Report No. CCEER 23-01This guideline presents a systematic fabrication and design approach for rebar cages using
mechanical U-bolt connectors to ensure their stability and safety during the lifting process. The
purpose of this guideline is to provide a straightforward tool for determining the layout of U-bolts
and lifting points, and to quickly estimate rebar cage deflection during lifting. The guideline is
based on a comprehensive experimental and analytical research campaign that investigated the
behavior of rebar cages reinforced with U-bolt connectors. The research aimed to promote the
adoption of U-bolt connectors as a viable solution to improve the overall safety of rebar cages not
only during lifting, but in the future for all phases of construction
