What does barbell tensile strength mean?
Tensile strength is the stress a bar’s steel can take before it breaks, quoted in pounds per square inch (PSI). Werksan LionFit bars are rated at 195,000 PSI and Werksan’s competition-grade bars reach 215,000 PSI.
| Werksan bar | Code | Tensile strength |
|---|---|---|
| LionFit, men’s 20 kg | LB20 | 195,000 PSI |
| LionFit, women’s 15 kg | LB15 | 195,000 PSI |
| IWF competition, men’s 20 kg | CCB20 | 215,000 PSI |
| IWF competition, women’s 15 kg | CCB15 | 215,000 PSI |
Tensile strength vs yield strength
- Tensile strength: the point at which the steel breaks.
- Yield strength: the point at which the bar bends permanently. It rises with tensile strength but is quoted less often.
- In practice: a higher figure points to a stronger shaft that holds its shape under heavy, repeated loading.
Why PSI isn’t the whole story
- Sleeves and rotation: the bearings and bushings decide how the bar spins.
- Knurling: depth and pattern decide how it feels in the hand.
- Finish: chrome protects the steel from rust and chalk.
What to ask a supplier
- The tensile strength figure for the exact model.
- The warranty: every Werksan product carries 2 years.
- The product code: so the specification is unambiguous.
Common questions
Is 215,000 PSI good for a barbell?
Yes. 215,000 PSI puts Werksan’s competition-grade bars on a par with top-tier Olympic weightlifting brands.
Do I need the strongest bar?
Not always. For a gym or school, the 195,000 PSI LionFit bars are a strong, durable choice; competition-grade bars suit heavy daily use and competition.