Rebar grades explained: B500B vs ASTM A615 Grade 60
Published October 20, 2026 · 4 min read · By the SURBAHLA technical desk
Two rebar families dominate Gulf projects: B500B to BS 4449 and ASTM A615 Grade 60. They are not interchangeable by name alone, so match the grade to the structural drawings.
Key differences
- B500B: characteristic yield strength 500 MPa with defined ductility class B
- ASTM A615 Grade 60: minimum yield 420 MPa
- Both are supplied as ribbed bars, typically in 12 m lengths and bundled by diameter
Estimating weight
Unit mass in kg per metre is approximately diameter² ÷ 162 (diameter in mm). A 16 mm bar weighs about 1.58 kg/m, so a 12 m bar is roughly 19 kg. Use our rebar weight calculator for whole schedules.
What to put on the BOQ
- Grade and standard (for example B500B, BS 4449)
- Diameter and length
- Total tonnage with a wastage allowance for laps and cutting
- Mill test certificates required with delivery