HOW TO DETERMINE DRYING SHRINKAGE OF HARDENED CONCRETE?

Length Comparator for measuring initial drying shrinkage of concrete specimen

Aim This test method describes the procedure for determining the drying shrinkage or change in length of concrete specimen due to changes in moisture content. Apparatus A length measuring apparatus incorporating a dial gauge capable of measuring the length accurately to 0.005 mm. (see fig shown below) Drying oven capable of maintaining a temperature of … Read more

WHAT ARE THE FACTORS INFLUENCING COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH TEST RESULTS OF CONCRETE?

Correction factor for height-diameter ratio of a core

Factors Affecting Strength Test Results of Concrete Compressive strength is the most important property of concrete. The compressive strength of concrete is determined in the laboratory in controlled conditions. On the basis of this test result we judge the quality of concrete. But sometimes the strength test results vary so widely that it becomes difficult … Read more

HOW TO CAP CONCRETE CYLINDERS? (4 METHODS OF CAPPING)

Capping mould with fix bar

Capping of Concrete Cylinders Capping is required to give a smooth surface for applying compressive load to concrete cylinders. Only cylindrical concrete test specimens are capped using appropriate method. When the ends of cylindrical test specimens are not plane within 0.05 mm, it is required to cap those test specimens. The capped surfaces should be … Read more

HOW TO DO SAMPLING OF FRESH CONCRETE IN THE FIELD?

How to do sampling of fresh concrete

Sampling of Fresh Concrete To ensure it is representative of the whole truck load, a standard sample consists of scoopfuls taken from different parts of the batch and collected in bucket. Scoopfuls must be taken through the moving stream, as the load is discharged, sampling the whole width and depth (not just the top part). … Read more

COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH TEST OF CONCRETE (IS:516-1959)

Compressive Strength Test on Concrete

Objective The tests are required to determine the strength of concrete and therefore its suitability for the job.  Reference Standards IS : 516-1959 – Methods of tests for strength of concrete. Equipment & Apparatus Compression testing machine (2000 KN) Curing tank/Accelerated curing tank Balance (0-10 Kg)   Procedure  Representative samples of concrete shall be taken and … Read more

ACCELERATED CURING TEST OF CONCRETE (IS:9013-1978)

Objective Normally, the strength of concrete is found out after 7 days and 28 days. For some construction activities, it may be too late and need to know the strength earlier.  Reference Standards IS: 9013-1978-Method of making, curing and determining compressive strength of accelerated cured concrete test specimen. Equipment & Apparatus Accelerated curing tank Compression Testing Machine … Read more