET Couplers (2024) Issue 3