Objective

For determination of particle size distribution of fine, coarse and all-in-aggregates by sieving. 

Reference Standard

IS : 2386 (Part I) – 1963 – Method of test for aggregates for concrete (Part I) Particle size and shape. 

Equipment & Apparatus

• Balance (0-10kg)
• Sieves
• Oven

Test Sample Preparation

The sample is prepared from the larger sample either by quartering or by means of sample divider. Minimum sampling weights is as per table given below. 

Maxumum Nominal Size of Aggregate(mm)	Approximate Minimum Weight of Sample(kg)
63	100
50	100
40	50
25	50
20	25
16	25
12.5	12
10	6
6.3	3

 Procedure

1. The sample is dried to constant mass in the oven at a temperature of 110⁰±5⁰C and all the sieves which are to be used in the analysis are cleaned.
2. The oven dry sample is weighed and sieved successively on the appropriate sieves starting with largest. Each sieve is shaken for a period of not less than 2minutes.
3. On completion of sieving the material retained on each sieve is weighed. 

Calculation

The percent retained (%), Cumulative retained (%) & percent finer (%) is calculated.

Percent retained on each sieve = Weight of retained sample in each sieve / Total weight of sample

The cumulative percent retained is calculated by adding percent retained on each sieve as a cumulative procedure.

The percent finer is calculated by subtracting the cumulative percent retained from 100 percent. 

Report

The result of the sieve analysis is reported graphically on a semi log graph, taking sieve sizes on log scale and % finer in arithmetic scale. 

Safety & Precautions

• Use hand gloves while removing containers from oven after switching off the oven.
• Sieve shaker should be placed properly.
• Use safety shoes, mask & aprons at the time of test.
• Thoroughly cleaned & dried the container before testing.
• Special care should be taken that no outer air enters when using the balance.
• Before testing sieve shaker should be checked.
• After test clean the sieve by a soft brush.