Manual of Aggregate and Concrete Testing

Manual of Aggregate and Concrete Testing1
INTRODUCTION
This manual is intended to supplement, not in any way to supersede, the various ASTM test methods
for sampling and testing aggregate and freshly mixed and hardened portland-cement concrete. The
manual was prepared by Committee C09 on Concrete and Concrete Aggregates and has been accepted
by the Society for publication as information only. The manual is not a part of the ASTM methods.
Comments and suggestions on the manual will be welcomed by Committee C09.
Many specifications for aggregates and concrete are based on the results of ASTM methods of
testing and therefore strict adherence to the requirements of the test methods is important. Improper
use of test procedures can result in inaccurate data and mistaken conclusions about aggregate and
concrete quality. Accordingly, this manual directs attention to many of the factors that might affect the
results of the tests.
This manual does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use.
It is the responsibility of the user of these standards to establish appropriate safety and health
practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
The subjects covered in the manual appear in the following order:
Sections
Availability of Standards 1
Qualification of Personnel and Laboratory Evaluation 2
Samples 3
Terminology 4
Testing Apparatus 5
Safety Precautions 6
Inspection of Laboratory 7
Unit Weight and Voids in Aggregate (C 29/C 29M) 8
Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the Field 9
(C 31)
Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens 10
(C 39)
Obtaining and Testing Drilled Cores and Sawed Beams of Concrete 11
(C 42)
Surface Moisture in Fine Aggregate (C 70) 12
Flexural Strength of Concrete (Using Simple Beam with 13
Third-Point Loading (C 78)
Materials Finer than 75 µm (No. 200) Sieve in Mineral 14
Aggregates by Washing (C 117)
Specific Gravity and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate (C 127) 15
Specific Gravity and Absorption of Fine Aggregate (C 128) 16
Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates (C 136) 17
Unit Weight, Yield, and Air Content (Gravimetric) of Con- 18
crete (C 138)
Slump of Hydraulic Cement Concrete (C 143) 19
Length Change of Hardened Hydraulic-Cement Mortar and 20
Concrete (C 157)
Sampling Freshly Mixed Concrete (C 172) 21
Air Content of Freshly Mixed Concrete by the Volumetric 22
Method (C 173)
Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the Labora- 23
tory (C 192)
Fundamental Transverse, Longitudinal, and Torsional Fre- 24
quencies of Concrete Specimens (C 215)
Air Content of Freshly Mixed Concrete by the Pressure 25
Method (C 231)
1
This manual is under the jurisdiction of the ASTM Committee C09 on Concrete and Concrete Aggregates and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C09.97 on
Manual of Testing.
Published as information, October 1965; revised 1967, 1969, 1977, 1978, 1983, 1987, 1989, 1991, 1992, 1994, 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,
2006, 2007, 2008, and 2009.
1
Manual of Aggregate and Concrete Testing
Bleeding of Concrete (C 232) 26

Flexural Strength of Concrete (Using Simple Beam with 27
Center-Point Loading) (C 293)
Time of Setting of Concrete Mixtures by Penetration Resis- 28
tance (C 403)
Molds for Forming Concrete Test Cylinders Vertically (C 470) 29
Splitting Tensile Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens 30
(C 496)
Moist Cabinets, Moist Rooms, and Water Storage Tanks Used 31
in the Testing of Hydraulic Cements and Concretes (C 511)
Total Evaporable Moisture Content of Aggregate by Drying 32
(C 566)
Capping Cylindrical Concrete Specimens (C 617) 33
Resistance of Concrete to Rapid Freezing and Thawing (C 666) 34
Making, Accelerated Curing, and Testing Concrete Compres- 35
sion Test Specimens (C 684)
Reducing Samples of Aggregate to Testing Size (C 702) 36
Measuring Early Age Compressive Strength and Projecting 37
Later Age Strength (C 918)
Use of Unbonded Caps in Determination of Compressive 38
Strength of Hardened Concrete Cylinders (C 1231)
Sampling Aggregates (D 75) 39
Force Verification of Testing Machines (E 4) 40
1. AVAILABILITY OF STANDARDS 2.1 ASTM Specification E 329, for Use in the Evaluation of
Copies of the current Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol Agencies Engaged in Construction Inspection and/or Testing,2
04.02—Concrete and Mineral Aggregates, should be readily and Practice C 1077, for Testing Concrete and Concrete
available to all laboratory workers and inspectors in the field. Aggregate for Use in Construction and Criteria for Laboratory
Vol 04.01—Cement; Lime; Gypsum contains the Manual on Evaluation,2 identify and define the duties, responsibilities and
Cement Testing which includes valuable information on pro- requirements for personnel and equipment used in the testing
cedures and apparatus. New editions of ASTM standards and inspection of concrete and related materials.
should be reviewed promptly for changes so that procedures 2.2 The Cement and Concrete Reference Laboratory
can be kept current.1 (CCRL),3 under the sponsorship of ASTM Committees C01
and C09, and administered by ASTM and National Institute of
1.1 Construction specifications may refer to ASTM stan-
Standards and Technology (NIST), formerly the National
dards either with or without the year designation. If the year
Bureau of Standards, has a laboratory inspection service (for
designation is given, the standard bearing that designation
details of this service, see Section 7) for concrete and concrete
should be used. If the year designation is not given, normally
aggregates. CCRL also has a proficiency sample program for
the standard in effect at the time the bidding documents are
concrete, cement and pozzolans. Identical samples of material
issued is the one which is used unless the job specifications
are issued to participating laboratories who test the material
state otherwise. Sometimes the job specifications might state
and report the results to CCRL. These results are statistically
that the standard in effect at the time bids are received, or the
analyzed and a final report issued to the participating labora-
contract is awarded, or the current standard should be used. Job
tories including a rating of their results as compared to all other
specifications should be checked to determine that the correct
laboratories returning data. A similar reference sample program
standard is used, should there be differences. Unfortunately,
exists for aggregates. This program, conducted by an organi-
sometimes job specifications refer to ASTM standards that are
zation jointly administered by the Highway Subcommittee on
obsolete and several years out of date. It is possible in some
materials of the American Association of State Highway and
such cases that the specification writer might wish to use an
Transportation Officials (AASHTO) and NIST, is called the
older standard because of some provision it contains that does
AASHTO Materials Reference Laboratory (AMRL).4
not appear in later editions.
2.3 The Standard Practice for Laboratories Testing Concrete
and Concrete Aggregates for Use in Construction and Criteria
2. QUALIFICATION OF PERSONNEL AND
LABORATORY EVALUATION
2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
There is increasing emphasis and a requirement in many contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
cases by building codes, political jurisdictions and job speci- Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
fications that personnel, laboratories, and plants which test, the ASTM website.
3
CCRL, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Stop
inspect, or produce materials or do construction work be
8618, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-8618, www.ccrl.us.
approved, registered, licensed, inspected, certified, or accred- 4
AMRL, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive,
ited in various ways. Stop 8619, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-8619, www.amrl.net.
2
for Laboratory Evaluation (C1077) requires the use of an improperly sampled because erroneous conclusions can be
evaluation authority. A number of evaluation authorities for drawn from the test results. In any sampling system there are
concrete testing laboratories exist. To assist the laboratory in perhaps four stages, each of which requires careful attention
locating an evaluation authority the following list of organiza- and planning: (1) selection of a sampling plan which will
tions is provided. The list is merely a collection of organiza- provide the greatest amount of information at the least cost; (2)
tions willing to provide this service and is not an endorsement physical selection or gathering of samples in accordance with
of any particular organization. Others not listed may be able to predetermined procedures for the preselected locations; (3)
provide this service. The Cement and Concrete Reference testing; and (4) analysis of the data obtained. The first and last
Laboratory (CCRL)3; the AASHTO Accreditation Program of these four items are those that are most often neglected.
(AAP)4, the National Voluntary Accreditation Program (NV- Practice D 75, Sampling Aggregates,2 and Practice C 172,
LAP),5 the Construction Materials Engineering Council Sampling Freshly Mixed Concrete,2 provide information
(CMEC),6 the American Association for Laboratory Accredi- needed to obtain the samples, but do not discuss the problem of
tation (A2LA),7 WACEL, an Association of Engineering Labo- developing a specific sampling plan. Strictly speaking, there is
ratories, Inspection Agencies and Building Official (WACEL),8 no such thing as a representative sample. All materials are
Washington Association of Building Officials (WABO),9 and subject to periodic variation. Different shipments, lots, truck
International Accreditation Service (IAS)10 all offer the evalu- loads, car loads, or batches from a given supply will vary to
ation authority service for concrete and concrete aggregate some extent. In addition, the material comprising any of the
testing laboratories mentioned in the practice. specific units will seldom be precisely homogeneous. How-
2.4 A number of technician certification programs also ever, a successful sampling plan can establish the average
exist. These include the following: National Institute for characteristic of the material and determine the nature and
Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET),11 Ameri- extent of variability. As data become available it is possible to
can Concrete Institute (ACI),12 Portland Cement Association detect trends and decide if changes in production procedures or
(PCA),13 the Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI),14 processes are required to deliver materials of acceptable quality
WACEL,8 WABO,9 and International Code Council (ICC).15 with reasonably low percentages of defective or substandard
2.5 Other programs offer inspections, accreditation, and/or material. Prior to starting of construction, a statistical or
certifications. National Ready Mixed Concrete Association probability sampling plan should be developed and instructions
(NRMCA)16 offers an inspection and certification program of furnished to inspectors. Since the amount and nature of the
concrete plants and trucks. IAS10 offers accreditation for variations may be unknown, it will be necessary to take
Fabricator Inspection Program for Precast/Prestressed Con- samples more frequently at the start. Later, after patterns are
crete Plants and for IBC Special Inspection Agencies. PCI14 revealed, it should be possible to decrease sampling frequency
offers a plant certification program for manufacturers of unless or until excessive variation develops. Inspectors must
precast/prestressed concrete. WABO9 offers “Special Inspec- take samples in the manner, at the time, and from the location
tion Agency” accreditation to concrete special inspection specified in the sampling plan if conclusions based on the data
agencies and “Plant/Fabricator” certifications to precast/ are to be of value. The purpose of statistical sampling is to
prestressed concrete manufacturers. obtain results typical of the lot. Samples should not be biased
by procedures that intentionally select either the best or poorest
3. SAMPLES materials. Representative samples upon which the acceptance
Although this manual is primarily concerned with testing, or rejection of a material is based should be taken by the
some brief remarks about sampling are necessary. Sampling is purchaser’s authorized agent.
discussed in more detail in later Sections and in ASTM STP 169 3.1 The fundamentals of probability sampling have been set
B, Significance of Tests and Properties of Concrete and forth by ASTM Committee E11. The coal and ore industries,
Concrete Making Materials. No amount of testing will yield who have many problems similar to those found in the
correct answers if the samples are carelessly taken and do not aggregate field, have developed practical approaches that can
represent the material sampled. It is better not to test a material be adapted to the concrete field. The following references are
useful:
(1) ASTM Practice E 105, for Probability Sampling of
5
NVLAP, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Materials2
Stop 2140, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-2140, www.nist.gov/nvlap.
6
CMEC, 850 Courtland St., Suite B1, Orlando FL 32804, www.cmec.org. (2) ASTM Practice E 122, for Choice of Sample Size to
7
A2LA, 5301 Buckeystown Pike Suite 350, Frederick, MD 21704, Estimate the Average Quality of a Lot or Process2
www.a2la.org. (3) ASTM Practice E 141, for Acceptance of Evidence
8
WACEL, 7900 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 305, Bethesda, MD 20814,
www.wacel.org. Based on the Results of Probability Sampling2
9
WABO, P.O.Box 7310, Olympia, WA 98507-7310, www.wabo.org. (4) Bicking, C. A.“ Bibliography on Sampling of Raw
10
IAS, 5360 Workman Mill Road, Whittier, CA 90601, www.iasonline.org. Materials and Products in Bulk,” Technical Association of the
11
NICET, 1420 King Street, Alexandria, VA, www.nicet.org.
12
ACI, PO Box 9094, Farmington Hills, MI 48333-9094, www.aci-int.org. Pulp and Paper Industry, Vol 47, No. 5, May 1964
13
PCA, 5420 Old Orchard Road, Skokie, IL 60077, www.cement.org. (5) Symposium on Bulk Sampling, ASTM STP 242, Am.
14
PCI, 175 W. Jackson Blvd. #500, Chicago, IL 60604, www.pci.org. Soc. Testing Mats., ASTTA, 1958
15
Available from International Code Council (ICC), 500 New Jersey Ave., NW,
6th Floor, Washington, DC 20001-2070, http://www.iccsafe.org. (6) Symposium on Coal Sampling, ASTM STP 162, Am.
16
NRMCA, 900 Spring Street, Silver Spring, MD 20910, www.nrmca.org. Soc. Testing Mats., ASTTA, March 1955
3
(7) Symposium on Bulk Sampling, ASTM STP 114, Am. serious confusion in studying the results of old tests. Among
Soc. Testing Mats., ASTTA, 1951 suggested data to be recorded in a sample book are: kind of
(8) Tanner, L., and Deming, E.,“ Some Problems in the material, source, date of sampling, name of the person who
Sampling of Bulk Material,” Proceedings, Am. Soc. Testing sampled the material, date of receipt of the sample at the
Mats., ASTEA, Vol 49, 1949, pp. 1181–1188 laboratory, project, reference to related correspondence, tests to
(9) Symposium on Usefulness and Limitations of be made, person assigned the tests, and date of completion of
Samples,” Proceedings, Am. Soc. Testing Mats., ASTEA, Vol the report of tests. Many laboratories use specially printed
48, 1948, pp. 857–895 forms or books for properly associating results of tests with the
(10) Shook, J. F., “Significance of Test Results Obtained samples they represent.
from Random Samples, ASTM STP 362, 1964, p. 13 3.5 If any condition is encountered at any time between
(11) Duncan, A. J., “An Introduction to Acceptance Sam- sampling and completion of the test that suggests that the
pling Plans,” ASTM Standardization News, Vol 3, No. 9, requirements of the standard were not followed or that other-
September 1975, p. 10 wise may cast doubt on the accuracy or validity of the test
(12) Duncan, A. J., “What Sampling Plan to Use,” ASTM result, the condition should be documented. It is preferable to
Standardization News, Vol 3, No. 9, Sept., 1975, pp. 15–19 resample if possible. If re-sampling is not possible, a note
should be included in the test report, along with any evaluation
(13) Hahn, G. J. and Schilling, E. G., “An Introduction to
of the effects of the condition, documenting the condition.
the MIL-STD-105D Acceptance Sampling Scheme,” ASTM
Standardization News, Vol 3, No. 9, Sept., 1975, pp. 20–30 4. TERMINOLOGY
(14) Abdun-Nur, E. A., “Significance of Tests and Proper- Definitions of terms relating to concrete and concrete aggre-
ties of Concrete and Concrete-Making Materials,” ASTM STP gates are to be found in ASTM Terminology C 125, Relating to
169B, pp. 5–23 Concrete and Concrete Aggregates,2 and related methods and
Additional information is given in ASTM methods and specifications.
specifications, and in publications of the Federal Government,
Corps of Engineers, and Bureau of Reclamation. 5. TESTING APPARATUS
3.2 Samples must be adequately identified and shipped in Testing equipment should be purchased subject to compli-
clean, strong containers. Samples of cement should be shipped ance with ASTM specifications. In any event, the apparatus
in moisture-proof containers, packed in a suitable shipping should be tested for dimensions, weight, volume, material,
box. For coarse aggregate samples, heavy cloth bags, such as performance, and any other pertinent requirements. The opera-
duck of about 9-oz (300 g/m2) weight, is suitable, but in any tor should not assume that new equipment meets ASTM
case the instructions of the supervising official should be specifications. The operator should be satisfied that the equip-
followed. Bags or boxes for samples containing fine materials ment meets all requirements. With equipment use, wear does
must be tight enough to prevent the loss of the “fines.” If the occur and the original calibrations may no longer be valid.
moisture content of a sample is important, the container must Before making calibrations, reference should be made to
be moisture tight. Containers must be clean. Samples must not applicable sections of ASTM standards and publications of the
be placed in “used” sacks that contain residues of undesirable National Institute of Standards and Technology relative to
or injurious material, such as sugar, flour, or certain sack weights, weighing devices, measurements of volumetric glass-
preservatives. The sizing in some new sacks can contaminate ware, and pertinent standard tables. Existing equipment should
damp sand samples and entrain small percentages of air if the be checked to see that it meets requirements of newly revised
sand is used in concrete. specifications.
3.3 The sample container should be labeled or tagged to 5.1 Proper maintenance of testing apparatus should be
convey the necessary information. A duplicate label that will emphasized not only for the sake of appearance but because
not rot or mildew should be placed in the container. A good housekeeping in a laboratory promotes care and interest
transmitting letter should be sent to the laboratory with a copy in the work. Operators should be instructed and trained so that
of the letter inside the sample container if possible. Tags and the proper use and maintenance of apparatus becomes a habit,
letters should contain all the data requested or deemed perti- not an occasional observance.
nent. If the sample container has a removable top, the identi- 5.2 Because weighing equipment is so widely used in the
fying marking must be placed on, or connected to, the body of concrete and concrete-aggregate tests, some general remarks
the container, not on the top. (Tops may become interchanged.) about such apparatus are presented here. Scales and balances
If certain samples are later transferred to laboratory storage should have appropriate capacities, and should also possess the
containers, the numbers should be affixed to the containers, not sensitivity and accuracy required by the particular test method
to removable lids. being used. Sensitivity and accuracy should not be confused as
3.4 When samples are received at the laboratory, pertinent they are not the same. Noncompensating spring scales should
identifying information should be recorded in a permanent not be used. The operator is cautioned against small weighings
book or log. The assignment of consecutive numbers to on scales of large capacity. Weighing apparatus should be
samples as received is a common practice, but numbers should periodically checked to ensure that it is in good condition and
not be repeated, as starting anew each year, unless the numbers meets the requirements of the aggregate and concrete tests
contain additional identification such as using the year desig- involved. The accuracy of scales should be checked: at least
nation in the number code. Repetition of numbers has caused every 6 months; when there is some doubt about their
4
accuracy; or after they have been transported or mistreated. proper storage of combustible or explosive materials as well as
The accuracy can be verified with test weights kept for this telephone numbers of fire department, doctors, ambulance and
purpose alone or by utilizing the services of others such as police should be conspicuously posted.
state, county, or city weights and measures departments or the 6.1 Among some of the more commonly mentioned precau-
service department of scale manufacturers. Information about tions are: proper grounds on electric equipment, proper fusing,
requirements and definitions for weighing apparatus, as well as suitable extension cords where their use is necessary, and
the methods of testing such equipment are found in the adequate lighting.
appropriate federal publications. One reference that should be 6.2 Provide suitable enclosures for moving parts of ma-
on file in every concrete laboratory is a recent edition of the chines, particularly belts and gears. Laboratory personnel have
National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 44, been badly injured by contact with exposed gears or by being
Specifications, Tolerances, and Other Technical Requirements caught in a machine while testing specimens while alone in a
for Weighing and Measuring Devices.17 laboratory. In a latter case, the operator managed to kick the
5.2.1 All parts of balances and scales should be kept free switch off with his foot; this he could not have done if the
from sand and dirt. Overloading must be avoided. Balances switch had been located at a distance. Keep hands out of
should be located on a substantial, stable base, and should not moving machinery, and do not touch revolving shafts or rolls,
rest on easily removable shims. Zero settings are readily or even the ends of the moving shafts, even though the parts
disturbed if the balances rest on uneven, slippery slabs. The may be polished and smooth. It is particularly dangerous to
weighing of relatively small quantities of some materials, such touch such moving parts with rags or gloves. One experienced
as an admixture, will usually require weighing equipment other laboratory man lost part of a hand when he touched a moving
than that used for the aggregates and cement. Balances must be roll with his rubber-gloved hand while cleaning the apparatus
glass-enclosed if weighings are to be made to fractions of a in the process of grinding some material. Moving parts will
gram. All weights used with the laboratory scales and balances quickly seize cloth, rubber, and so forth, and may draw the
should be plainly marked; their magnitude and units should not operator’s hand or arm into the machinery.
be a matter of memory or guess. The weights should be kept in 6.3 Contact with cement powder or fresh (unhardened)
suitable protective containers, and they should be periodically cementitious mixtures can cause skin irritation, severe chemi-
checked for accuracy. Care should be taken not to intermix the cal burns, or serious eye damage. Avoid contact with eyes and
weights from a number of platform scales that may have skin. Wear waterproof gloves, a fully buttoned long sleeve
different lever ratios; such intermingling of weights has oc- shirt, full-length trousers, and tight fitting eye protection when
curred and has caused large errors in the weighings of the working with these materials. Wash cement powder or fresh
component parts of laboratory concrete mixes. Care should be (unhardened) cementitious mixtures from your skin with fresh,
taken to avoid the loss of set screws or other parts of rider clean water immediately after contact. Indirect contact through
weights on balances and platform scales. clothing can be as serious as direct contact, so promptly rinse
5.3 It is sometimes helpful to make one member of the out cement powder or fresh (unhardened) cementitious mix-
laboratory staff responsible for periodic maintenance and tures from clothing. Seek immediate medical attention if you
calibration of equipment. A schedule for this should be have persistent or severe discomfort. In case of eye contact,
established. The dates and results of calibrations should be flush with plenty of water for at least 15 min. Consult a
recorded. physician immediately.
5.4 Apparatus for measuring and controlling temperature,
6.4 When mixing or testing fresh concrete, wear safety
relative humidity, or both, should be frequently checked to
glasses, goggles, or face shields to keep concrete from splash-
determine whether the specified conditions are being main-
ing into the eyes. When working around noisy equipment such
tained. Recording instruments must be checked frequently,
as crushers or screening plants, use ear plugs. Use dust masks
particularly as to whether the proper charts are being used.
in dusty areas. Safety shoes are always advised.
5.5 Parts of apparatus that come into contact with concrete
and mortar should not be made of material that will react with 6.5 When performing strength testing, a means to contain
the concrete or mortar under the conditions of the test. possible fragmentation of the test specimen should be used at
5.6 Information that relates to the care and use of apparatus all times. A shield made of perforated or expanded metal,
in specific methods of test is usually included in the related test certain type of plastics such as Lexan, or a heavy fabric wrap
sections of the manual. placed around the cylinder should be used to protect the
operator and others in the area. The operator and anyone
6. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS observing the test should wear goggles, safety glasses, or a face
Safety precautions are essential, and one person should be shield. Safety shoes should always be worn when working in
authorized to see that the required safety precautions are the laboratory.
observed. First aid training not only provides instruction on 6.6 Keep from under suspended loads. Use a distinctive
procedures to be followed in an emergency but also points up color of paint for the moving parts of laboratory machinery.
the importance of safety measures. Emergency instructions on Provide elevators and freight lifts with automatic gates. Use
goggles, safety glasses, face shields, hard hats, safety shoes,
gloves, and respirators whenever they are needed. Do not use
17
For sale by the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing chisels with broomed ends. Be cautious about flying fragments.
Office, Washington, DC 20402. Remember that dry cement splashes like water and that eye
5
protection is necessary, particularly if the cement is hot. proficiency samples of construction materials such as hydraulic
Provide collectors for such dust as may be produced in dry cements, pozzolan, and concrete. Laboratories participating in
grinding, sawing, or otherwise finishing or cutting concrete these cooperative testing programs find them to be of great
specimens. assistance in evaluating the quality of their work. Charges are
6.7 Some materials now in use in the concrete laboratory made for both the inspection and proficiency sample services.
warrant special precautions, for example, sulfur, sodium hy- Inquiries should be addressed to the Cement and Concrete
droxide, mercury, sulfur cements, benzol, alcohol, and carbon Reference Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and
tetrachloride. An emergency eye wash station is advisable. Technology, 100 Bureau Drive Stop 8618, Gaithersburg, MD
6.8 Some special lamps must be properly shielded to protect 20899-8618.
the eyesight of workers. Proper ventilation should be provided,
particularly in closed air-conditioned laboratories. Hoods 8. UNIT WEIGHT AND VOIDS IN AGGREGATE
should be provided with suitable fire extinguishing equipment (See Test Method C 29/C 29M)2
when warranted. Safety showers and eye wash fountains Samples for test must be carefully selected. Before use, the
should be at hand for operators in some lines of work, and sample should be thoroughly mixed and spread to a uniform
these should be in working order. Their water supply line must depth on a flat surface. The use of a flat rectangular scoop with
not be controlled by any valve or valves that can be turned off sides approximately the same depth as the pile of aggregate to
by unauthorized personnel. be tested will tend to reduce segregation when filling the
6.9 Doors to all rooms and special chambers, particularly measure.
fog rooms and freezing-and-thawing spaces, should be fitted 8.1 Measures, particularly the larger ones, should be pro-
with latches that can be readily operated from the inside as well vided with suitable handles for the safety and convenience of
as from the outside. personnel. Attention must be given to the requirements of the
6.10 A telephone should always be available, particularly method regarding relation between size of measure and size of
when an operator is working in the laboratory alone or at night. largest particles of aggregate. The measures should be cali-
6.11 Capping room, when sulfur is used, should be properly brated as described in the test method. A glass plate is used
ventilated with an exhaust fan or hood. A fire extinguisher during the calibration to make sure that the water completely
should also be located in the room. fills the vessel. A film of water pump grease or chasis grease
6.12 Most of these safety admonitions have been prompted placed on the rim of the container will help prevent leaking.
by recollections of actual happenings and they should not be Occasionally the rims of new containers are not plane, and
treated lightly. Most of all, use common sense. calibration is impossible unless high spots are removed. The
rim can be made plane by inverting the measure and grinding
7. INSPECTION OF LABORATORY it on a steel or glass plate using emery cloth, carborundum, or
An occasional inspection of a concrete laboratory by appro- valve grinding compound as an abrasive.
priate members of that laboratory’s staff is suggested to learn 8.2 The rodding method requires that for the second and
if the laboratory has proper equipment, employs standard test final layers, the tamping rod shall penetrate the last preceding
procedures, practices good housekeeping, and observes safety layer of aggregate in the measure; it is not practicable to attain
precautions. This inspection should indicate management’s this much penetration with many graded coarse aggregates.
interest in the maintenance and improvement of the laboratory During rodding, the measure should rest firmly on a rigid base,
as a whole. and there should be no shaking or jolting of the measure.
7.1 Since 1929, there has been maintained at the National Jigging, vibration, or jolting may give appreciably different
Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) a Research results from those obtained by rodding, particularly in the case
Associate Program presently known as the “Cement and of the finer materials. Reports should state clearly how the
Concrete Reference Laboratory.” This program is a cooperative measure was filled. When this method is used for lightweight
project of NIST and the American Society for Testing and aggregate, ASTM Specifications C 330, C 331, or C 332,2 the
Materials, under the sponsorship of ASTM Committees C01 on shoveling procedure is used.
Cement and C09 on Concrete and Concrete Aggregates. The 8.3 It is difficult to strike off the aggregate at the top of the
most important function of the CCRL is to promote uniformity measure when large pieces of aggregate protrude above the
and improvement in testing through the field inspection of level of the rim. It may be necessary to remove a few pieces of
cement, concrete, concrete aggregate, steel reinforcing bar, and the aggregate by hand in order to secure an average filled
pozzolan testing laboratories. Using load cells, micrometers, condition but no finer aggregate should be added to fill the
balances, testing weights, and thermometers, which are trace- voids in the surface. Overmanipulation during strike off will
able to the NIST, the CCRL inspectors evaluate equipment and introduce additional compaction. Strike-off procedures are
procedures to the requirements listed in the relevant test particularly important in loose weight determinations made by
methods. In the concrete and concrete aggregate areas, the the shoveling procedure. Uniform procedures must be followed
inspection work is based on ASTM C 1077, Practice for if different laboratories, different operators, or duplicate tests
Laboratories Testing Concrete and Concrete Aggregates for by the same operator are to check within the precision
Use in Construction and Criteria for Laboratory Evaluation.2 requirements of the method.
These services are advisory in nature, utilization is on a 8.4 The method provides the formula for calculating the
voluntary basis, and there is no direct regulatory action voids in aggregates after compacting in a standard size measure
involved. A second important function is the distribution of in accordance with C 29/C 29M procedures; the term “voids”
6
applies to the space between the aggregate particles under test TABLE 1 Selection of Specimen Size
and is expressed as a percentage of total volume. Aggregate Maximum Nominal Specimen
Size Size Maximum Mold
8.5 Determinations of voids in aggregate also can be per- Number Size Size
formed on material compacted on a damp-loose or an inun-
#2 3 in. (75 mm) 21⁄2 in. (75 mm) Wet sieve,
dated basis for special reasons. In addition, flow methods of then 6 by 12 in.
loose consolidation as proposed by Rex and Peck (Public (150 by 300 mm)
Roads) and M. H. Wills (ASTM) are sometimes used to
#3 21⁄2 in. (75 mm) 2 in. (50 mm) 6 by 12 in.
determine void content which provides an index of particle (150 by 300 mm)
shape which can be used to estimate mixing water required in
concrete proportioning. #4 2 in. (50 mm) 11⁄2 in. (37.5 mm) 6 by 12 in.
(150 by 300 mm)
8.6 The percentage of voids has an effect on the concrete
proportions determined by ACI 211 procedures. The shape and #5 11⁄2 in. (37.5 mm) 1 in. (25 mm) 6 by 12 in.
(150 by 300 mm)
grading of particles affects the voids and, generally, smooth, or 4 by 8 in.
rounded particles will show less voids contained than crushed, (100 by 200 mm)
angular particles.
#6 1 in. (25 mm) ⁄ in. (19 mm)
34 6 by 12 in.
(150 by 300 mm)
9. MAKING AND CURING CONCRETE TEST or 4 by 8 in.
SPECIMENS IN THE FIELD (100 by 200 mm)
(See Practice C 31)2 #7 ⁄ in. (19 mm)

34 ⁄ in. (12.5 mm)
12 6 by 12 in.
(150 by 300 mm)
Practice C 31 covers the procedure for making and curing or 4 by 8 in.
concrete cylinders and beam specimens in the field. When (100 by 200 mm)
casting concrete specimens in the field, it is also required to
#8 ⁄ in. (12.5 mm)
12 ⁄ in. (9.5 mm)
38 6 by 12 in.
determine the slump, air content and temperature of the (150 by 300 mm)
concrete. Determining the density of the concrete may also be or 4 by 8 in.
required. (100 by 200 mm)
9.1 An important part of properly casting specimens in the

field is proper sampling of the concrete. The sampling of
concrete is discussed in Sections 3 and 21 of this manual. 9.3.2 The concrete cylinders should be molded where the
Improper sampling often leads to non-representative results cylinders will be stored for initial curing. Cylinders should not
and may be costly to all parties, including the testing agency, be moved even a few feet if there is any way to avoid it. If
the concrete supplier, and the contractor. This unnecessary cylinders must be moved they should be supported by the base
additional expense is caused by the negative influence im- of the mold and moved immediately after finishing. If the
proper sampling may have on the compressive strength, slump, surface is marred while moving, refinish the surface of the
density, and air content. cylinder. The molds should stand on a level and firm surface
9.2 The field technicians making and curing specimens for that is free from vibration. When the single use mold rests on
acceptance testing shall be certified. The certification shall a soft or uneven surface, the bottom of the hardened specimen
include both written and performance examinations. may be uneven and difficult to prepare for the compression test.
9.3 For compressive strength specimens made in the field in If the axis of the cylinder is not vertical, the ends may not be
accordance with Practice C 31, the specified mold size is either parallel and will need to be sawed or ground to prevent thick
6 by 12 in. (150 by 300 mm) or 4 by 8 in. (100 by 200 mm). wedge-shaped caps. These conditions may adversely affect
The diameter of the mold must be at least three times the compressive strength results.
nominal maximum size aggregate in the concrete. In cases 9.3.3 Cylinders should be properly filled and consolidated
where the maximum aggregate is larger than 2 in. (50 mm), wet by either rodding or vibration. Concrete with a slump of less
sieve the concrete as described in Practice C 172 to remove than 1 in. (25 mm) must be consolidated by vibration. Concrete
aggregate larger than 2 in. (50 mm). (See Table 1 for selection with a slump of 1 in. (25 mm) or greater may be consolidated
of specimen size.) Avoid the inclination of referring to the mold by either rodding or vibration. Consolidation equipment and
size as either “large” or “small” because sizes smaller than 4 by technique will vary depending upon the specimen size (See
8 (100 by 200 mm) are permitted for use in the laboratory and Tables 2 and 3). Use only rods meeting the requirements of the
sizes larger than 6 by 12 in. (150 by 300 mm) are available. practice. The use of rebar or other non-standard rods/tools is
9.3.1 It is important to identify each individual cylinder. not permitted. Care should be taken when vibrating high-slump
Place identifying marks on the outside of the molds, in case the
specimen molds are disarranged in handling or transfer. The TABLE 2 Molding Requirements for Rodding Cylinders
practice stipulates that if removable lids are used on top of the Cylinder Rod Number Number
mold, the identifying marks cannot be placed on the lids. Diameter Diameter of Layers of Roddings
in. (mm) in. (mm) per Layer
Removable lids are often separated before information is
transferred to the cylinder. Etching or scribing of information 4 (100) ⁄ [10]
38 2 25
into the surface of freshly fabricated cylinders is prohibited by 6 (150) ⁄ [16]

58 3 25
the practice.
7
TABLE 3 Molding Requirements for Vibrating Cylinders and 80 °F (16 and 27 °C) and in an environment preventing
Cylinder Maximum Number Number moisture loss from the specimens. For concrete mixtures with
Diameter Vibrator of Layers of Vibrator a specified strength of 6000 psi (40 MPa) or greater, the initial
in. (mm) Diameter Insertions
in. (mm) per Layer curing temperature shall be between 68 and 78 °F (20 and 26
4 (100) 1 (25) 2 1
°C). Record the temperature using a maximum-minimum
thermometer. This information is important because tempera-
6 (150) 11⁄2 [39] 2 2 ture deviations from those required may directly affect the
strength of cylinders. The practice requires that the specimens
shall not be transported until at least 8 h after final set.
concrete to avoid segregation. The practice advises the dura- Normally, final set occurs 6 to 10 h after batching. The top of
tion of vibration should be 5 s or less for concrete with slumps the cylinder should be covered by a plastic or metal lid, a metal
greater than 3 in. or glass plate, or a plastic bag. When using a cover made from
9.3.4 Lack of attention to proper consolidation techniques a flexible material, do not allow the cover to contact the
can result in segregation and honeycombing. Excessive over- concrete. A plastic bag placed over the top of the cylinder with
filling of the last mold layer can cause a concentration of large a rubber band near the top of the mold does an excellent job.
aggregate at the top, with accompanying overflow of mortar. When using cardboard molds, the rubber band should be
Ideally, only enough concrete should be placed as the top layer placed close to the top of the mold to avoid wetting the outside
so that it can be finished without addition or removal of of the paper mold from condensation inside the plastic bag.
concrete. When consolidating with a tamping rod, after each Burlap or wood should not be in contact with the fresh
upper layer is placed, allow the rod to penetrate through the concrete. Prevent moisture loss during transportation by wrap-
layer being rodded. After rodding each layer, tap the outside of ping the specimens in plastic, wet burlap, by surrounding them
the mold lightly 10 to 15 times with a mallet to close any holes with wet sand, or tight fitting plastic caps on plastic molds.
left by rodding and to release any large air bubbles that may
9.3.5.2 For field curing, try to mimic the curing conditions
have been trapped. An open hand should be used in place of a
of the formed concrete. Store cylinders in or on the structure as
mallet when using light gauge single use molds which are
near to the point of deposit of the concrete represented as
susceptible to damage when tapped with a mallet. If consoli-
possible. Protect all surfaces of the cylinders from the elements
dation is by vibration, care should be taken not to overvibrate.
in as near as possible the same way as the formed work.
Usually sufficient vibration has been applied as soon as the
Provide the cylinders with the same temperature and moisture
surface of the concrete has become relatively smooth. Continue
vibration only long enough to achieve proper consolidation of environment as the structural work. Test the specimens in the
the concrete. Over-vibration may cause segregation. Removal moisture condition resulting from the specified curing treat-
of the vibrating element too quickly may result in the creation ment. Specimens made for the purpose of determining when a
of a mortar pocket. Unusual care must be used in molding structure is capable of being put in service shall be removed
concrete of dry consistency in single use molds to prevent from the molds at the time of removal of form work.
damage to the bottom of the mold. When fabricating more than 9.3.5.3 When hardened specimens are removed from the
one specimen at a time, the preferred method is to fill and molds, they should be marked to retain their identity during
consolidate the same layer of all specimens before continuing curing. Black graphite crayon is good for marking a concrete
with the next layer. This will increase the uniformity of the surface that has been in contact with an oily mold. Felt tip
cylinders. marking pens are generally satisfactory. Avoid ordinary colored
9.3.5 There are two separate curing methods discussed in crayons, because in moist air their markings will quickly
the practice with distinct purposes. vanish. If identification marks are placed on the top of a
Standard cured specimens may be used for: cylinder, they should also be placed on the sides to prevent loss
Acceptance testing for specified strength of identification after capping.
Checking the adequacy of mixture proportions for strength 9.3.6 Major problems in transporting cylinders from the
Quality control field to the laboratory include moisture loss, damage from
Field-cured specimens may be used for: jarring, and temperatures outside the curing range. During
Determination of whether a structure is capable of being put transporting, protect the specimens with suitable cushioning
in service material to prevent damage from jarring. During cold weather,
Comparison with test results of standard cured specimens or protect the specimens from freezing with suitable insulation
with test results from various in-place test methods material. Practice C 31 specifies that the molded cylinder be
Adequacy of curing and protection of concrete in the protected against moisture loss. Moisture loss can be mini-
structure mized by transporting cylinders in their molds with tight fitting
Form or shoring removal time requirements lids or covers. Where it is necessary to demold cylinders prior
Basically, standard curing is used for evaluating the concrete as to transportation, moisture loss can be minimized by wrapping
supplied by the concrete supplier, while field curing is used for the cylinders in plastic or by surrounding the cylinders in wet
evaluating the concrete in the structure. sand or wet sawdust. Damage due to jarring can be prevented
9.3.5.1 For standard curing, the specimens need to be in a by placing the cylinders in padded containers that prevent
temperature controlled environment. The specimens shall be movement. Practice C 31 requires that transportation not ex-
stored for a period up to 48 h in a temperature range from 60 ceed 4 h.
8
9.3.7 In some instances a cylinder not cast by the laboratory 9.4.4 If consolidation has been accomplished with rodding,
may be tested in the laboratory. Whenever a cylinder is not in close the voids of each layer by tapping the outside of the
the charge of the laboratory from casting to testing, extensive mold; spade the concrete along the sides and ends of the mold
notes should be taken. If a cylinder is not cast by the laboratory with a trowel. Do not spade a beam that has been consolidated
but delivered to the laboratory after initial curing, a note should by vibration.
be made which describes the initial curing, the transportation 9.4.5 The practice allows for two types of curing, depending
container used, and the condition of the cylinder upon receipt. on the job specification. The Reporting section of the practice
This information may prove useful later if the cylinder fails to requires that the type of curing be reported along with details
meet expected strength requirements. of the curing.
9.4 Practice C 31 also covers the making and curing of 9.4.6 When field curing, the beam is cured as nearly as
flexural test specimens or beams in the field. The earlier possible, in the same manner as the concrete in the structure. If
discussion of selecting a site to mold the cylindrical test the beam represents a pavement, store specimens on the ground
specimens and the curing after molding apply to the flexural with the sides and ends banked with moist sand or soil.
specimens as well. Treatment of the top surface should be the same as the
9.4.1 Practice C 31 requires that molds shall be watertight pavement it represents. If the beam represents structure, store
as judged by their ability to hold water poured into them. Most the concrete as near as possible to the structure it represents.
beam molds require the use of a sealant to meet this require- Again, the temperature and moisture environment should be
ment. In addition to the grease, modeling clay, or molten the same as the structure. At 24 h prior to testing, immerse the
microcrystalline wax mentioned in the practice, the laboratory beam in a water storage tank containing calcium hydroxide
may wish to consider the use of silicon, latex or acrylic saturated water. For complete information on water storage
caulking as possible sealants. Their ease in application, quick tank requirements, see the Water Storage Tank Section in the
setting time, continued flexibility and availability make any Specification for Moist Cabinets, Moist Rooms, and Water
one of the three a good choice. Care should be taken in Storage Tanks in the Testing of Hydraulic Cements and
applying the sealant to the joints to avoid excess sealing Concretes (C 511).
material in the interior of the mold. This could result in 9.4.7 When standard curing is used, the curing is broken
irregularities along the edges of the beam. A smooth bead of down into two stages: the initial curing when the specimen is
sealant approximately 1⁄16 in. fillet on the interior corners is still in the mold and the final curing after the specimen has
recommended. been removed from the mold.
9.4.2 Many beam molds are of the reusable type and, as 9.4.8 Two primary concerns during the initial curing period
such, should be maintained in good condition. The inside are to maintain the specified temperature range and prevent
surfaces should be smooth and free from a build-up of moisture loss from the beam. If the beams are allowed to dry
hardened concrete. The use of mineral oil or a non-reactive during any part of the curing period, shrinkage cracks may
form release agent is required on the inner surfaces of the form in the specimen, thereby lowering the flexural strength. It
mold. Unless required by project specification, the minimum is especially important that beams be protected from moisture
size of beams made in the field shall have a depth and width of loss during the initial period of curing in the mold. Tempera-
at least 6 in. The length of the mold shall be at least three times tures during the initial curing period must be maintained
larger than the depth plus two inches. For 6 in. deep beams the between 60 to 80 °F (16 to 27 °C). For flexural strengths above
minimum length is 20 in. ((3 x 6 in. depth) + 2 inches = 20 700 psi, the initial curing temperature is 68 to 78 °F. The Initial
inches). The sides and bottom of the mold shall be free of Curing Section in the practice details several ways to accom-
warpage and be within 1⁄8 in. of the nominal 6 in. width or plish these goals.
depth. The use of molds not conforming to the requirements of 9.4.9 In the final curing period, the beams are removed from
the practice can adversely affect test results. the mold and cured in a more closely controlled environment.
9.4.3 While molding the beam, consolidation is accom- When de-molding the beam, the mold should be completely
plished by rodding or vibration. If rodding is used, the number disassembled and the beam should be carefully removed to
of strokes per layer is dependent on the top surface area. avoid damage to the concrete. Do not attempt to remove the
Consult the Molding Requirements of Rodding table in the beam by force. Tools such as hammers, screwdrivers, mallets,
practice for the correct number of strokes. If consolidation is or tamping rods can damage both the molds and the concrete
by vibration, care should be taken not to over-vibrate. Usually, and should not be used. Within thirty minutes of de-molding,
sufficient vibration has been applied as soon as the surface of store the beam in either a moist room or water storage tank
the concrete has become relatively smooth. Continue vibration conforming to the requirements of Specification C 511 until 20
only long enough to achieve proper consolidation of the h prior to testing. A good way to avoid shrinkage cracks is to
concrete. Over-vibration can result in segregation of the store the beams in saturated lime water for the entire curing
concrete. Removal of the vibrating element too quickly may period after de-molding. During the last 20 h of curing, the
result in the creation of a mortar pocket. beams must be stored in a water storage tank.
9
9.4.10 Another factor which can influence the ultimate

strength of beams is transportation. If at all possible, beams
should be made at the location of the final curing. If beams
must be transported, the beam must be continually supported
over its entire length due to its weight. A bed of damp sand is
one method of providing this support. Prevent damage due to
jarring by providing cushioning material between the beam and
other items in the vehicle. The beams should not be transported
on end. Temperature and moisture loss are also concerns during
transportation. In extreme temperature conditions, some
method of temperature control or insulation should be pro-
vided. Wet burlap or plastic sheet covering all exposed areas
will prevent moisture loss. The practice limits the transporta-
tion time to 4 h.
10. COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF CYLINDRICAL
CONCRETE SPECIMENS (See Test Method C 39)2
Test Method C 39 describes the testing of concrete cylindri-
cal test specimens for compressive strength. Molded cylinders
are prepared based on Practice C 312 which describes field
preparation or Practice C 1922 for laboratory preparation.
Drilled concrete cores which are also cylindrical test specimens
are obtained by following procedures in Test Method C 42.2
Prior to testing, cylinder ends should be capped or ground in
accordance with the requirements of Practice C 617.2 An
alternative to C 6172 is the unbonded cap system described in
Practice C 1231.2 The remainder of section 10 assumes that
C 6172 is used for end treatment of cylinders. For information
on the unbonded capping system refer to section 40 of this
manual. However, when using the unbonded capping system,
section 10 should be read for a complete understanding of
making and curing concrete test specimens.
10.1 In order to report the compressive strength, the cross- NOTE 1—The outside caliper and the scale are used to measure the
diameter of the cylinder for computing the area.
sectional area of the cylinder must be calculated prior to test.
FIG. 1 Checking Planeness of the Capped End of a Concrete
To determine the cross-sectional area the diameter of the Cylinder Prior to Testing Using a 6-in. (152-mm) Machinists’s
cylinder must be calculated. The calipers and scale shown in Parallel and a 0.002-in. (0.05-mm) Feeler Gauge
Fig. 1 can be used to measure the diameter of the cylinder
provided the scale is accurate to 0.01 in. (0.25 mm). Another
option for this measurement is micrometer calipers. Two This phase of the testing operation often does not receive
measurements at right angles at a midpoint on the cylinder adequate attention. If a skewed cylinder is centered on the
should be made. The diameter used to calculate the cross- lower bearing block, the requirement that the axis of the
sectional area is the average of these two measurements. If cylinder be aligned with the center of thrust of the spherically
cylinders are molded with molds that consistently produce a seated block cannot be met. Suitable jigs have been used to
cylinder diameter within a range of 0.02 in. (0.51 mm), conveniently locate the specimen with respect to the bearing
measurement of cylinders can be reduced to three a day or one blocks, but it is necessary that the blocks themselves be well
in every ten, whichever number of measurements is greater. centered if they are to be the basis for measurements. Lower
The measurement of the height is only necessary if the length blocks may not always be in proper position. The upper bearing
to diameter ratio exceeds 2.2 or is less than 1.8. If the L/D ratio block assembly in some types of machines may sometimes be
is less than 1.8, refer to the calculation section in Test Method out of position with respect to center of the crosshead,
C 39. If the L/D ratio is greater than 2.2, the end of the cylinder generally because of improper positioning when the assembly
could be saw cut to the proper length. was last replaced in the machine. In these cases, reposition the
10.2 After capping the cylinders with sulfur mortar, a 2 h upper head prior to testing. The upper bearing block should be
waiting period is required. During this period considerable rotated as it is brought to bear on the specimen to obtain
moisture may be lost from the sides of the cylinder unless the uniform seating.
cylinders are stored in moist air, under water, or wrapped in 10.4 Test Method C 39 specifies a rate of loading of 20 to 50
wet burlap until time of test. Cylinders should never be allowed psi/s. For a 6 in. diameter cylinder the increase in load in a 30
to dry for long periods before or after capping. s interval should be 17 000 to 42 000 lbf. The specified rate of
10.3 Test Method C 39 requires that the cylinder be centered loading must be observed, but the rate cannot be increased in
with relation to the upper spherically seated bearing block. an attempt to maintain the rate when the specimen begins to
10
fail. The actual observed maximum or breaking load should be

recorded, as well as the computed compressive strength.
10.5 The cylinder must be tested to failure in order to
determine the type of fracture. The type of fracture should be
reported along with the compressive strength. If the compres-
sive strength of a tested cylinder is less than anticipated the
type of fracture may be of assistance in determining the cause.
Fig. 2 shows a typical conical fracture of a concrete cylinder in
compression. Conical fractures are typically better defined than
is shown in this figure. Fig. 3 shows a cylinder which does not
have the typical conical fracture expected. This type of failure
was noted in a large number of tested cylinders in a discarded
cylinder pile at a laboratory and was brought to the attention of
the supervisor. It was found that non-standard testing proce-
dures caused this type of failure. Correction of the testing
procedure resulted in conical fractures and an increase in
compressive strength of about 40 %.
10.6 The following are numerous comments on testing
machines, their use, and maintenance. Some of the remarks are
general, while others refer to only one type of machine.
10.6.1 Testing machines should be inspected and calibrated
every twelve months and there should be some fixed respon-
sibility for maintenance. They should be kept clean with no
accumulation of debris or dust between platens and crosshead
screws and around the base of the loading ram. Use of
protective shields on rams, exposed screws, and test specimens
may prove helpful in this respect. Machines should be lubri-
cated according to an appropriate schedule. Smooth operation
of loading and crosshead screws may be facilitated by applying
a mixture of heavy lubricating oil and flake graphite, worked
NOTE 1—Correction of testing procedures resulted in increase of
well into the threads by a brush and by running the crosshead compressive strength of about 40 % in similar concrete.
up and down a few times. Fuses, travel limit switches, safety FIG. 3 Atypical Failure of a Concrete Cylinder Due to Incorrect
cutouts on gages, and safety by-pass valves on loading lines Testing Procedures
NOTE 1—Cones are usually better defined. The upper cap on this cylinder is too thick.
FIG. 2 Typical Conical Fracture Expected in the Compressive-Strength Test
11
should be checked occasionally. The main switches of the 10.6.6.1 The load indicating gauge should be tapped lightly
machine should be relocated if not within immediate reach of when setting the hand at zero load. Maximum hands should be
the operator. checked for satisfactory free movement. Be sure that dials,
10.6.2 Each operator should be adequately instructed in the particularly the smallest of a number of ranges, are not being
operation of his machine. Instructions for the use and mainte- overloaded. If the machine is equipped with more than one
nance of the machine should be available to the operator; too dial, occasionally note the nature of the agreement of different
often such papers have been found filed with the purchase dials at the same load. Remove the load gradually, and have
papers. gauge control valves set so as to avoid excessive backlash in
10.6.3 The moving head of a machine should not be allowed the dial mechanism when a specimen breaks.
to come in contact with the upper frame or the lower platen. If 10.6.6.2 Capsule clearances, if a feature of the machine,
contact must be made, as in changing heavy bearing blocks or should be frequently checked to determine whether the correct
imposing a load for some adjusting purposes, an intervening amount of oil is in the weighing system. Capsule clearances are
wooden block should be in position between the metal faces. measured by inserting a feeler gauge into the multiple openings
Should the cross-head become accidentally jammed against the below the ram. The average of these readings should be
lower block or face of the weighing table, it would be well to compared to the clearance stamped on the capsule. When the
try to remove the load by hand operation of the gears instead average of capsule clearance varies from the assigned clear-
of using the motor. Under no circumstances should a testing ance by more than 0.003 in. adjustments to the capsule should
machine be left unattended while running, even for a short be made. Add oil when capsule clearances are greater than the
time. Damage to the machine may result. maximum allowed. When oil is added, precautions should be
10.6.4 The surface of the platen or table of the machine taken to avoid the introduction of air into the system.
should be carefully maintained. The use of a supplemental 10.6.6.3 The specified air pressure should be maintained for
lower bearing block will be helpful. In cases where a supple- the null type weighing systems. Compressed air used in such
mental bottom bearing block is used and the platen is large, a systems should be filtered and dehydrated to remove oil, rust,
piece of plywood has been used to protect the platen surface. dirt, and water. This filter should be checked periodically.
The plywood is cut to the shape of the platen with a cut-out to 10.6.6.4 Use proper wrenches on oil valves on hydraulic
accommodate the lower block. Concrete specimens should be weighing systems to avoid defacing or damaging the special
set in place, not pushed across the platen, and the surface of the valve assemblies. If trapped air in a hydraulic line is bled from
platen should not be used to grind or rub cylinders. If the the weighing system, tighten the plug in the Bourdon tube
machine is a universal type and is also used to test specimens before releasing the load. If oil is being lost rapidly from the
in tension, the platen should be properly protected from weighing system, check for loose joints on lines and loose
damage during the tension operation. Under no circumstances packings on valves. Use the oil recommended by the manu-
should the testing machine be used as a press, as in forcing facturer for replacement.
shafts out of assemblies. Such misuse has been known to 10.6.6.5 Portable cylinder testers of the hydraulic type are
necessitate expensive refinishing of the faces of the large frequently used in the field and in field offices. There are a
spherical block assembly. To prevent unauthorized use of the number of makes, and their details vary. Regardless of design,
testing machine for this purpose it may be advisable to keep a machines should conform to all requirements of Test Method
lock on the switch box. C 39. Any testing machine used for testing concrete cylinders
10.6.5 Drainage is recommended for all machine pits to must be power operated and continuous loading within certain
guard against flooding and consequent damage to motors, rates of loading. In addition, the section in Test Method C 39
bearings, screws, pumps, weighing systems, and so forth. This entitled Load Indications should be reviewed thoroughly to
is very important in the case of the larger machines. If dust is ensure the dials of the machine are of proper design. The
to be blown out of machines and motors, an electrically driven machine must be calibrated annually or after each time the
portable hand blower or a commercial size vacuum cleaner machine is moved, and an appropriate certificate posted or
with rubber or plastic nozzle should be used in order to avoid readily available for inspection (see Section 41 on Load
the occasional moisture and scale from ordinary compressed Verification of Testing Machines).
air lines. 10.6.6.6 The latest type of indication for compression ma-
10.6.6 The hydraulic testing machines vary in design and chines is the liquid crystal display (LCD) or light emitting
operation. The instructions of the manufacturer should be diode (LED) read-out. Generally speaking, they employ a
followed strictly to avoid damage to the machine and to secure hydraulic ram to exert pressure on the test specimen. This
the best operation. The motor of the hydraulic pump should not hydraulic pressure is converted to an electrical signal by means
be stopped before releasing the load on the weighing system. of a transducer. Some machines have multiple ranges on the
Control and release valves should be used properly so as to same read-out. Some difficulty with the single read-out may be
avoid shocks to the weighing system. Oil in the pump reservoir encountered in the area of increment of load change where a
should be maintained at the proper level. If loads cannot be smaller transducer stops and one with a larger capacity takes
obtained or maintained satisfactorily, check the reservoir, over.
pressure relief valves, and also the voltage on the line to the 10.7 It is important that proper bearing blocks be used and
loading pump. The crosshead should not be jammed nor should be kept in good condition. The faces of the upper and lower
the ram be used at its lowest point of travel. bearing blocks should be checked for planeness and hardness.
12
The check on planeness can be made with a straightedge and poorly centered proving ring may result in eccentric loading of
0.001 in. feeler stock. A block should be refinished when the the ring. When this occurs, the machine is no longer applying
planeness requirement is not met. Fig. 4 shows the planeness of pressure directly to the top and bottom of the ring but rather to
upper and lower bearing blocks being checked with a 6 in. (152 a corner of the top and the opposite corner of the bottom.
mm) machinist’s parallel and a feeler stock of the required Warning: The condition described above can cause inaccurate
thickness. Scribed concentric circles on the bearing face of the verification results and is extremely dangerous. In one case, the
upper block are required when the diameter of the block ring was thrown from the machine resulting in serious injury to
exceeds the diameter of the specimen by 1⁄2 in. Concentric rings the operator. During verification, remove the spherical bearing
on the upper spherically seated bearing blocks are necessary to block and replace it with a solid bearing block, or if a
secure the specified end-loading conditions. Lower bearing replacement block is not available lock or shim the spherical
blocks are important in providing the necessary loading con- block into a position parallel to the lower block or platen. The
ditions, protecting the lower platen of the machine against wear use of load cells to verify compression machines varies
and concentration of high loads, and facilitating the placing of appreciably from the procedures used with the proving rings,
the test specimens. Concentric rings for the lower block are but the same precautions and care should be followed to ensure
optional. safe and accurate verification results.
10.7.1 The upper spherically seated block should comply 10.7.4 Provide a suitable ratio for length of overhang and
with all the requirements of the applicable test method. The thickness of any extra bearing plates used between the bearing
center of the sphere must coincide with the center of the blocks proper and large test specimens. Check for loose
bearing face. Ease of movement is important in securing the hardened inserts in bearing blocks.
proper seating of the block when subjecting the test specimen 10.8 Keep any centering pinholes clean; debris from test
to load. To maintain this ease of movement, the spherical specimens sometimes becomes packed so tightly in these holes
portion and the socket should be cleaned and oiled periodically. that it interferes with the proper seating of the lower block.
Do not use pressure type grease. The spherical portion and the
socket should be held in close contact with each other. 11. OBTAINING AND TESTING DRILLED CORES
10.7.2 Avoid heavy concentration of load, such as encoun- AND SAWED BEAMS OF CONCRETE
tered with proving rings, without appropriate intervening (See Test Method C 42)2
special bearing blocks or plates. Avoid use of cast iron bearing Test Method C 42 applies to securing test specimens from
blocks, particularly with concentrated loads, even though the hardened concrete. When samples are taken from hardened
block has a hardened center insert. concrete, the safety or adequacy of the structure is often under
10.7.3 When verifying the compression machine with prov- question. Under these conditions the locations from which
ing rings, the combination of the spherically seated bearing samples are to be taken must be selected with care in order to
block, the small diameter of the proving ring at the contact obtain the desired information. The selection of sampling
surfaces, the rounded boss at the top of the proving ring, and a locations may be aided by applying non-destructive test
FIG. 4 Checking Planeness of Upper and Lower Bearing Blocks for a Testing Machine Using a Machinist’s Parallel and a Feeler Gauge
of the Required Thickness
13
methods such as Test Method C 803, Penetration Resistance of sure moisture per se. Their indication will depend upon the
Hardened Concrete2 or C 805, Rebound Number of Hardened method used to calibrate the meter.
Concrete2 which, when used by qualified personnel, can be 12.3.1 The method used to compute moisture content is
helpful in assessing the uniformity of concrete in situ, or to important and will determine the calculation procedures used
delineate zones or regions (areas) of poor quality or deterio- to adjust batch weights.
rated concrete in structures. The selection of sampling loca-
tions must not be left to personnel who are unfamiliar with the 13. FLEXURAL STRENGTH OF CONCRETE (USING
structural requirements. Specifications for pavements usually SIMPLE BEAM WITH THIRD–POINT LOADING)
specify the number and location of drilled cores. Test Method (See Test Method C 78)2
C 42 covers quite well the details of securing the samples, but The curing of concrete beams from casting to testing is very
the following comments should be considered. important. Beams should never be allowed to lose moisture
11.1 Large strains in the core can occur during drilling if the before testing. Beams should have free moisture on their
vertical shaft wobbles. This condition is usually caused by surfaces up to the time the specimens are placed in the testing
worn or loose drill bearings, or by lack of rigidity of the frame machine. Surface water can be removed with a damp rag prior
of the core drill. Cores obtained under such conditions often to testing. For a more complete discussion of curing, see the
will not meet the requirements for dimensions specified in the section for Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the
test method. Field (C 31).
11.2 It is particularly important that the ends of the cores be 13.1 The orientation of the beam in the testing machine
properly prepared for testing. The ends of cores that are not varies depending on the type of specimen. Molded specimens
drilled perpendicular to the surface of a slab should be sawed must be tested on their side, while sawed specimens are loaded
to produce square ends in order to avoid the use of thick on the top and bottom.
wedge-shaped caps. The bottom end of cores should be 13.2 Inspection of laboratory equipment has shown many
prepared in strict accordance with the requirements of the test bearing blocks for flexural testing are outside the 0.002 in.
method, wherein are prescribed the tolerances in projections in planeness tolerance. One cause of this wear is the abrasion
end surfaces, variations in diameter, and departures from between the block and the specimen occurring when the beam
perpendicularity between the end surfaces and the axis of the is placed on the blocks. Care should be taken not to slide the
core. Core ends that do not come within the tolerances should beam across the blocks when positioning it for testing. One
be finished by sawing or tooling until they conform. method to prevent this problem is to use two individuals to
11.3 Test Method C 42 requires that the temperature of the handle the beam. When placing the beam on the blocks, a
water in which the specimens are stored shall be 73.4 6 3.0 °F protective covering may be used over the lower blocks,
(23 6 1.7 °C). provided that it is removed prior to testing. Another method of
preventing wear is to always use leather shims between the
12. SURFACE MOISTURE IN FINE AGGREGATE beam and the bearing blocks. If the bearing blocks are
(See Test Method C 70)2 independent of each other, it is critical that the proper spacing
In Test Method C 70 the weight and volume of a sample of be maintained. Blocking or mechanical connections between
damp sand are determined. With an accurate knowledge of the the bearing blocks may be necessary to prevent lateral move-
saturated surface dry specific gravity of the sand, the free ment of the bearing blocks.
moisture content can then be computed. If the saturated surface 13.3 The test method requires that contact surfaces between
dry specific gravity of the sand does not change and the same the beam and the blocks be checked for planeness. Verify the
weight of sample is always used, the rather involved formulas planeness of the beam surface by placing the beam in the
can be simplified, or graphs prepared for their simple, rapid testing apparatus and bringing the load-applying block into
solution. contact with the surface of the specimen. Place a slight load on
12.1 The calcium carbide gas pressure method, although not the beam and sight along each block looking for gaps between
an ASTM test method, is frequently used in the laboratory. In the specimen and block. If a gap of more than 1 in. in width is
this method, a small sample of damp sand is placed in a closed found, check the gap using feeler gages of 0.004 and 0.015 in.
container with calcium carbide. The free water reacts with the If the 0.004 in. feeler gauge can be placed in the gap for a
calcium carbide, producing acetylene gas and, therefore, a gas length of 1 in. or more but not a 0.015 in. feeler gauge, shim
pressure. The pressure gauge is calibrated in percentage of free the beam with leather shims. If the 0.015 in. feeler gauge can
moisture in the sand. Because of the small quantity of sand be placed in the gap for a length of 1 in. or more, the beam
used, sampling technique is particularly critical. must be capped or ground. If capping or grinding is required,
12.2 Electrical and nuclear moisture meters are widely used mark the location on the beam where it is contacted by the
in the field, but they are not well adapted to laboratory work. blocks, while it is still positioned in the testing machine. This
12.3 In concrete technology, the total moisture content is the will help to locate the area requiring surface preparation on the
sum of the amounts of water absorbed on the interior of the beam.
particles and the free water on the surface of the particles. Hot 13.4 Both Test Methods C 78 and C 293 refer to grinding or
plate and oven drying methods dry samples to constant weight to capping of bearing surfaces of the beam that vary from
and therefore measure total moisture content. Displacement planeness by more than 0.015 in. (0.38 mm). Care should be
and calcium carbide gas pressure methods measure free or taken when grinding beams to prevent moisture loss. Practice
surface moisture. Electrical and nuclear methods do not mea- C 617 does not address capping of beams; however, one of the
14
materials specified in the practice, sulfur mortar, has been 14. MATERIALS FINER THAN 75-µm (NO. 200)
found to work well for the application. Due to deterioration in SIEVE IN MINERAL AGGREGATES BY
water, the use of high strength gypsum plaster is not recom- WASHING (See Test Method C 117)2
mended. When accurate determination of the total amount passing the
13.5 The capping plate must be a plane and level surface, 75-µm (No. 200) sieve is desired as stated in Method C 136,
which exceeds the dimension of the beam. The plate should be Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregate,2 both washing
sufficiently rigid to prevent distortion under the weight of the and subsequent dry sieving on the 75-µm (No. 200) sieve may
beam. Minimum thicknesses for various plate materials are be required. It is essential to refer to the applicable aggregate
listed under the Capping Equipment Section of Practice C 617. specifications to determine if both washing and dry sieving are
13.6 The beam should be capped in the following manner: required to establish compliance with the required specifica-
As a safety consideration and to facilitate the capping operations.
tion, use two individuals to handle the beam. Remove the 14.1 The test method lists two procedures, one using plain
surface moisture from the beam in the areas to be capped. Place wash water and the other using a wetting agent (household
the beam on the capping surface and transfer the bearing detergent) with the wash water. Unless otherwise specified, the
locations previously marked to the capping plate. Remove the plain wash water procedure should be used. A wetting agent
beam and place a band of capping material on the plate at each will weaken the bond holding clay particles to larger aggregate
bearing location. Sufficient material should be used to provide particles, and is necessary to cut the oily film which occurs on
a finished beam surface of at least one inch wide across the aggregate particles which have been through a dryer for use in
entire width of the beam. Carefully lower the beam into bituminous mixtures and for aggregates extracted from bitu-
position and press down to spread the capping material under minous mixtures. As with all test procedures, the sampling
the beam to an average thickness of not more than 1/4 in. procedure, sample size, and accuracy of weighing are impor-
Position the beam so that the thickness of the capping material tant for proper results.
appears to be level. If capping is required on both sides, repeat 14.2 The minimum sample size (mass) required for this test
the process for the other side after the capping material on the method varies depending upon the nominal maximum size
first side has hardened. During the curing of the capping aggregate used. See the Sampling Section of the test method
material, make sure that the beam is kept moist. for the minimum mass requirements. After drying as required,
Care should be taken in positioning the bearing blocks. record the mass of the sample at the start of the test.
Position the bearing blocks in the testing machine so that the 14.3 The container used for this test must be of sufficient
distance from the support block to the load applying block is capacity and shape to (1) hold the aggregate sample, (2) hold
equal to the depth of the beam within 6 3 %. the wash water, and (3) permit agitation of the sample and
13.7 The requirement for the rate of loading is listed in the wash water without loss.
Procedure Section of the test method. A formula is also 14.4 Once the sample and sufficient wash water have been
provided. Using the formula for a beam with a 6 x 6 cross added to cover the sample, agitate the sample until the finer
section and a span length of 18 in., the rate of loading should particles are suspended in the wash water. Agitation is best
be between 1500 and 2100 lb/min. It may be helpful to express accomplished by stirring with a spoon or by hand. A good
this rate as 1800 6 300 lb/min. Maintain this rate of loading indicator of sufficient agitation is when the water becomes
from start to failure. cloudy. Be careful not to lose any of the sample or wash water
13.8 In determining cross sectional area, take the average of during the agitation process. Rinse hands or stirring implement
three measurements at each edge and the middle across the over the container to recapture any adhered particles.
fractured faces for both the width and depth determinations. If 14.5 With the fine aggregate particles suspended in the wash
the fracture occurs at a capped section, include the capped water, immediately pour (decant) the wash water over the
thickness in the measurement. Measurements should be re- nested 1.18 mm (No. 16) and 75-µm (No. 200) sieves. The 1.18
corded to the nearest .05-in. The calculation section requires mm (No. 16) sieve is used above the finer meshed sieve to
that the tension surface be identified in making a judgment prevent damage in case any of the coarse aggregate is
about acceptable tests. The tension surface is the surface where mistakenly poured onto the nested sieve. Only the particles
the blocks are spaced furthest apart. With a permanent marker, suspended in the wash water should be poured from the
extend a line on the side of the beam from the bearing blocks container. Care should be taken not to pour any of the coarser
on the load surface down to the tension surface. The formula aggregate particles onto the sieves.
used to calculate the modulus of rupture varies depending on 14.6 Add a second charge of wash water to the sample
the location of the fracture. Use this line to determine if the container and repeat the agitation and decanting process.
fracture occurs within the middle third of the span length or Continue the cycle of adding wash water, agitating and
outside the middle third but within 5 % of the span length. If decanting until the wash water remains clear after agitation.
the fracture occurs outside the middle third of the tension 14.7 Using an external source of water, flush all aggregate
surface span length by more than 5 % of the span length, retained on the sieves back into the container. Place the sample
discard the results of the test. container including the water used to flush the sieves in the
15
oven and dry to a constant mass. Record the dry sample mass. raked rather frequently during the drying to avoid undue drying
Do not dispose of the water used in flushing in any way except of particles at the edge of the pile. The cone procedure
through evaporation in the oven as it may contain fine employed in this test method accurately defines the saturated-
aggregate particles. surface-dry condition for the vast majority of sands; however,
14.8 Calculate the amount of material passing by using the for a few angular sands and sands containing small quantities
formula in the Calculation Section of the test method. of certain highly plastic clays, the sample will not slump until
14.9 Common mistakes made in performing this test after the average surface-dry condition has been passed. In
method are (1) pouring the entire sample including the coarse these instances the technician may have to exercise some
aggregate on the nested sieve and (2) disposing of the water judgment in determining the end point by observing the typical
used to flush the aggregate retained on the sieves in a manner color change that takes place as the sample reaches the
other than through evaporation during the sample drying saturated-surface-dry condition. Another procedure involves
process. placing a pat of sand on a dull or dark surface for 1 min; if the
surface appears damp after removal of the sand it is not yet
15. SPECIFIC GRAVITY AND ABSORPTION OF SSD and additional drying is required.
COARSE AGGREGATE (See Test Method C 127)2 16.1 Additional precautions should be taken to ensure that
The test method is not considered applicable to highly the material used for the mold is sufficiently rigid to prevent
porous lightweight aggregates because of difficulties involved deformation with continued use. A minimum thickness of
in properly drying the very irregular, rough surfaces of these 0.032 in. (0.8 mm) is required.
particles. Surface drying of normal weight aggregates having 16.2 When filling the volumetric flask, the operator must be
rough, vesicular surfaces is also difficult and must be carefully sure that all air bubbles which may be trapped between the
done if consistent results are to be obtained. sand grains are eliminated by inverting and agitating the flask.
15.1 The balance should be suited to weighing the amount Air remaining with the sample will result in erroneous specific
of material required. The container for holding the immersed gravity values. The final temperature of the flask, water and
sample should be immersed to a depth sufficient to cover the sand is important and must not change.
container at all times. The wire bails supporting the container 16.3 During removal of the aggregate from the pycnometer,
should be of the smallest practical size to minimize the effects care should be exercised to avoid the loss of fine material, since
of a variable immersed length of wire bail. Entrapped air after drying, this weight will be compared to the original
should be freed from the sample prior to determining the weight to determine the absorption.
weight of the immersed sample by shaking the container while
immersed. 17. SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE AND COARSE
15.2 Because of the difficulty of surface drying small AGGREGATES (See Test Method C 136)2
aggregate particles within the coarse aggregate test sample, the
material smaller than the 4.75-mm (No. 4) sieve is generally This test method determines the particle size distribution of
discarded. Test Method C 127 provides for separating material fine and coarse aggregate by sieving. This determination is
at the 2.36-mm (No. 8) sieve for very fine coarse aggregate. accomplished by using a stack of sieves of decreasing mesh
15.3 When the results of the test are to be used for size from top to bottom. A sample of known mass is placed on
proportioning concrete mixtures with aggregates used in a the top sieve and then agitated either by hand or mechanical
moist condition, drying to a constant weight at the start of the means. The mass retained on each sieve is recorded and
test may be eliminated. The oven-dry weight is not needed if calculations based on these masses and the original sample
bulk specific gravity (SSD) will provide sufficient information. mass are performed.
The oven-dry weight will be needed to determine the absorp- 17.1 The test method specifies that the size of the field
tion of aggregate. Using aggregate without drying prior to sample used to obtain material for this test should be as
soaking may be preferable when testing certain aggregates of required in Table 1 of Practice D 75, Sampling Aggregates, or
relatively high absorption, since preliminary oven drying prior four times as large as the test sample to be used, whichever is
to test may remove moisture that cannot be regained in 24 h of greater. This sample is reduced to testing size by using one of
soaking. the procedures described in Practice C 702, Reducing Field
Samples of Aggregate to Testing Size. The importance of
16. SPECIFIC GRAVITY AND ABSORPTION OF FINE proper material handling techniques during sampling and
AGGREGATE (See Test Method C 128)2 reduction cannot be overemphasized. For more information on
In performing the determinations described in this test proper material handling techniques, please read the section on
method, probably the most important step is that of bringing Reducing Samples of Aggregate to Testing Size in this manual.
the sample to the saturated surface dry condition. The drying The sample should be dried to constant mass using a ventilated
procedure specified does not involve the use of heat other than oven. When close temperature control is not required, samples
a gentle current of warm air, since the application of heat may may be dried by microwave oven, hotplate, or electric heat
remove moisture from within the particle. The intent is to lamp. Caution should be used to avoid degradation of the
remove water from between the particles and from the surfaces aggregate. For control purposes, samples of coarse aggregate
of the particles. Care must be exercised to prevent the loss of may be sieved in a damp condition.
fines when free water is drained from the sample in the initial 17.2 The minimum size of the test sample listed in the
drying procedure. In addition, the sample should be stirred or Sampling Section in C 136, should be carefully observed. A
16
sample that is smaller than specified may be non- defective sieves. Do not expose fine mesh sieves to tempera-
representative. Since it will affect test results, weighing out an tures greater than the melting point of solder, approximately
exact predetermined mass is not permitted. 375 °F (191 °C).
17.3 The required test sample size for lightweight aggre- 17.8 Jolting sieve cloths by impact to dislodge aggregate
gates differs from the normal weight aggregate test sample size particles caught in the openings can result in damage to the
listed in Test Method C 136. The sample size requirements for wire mesh or the frame. Avoid striking sieves on another
Lightweight aggregates are shown in Specifications C 330, for object, such as the edge of metal trashcans, to protect them
Lightweight Aggregates for Structural Concrete;2 C 331, for from cuts and indentations. Damaged frames make it unlikely
Lightweight Aggregates for Concrete Masonry Units;2 and C that the sieves will nest properly. Sometimes the only way to
332, for Lightweight Aggregates for Insulating Concrete.2 The clear sieve cloth and avoid damage to delicate wire cloth is by
coarse aggregate sieve sample shall be 2830 cm3 (0.1 ft3) or striking the top frame of the sieve against a firm pad. If this
more of the material used for determination of bulk density. To becomes necessary, to prevent the damage discussed above
minimize degradation, do not mechanically sieve lightweight make sure that the entire surface of the top of the frame is
aggregates for more than 5 min. Hand sieving may be contacting the pad at the same time.
preferable for these materials.
17.9 Mechanical sieving devices are practical means for
17.4 Only sieves conforming to Specification E 11, Wire-
processing large amounts of material rapidly. Two areas of
Cloth Sieves for Testing Purposes,2 are to be used with this test
concern when using these devices are the adequacy of sieving
procedure. Specification E 11 contains sieve sizes, dimensions
time and the overloading of an individual sieve.
of openings and wires, and tolerances in those dimensions for
the sieves. In recent years the standard sizing of sieve openings 17.10 The standard requires that mechanical sieving devices
as listed in E 11 has transitioned from inch and number sizes to be compared to the hand sieving operation to ensure that the
millimetres. Some confusion in the laboratory may result from material has been adequately sieved. Section 8.4 of C 136
mixing old and newly purchased sieves. Table 1 in E 11 lists describes the procedure for determining this sufficiency of
the standard in millimetres and the alternative in inch and sieving. The sieving time for the mechanical sieving device is
number sizes. A common problem in laboratories is the loss of adjusted until not more than 1 % of the material retained on
the label that indicates the sieve size and the subsequent any given sieve used in the device will pass that sieve during
incorrect identification with a permanent marker on the side of the subsequent hand sieving of each individual sieve. The need
the frame. Any sieve without proper labeling does not meet the for the procedure to determine the sufficiency of sieving by
requirements of E 11 and should be removed from service. mechanical devices or hand sieving is particularly important in
17.5 Wires for sieve cloth are readily available that do not the case of very fine or angular materials, or when an 8-in.
conform to E 11. Since the weave prevents the wires from (203-mm) diameter sieve retains more than about 150 g of
lying in precisely the same plane, the wire diameter used material. A cautionary note in the test method that sieving
affects the size of the separated particles. For this reason the beyond ten minutes may result in the degradation of the sample
use of larger than standard wires in order to increase screen life should also be a consideration. Since the sieving time for the
will produce nonstandard test results. In addition, larger than device will vary depending upon the aggregates used, the
standard wire diameters will reduce the percentage of open sufficiency of sieving should be checked for all aggregate
screen area and may increase required sieving time. sources frequently tested by the laboratory. A chart located near
17.6 Sieves are expensive and easily damaged. Careful the device with the various sieving times for the different
maintenance of sieves will make them last longer and preserve aggregates will greatly assist the technician in the correct
their efficiency. The fine aggregate sieves should be brushed operation of the mechanical sieving device. The material on
clean to reduce blocking of the mesh openings to a practical each sieve should be observed to see that it consists of discrete
minimum. It is unnecessary to remove all particles lodged in or separate particles and not agglomerations of particles.
the sieve after each use. For sieves 300-µm (No. 50) and Agglomerations may occur with dirty aggregate.
coarser, use a stiff bristle brush (soft brass bristles and stencil 17.11 For fine aggregate, the maximum amount retained on
brushes are satisfactory) on the underside of the sieve, but any sieve is limited to 0.62 g/cm2 (0.009 lb/in.2) of sieving
avoiding a harsh raking action. For sieves 150-µm (No. 100) surface (200 g for the 8 in. (203-mm) diameter sieve). This
and finer, use a soft bristle brush to the underside after each requirement is intended to prevent overloading any individual
test, taking care not to damage the wire cloth by too much sieve, and in many cases will determine the maximum amount
pressure or by scraping. of material to be sieved at one time. When the sample size
17.7 Sieves, particularly those with smaller mesh, should be required for the aggregate exceeds the allowable amount of
examined periodically for holes and breaks around the edges. material to be sieved at one time, then additional intermediate
Any sieves with permanently mounted sieve cloth with holes or size sieves can be inserted between the critical sieve and the
other defects in the sieve cloth must be replaced. Sieves next larger sieve. Alternately, the sample can be reduced to
suspected of wear and damage can be checked by a split several smaller sub-samples and the results from these sub-
sample comparison with good sieves. Observation of the sample portions can then be combined for weighing after
particles on each sieve for uniformity of size can help detect sieving.
17
17.12 The test method requires that the test sample mass be 18.3 In the final filling of the measure, if it is necessary to
recorded before the test and that this mass be compared to the add or remove concrete, it should be done by adding or
sum of the individual fractions after the test has been com- removing concrete, not mortar, so that the concrete proportions
pleted. The summed mass must agree with the starting mass to remain the same. The optimum amount of concrete is such that
within 0.3 % or the results cannot be used for acceptance after the rodding and tapping operation no concrete will have
testing. to be added or removed. This ideal situation is rarely achieved
17.13 The Fineness Modulus (FM) of an aggregate is so the usual practice is to have a very slight excess to be
related to its gradation. The computation of the FM is described removed by a strike off-plate. A flat plate of glass, acrylic or
in the Calculations section of Test Method C 136. The FM is a metal is required for striking off and finishing the surface of the
unitless number used for aggregate evaluation, aggregate concrete. The plates should be at least 1⁄4 in. (6 mm) thick for
quality control, and concrete mix design. The FM is obtained steel and 1⁄2 in. (12 mm) for acrylic or glass. The edges of the
by adding the total percentages retained on each of a specified glass plates should be ground. Erroneously, a tamping rod,
series of sieves, and dividing the sum by 100. The percentage trowel, wood float or straightedge is sometimes used instead of
retained on a given sieve is cumulative in the sense that any the specified plate to strike off the concrete. The tendency when
material retained on a sieve with a larger opening would also using these instead of the plate is to leave the concrete high
be retained on that given sieve and, therefore, regarded as resulting in a higher indicated unit weight which affects the
retained material. The sieve sizes used for the FM calculation computations which depend upon the unit weight.
are listed in the Calculations section of Test Method C 136.
Use values for all sieves in this series, but no other sieves. 19. SLUMP OF HYDRAULIC CEMENT CONCRETE
Intermediate sieves such as the 12.5 mm (1⁄2 in.) or 25.0 mm (See Test Method C 143)2
(1 in.), which are not in the fineness modulus series, will Test Method C 143 describes the slump mold (commonly
frequently be employed when the aggregate has a narrow range referred to as a slump cone ) as made of metal not attacked by
of sizes or to determine compliance with some specifications, the cement paste. It does permit alternative materials as long as
but are not used in calculating the FM. In general, a small value the material is not absorbent, rigid enough to maintain dimen-
for FM indicates a fine material, while a large value indicates sions, and can be demonstrated in comparative testing to give
a coarse material. However, the same FM may be obtained similar results as the metal mold. For a complete explanation of
from a number of different gradations. FM of concrete sands the comparative testing see the Apparatus Section of the test
will range from about 2.30 for fine sands to 3.10 for coarse method.
sands. 19.1 When a metal mold is used, the most common design
is a mold formed by the spinning process with spot-welded
18. UNIT WEIGHT, YIELD, AND AIR CONTENT handles and foot pieces. When a riveted mold is used, the
(GRAVIMETRIC) OF CONCRETE interior surface of the mold should be smooth and show no
(See Test Method C 138)2 evidence of the seam. The interior surface of any mold should
Data obtained in the determination of the weight per cubic be smooth and free of dents, hardened concrete, cement paste,
foot of the freshly mixed concrete by ASTM Test Method and hardened mortar. When using molds made from an
C 138 is used to compute the yield or volume of a batch of alternative material, make sure that the interior surface is not
concrete, cement content, and air content (gravimetric). Test abraded due to repeated use. The bottom edge of the mold
Method C 138 gives detailed instructions for calculating these should have even contact when placed on a flat surface. Slump
parameters from the batch weights of materials used and from molds may become out-of-round for various reasons during
results of the unit weight test. Since the air content is computed shipment, transportation, or use and thus may be outside
from the difference between the theoretical and actual unit allowable specification tolerances. For this reason, slump
weights of the concrete, small errors in the unit weight test or molds should be checked for dimensional requirements prior to
in the theoretical unit weight caused by errors in the specific being placed into service and routinely thereafter or whenever
gravity of the materials can result in relatively large errors in abuse is suspected. Practice C 1077 requires annual verification
the air content as computed in this test method. of each slump mold. However, more frequent checks should be
18.1 The test method provides for a range of container sizes made if it is found that some molds do not meet the dimen-
from 0.2 to 3.5 ft3 (6 to 99 dm3) for concrete having a range of sional requirement during this verification.
maximum nominal aggregate sizes of 1 in. (25 mm) to 6 in. 19.2 This test method may not be applicable for concrete
(152 mm). The larger size containers when filled with concrete with a slump less than 1⁄2 in. (15 mm) or for concrete with
are too large to be lifted by hand. Mechanical means, such as slump higher than 9 in. (230 mm). Due to the natural angle of
hoists and trolleys are necessary to move them onto scales and repose of the coarse aggregate in a sample of “over-wet
to empty them. It is, however, advisable to use the largest concrete”, this test method may not be applicable for slumps
convenient measure to improve accuracy of test. higher than about 7 1⁄2 in. (190 mm).
18.2 When calibrating the measure with water and a glass 19.3 The use of a flat, nonabsorbent, rigid base under the
plate, it is necessary that the open upper end of the measure be mold is mentioned, but no specific materials or dimensions are
plane. By inverting the measure on a glass plate that has been stated. A metal plate is preferable, but a sheet metal or a
coated with a light coat of machinist’s blue, it is easy to detect nonabsorbent coating on a wooden base can be used satisfac-
any high spots that require work to provide the planeness torily. An untreated wooden base is not satisfactory because of
required. its absorptive qualities. One person operation is facilitated if
18
clamping devices on the base are used to hold the foot pieces 20.1 The molds required are those specified in Practice
firmly to the base plate. The devices must be capable of C 490, Apparatus for Use in Measurement of Length Change of
releasing without moving the mold. A concrete floor may be Hardened Cement Paste, Mortar, and Concrete.2 That practice
used as a base provided it has a steel trowel finish. The base requires a thin coating of mineral oil on the interior surfaces of
should be sufficiently flat to prevent the loss of water or paste the mold. Do not use lard, animal, or vegetable oils since these
from the concrete in the mold. When the test is made in the may soften the surfaces of specimens. Molds should be
field, a small level will aid in leveling the base, which should pre-oiled before the gauge studs are mounted, to prevent the
be free from movement and vibration during a test. deposit of oil on the gauge stud through contact with oily
19.4 Prior to testing, dampen both the interior of the mold fingers, oily rag, or lubricating brush.
and base; remove any standing water from the base. Fill the 20.2 Micrometer dials generally used on a comparator as
mold in three layers, each layer approximately one third the described in Practice C 490 frequently have a contact end
volume (not the height) of the mold. Some like to paint two (anvil) that screws into the stem of the dial. This insert should
stripes around the outside of the mold, one 2 5⁄8 in. (67 mm) not be permitted to become loose. The proper use of a
from the bottom, the second 6 1⁄8 in. (155 mm) from the bottom micrometer comparator requires that a check reading be made
as an aid in determining the approximate depths for the equal on a standard reference bar before and after making readings
volume points. When rodding the middle and top layers of on specimens, more frequently if a large number of measure-
concrete, the rod should penetrate only slightly into the layer ments are to be taken at a given time. The reference bar is
below. Excessive penetration of the rod into the lower layers described in Practice C 490. The length of the reference bar
must be avoided. Heaping of the final layer of concrete above should be known, so that a replacement bar of the same length
the mold rim before rodding is important. Sufficient concrete can be obtained should it be damaged or lost. The procurement
should be placed in the mold so that the surface of the concrete of a second reference bar, tied in by comparative measurements
before striking off will be only slightly above the top of the with the currently used bar might be considered. The hardened,
mold. If the mold is obviously under-filled, pause after rodding polished ends of the reference bar should be kept clean, but
10 or 15 strokes to add an additional representative sample of caution is urged not to decrease the overall length by improper
concrete. Screed the top of the concrete with a tamping rod and cleaning methods. For example, the measurements of an
remove any concrete that has collected around the outside of important long-term study were seriously affected by the
the base of the mold. The mold must then be lifted promptly in operator’s practice of rubbing the reference bar ends on a piece
a vertical direction at a rate of 12 in. (300 mm) in 5 6 2 s. The of cloth or canvas that probably contained cement dust. These
mold should be removed carefully and uniformly only in a frequent rubbings over a long period of time were found to
vertical direction without twisting. have caused significant wear of the reference bar. When
19.5 Slump measurements should be made promptly to the reading the dial micrometer, a gentle tapping with a pencil on
nearest 1⁄4 in. (5 mm). The standard says to measure the the dial case is recommended. The dial stem should be clean
distance “between the top of the mold and the displaced and should move freely, but should not be lubricated.
original center of the top surface of the specimen”. When the 20.2.1 Practice C 490 describes in detail the apparatus for
mold is removed, the specimen retains the shape (if somewhat use in Test Method C 157, and all precautions and recommen-
distorted) of the conical mold. The “displaced original center” dations therein should be observed.
is the center of the surface struck off with the tamping rod. If 21. SAMPLING FRESHLY MIXED CONCRETE
the top of the specimen tilts to one side, the measurement (See Practice C 172)2
should be made in what was originally the center of top of the
specimen. If the specimen falls away or shears off on one side, When samples are taken in the field, they should come from
the test must be disregarded and a new test made. predetermined batches in accordance with the sampling plan.
The practice of testing only batches of low or high slump will
19.6 The entire process from molding to measurement must
fail to accurately describe concrete quality and uniformity.
be completed within 2 1⁄2 minutes. Since concrete may lose
Practice C 172 is applicable to obtaining samples of fresh
slump rapidly with time, the slump test should be started within
concrete from stationary, paving, and truck mixers and from
5 min of obtaining the sample as specified in Practice C 172,
agitating and nonagitating equipment used to transport cen-
when the test is performed in the field. When the test is
trally mixed concrete. Sampling should normally be performed
performed in the laboratory, the test should be started imme-
as the concrete is discharged from this equipment at the project
diately after mixing as specified in Practice C 192.
site to the conveying vehicle used to transport the concrete to
the forms; however, specifications may require other points of
20. LENGTH CHANGE OF HARDENED sampling such as at the discharge of a concrete pump. Samples
HYDRAULIC-CEMENT MORTAR AND from concrete that has been compacted or manipulated after its
CONCRETE (See Test Method C 157)2 discharge from a mixer or agitator or conveyance are not
Length change as determined by this test method is the suitable for making acceptance tests for consistency, air con-
increase or decrease in a linear dimension of the test specimen. tent, or potential strength.
The test method covers numerous details of the required 21.1 Time limitations are imposed on taking different por-
apparatus and procedure. Attention is directed to the required tions of the composite samples, on preparing the composite
control of temperature, relative humidity, and rate of evapora- samples for slump and air content tests, and for molding
tion. specimens for strength tests. The time limitations should be
19
carefully observed to ensure that results of tests are consis- 21.3.2 When there is a need to wet sieve concrete, this must
tently representative of the concrete. Elapsed time between be anticipated ahead of time, and wet-sieving equipment that
compositing samples and performing tests or molding test will satisfactorily accomplish the wet-sieving operation as
specimens should be the minimum possible. Compositing of rapidly as possible with a minimum of effort shall be provided.
samples and remixing should be performed at the place where Attempting to use an 8 in. (200 mm) diameter sieve by hand
tests are to be made or where specimens are to be molded. Tests method is not satisfactory.
and molding of specimens should be performed as close to the 21.3.3 Wet sieving concrete is best accomplished with
point of sampling as possible. equipment that shakes or moves back and forth rather than
21.2 The practice of sampling concrete from the discharge using high frequency vibration. Fig. 5 shows hand-operated
stream from a mixer or truck, or from a pile, by means of a wet-sieving equipment suitable for occasional or lighter-type
scoop or shovel, and then filling a test container (slump cone, wet-sieving work. This consists of an 18 by 26 in. (457 by 660
airmeter bowl, cylinder, or beam mold) with several such mm) Gilson sieve tray supported by a homemade wooden
samples without the required remixing should not be permitted. frame. The sieve tray is moved forward and backward by hand
The filling of a 6 by 12 in. (150 by 300 mm) cylinder mold by as rapidly as possible. The concrete which passes through the
placing it in the stream of discharging concrete is prohibited. sieve falls on a clean, moist, non-absorbent surface or pan, is
21.3 Practice C 172 provides for wet-sieving concrete remixed for testing.
where the concrete contains aggregate larger than can be 21.3.4 Fig. 6 shows wet-sieving equipment powered by an
accommodated by the test equipment or larger than is suitable electric motor suitable for larger jobs and for mass concrete.
for the size of the test specimens to be made. For example, Test The interchangeable sieve mounted on the movable frame
Method C 143 for the slump of concrete states that the test is which is tilted slightly is moved forward and backward by the
applicable for concretes having aggregates up to 11⁄2 in. (37.5 driving mechanism. Concrete to be wet-sieved is shoveled onto
mm) in size. If the concrete contains aggregate larger than this the sieve. Concrete that passes the sieve falls into the pan
size, for example, 3 in. (75 mm) maximum size, the aggregate underneath and is used for further testing after it is recombined
larger than 11⁄2 in. (37.5 mm) is removed by wet sieving, and with a shovel. Aggregate that does not pass the sieve rolls to
the slump test is made on the minus 11⁄2 in. (37.5 mm) fraction the lower end of the sieve and into a pan or wheelbarrow to be
of the concrete. discarded. Wet-sieving of concrete should be done rapidly, and
21.3.1 Various other tests require that the concrete be the concrete should be protected from the sun and the wind.
wet-sieved if the maximum aggregate size is larger than is The sieves should not be overloaded.
suitable for the size of the test equipment to be used or the test 21.4 When wet-sieved concrete is used for the air content
specimen to be made. Most test procedures require that the test, the air content measured is the wet-sieved fraction, not the
minimum dimension of the specimen or the mold shall be at total concrete. The aggregate larger than the designated size,
least three times the maximum size aggregate used in the test which is removed and coated with a small amount of mortar, is
or the specimen. The specific requirements are given in the assumed to contain no (or little) air. Concrete specifications
various applicable test procedures. may specify air content for the full mix or for a fraction of the
FIG. 5 Equipment for Wet Sieving Concrete by Hand
20
22. AIR CONTENT OF FRESHLY MIXED

CONCRETE BY THE VOLUMETRIC METHOD
(See Test Method C 173)2
This test method is applicable to concretes containing any
type of aggregate. It is the only procedure considered satisfac-
tory for determining air contents of concretes made with
lightweight aggregates, air-cooled slag, and highly porous or
vesicular natural aggregates. The bowl of the apparatus is
permitted to have a minimum capacity of 0.075 ft3 (0.002 m3).
Typically this is the size of bowl used. With samples of
material this small, it is very important that a representative
sample of the concrete is tested. Concrete containing aggregate
retained on the 11⁄2 in. (37.5 mm) sieve shall be wet sieved
before testing.
22.1 The current test method is designed to better define the
end point of the test. To accomplish this task, a large amount of
isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) is used and time limits
have been inserted into the test method. The test method may
appear complicated; but the appendix of the test method offers
a flow chart to help guide the user through the process.
22.2 Fill the bowl in two layers and properly rod each layer.
After rodding each layer, tap the side of the bowl with a rubber
mallet. After the concrete has been struck off and the upper and
lower portion of the apparatus secured, insert the funnel
through the opening in the graduated neck and add at least one
pint (0.5 L) of water. Then add a pre-selected amount of
alcohol to the meter. Water is then added to zero the meter. The
alcohol is added to prevent foam on top of the liquid and to
obtain a stable reading. The amount of alcohol is determined by
various factors in the mix. The note immediately after the
FIG. 6 Mechanical Equipment for Wet Sieving Concrete section Adding Water and Alcohol in the test method offers
some guidance as to the amount of alcohol needed and the
factors affecting the addition. To avoid delays when field-
concrete wet-sieved to a designated size. If the test is made on testing unfamiliar mixes, it may be appropriate to run trial tests
the sample wet-sieved to a given size, the air content of the full prior to field tests. Be sure to record the amount of alcohol
mix may be calculated if the concrete-mix proportions are used. When using more than 2.5 pints, air content readings tend
known or determined. The air content of the full mix is to be higher than the actual air content; a correction, which is
obtained by multiplying the air content of the wet-sieved subtracted from the final reading, is used to compensate for this
fraction by the ratio of the volume of the full mix. (This may difference.
be calculated from the known or determined mix for 1 yd3 or 22.3 To release air entrained in the concrete it is important
1 m3 of concrete.) For example, 3 in. nominal maximum size that all concrete in the bowl be dislodged during the inverting
aggregate concrete is being produced. The air content of −11⁄2 operation. Tip the device upside down and agitate it vigorously
in. wet-sieved fraction of the concrete as determined with an to get the concrete out of the bowl. To prevent the aggregate
airmeter is 4.9 %. From the mix calculations for 1 yd3(27.0 ft3) from becoming lodged in the neck of the meter, do not invert
of this concrete, the +11⁄2 in. fraction has an absolute or solid the measure for more than 5 s. Continue to invert and agitate
volume of 4.62 ft3. The volume of the −11⁄2 in. fraction of the the measure at these short intervals for a minimum of 45 s and
concrete is then 27.0 − 4.62 = 22.38 ft3. The air content of the until all the concrete is freed from the bowl. Aggregate should
full mix is 4.9 3 22.38/27.00 = 4.1 %. be heard rolling around in the meter when the concrete is freed
21.4.1 Unit weight tests to be used for concrete-mix com- from the bowl. It is important to continue to invert and agitate
putations are best made on the full mix, although unit weight until the aggregate is heard moving in the meter.
tests of a wet-sieved fraction of concrete can be corrected to the 22.4 After the measure is inverted and the concrete is freed
full mix when the mix details are known. from the bowl, return the meter to an upright position and roll
21.5 The test sample of concrete should have a volume of at the meter. Follow the procedure in the Rolling section to
least 25 % greater than that needed to make all required accomplish this procedure. Do not invert the meter after the
specimens. The sample size requirement also applies to the rolling procedure has begun. Continue the rolling procedure for
amount of material left after wet sieving when large aggregate 1 min. The aggregate must be heard sliding in the meter during
has been removed. the rolling procedure.
21
22.5 The remaining steps in the procedure include a series of the mixer should also be included along with the total
of readings to determine the air content. When reading the level mixing time. Note any deviation from the standard.
of liquid in the neck of the meter, the test method requires the 23.1 Batch Size—The batch should be of sufficient volume
reader to “read the bottom of the meniscus.” The surface of the to leave about 10 % extra material after the test of plastic
liquid in the graduated neck tends to take the form of a curve. concrete and specimen fabrication has been completed. The
The bottom of the meniscus is the bottom of this curve. size of the batch must be within the working capacity of the
22.6 A stable initial reading is obtained when the level of mixer. A batch of less than one tenth of the mixer’s rated
liquid in the meter does not change by more than 0.25 % within capacity will not be mixed in the same manner as a standard
a two-minute period. To accomplish this, read the meter when size batch, and the percentage of mortar retained in the mixer
the liquid level appears to be stabilized; read the meter again will be excessive. Exceeding the recommended batch size may
after two minutes and compare the two readings. If a stable result in the sample not being thoroughly mixed, spillage, and
reading cannot be obtained within 6 min or if the foam in the damage to the driving unit. Concrete used to fill the slump cone
neck is more than two percent, discard the sample and start a and unit weight measure may be returned to the batch,
new test using more alcohol (see 22.2). re-mixed by hand and reused. Concrete used in filling either the
22.7 Once an initial stable reading has been established and pressure or volumetric air meter must be discarded after
recorded, the rolling procedure is repeated and a second stable testing. The following is a list of equipment typically used and
reading is obtained. If the two readings are within 0.25 %, the the volume of material needed to fill each vessel:
last reading becomes the final meter reading. The final reading Volume of Material
minus any correction for the amount of alcohol used becomes Test Equipment Required, ft3
Slump cone (C 143) 0.2
the reported air content. Corrections to the air content are based Cylinder mold (C 192) 6 3 12 in. 0.2
on the amount of alcohol used; see the table in the calibration Unit weight measure (C 138) 1⁄2 ft3A 0.5
section for these corrections. Air content - pressure (C 231) Type B 0.25
Air content - volumetric (C 173) 0.075
22.8 If initial and repeat stable readings are not within Flexural beams (C 192) 6 by 6 by 20 in. 0.5
0.25 %, then the repeat reading becomes the initial and a third A
Capacity of the measure may vary due to aggregate size.
rolling and reading procedure is run. If the third stable reading
does not agree with the previous reading within 0.25 %, A batch of concrete using non-entrained, Portland Type I
discard the sample and start a new test using more alcohol (see cement with normal weight aggregates weighs approximately
22.2). 150 lb/ft3.
22.9 When the apparatus is disassembled, the contents of 23.2 Temperature of Materials—Practice C 192 requires
the bowl should be examined to insure that no concrete is stuck that materials be at a uniform temperature, in the range from 68
in the bowl. Do not confuse packed sand and gravel in the bowl to 86 °F (20 to 30 °C). It is preferable to have the materials at
with undisturbed concrete. Remove and examine the contents this temperature for 24 h prior to testing. Comparative concrete
of the bowl to make an accurate evaluation of the make up of mixtures should have about the same “as-mixed” temperatures.
the materials. If concrete is stuck in the bowl discard the 23.3 Material (Cement)—Trial batches are usually made
sample and run the test method again. with bagged cement. If available, it is better to obtain a
representative sample from the bulk cement supply. The dry
23. MAKING AND CURING CONCRETE TEST cement should be uniformly blended. The cement stock should
SPECIMENS IN THE LABORATORY be stored in tightly closed, moisture-proof containers, prefer-
(See Practice C 192)2 able metal, throughout the tests. A steel drum with an easily
Record Keeping—All pertinent information concerning the opened lock rim with a gasket is one of the preferred types and
materials used in preparing laboratory concrete should be is easily emptied and cleaned. Practice C 192 states that all
recorded. Experience has shown that such data may be valu- cement material shall be passed through a No. 20 sieve prior to
able long after when details cannot be readily supplied from testing. Special attention should be given to this detail when
memory. Record the actual weight of all materials used as well bricking or lumping are observed in the cement sample.
as the proportion of the mixture. The description of the cement 23.4 Material (Aggregate)—It is important that a represen-
should include type, manufacturer, source of shipment, type of tative sample of both the coarse and fine aggregate be used.
container, and any applicable laboratory sample numbers. If a Because aggregate may segregate during shipping, re-mix the
cement other than portland cement or other cementitious pile continuously during sampling. A description of the aggre-
materials is used, the specific gravity should be determined and gate should include absorption and moisture content. The
recorded. If bagged cement is being used, the weight per bag section on Preparation of Materials in Practice C 192 contains
should be recorded. The description of any admixture used in several procedures for determining the weight of the aggregate
the concrete should indicate the nature of the material, manu- and the weight of the water contained in the aggregate. No
facturer’s name, brand, and lot number. If solutions of admix- matter which procedure is used it is important to add the
tures are prepared in the laboratory, records should show the amount of free water (surface moisture) contained in the
actual quantities of admixture and water used. The quantity of aggregate to the amount of mixing water when reporting mix
any liquid used in the mix should be recorded. The quantity of water amounts. Due to the porous nature of lightweight
mixing water should be recorded in terms of the units actually aggregate it is important to saturate the aggregate prior to use.
used in the measurement, even though different units may be Otherwise the lightweight aggregate will remove mixing water
used in the final report. A description of the type and capacity from the batch during the mixing operation.
22
23.5 Material (Admixture)—Concrete produced in the labo- laboratory, ft3.

ratory often involves the use of chemical and mineral admix- Convert ounces to millilitres:
tures which may be either in powdered or liquid form. Each ounces 3 29.57 = millilitres
type is handled differently. Insoluble admixtures in powdered Solutions should be labeled and stored in accordance with the
form should be pre-mixed with the cement prior to introduction manufacturer’s guidelines. Nonmetallic containers are pre-
into the mechanical mixer, and mixed with the sand and cement ferred for storing solutions. Outdated solutions should not be
when mixing by hand. Care must be taken in adding the used.
powdered admixtures that are used in very small amounts 23.6 Material(Water)—In calculating the amount of water
(often from 0.01 to 0.2 % by weight of cement) to distribute for batching, allowance should be made for free and absorbed
them evenly and blend them uniformly with the cement when water in the aggregate.
preparing a concrete mixture. 23.6.1 When mixing batches of concrete, the water cement
23.5.1 Soluble chemical admixtures should be prepared as a ratio is usually specified or previously determined by trial
water solution unless instructions dictate otherwise. Such batches in which the water-cement ratio is determined based on
solutions and chemical admixtures that are marketed as liquids the strength of the concrete. The water-cement ratio is used to
should generally be introduced into the mixer with the mixing calculate a mix design weight of water. Calculate the amount of
water. The solution should be included in the calculation of the mixing water to be batched by determining the actual moisture
water content of the concrete. Solutions that are not compat- content in both fine and coarse aggregate. In making these
ible, such as calcium chloride and certain air-entraining agents calculations, the following formulas may be of assistance.
or set retarders, should not be intermixed prior to their Percentage of water in aggregates:
introduction to the mixer, but should be added to the batch of Free water, %A= total moisture content, %– maximum absorp-
concrete in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendation, %
tions. Air entraining admixtures, when used with either water-
reducing or set controlling admixtures or both, are often added where:
Total moisture content, % = total amount of water con-
to the damp sand to reduce possible adverse effects when they
tained in the aggregate ex-
are added closely together.
pressed as a percentage
23.5.2 Specification C 260, Air-Entraining Admixtures for ((weight of water in the
Concrete2, and Test Method C 233, Air-Entraining Admixtures aggregate/oven-dried
for Concrete2, respectively, cover the requirements for and weight)A 100), and
methods of test for air-entraining admixtures. Specification Maximum absorption (%) = maximum percentage of water
C 494, Chemical Admixtures for Concrete2, covers the require- trapped in the aggregate ((ab-
ments for other chemical admixtures such as water-reducers, sorbed water/oven-dried
retarders, accelerators, high-range water reducers, and so forth. weight)A 100)
Specification C 618, Coal Fly Ash and Raw or Calcined A
A negative number for free water, %, means the aggregate
Natural Pozzolans for Use as a Mineral Admixture in Portland will absorb some of the mix water.
Cement Concrete2, covers the requirements for pozzolanic
Amount of free water in aggregates:
admixtures. When using admixtures, attention should be given
Weight of free water = free water, % 3 oven-dried batch
to the instructions and precautions furnished by the manufac-
weight
turer of the admixture with particular attention to dosage rate
and time of addition. Since the dosage size is relatively small, where:
make sure the method of measure is accurate and all of the oven-dried batch weight = mix design quantities of oven-
admixture is delivered to the batch. Syringes, pipettes, or dried aggregate adjusted pro-
cylindrical graduates have been found to be effective delivery portionally to batch size.
systems. Admixture manufacturers typically issue dosage rates
in oz/cwt (ounces per 100 weight) of cementitious material per Amount of water to be batched:
cubic yard. When mixing batches with admixtures in the Mixing water for the batch = design mix water – free water
laboratory, it is recommended that dosages be measured in
millilitres due to the amount used. In calculating the dosage where:
size of admixtures for trial batches, the following formulas design mix water = mix design quantities of water adjusted
could prove useful: proportionally to batch size.
Amount of cement used per cubic yard of concrete:
X 3 94 (lb/bag) = lb of cement/yd3 23.6.2 Vessels for storage of water must be clean. Volumet-
where X = number of bags of cement per yard of concrete. ric measures should be checked for accuracy and their capacity
Amount of admixture used per cubic yard of concrete: should be marked thereon. The tare weights of vessels used for
(lb of cement/yd3/100) 3 D = ounces of admixture/yd3 weighing water should be checked occasionally.
where D = dosage rate of admixture, oz/cwt/yd3. 23.7 Safety—Belt, chain, or gear drives on mixers should be
Amount of admixture used in mix batch: adequately guarded to prevent injury. Fresh concrete can cause
oz of admixture/yd3 3 (V/27) = oz of admixture/batch chemical burns. Personnel should wear safety glasses, goggles,
where V = volume of the concrete batch to be mixed in the or face shields to protect the eyes from concrete splatters
23
during mixing. Hands and exposed skin should be protected wet all interior surfaces and then turn the pan upside down and
from contacting the concrete. If hardened specimens are cured allow any excess water to drain. For either the revolving drum
in limewater, technicians should wear waterproof gloves to or the open-pan type of mixer, the mixing cycle is clearly
protect skin from irritation and rashes on the hands and arms presented in the Machine Mixing section of Practice C 192.
when placing or removing specimens from water storage. The equipment, procedure, and time of mixing can greatly
Lifting devices are commercially available which allow cylin- affect the compressive strength and amount of entrained air,
ders to be removed from the storage water without placing and no variations from the required cycle should be permitted.
hands in the limewater. If deviations occur, they should be recorded in the notes on the
23.8 Mixer Operation—The mixing action of tilting drum batch.
laboratory mixers should be critically observed and deficien- 23.13 Sampling After Mixing—Sampling of either hand-
cies corrected. Mixers of this type sometimes run too fast to mixed or machine-mixed concrete has an impact on the test
properly mix concrete of the type used in laboratory work. The results of concrete. It is necessary that each scoopful or
concrete should roll off the blades in a tumbling action for shovelful of concrete taken from the batch to fill the specimen
thorough mixing. Sometimes mixing action can be improved molds be representative of the batch. In order to maintain
by reducing the speed or changing the angle of inclination or uniformity of machine-mixed concrete, the concrete must be
tilt of the drum, or both. remixed by shovel or scoop after depositing in a clean, damp
23.9 Batch Weighing—Practice C 192 requires that all ma- pan. Concrete that tends to segregate (slumps larger than 3 in.
terials shall be weighed on scales in accordance with the (76 mm) or concrete containing nearly spherical coarse aggre-
requirements for sensitivity and tolerances prescribed by the gate) should be remixed after the removal of one or two
National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook scoopfuls or shovelfuls. Scoops or shovels should be used to
44.17 In weighing materials for batching, it is important to use sample the concrete. Sample the concrete, not in horizontal
the correct capacity scale to ensure accurate scale readings. The layers, but throughout the depth of the batch with the leading
material to be weighed should have a weight greater than about edge of the scoop or shovel, sliding along the bottom of the
10 % of the capacity of the scale but not more than the capacity pan.
of the scale. Further clarification is provided in the Scales 23.14 Molding—After each layer of concrete is placed in
section of Practice C 192 and the accompanying note. the mold, rod or vibrate test specimens in accordance with the
23.10 Buttering—When a concrete mixer is first used, a section on Methods of Consolidation in Practice C 192. When
coating of mortar is left on the interior surfaces of the mixer using single-use plastic cylinder molds care should be used not
after the batch has been discharged. To avoid this loss of the to contact the mold with the vibrating element or tamping rod
batch material, the mixer should be buttered prior to batching during consolidation. Also, the tamping rod should not be used
concrete. The mixer is “buttered” by mixing a batch propor- in closing the voids left by rodding. When using light-gauge or
tioned to simulate closely the mortar portion of the first test single-use plastic cylinder molds, the open hand may be used
batch. Discharge the contents of the mixer once all interior to close these voids. When using a vibrator as a means of
surfaces have been coated with the mortar. The coating of consolidation, do not overfill the top layer of the mold before
mortar adhering to the mixer will prevent the loss of mortar vibration. In addition, it is preferable to vibrate all specimens
from the test batch. “Over-mortaring” is another option to of equal slump and proportions in a test group for the same
“buttering.” In this technique, the mortar portion of the batch is length of time and in an identical manner. Over-vibration
adjusted to include the amount of mortar that will remain in the should be avoided. Usually sufficient vibration has been
interior of the mixer after the batch is discharged. The amount applied as soon as the surface has become relatively smooth.
of mortar added to the batch is dependent on the size of the Excessive paste and bleed water on the top surface of the
mixer in the laboratory. specimen is an indication of over-vibrating. After the molding
23.11 Adding Admixtures—The timing and method of intro- operation has been completed, move specimens as little as
ducing the admixture into the batch can have important effects possible. Attention is invited to the Place of Molding section in
on properties of the concrete and it must be the same from Practice C 192.
batch to batch. For example, delaying the introduction of a 23.15 Curing—Practice C 192 requires that after 24 6 8 h
retarding admixture as little as 30 to 60 s after the start of in the molds, the concrete specimens be demolded and stored
mixing has been shown to have important effects on the time of in either moist air or limewater at 73 6 3 °F (23 6 2 °C). The
set, air content, and water requirement for a given consistency. moist storage rooms or water storage tanks used in curing shall
To avoid influencing future batching, the mixer or mixing pan be in accordance with the requirements of Specification C 511,
should be cleaned thoroughly after preparing concrete contain- Moist Cabinets, Moist Rooms and Water Storage Tanks Used
ing a different chemical admixture. The cleaned mixer should in the Testing of Hydraulic Cements and Concretes.2 Most
be re-buttered before mixing a new batch of concrete. laboratories use moist-air curing because of space required to
23.12 Mixing—Practice C 192 describes the procedure for cure the typical number of specimens in an average size testing
hand mixing of concrete. Hand mixing is not to be used for facility, and the ease in locating a test specimen. There should
air-entrained concrete. The requirement for a “damp” metal be free air space around each specimen, and free water must be
pan in hand mixing does not mean standing water in the pan. maintained on all surfaces of the specimen. In a good moist
Excess water will affect the slump of the concrete. One method room, the fog spray will be thick enough to hamper visibility at
to prevent this from occurring is to place water in the pan and 10 to 15 ft.
24
23.15.1 When storing strength test specimens in water, the at about 2000, 2500, 3200, and 5900 cps (Hz). These corre-
water should be saturated with calcium hydroxide (high spond to two transverse resonant frequencies, the torsional
calcium hydrated lime) as required in Specification C 511. The resonant frequency, and the longitudinal resonant frequency.
purpose of the calcium hydroxide-saturated water is to prevent The resonant frequencies of the aluminum bar are determined
the leaching of calcium hydroxide from the test specimens. using the same procedure as for a concrete specimen. A
Calcium hydroxide, sometimes referred to as “mason lime,” reference bar of this type can be used at any time and can be
should not be confused with ground limestone or “agricultural shipped from place to place to check and synchronize several
lime.” The water should be saturated with calcium hydroxide pieces of equipment. Smaller size aluminum or other metal
and the temperature stabilized before immersing the first prisms can also be used, however the resonant frequencies will
cylinder. Storage water is considered to be saturated when the have a higher values than stated above.
calcium hydroxide being added will not go into solution. The 24.2.2 The sonic equipment should be allowed to warm up
water depth must be sufficient to completely cover specimens for 2 min prior to use to stabilize the electronic circuits.
at all times.
24.2.3 The driver unit can be conveniently mounted on a
24. FUNDAMENTAL TRANSVERSE, stand so that it can be readily placed against the test specimen.
LONGITUDINAL, AND TORSIONAL Some driver units are made from an audio speaker that has
FREQUENCIES OF CONCRETE SPECIMENS18 been modified by attaching a steel tip to the speaker dia-
(See Test Method C 215)2 phragm. In contacting the concrete with the tip of the driver,
Two alternative procedures are permitted in determining the care should be taken not to break the tip loose from the
fundamental resonant frequency. These procedures are: (1) the diaphragm. The tip should not be struck sharply or subjected to
forced resonance method or (2) the impact resonance proce- great pressure. The driver unit should be pushed against the
dure. The same procedure must be used for all specimens in a specimen with just enough force to prevent a chattering sound
given group. when the specimen is being vibrated. Avoid excessive force.
24.1 The forced resonance method uses an electro–me- The pickup unit can be held against the concrete by spring
chanical driving unit to vibrate a specimen. The driver unit is loading or by a rubber band, or by the weight of the pickup unit
operated by a variable–frequency oscillator. A lightweight alone if sufficient to provide good contact. The pickup should
pickup unit attached to the specimen is used to measure the not be allowed to become wet, since water may damage it. A
amplitude of vibration as the driving frequency is varied. The small amount of grease can be added to the tip of the stylus to
amplitude of vibration is displayed on an electronic indicator. aid in coupling the transducer to the concrete.
The value of the frequency causing maximum amplitude is the 24.2.4 When moving the pickup and test specimen, the gain
resonant frequency of the specimen. of the indicator circuit should be reduced to avoid damage to
24.1.1 The impact resonance method uses a small impactor the meter.
(hammer) and a lightweight accelerometer to measure the 24.2.5 The driving amplitude should be maintained as low
vibration of the specimen. The output of the accelerometer is as is feasible for good response at resonance to avoid distor-
recorded by a computer–based system which determines the tion. Maintaining the driving amplitude as low as possible also
resonant frequency of the specimen by analyzing the recorded saves wear and tear on the equipment and spares the ears of
data. other laboratory employees. Between tests of individual speci-
24.2 Forced Resonance Method—The accuracy of forced mens the driver amplitude should be reduced so as to be
resonance method depends on the accuracy with which fre- inaudible.
quency can be determined. The actual oscillator frequency 24.2.6 The sonic equipment should be kept in a dry place.
should agree closely with the indicated frequency, within the
24.2.7 Drift can be determined by periodically checking
specified 62 % or else a calibration curve should be prepared.
The oscillator can be calibrated over its complete range by use with the aluminum bar, an electronic counter, or by other
of an electronic counter or by synchronization with the means. If drift is detected, the instrument should be checked by
standard time signals broadcast daily over station WWV by the a knowledgeable electronics technician or returned to the
National Institute of Standards and Technology. If a calibrated manufacturer for repair.
electronic counter is included in the oscillator circuit, it may be 24.2.8 In measuring the fundamental resonant frequency,
used for frequency determination, and the oscillator calibration the operator should have a general idea of the approximate
is not required. It is necessary only that the frequency output of value to be measured. Otherwise, it is possible to make a gross
the oscillator at any setting be stable during the duration of the error in the measured value of the resonant frequency. This
test. error occurs when the specimen is driven at a frequency that is
24.2.1 A 3 by 4 by 17–in. (76 by 104 by 430–mm) a fraction of the fundamental resonant frequency. For example,
aluminum prismatic bar has been found suitable for system if the fundamental resonant frequency is 3000 Hz and the
verification. Such a bar may be used to check system operation specimen is driven at a frequency of 1500 Hz, the specimen
will vibrate at its fundamental resonant frequency and the
18
amplitude indicator will indicate a peak value. Thus the user
For additional explanation see Whitehurst, E.A., “Evaluations of Concrete
could report the resonant frequency as 1500 Hz. High ampli-
Properties From Sonic Tests” ACI Monograph No 2., and Malhotra, V.M., “Testing
Hardened Concrete Nondestructive Methods” ACI Monograph No. 9., American tude vibration would also occur if the specimen were driven at
Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, Michigan. 1000 Hz, that is 1⁄3 of the fundamental frequency. To avoid this
25
problem, the instrument should be equipped with an oscillo- that determines the predominant frequencies contained in the
scope that displays the oscillator output versus the receiver accelerometer signal. These frequencies include the fundamen-
output. When the specimen is being driven at the fundamental tal resonant frequency plus the frequencies of higher vibra-
resonant frequency, the oscilloscope shows an elliptical pat- tional modes. The output from the signal processing is a graph
tern. If the specimen is driven at 1⁄2 its fundamental resonant of amplitude versus frequency, known as the amplitude spec-
frequency, the oscilloscope shows a pattern resembling the trum. Resonant frequencies appear as peaks in the amplitude
infinity sign, (`). spectrum. The fundamental resonant frequency is the peak with
24.2.9 Usually torsional frequencies are determined only the highest amplitude and lowest frequency. In this second
when it is desired to determine Poisson’s ratio or the modulus method, the frequency resolution is the inverse of the duration
of rigidity. In order to calculate Poisson’s ratio, it is necessary of the sampling period. A longer sampling period results in
to determine the torsional frequency and either the transverse higher frequency resolution. For example, if the sampling
or longitudinal frequency. Some laboratories routinely deter- frequency is 20 kHz (sampling interval of 0.00005 s) and 1024
mine all three resonant frequencies when testing specimens. In points are recorded, the resolution is 19.5 Hz (1/0.0512 s). If
determining E from the longitudinal frequency, it is not the sampling frequency were lowered to 10 kHz, the frequency
necessary to know Poisson’s ratio provided L/d is not less than resolution would be 9.8 kHz. The user must make sure that the
2. The fundamental longitudinal frequency is normally consid- sampling frequency is at least twice the resonant frequency to
erably higher than the fundamental transverse frequency. For be measured. For example, if the sampling frequency is 20
the previously mentioned aluminum bar, the fundamental kHz, the maximum frequency that can be measured is 10 kHz.
longitudinal frequency is about 5950 cps (Hz) and the funda- 24.3.2 The nature of the impact is critical in the success of
mental transverse frequency in the direction of the smaller the impact resonance method. If the duration of the impact is
dimension is about 2000 cps (Hz). It is a matter of choice too long, it may not be possible to excite the fundamental
whether to use longitudinal or transverse frequencies, since resonant frequency of the specimen. Test Method C 215
Young’s modulus can be calculated from either. The amplitude specifies a hammer that has been found to be suitable for the
of vibration in the longitudinal direction is much smaller than typical specimens used in Test Method C 666. For smaller
in the transverse direction, and more operator skill is required specimens, it may be necessary to use hammers of smaller
to determine the longitudinal resonant frequency. The choice mass. The force of the hammer impact does not have an
may also be influenced by the use of the data. The longitudinal appreciable effect on the resonant frequency. However, the user
frequency reflects the average condition of the specimen, should use a similar impact force from specimen to specimen.
whereas surface disintegration produces a disproportionately Some practice may be required to learn the proper technique,
high reduction in transverse frequency. Test Method C 666 which should be a sharp, quick impact. It is best to hold the
specifies transverse frequency because it is important to detect handle of the hammer loosely between thumb and forefinger
surface deterioration as well as general deterioration. when striking the specimen.
24.2.10 Temperature change within the normal laboratory 24.3.3 By using the impact resonance method, it is possible
range should not affect results appreciably. Moisture content to determine the torsional resonant frequency of a cylindrical
probably has a slight effect on results but this is probably not specimen. To excite the torsional mode, it is necessary to strike
significant unless the moisture content is changed appreciably the specimen with a tangential blow as shown in Fig. 4 of Test
(completely dry to saturated, for example). Poisson’s ratio is Method C 215. Practice will be required to develop the proper
reported to increase with degree of saturation. technique. The user should know the approximate value of the
torsional resonant frequency as a check that the torsional mode
24.2.11 Specimens containing freezable water will show
has in fact been excited by the impact.
higher fundamental frequencies if tested when frozen. How-
24.4 The paper by Gerald Pickett, “Equations for Comput-
ever, to eliminate completely effects of temperature and
ing Elastic Constants from Flexural and Torsional Resonant
changes in moisture content, beams on which several succes-
Frequencies of Vibration of Prisms and Cylinders,” Proceed-
sive readings are to be taken should be kept at the same
ings, ASTM, ASTEA, 1945, Vol. 45, p. 846, is a most useful
temperature (above freezing) and moisture content, if possible.
reference when making calculations based on results obtained
24.3 Impact Resonance Method—In the impact resonance from sonic tests. By use of the charts and equations set forth in
method, the specimen is struck at the appropriate position with this paper, constants for flexural and torsional vibration of
a small hammer. The impact causes the specimen to vibrate in prisms and cylinders can be computed.
its natural modes. An accelerometer mounted in the proper
position is used to monitor the vibration of the specimen. The 25. AIR CONTENT OF FRESHLY MIXED
output of the accelerometer is analyzed to determine the CONCRETE BY THE PRESSURE METHOD
vibrational frequencies. This technique is analogous to ringing (See Test Method C 231)2
a bell by striking it with a hammer. The test method describes apparatus of two basic operational
24.3.1 There are two common methods for determining the types, Type “A” and Type “B”, employing the principle of
resonant frequency from impact testing. One method is based Boyle’s law. Both methods are based on the fact that changes
on counting the number of zero crossings of the accelerometer in pressure affect changes in volume. The test method is
signal. This is accomplished by electronic circuitry, and the considered applicable to concretes and mortars made with
instrument displays the digital value of the resonant frequency. relatively dense aggregates. It is not applicable to concretes
The other technique uses a digital signal processing method made with lightweight aggregates, air-cooled blast furnace
26
slag, or aggregates of high porosity where the aggregate keep the aggregate immersed and remove any accumulated
correction factor would exceed about 0.5 %. Changes in foam as the measuring bowl is filled.
elevation of more than 600 ft (183 m) require recalibration 25.7 For the “A” meter, clamp the cover with a pressure
when using the Type A meter. The Type B meter is unaffected tight seal and add water through the standpipe until the water
by elevation. Both meters require an aggregate correction level is approximately halfway up the standpipe. Incline the
factor to be determined for the aggregate used in the concrete meter at a 30° angle and using the base as a pivot point, rotate
being tested. the meter in several complete circles. Return the meter to the
25.1 The internal surface of the assembly cover on both upright position and fill the water level in the standpipe to a
meters should be clean and free from oil or grease; the surface level slightly above the zero mark. During the rotating and
should be wet, to prevent the adherence of air bubbles that topping of the water level, lightly tap the sides of the meter to
might be difficult to dislodge after assembly. remove any entrapped air. Bring the water level to the zero
25.2 The Type “A” meter should be checked before being mark and close the vent at the top of the meter.
taken to the field after a period of nonuse. Leaky air valves and 25.7.1 Apply more than the test pressure (about 0.2 psi) to
faulty seals in the hand pumps may cause difficulty in main- the meter and tap the sides of the measuring bowl sharply to
taining the desired air pressure. The air valve near the top of the dislodge entrapped air. The pressure reading should fall during
cover assembly should be clean and free from oil. It is the tapping. When the gauge registers the exact pressure
advisable to have on hand an extra pump and extra cores for the required, read the level of the water in the standpipe and record
air valve. the reading as (h1) to the nearest half division.
25.3 The interior of the graduated precision-bore glass tube 25.7.2 Gradually release the air pressure through the vent at
and the glass face on the attached pressure gauge (Type “A”) the top of the water column and tap the sides of the measuring
should be cleaned frequently, using a soft brush or a soft cloth. bowl for about 1 min. Record the reading on the water level as
Even with frequent cleaning, it is sometimes necessary to use (h2) to the nearest half division. The correction factor is equal
a dilute (1:4) solution of hydrochloric acid to remove the film to h1– h2.
that adheres to the inner surface of the glass on drying. 25.8 For the “B” meter, clean the seals and flanges of the
25.4 For Type “B” meters, any leaks in the air chamber or measuring bowl and the cover so that an airtight seal can be
the seal between the bowl and the cover are a problem. After obtained. Clamp the cover to the bowl with the clamps
completely filling the meter, leaks in the main air valve can be provided. Close the air vent between the bowl and the air
detected when pumping to the initial pressure with the petcocks chamber. Open both of the petcocks found on the outside of the
open. No air should be observed coming out of the petcocks. cover. Inject water with a syringe through one of the petcocks
Air escaping at this point of the test indicates a leak in the main until water emerges from the other petcock. While continuing
air valve between the air chamber and the interior of the meter. to inject the water, sharply tap the outside of the bowl with a
A drop in gauge pressure would also indicate a leak somewhere rubber mallet to dislodge entrapped air. Continue until all air
in the air chamber. Submerging the lid or the assembled meter has been expelled. Close the air bleeder valve on the air
up to the top of the air chamber or using a soap solution may chamber and pressurize the air chamber with the hand pump
detect leaks. It is advisable to keep spare gaskets with the until the gauge hand is indicating the initial pressure line. After
meter. waiting a few seconds, make whatever adjustment is necessary
25.5 The calibration procedures described in the text should to place the gauge hand on the initial pressure line. Close both
be followed carefully and methodically. Some meter manufac- of the petcocks and release the pressure in the air chamber into
turers supply calibration instructions, which are based on the bowl while tapping the sides of the bowl with the mallet.
procedures different from those given in the test method. Tap the gauge lightly by hand and read the percentage on the
25.6 The aggregate correction factor represents the volume dial. The correction factor is equal to this reading.
change attributed to the voids in the aggregate. Because water 25.9 The testing of the concrete begins with preparation of
in the concrete can be forced into the aggregate voids during the test sample. For concrete with 2 inch or greater nominal
testing that would not normally be filled during concrete sized aggregate, the concrete must be wet-sieved to remove the
production, an aggregate correction factor is necessary. This larger aggregates with a 11⁄2 in. sieve. Since the air content
factor must be subtracted from the apparent air content of the determination is based on a portion of the aggregates used in
concrete before the true air content of the concrete can be the mix and the removed aggregates are assumed to contain no
determined. The factor is determined by placing the same air, adjustment must be made in the calculation for the loss of
amount of fine and coarse aggregate in the measuring bowl of this volume. For additional information, see the section on
the meter that would be part of the concrete to be tested. Since Sampling Freshly Mixed Concrete of this manual.
there is only fine aggregate, coarse aggregate and water in the 25.10 The number of layers used to fill the measuring bowl
meter, any air measured can be attributed to the aggregates. is based on the methods of consolidation. Two layers are used
The combined sample should be added to the measuring bowl when using vibration to consolidate and three layers are used
filled approximately 1/3 with water. The aggregate should be when using rodding to consolidate the concrete. Base the
gradually introduced into the measuring bowl in such a manner consolidation method on the slump. Rod concretes with a
that will not entrap air. Tapping the sides of the bowl, and slump greater than 3 in. (75 mm). Rod or vibrate concretes with
rodding or stirring the upper layer of the aggregate will help a slump of 1 to 3 in. (25 to 75 mm). Consolidate by vibration
eliminate the entrapped air. Add additional water as needed to concretes with a slump of less than 1 in. (25 mm). Failure to
27
properly rod or to close voids left by the tamping rod will that evaporation is reduced to a minimum and should be kept
indicate incorrect higher air contents. in place throughout the test except when drawing off water.
25.11 When consolidating with a vibrator, the duration of
the vibration should be carefully monitored and kept to a 27. FLEXURAL STRENGTH OF CONCRETE (USING
minimum. The test method requires that each layer be vibrated SIMPLE BEAM WITH CENTER–POINT
in three insertions evenly distributed around the surface of the LOADING) (See Test Method C 293)2
measuring bowl. Vibration is easier for the operator and the The comments on Test Method C 78 also apply generally to
tendency is to over-vibrate resulting in loss of air and increased Test Method C 293. This method requires that the specimen be
density. Vibration should cease when all the coarse aggregate is kept wet until the moment it is placed in the testing machine.
submerged, and the surface takes on a smooth glistening The last 20 h of curing prior to testing the beams must be
appearance. immersed in water saturated with calcium hydroxide (high-
25.12 When consolidating with a tamping rod, consolidate calcium hydrated lime).
each layer with 25 strokes being careful to distribute the 27.1 For testing, the beam should be placed on its side with
strokes over the entire surface of the concrete. In the first layer, respect to the mold. If any protrusions on the edges of the beam
the depth of the penetration should be throughout its depth are left from the molding process, carefully remove these by
being careful not the strike the bottom of the measure with use of a masons rubbing stone or Carborundum. Grinding or
excessive force. The depth of penetration on the second and rubbing should be minimized inasmuch as grinding may
third layer should be into the previous layer by about an inch. change the physical characteristics of the beam.
Close the voids left by rodding by striking the sides of the 27.2 The timing of the planeness determination is critical if
measuring bowl 10 to 15 times with a rubber mallet. The term the beam needs to be capped. For more information on
“smartly” is used in the test method to describe the force with determining the planeness of the beam, please refer to the
which to use in closing the voids. The force used should be just Flexural Strength of Concrete (Using Simple Beam with
sufficient to close all voids left by rodding in the 10 to 15 taps. Third-Point Loading) Section of this manual. Sulfur capping
25.13 Strike off the top surface of the measuring bowl with materials requires two h to cure. The last 20 h of curing prior
a strike off bar unless the material in the bowl will first be used to testing the beam must be immersed in water. Therefore, high
to determine unit weight of the concrete (C 138), in which case strength gypsum caps cannot be used because they soften or
a strike off plate conforming to C 138 may be used. In striking deteriorate if stored in water for more than a very brief time
off with the bar, slide the bar across the flange of the meter in period. Although permitted by the standard, due to curing time
a sawing motion. When finished, the layer of the concrete consideration, the use of neat cement is not recommended here.
should be just even with the top surface of the measuring bowl. 27.3 After testing, measure the width and depth of specimen
For the procedure used to strike off the concrete using the strike at the point of fracture to the nearest 0.05 in. (1 mm). The depth
off plate, see the Strike-Off section in C 138. measurement is particularly important since the calculated
25.14 The procedure for assembling the meter, adding the strength varies inversely as the square of the depth. If fracture
water, and pressurizing the meter is identical to the procedures occurs at a capped section, include the cap thickness in the
stated earlier in this section when describing the aggregate measurement.
correction determination. For the “A” meter, the procedures in
25.7-25.7.2 should be reviewed. For the “B” meter, the 28. TIME OF SETTING OF CONCRETE MIXTURES
procedures in 25.8 should be reviewed. BY PENETRATION RESISTANCE
25.15 In calculating the final air content, be sure to subtract (See Test Method C 403)2
the aggregate correction factor from the apparent air content. Test Method C 403 specifies apparatus and procedures for
making the test in necessary detail. As added precautions in
26. BLEEDING OF CONCRETE making the test, specimens should be stored on a level base
(See Test Methods C 232)2 free from vibration, and a specimen should not be tilted until
The methods of determining the relative amount of bleeding the surface has stiffened sufficiently to avoid displacement of
either without disturbance or with specified intermittent vibra- the mortar.
tions are described in the procedure. Certain precautions 28.1 The test method currently requires that not less than six
should be taken when making the bleeding test according to penetration resistance determinations be made in each rate of
this test method. For concrete made in the laboratory, the hardening test and that the time intervals between penetration
aggregates and concrete should be prepared as prescribed in resistance determinations be such as to give a satisfactory rate
Practice C 192. The interior surface of the container must be of hardening curve as indicated by equally spaced points.
smooth and free from corrosion, coatings and lubricants. It is Points on the rate of hardening curves should be carefully
important that the concrete be properly placed in the container plotted and the times of setting determined as detailed in the
as specified in Test Method C 232, and kept within the test method.
temperature limits of 65° to 75 °F (18 to 24 °C) when so placed
and be free of vibration or unnecessary disturbance. Any 29. MOLDS FOR FORMING CONCRETE TEST
variation from the prescribed method may affect the bleeding CYLINDERS VERTICALLY
rate. Test Method C 232 does not specify the ambient relative (See Specification C 470)2
humidity, but does require that the filled container be covered The most widely used mold for concrete cylinders is the
with a suitable lid. The lid should fit the top of the container so single use plastic cylinder mold. The quality of these molds
28
varies greatly. It is in the interest of the user to obtain the should be rotated to select the two diametral elements for
certification from the manufacturer required in the Materials loading that are nearest to being in a plane. Although the
Section of the practice. A certified mold material should greatly plywood strips compensate for small irregularities in the line
reduce the problems encountered in using plastic molds. In bearings, specimens should be made in molds that comply with
addition to this certification, three randomly selected molds the requirements of Practice C 31.
from each lot should be verified by the laboratory. After 30.1 The centering of the horizontal cylinder lengthwise
verifying that these molds meet the dimensional requirements, under the spherical bearing block requires unusual care if the
point the bottom of each mold at a light source and look into diameter of the bearing block or the length of the bearing bar
the interior of the mold. Areas of light or lighter shades of color or plate is not the same as the length of the cylinder. If the
could indicate damage to the mold or a mold that was not vertical axial plane of the cylinder does not pass through the
formed properly during the injection molding process. If this center of the spherical bearing block, the block will tilt, and the
condition exists, examine the remainder of the lot in a similar load cannot be applied. The use of an aligning jig, as illustrated
manner and communicate your observations to the manufac- in Test Method C 496, is recommended.
turer. Using the dry crushed aggregate specified in the standard,
fill and compact the aggregate in accordance with the specified 31. MOIST CABINETS, MOIST ROOMS, AND WATER
procedure. Then check the molds for water tightness and STORAGE TANKS USED IN THE TESTING OF
damage. HYDRAULIC CEMENTS AND CONCRETES (See
29.1 Storing and handling plastic molds in extreme tem- Specification C 511)2
perature can cause problems. Molds stored in a very cold The maintenance of specified moist curing conditions for
environment may become brittle and fracture with rough cement and concrete samples is important, particularly with
handling. Molds in a very warm environment may lose their specimens to be tested for flexural strength. For comparison
shape if not stored in a vertical position. If you suspect testing, companion flexural test specimens in the final 24 h
distortion from improper storage, rolling the mold on a flat curing were stored in either lime saturated water or in the air of
surface may display an out of round condition. the laboratory. Reductions in flexural strength were as high as
29.2 The top of the mold may not be sufficiently strong to 20 % for the 24 h laboratory storage specimens. Effects of
maintain the correct diameter when filled with concrete. A rigid variation in temperature on certain properties may also be
plastic cap will help ensure the correct diameter and also great; therefore, specified curing temperatures should be care-
minimize moisture loss. fully maintained. All moist cabinets or moist rooms shall be
29.3 Single use plastic molds should not be reused. When a equipped with a temperature recording device.
single use mold is reused, the removal process tends to expand 31.1 Thermostatic control of the temperature is required in
the diameter and deform the bottom of the mold. Plastic the area surrounding the room or in the room itself. In most
reusable molds are generally made of thicker, stronger material cases, thermostatically controlled heating and cooling equip-
than the single use mold to withstand repeated use. ment is required. Heating the moist room may be accomplished
29.4 This specification requires that all molds be watertight. by heating the water used in humidification sprays, by hot
Some reusable type molds are made of two or more pieces. water baseboard heat or by forced air heat. Similarly, cooling
These molds require the use of a sealant on the seams and the moist room may be accomplished by cooling the water used
joints to make the molds watertight. The excess sealant on the in sprays, by cold water coils located in the room or by forced
inside bottom of the mold should not exceed the dimension for air cooling. Forced air typically has low humidity; therefore,
the inside fillet given in the specification. Any sealant used when forced air is used, incoming air should be directed away
should be non-reactive with the concrete and compatible with from the specimens. When thermostatically controlling the
the material of the mold. Check sealed molds for leakage by room temperature, the sensing elements for both heating and
filling with water and subjecting to tapping and jarring similar cooling shall be located in the room and preferably near the
to that which occurs when making a cylinder. Check for leaks center of the room.
one h after jarring. Materials such as wheel bearing grease, 31.2 Necessary humidification may be obtained by the use
caulking compound, rosin-paraffin, and micro-crystalline wax of suitable spray nozzles, air-water jets or fog sprays. Experi-
may be suitable. ence has shown that some combination of compressed air and
29.5 After the initial dimensional check and dry rodding water spray provides the best humidification. Figure 1 in
have been performed, cardboard molds should be checked for Specification C 511 offers an example of such a device that has
absorption, height and volume change under wetting. If card- proven to work very well. In addition to the requirement of at
board molds are stored at temperatures above 90 °F (32 °C), least 95 % relative humidity, the specification also requires that
the paraffin coating may melt and collect in the bottom of the all specimens look and feel moist. To meet these requirements,
mold. This paraffin often adheres to the hardened cylinder and the room needs adequate humidification and good air circula-
must be removed before the cylinder is capped. tion. To promote free air circulation, there should be ample
space around individual specimens. In order to maintain the
30. SPLITTING TENSILE STRENGTH OF humidification requirements, it is essential that the system not
CYLINDRICAL CONCRETE SPECIMENS be shut down for prolonged periods of time.
(See Test Method C 496)2 31.3 Although not required by the practice, test specimens
The details of testing are adequately covered in the test are generally stored on racks or shelves in the moist room. This
method. When cardboard molds are used, the concrete cylinder aids in providing free air circulation, and along with an
29
identification numbering system marked on the specimen, this Maintaining the records of these temperature readings through
can greatly assist the laboratory personnel in locating the a change of seasons is required by the practice to prove that the
specimens to be tested on a given day. Racks or shelves should temperature control system can function within the required
not be made of aluminum as the alkaline condition causes temperature limits. An examination of the temperature moni-
corrosion. Hot-dipped galvanized steel racks, reinforced con- toring device on a weekly basis is considered good laboratory
crete planks, synthetic decking materials, pressure treated practice. Check that the recorder or datalogger is functioning
wood, or concrete blocks are all good choices. Material such as normally and note any unusual deviations outside the required
burlap, paper, and some types of wood can aid or support the temperature limit since the last check. Deviations could be an
growth of molds, slimes, and algae; these should not be used in indication of the breakdown in the system or a need to improve
a moist room. Although it is doubtful that these types of growth heating or cooling in the system.
affect the strength or durability of concrete, they do cause a
hazard in the handling of the specimens and in walking over 32. TOTAL EVAPORABLE MOISTURE CONTENT OF
the slime-coated floor. The room should be cleaned regularly. AGGREGATE BY DRYING (See Test Method C 566)2
These hazards may be controlled by the use of ultraviolet Test Method C 566 requires the use of a ventilated oven for
lights. more precise determinations and when aggregates would be
31.4 Safety is an important consideration whenever mois- affected by excessive temperatures. The method permits other
ture and electricity are present at the same time. Electric suitable heat sources such as a hotplate, heat lamp, or micro-
switches should be located on the outside of the room and wave oven. As recognized in the test method, the procedure
should be provided with indicating lights. Lights inside the will generally measure the moisture content in the test sample
room should be of the type suitable for the moist conditions, more reliably than the sample can be made to represent the
and electric feeds should be by suitable cable in conduit. Moist aggregate supply. When the moisture content of a coarse
storage room doors must be provided with internal latches so aggregate exceeds 3 or 4 % or a fine aggregate exceeds 7 to
that the doors may be opened from within. 9 %, the free water on the aggregate will drain or collect in the
31.5 When curing specimens in water storage tanks, the bottom layers and truly representative samples will be difficult
temperature of the tank or the room in which the tank is located to obtain.
must be thermostatically controlled. When directly controlling 32.1 All moisture contents are expressed as percentages of
the temperature of the tank, heat may be provided by thermo- oven-dry weight of aggregates. Total moisture content by Test
statically controlled immersion heaters. Chilling the circulating Method C 566, less the absorption by Test Method C 127,
water or a liquid in tubing inside the tank can provide cooling. Specific Gravity and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate,2 or Test
Insulation applied to the outside of the tank, including the top Method C 128, Specific Gravity and Absorption of Fine
and bottom, is helpful in maintaining a constant temperature. Aggregate,2 provides the percentage of surface moisture in the
Tanks can be raised off the floor to limit heat loss to the ground. sample.
If storage tanks are located in workrooms, providing lids for 32.2 With certain aggregates of relatively high absorption,
the tanks may help in maintaining the temperature, by reducing the method used to determine moisture content and absorption
the cooling effect of evaporation. can affect the computed amount of surface moisture (see Test
31.6 The storage water in the tanks is required to be Method C 128 on Specific Gravity and Absorption of Fine
saturated with calcium hydroxide (high-calcium hydrated lime) Aggregate).
to prevent lime leaching from the test specimens. Crushed
limestone (agricultural lime) and dolomite are not acceptable 33. CAPPING CYLINDRICAL CONCRETE
substitutes for calcium hydroxide. The solution is considered to SPECIMENS (See Practice C 617)2
be saturated when additional lime added to the water will not Practices C 6172 and C 12312 deal with the treatment of ends
go into solution. Once achieved, one way to maintain satura- of cylinders when testing for compressive strength. The infor-
tion is to place a quantity of calcium hydroxide in a container mation in this section refers to Practice C 617.2 For informa-
that will hold the lime but allow the water to pass through the tion on the unbonded cap system, Practice C 1231,2 refer to
container. A submerged sock or other permeable material tied section 40 of this manual.
off with string at the end works well as a container. Periodically 33.1 Prior to testing, the ends of the cylinders must be
stir the water and check the container for the presence of checked for planeness and perpendicularity. If either end
calcium hydroxide. As long as calcium hydroxide in powder departs from planeness by more than 0.002 in. (0.05 mm), or
form is present in the sock, the solution may be considered to either end departs from perpendicularity by more than 0.5° (1⁄16
be saturated. in. in 6 in.), the end(s) of the cylinder must be ground or
31.7 A recording thermometer or datalogger is required for capped. Three types of caps for cylinders are discussed in the
each storage tank when tanks are independent of the moist practice: sulfur mortar, gypsum plaster and neat cement paste.
room. To eliminate the need for several recording thermom- Sulfur mortar and gypsum plaster are used on hardened
eters, tanks may be connected by tubing that allows the flow of cylinders and cores. The neat cement paste is used on the top
water between tanks. With respect to the recording thermom- surface of the freshly molded cylinders.
eter requirement, these tanks may be considered as one unit as 33.2 An alternative to capping is wet grinding. The draw-
long as there is some means of water circulation and the backs of grinding are cost and lack of skilled operators and
temperature variation between each tank does not exceed 1 ºC. proper apparatus. Grinding should be done by the wet lapping
30
process. Dry grinding should not be used because it may cause unsound cap is indicated. The unsound cap should be removed
heat damage to the ends of the cylinder. and the cylinder end cleaned and recapped.
33.3 Sulfur mortar is a composition of sulfur and granular 33.3.5 Sulfur mortar caps should be as thin as practical; 1⁄8
materials. This mixture is heated to a temperature of about 265 in. is ideal. In no instance shall any part of the cap be more
°F (130 °C) until the sulfur is molten. The sulfur mortar is than 5⁄16 in. thick. A vertical capping device generally produces
ladled into the bottom of a vertical capping device. The thinner caps than a horizontal apparatus. Cylinder ends that are
cylinder is immediately placed squarely against the guide bars sloped, very uneven, or highly convex should be rubbed down
and slowly lowered into the molten mortar. If a horizontal with a carborundum rubbing stone, or should be squared by
device is used the cylinder is placed in the device and the cutting with an abrasive or diamond saw before capping. This
material is then poured into the device through openings at the is particularly important if sulfur mortar or high-strength
top. After the sulfur mortar hardens, the cylinder is removed, gypsum plaster is used. Poor finishing or handling are the
care being taken not to damage the capping plate or the mortar major causes of unsatisfactory cylinder ends. Such conditions
cap. should be reported to those responsible for making the cylin-
33.3.1 The sulfur mortar must have a compressive strength ders so the work can be corrected and done properly in the
of at least 5000 psi (34.5 MPa) at 2 h when tested as a 2 in. (50 future. Thicker caps may also be caused by the sulfur mortar
mm) cube. The procedure for testing the strength of the mortar hardening somewhat before the cylinder is lowered into the
is detailed in Practice C 617. Sulfur mortar gains strength with molten mixture. This can be corrected by starting with a warm
age. For some materials, a 2 h strength of 5000 psi (34.5 MPa) capping plate, using the capping material to preheat the plate,
may increase to 9000 psi (62.1 MPa) at 24 h. Strengths are or by working faster, that is, placing the cylinder into the
considerably lower at an age of less than 2 h. The required molten sulfur mortar before it begins to harden. Warning:
waiting period of at least 2 h between capping and testing of Technicians must be aware, however, of the hazards of
cylinders capped with sulfur mortar should be strictly enforced dropping the cylinder into the molten sulfur mortar and thereby
unless a sacrifice of apparent strength is allowable as expedient causing a splash of the material.
in job control of detensioning of prestressed concrete. 33.3.6 When cylinders are capped with sulfur mortar, the
33.3.2 Sulfur mortar, either laboratory prepared or commer- ends of the cylinders must be free of all surface moisture to
cial type, can sometimes produce rubbery caps that deform or avoid steam pockets under the cap. During drying of the
flow under load. This is caused by a plasticizer in the cylinder ends and in the process of capping, considerable
commercial material, by contamination of either type with oil, moisture may be lost from the sides of the cylinder. This can be
grease, water, paraffin, or by overheating. The capping material prevented by wrapping in wet burlap until time of test.
should flow freely at the recommended temperature. If the Cylinders should never be allowed to dry for long periods
material thickens from overheating, it must be cooled and before capping nor during the 2 h or more waiting period after
stirred until thin. In most instances, cooling will restore the capping. This can be prevented by storing the cylinder in moist
mixture to a satisfactory condition if it is stirred during cooling. air, underwater, or by wrapping in wet burlap, until the time of
If it is greatly overheated, it should be replaced. If water test.
contaminates the mortar, foaming may occur. In this case, the 33.3.7 The plates of the capping apparatus should be oiled
pot should be recharged with new mortar. Sulfur mortars or greased lightly before use, but the ends of the test specimens
having an exceptionally high sulfur content will produce caps should not be oiled before applying the sulfur mortar caps.
that warp or crack on cooling. Penetration oils should not be used to oil capping plates. Plates
33.3.3 The ends of cylinders should not be oiled before should neither be too hot or too cold. Cold plates will produce
capping, as is sometimes done to facilitate the removal and thick caps and should be warmed by pouring one or two ladles
reuse of caps from tested cylinders. Using reclaimed sulfur of material onto the plate, allowing it to harden, and then
mortar is not recommended unless the material is frequently removing before the first cylinder is capped. If plates are too
checked for strength and deformation under load. The practice hot, caps will harden slowly causing an unnecessary delay. The
limits the number of uses of the material to five times. use of additional plates will reduce excessive heat build up.
33.3.4 Reusable steel cylinder molds use mineral oil as a 33.3.8 Capping devices should be occasionally checked to
release agent between the steel and the concrete, and cardboard determine whether the plates meet the planeness requirements
cylinder molds use a coating of wax between the cardboard and in Practice C 617. Fig. 1 shows the planeness of caps being
concrete to prevent moisture loss and absorption. A residue of checked with a 6 in. (152 mm) machinist’s parallel and a 0.002
these materials may be found on the cylinders. A concrete in. (0.05 mm) feeler gauge. The planeness of capping plates
cylinder with a coating of mineral oil or paraffin on the bottom should be checked periodically using the same apparatus.
should not be capped until the wax or oil has been removed. Quarterly reviews are recommended or whenever indentations
Prior to capping, the ends of the cylinders must also be free of are observed. Such checking does not eliminate the necessity
moisture. Clean the surface with a wire brush and rag. Failure of checking planeness of capped specimens since the caps may
to treat cylinder ends properly may result in air voids or steam warp when cooled.
pockets between the cap and the cylinder end. This will cause 33.3.9 The practice, in describing the capping device, refers
the cap to yield before the cylinder fails during testing. If to a recess in the capping plate which holds the molten sulfur
tapping with a piece of metal (for example, coin, key or light mortar. On most new capping devices, the recess has been
hammer) on a sulfur mortar cap produces a hollow sound, an replaced with a metal ring which is affixed to the top surface of
31
the plate. Whether a recess or ring is used the depth or height mixing water used should be between 26 to 30 %. The amount
of this device should not exceed 1⁄2 in. (12.7 mm). This of water used in testing the plaster for strength should be
requirement assists in limiting the thickness of the sulfur carefully measured and recorded, along with the air and water
mortar cap that can be produced in the capping device. temperature, and the time interval between mixing and testing.
Limiting the thickness of the caps helps to prevent cylinders or The same proportion of gypsum plaster to water should be
cores with excessively sloped, uneven or convex ends from maintained in mixing for capping as was established in
being capped without the ends being ground or sawed. compressive strength testing. The temperatures of air and
33.3.10 A suitable container and source of heat must be mixing water during the capping should be substantially the
provided for melting the sulfur mortar and maintaining the same as when strength tests were made. Free water on the
preferred temperature of about 265 °F (130 °C). The melting surface of the concrete softens the gypsum cap, and should be
pot should be of suitable design, electrically heated with removed before applying the cap. After the cylinder has been
automatic controls, and provided with thermal safety melting capped, it should be wrapped immediately in several layers of
links. Due to the corrosive action of the sulfur, electrical moist burlap, but the capped end or ends should not be covered.
contacts should be protected from sulfur fumes. A heavy gauge It takes about 20 min for gypsum plaster caps to harden, but
steel lip around the container may aid in protecting the pot specimens must not be tested in less time than the interval
when hardened sulfur mortar is chipped from around the edges. established during strength testing.
A metal ladle of sufficient capacity to fill the capping plate in 33.4.2 Gypsum plaster caps should be as thin as practical,
one pour should be provided. The use of a small air-driven and a vertical capping jig is advisable to obtain thin and
stirring device in the molten material will help to maintain the parallel caps at right angles to the axis of the cylinder. Capping
uniformity of the material. A large, perforated sheet metal plates, whether metal or glass, should meet the planeness
strainer or spoon is helpful in removing small lumps of solid requirements of Practice C 617. Plate glass, 1⁄4 in. (6.4 mm)
material. thick, 7 by 7 in. (180 by 180 mm) can be obtained with a
33.3.11 Operators who handle hot sulfur mortar should wear planeness of 0.002 in. (0.05 mm) in any 7 in. dimension.
leather-faced cotton or suitable work gloves, face shield or 33.5 Neat cement paste caps made of portland cement are
safety glasses, and long sleeves. Due to the toxic nature of the applicable to freshly molded specimens. This method requires
sulfur fumes, the melting pot should be under a hood with moist curing of the concrete specimens and constant moisture
forced ventilation to the outside air. Warning: Severe burns conditions must be maintained during the setting of the paste
have resulted from explosion of sulfur mortar being overheated and the curing of the hardened caps. Lack of moisture, and
when the material in the bottom of the pot melted and boiled absorption of moisture from the paste by the drying concrete
before the surface had melted, causing a build-up of pressure. can result in caps that are cracked, nonplane, or of poor
In these cases, the explosion might have been prevented if the strength. The paste caps must be aged sufficiently so that they
metal ladle had been left in the pot. The ladle conducts heat up will exceed the strength of the concrete cylinder being tested.
from the bottom of the pot and thereby melting a relief channel Caps should never be made with a mixture of plaster of paris
to the surface of the mortar and preventing built-up pressure. and portland cement. This mixture can have a strength consid-
Heating elements located on the sidewalls of the pot have been erably lower than either of its constituents.
found to eliminate this problem. 33.5.1 When using neat cement paste in capping a cylinder
in the mold, allow the cylinder to cure after molding for 2 to 4
33.3.12 The flash point of sulfur is approximately 440 °F
h before capping. A stiff cement paste that has been mixed 2 to
(227 °C) and the mixture can ignite due to overheating. To
4 h prior to use will reduce the tendency of the cap to shrink.
prevent fires caused by failure of electrical contacts, melting
In capping the cylinder, exercise care when working the glass
pots specifically designed for continuous use with sulfur are
plate on the cement paste to avoid breakage and possible
recommended. A tight cover for the melting pot or wet burlap
injury. The cap should be checked for planeness before testing.
bags should be located in the capping area. Either can be used
Such capping is feasible only when rigid, watertight molds are
to cover the pot in case of fire. A dry chemical fire extinguisher
used, and the concrete specimen has no bleeding water on its
should also be available for emergencies. Warning: Sulfur
top surface.
burns with a low, blue flame and may be difficult to detect.
Hazards such as flammable materials or explosive gases should 34. RESISTANCE OF CONCRETE TO RAPID
not be present in the capping area. Practice C 386,2 is a useful FREEZING AND THAWING
reference for safety considerations. (See Test Method C 666)2
33.4 Another capping material permitted by Practice C 617 There are two procedures for Test Method C 666 for
is gypsum plaster. This plaster can be used for capping concrete performing laboratory freezing and thawing tests: Procedure A,
specimens expected to have a compressive strength below Rapid Freezing and Thawing in Water; and Procedure B, Rapid
5000 psi (34.5 MPa), provided the plaster has a compressive Freezing in Air and Thawing in Water. Test Method C 671,
strength of 5000 psi (34.5 MPa) or greater when tested as 2 in. Critical Dilation of Concrete Specimens Subjected to Freez-
(50 mm) cubes. Reference is made to Method C 4722 for ing,2 is another reference standard.
details on filling the cube mold and timing in striking off the 34.1 These test methods describe the equipment and proce-
top surface of the plaster in the mold. dure in considerable detail and are intended for use in
33.4.1 Certain problems and precautions are connected with determining the effects of variations in the properties of
the use of high-strength gypsum plasters for capping. The concrete on the resistance of the concrete to the freezing and
32
thawing procedures specified in the test methods. They are not 34.3 The Highway Research Board Committee on Durabil-
intended to provide a quantitative measure of the length of ity of Concrete—Physical Aspects, conducted an extensive
service that may be expected from a specific type of concrete. cooperative evaluation of four freezing and thawing methods.
34.2 The freezing and thawing of water in concrete is one of These results were published in Special Report 47, H.R.B.,
the major causes of concrete deterioration. The intensity of 1959. Among the numerous lessons learned was the impor-
natural freezing and thawing ranges from slight to very great, tance of preparatory matters such as condition of the aggre-
with no two cycles identical even at the same location. gates, air content, curing, and a variety of details prior to the
Freezing and thawing tests in the laboratory cannot duplicate start of actual testing. These are discussed concisely in Appen-
natural exposure in all respects, but can evaluate relative dix F, Suggested Operating Procedures, of the H.R.B. report.
durabilities under standardized exposure conditions. This is the Because of the value of these suggestions they are reproduced
main function of laboratory freezing and thawing tests, that is, in their entirety below.
the determination of the relative durabilities of concretes or
concrete materials.
APPENDIX F
SUGGESTED OPERATING PROCEDURES
This research has produced no evidence that any of the free moisture retained by the aggregates. In the case of certain
ASTM freezing-and-thawing test methods in its present form is natural aggregates and many lightweight aggregates, a seven
both sufficiently quantitative and reproducible to provide day soaking period may not be desirable. Shorter periods of
absolute limits for the routine acceptance or rejection, on a soaking or no soaking may be called for in these special cases
general basis, of concrete or concrete materials. The methods as being more representative of actual conditions of use.
do, however, provide useful procedures for comparing the 5. Unless mixing condition or treatment of the fresh con-
relative durability of different concretes within a given labo- crete is a variable, extreme care should be exercised to assure
ratory. In that connection, the Committee recommends atten- that the procedures for mixing and handling the concrete and
tion to the following cautions: fabricating specimens are as nearly identical as possible for all
1. Concretes to be compared should be mixed at as nearly classes of concrete which are to be compared.
the same time as feasible, placed into and removed from curing 6. Unless treatment of test specimens is a controlled vari-
at the same time, and exposed to freezing and thawing able, all specimens should be identically protected and cured
concurrently. between the time of molding and exposure to freezing and
2. Each class of concrete should be represented by at least thawing. One acceptable sequence of operations is as follows:
three batches, preferably mixed on different days. It is desirable (a) Immediately after molding, place the specimens in a fog
to have three or more test specimens from each batch as a room (relative humidity not less than 95 %) at 73 6 3 °F
check on within-batch uniformity. As indicated under item 1, covered with at least four layers of wet burlap.19
all classes of concrete to be compared should be mixed on each (b) After 24 6 4 h, strip the specimens from the molds,
mixing day. mark them for identification on both ends and on the sides of
3. Air content of the concrete should be known as accurately the specimens while they dry, and immerse them immediately
as possible, and, if the object is to evaluate relative durability in a saturated limewater solution at 73 6 3 °F. This operation
of a given concrete, the air content of the freezing-and-thawing shall be handled in such a way that the time between removal
specimens should duplicate as closely as possible that of the from the molds and immersion in the limewater is held to an
given concrete. If aggregate is the variable under study, the air absolute minimum and no surface drying of the specimens
content should be sufficiently high to provide positive frost occurs.
protection for the cement paste. For all concretes to be For concrete containing a retarder, or insufficient cement to
compared, the air content should be the same within 60.5 attain adequate strength, or if strength development is slow for
percentage point. Each specimen should be weighed in air and any other reason, additional time in the molds up to 44 h may
under water to provide an indication of uniformity. Whenever be desirable.
possible the air content and air-void characteristics should be (c) Remove specimens from the limewater at the same age
determined by microscopic examination of the hardened con- (14 days unless otherwise specified) and, after necessary
crete specimens, and preferably on specimens which have measurements of weight and fundamental frequencies, place
actually been frozen and thawed. them in the thawing environment of the test exposure, taking
4. Unless aggregate saturation is a controlled variable, the care to minimize drying during handling.
aggregates for all classes of concrete should be soaked in water A drying period, after the initial minimum storage of 14 days
for seven days after they have been dried to essentially constant in limewater, may sometimes be used as a specified variation of
weight in air. The aggregates must not be allowed to dry out
before incorporation in concrete. Necessary adjustments must
be made in the quantity of mixing water to compensate for the 19
This recommendation differs from the procedure outlined in Practice C 192.
33
the test procedure. Drying should be under constant conditions procedure is used. These early age tests are made after
of temperature and relative humidity. Normally, resaturation of specimens are subjected to either standard or elevated tempera-
the dried specimens in limewater prior to the beginning of the ture curing.
freezing cycle will also be a part of the variation from the 35.2 In this test method, elevated curing temperatures are
standard procedure. provided so as to accelerate the cement hydration reactions.
7. Every effort should be made to assure that all specimens Depending on the procedure that is used, compression tests are
to be compared receive the same exposure to freezing and performed at ages ranging from 24 to 48 h. At these early test
thawing. Ability to accomplish this may depend not only on the ages, the strength of concrete is highly dependent on the actual
characteristics of the apparatus but also on the arrangement and temperature history, and proper control of curing temperatures
location of the specimens. Turning specimens end for end and is essential in order to reduce day-to-day variability in test
changing location in the apparatus each time specimens are results. Thus, it is essential to keep accurate records of the
returned after measurement will help to minimize the effects of curing temperatures of the specimens.
unavoidable differences in environment. 35.2.1 The concrete specimens are exposed to elevated
8. Supplementary tests and the keeping of detailed records temperatures and stored either under water or in sealed
will often be helpful in accounting for poor reproducibility of containers. The cylinder molds must retain their original
test results. Changes in weight of specimens during curing may shapes during curing to minimize the possibility of induced
reveal differences in saturation of presumably identical speci- early-age damage to the concrete resulting from dimensional
mens. Measurements of density may provide a check on changes of the molds because of high temperature and mois-
uniformity of air content. Obviously, records of such things as ture. Cardboard molds and single-use plastic molds are not
equipment breakdown and deviations from prescribed methods permitted for making specimens.
may be vital in interpreting test data. Such records are readily 35.2.2 In procedure A, the warm water method, the speci-
made at the time, but are often impossible to reconstruct after mens are stored in a water bath whose temperature must be
the tests are completed. maintained at 95 6 5 °F (35 6 3 °C). To minimize variability
of test results the design of the curing tank must assure uniform
water temperature. This may be achieved by using mechanical
34.4. A constant check should be made to ensure that the stirrers, circulating pumps, or natural convection currents. To
time-temperature cycles specified are being maintained. Note achieve uniform temperature through convection currents, the
that the maintenance of a capacity load of specimens in the heating elements must be uniformly distributed over the
equipment at all times will materially aid in meeting these bottom of the tank. Before using a curing tank, the water
requirements. If specimen containers are used, it is essential temperature at various locations should be measured to assure
that dimensions of both specimens and containers be highly that the required degree of uniformity is achieved. In addition,
uniform to secure a liquid zone of constant thickness, other- the heaters should be of sufficient capacity to re-establish the
wise the rates of temperature change and, hence, the severity of required temperature within 15 min after immersion of the
exposure may not be the same for all specimens. Note that after colder specimens. The ability of the curing tank system to
each measuring period the specimens should be turned end- satisfy this requirement shall be verified by pretesting.
for-end when returned to test. In addition, the specimens 35.2.3 In procedure B, the boiling-water method, the speci-
should be returned to random positions in the apparatus. mens are stored for the first 23 h at an ambient temperature of
Particular attention should be given to the various procedures 70 6 10 °F (21 6 6 °C). To minimize day to day variability in
outlined for handling the specimens in the event of an test results, the ambient temperature conditions should be
interruption in the operation of the apparatus. maintained as close as practicable to a constant value through-
34.5. The above discussion is based upon experience with out the testing program.
normal-weight concretes. It is believed that the freezing and 35.2.4 In procedure C, the Autogenous Method, elevated
thawing methods are applicable as well to concretes made with temperature is provided by containing the heat evolved by
lighweight aggregates. cement hydration. The temperature history of a particular
specimen depends on the total heat evolution, the insulating
35. MAKING, ACCELERATED CURING, AND efficiency of the container, and ambient temperature history for
TESTING CONCRETE COMPRESSION TEST the container. In interpreting test results account must be made
SPECIMENS (See Test Method C 684)2 of the actual temperature histories experienced by the speci-
There are two primary purposes for using accelerated or mens. Thus it may be desirable to monitor not only the
early-age strength testing. The first is to obtain reliable minimum and maximum temperature but also the complete
information at the earliest possible age about the potential temperature history of representative specimens.
strength of a concrete mixture. The other is to provide 35.2.4.1 When accelerated curing tests are used for estimat-
information on the variability of the concrete production ing an equivalent 28-day strength under conventional standard
process so that appropriate corrective actions can be taken as curing conditions, a correlation relationship must be developed
promptly as is possible. by performing conventional and accelerated curing tests of
35.1 Rather than wait until an age of 28 days to perform a concrete mixtures made with the same materials. In developing
standard compression test, as is commonly done, strength tests this data, mixtures with different water-cement ratios must be
may be performed at ages as early as 24 h depending on which prepared so that a wide range of strength levels can be
34
obtained. The correlation data should be subjected to rigorous 38. USE OF UNBONDED CAPS IN DETERMINATION
statistical analysis so that meaningful confidence limits can be OF COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF HARDENED
placed on the predicted 28-day strengths. The user is directed CONCRETE CYLINDERS (See Practice C 1231)2
to the following publications for guidance on proper statistical An alternative to the sulfur, gypsum, or cement capping
treatment of data from accelerated curing tests: ASTM STP 169 methods of Practice C 617 is the unbonded method described
B (Significance of Tests and Properties of Concrete and in Practice C 1231. The practice describes the use of elasto-
Concrete-Making Materials); ACI 214.1R-81 (Use of Acceler- meric pads and metal retaining rings, commonly known as pad
ated Strength Testing); and ACI SP-56 (Accelerated Strength caps, in testing concrete cylinders. The testing of cores by this
Testing). It must be emphasized that the correlation relation- practice is not permitted. The practice may be used when
ship is only applicable for the same materials and testing anticipated strength levels are between 1 500 and 12 000 psi
conditions used in its development. (10 to 85 mPa). Cylinder ends with depressions greater than
35.3 The variability of properly conducted accelerated 0.20 in. (5 mm) must be sawn or ground prior to using pad
strength tests have been found to be similar to strength tests caps. If the ends of cylinders meet the requirements of Test
under conventional curing conditions. Hence, accelerated Method C 39 for planeness they may be tested with no caps.
strength test results can be used directly to monitor the Although pad caps may be used on one end of the cylinder in
variability of concrete production and to signal the need for combination with methods mentioned in Practice C 617 on the
process adjustments. Correlation relationships or prediction other end, normally the pad caps are used on both ends of the
equations are not required for such applications. cylinder. For testing, the pads are placed in the retaining rings
and then placed on the ends of the cylinder. The cylinder and
caps are then centered in the compression machine using the
36. REDUCING SAMPLES OF AGGREGATE TO
upper spherical block and upper retaining ring. After rotating
TESTING SIZE (See Practice C 702)2
the upper spherically seated bearing block as contact is made,
The concrete laboratory will frequently find it necessary to the test specimen is initially loaded up to 10 % of the
reduce a sample of aggregate to a smaller volume. Such anticipated total load and the cylinder is checked for perpen-
reduction in sample volume must be done very carefully if the dicularity. When the cylinder is properly positioned, the test is
resulting smaller sample is to represent the larger lot accu- completed in accordance with the procedure described in Test
rately. Fine aggregate should be moistened before reduction to Method C 39.
minimize segregation and loss of dust, except when using an 38.1 Neoprene pads conforming to the requirement listed in
enclosed sample splitter. Practice C 702 describes procedures the Elastomeric Pad Section of the practice need not be
for reducing field samples of aggregate to the appropriate size qualified when used below 7 000 psi. Other elastomers are
for testing which minimize variations in characteristics be- permitted but must be qualified. The pads are required to have
tween the test samples so selected. a Shore “A” durometer hardness in a range of 50 to 70. The pad
distributes the force of the compression over the entire surface
37. MEASURING EARLY-AGE COMPRESSIVE area of the cylinder by acting as a hydraulic fluid. Different
STRENGTH AND PROJECTING LATER-AGE strength levels require different durometer hardness. Pad
STRENGTH (See Test Method C 918)2 manufacturers are required to supply the durometer hardness.
Use the table located in the practice to determine the correct
This test method uses the maturity concept and the strength hardness number to be used and when qualification is required.
versus maturity relationship proposed by Plowman (Magazine
38.1.1 The number of cylinders that can be tested using the
of Concrete Research, V.8, N.22, March 1956). Test specimens
same pads varies with the strength levels of the concrete
are cured following Practices C 31 or C 192, and a record is
cylinders being tested and the hardness of the pad. Pads with
maintained of the temperature immediately adjacent to the
high durometer hardness generally last longer than softer pads
specimens. At an early age of about 24 h, the specimens are when testing cylinders at higher strength levels. Use the table
tested in compression. The value of maturity is calculated from in the practice to refer to the maximum number of reuses.
the test age and the temperature record. Since most specimens
38.2 Neoprene pads need not be qualified when testing
will be tested prior to an age of about 48 h, protection
concrete with strength levels below 7000 psi and with less than
precautions in Practice C 31 concerning transportation and
100 reuses. Pads must be qualified after 100 reuses, if they are
handling of early-age specimens should be followed. made from a material other than the neoprene listed in the
37.1 The early-age strength and maturity values may be Elastomeric Pad Section of the practice , or if the strength level
used to estimate the later age, such as 28-day, compressive exceeds 7 000 psi. When qualification is required, contact the
strength or may be compared to concrete mixture design data manufacturer to see if they have the necessary qualification
at similar maturity. Later-age strengths are estimated by using data. If qualification tests are required; requalify the system
a previously established prediction equation that was devel- when one of the following items have changed: (1) pad
oped for the specific concrete being tested. The prediction material, (2) pad dimensions, (3) pad hardness, (4) retaining
equation is obtained by measuring the maturity and compres- ring design, and (5) retaining ring material. However, varia-
sive strength of specimens at ages from 24 h to 28 days, tions of a particular parameter need to be qualified only once.
plotting the test results on a semi-log scale, and deriving the Pad cap systems are qualified by testing companion cylinders;
best fitting equation for the data. one ground or capped in accordance with Practice C 617 and
35
the other tested using pad caps. Companion cylinders are 12 inches (3.2 mm in 300 mm) and that the ends of the cylinder
cylinders made from the same batch, at the same time, by the are centered in the retaining rings. If the cylinder alignment
same technician. A minimum of ten sets of companion cylin- does not meet these requirements, release the load; remove the
ders shall be tested at the minimum strength level and ten sets cylinder; and, check to make sure that the cylinder itself meets
at the maximum strength level at which the pad caps will be the 1⁄8 inch in 12 inches (3.2 mm in 300 mm) criteria. If it does
used. These test results must be within a range of 1 000 psi, for not, minor corrections can be made by sulfur mortar capping as
each strength level. Additional companion cylinders may be long as the cylinder meets the 1⁄8 in 6 inches (3.2 mm in 150
needed to qualify the system. All test results of companion mm) requirement in the End Condition section of Practice
cylinders for a desired strength level should be included in the C 617. If the cylinder cannot be capped, the cylinder end must
calculation for qualification. Pad cap systems are considered to be corrected by sawing or grinding. If the cylinder does meet
be qualified if the results of the comparison tests indicate that the requirements, repeat the above procedure, rechecking the
pad caps did not reduce the strength of the concrete by more centering and alignment of the cylinder. If the cylinder is not
than two percent when compared with the cylinders which perpendicular to the platen of the machine, the ultimate
have been ground or capped in accordance with Practice C 617. strength may be reduced.
If the laboratory wishes to use the pad beyond 100 uses, then 38.5 The breaks of the cylinders will rarely be the conical
it must be checked again at 200 uses. The cylinders used in fractures typical of the sulfur mortar caps, and therefore, the
these qualification tests must be within a range of 2 000 psi of sketches shown in Figure 2 of Test Method C 39, are not
each strength level. descriptive. One reason for this difference is that the energy
38.3 The design of the retaining ring is important in the pad stored in the pad is released to the concrete resulting in a more
cap system. Erroneous strength results are often produced explosive break with more rubble than is seen with sulfur caps.
when cylinders are not properly centered in the testing ma- Pad capped cylinders occasionally will develop early cracking
chine. Since the cylinder is centered in the testing machine by associated with the lateral flow of the cap, but will continue to
centering the retaining ring on the upper bearing block, a carry increasing load and therefore should be tested to com-
means for centering the retaining ring should be considered. In plete failure.
some cases, metal straps may be used to attach the ring to the 38.6 Because of the explosive nature of breaks associated
block as shown in Figure 1 of Practice C 1231 or the outer with pad caps, the testing machine needs to be fitted with some
surface of the retaining ring could be made circular to assist in form of protective cage. The sudden release of energy stored in
alignment. Centering the cylinder is easy when the diameter of the pads has reported to have caused damage to some com-
the retaining ring is the same diameter as that of the bearing pression testing machines.
block. The practice requires that the diameter of the pad shall
not be more than 1⁄16 in. (2 mm) smaller than the inside 39. SAMPLING AGGREGATES (See Practice D 75)2
diameter of the retaining ring. Experience has shown that the
inside diameter of the pad should be as close as possible to the Practice D 75 is of importance to laboratory personnel even
inside diameter of the retaining ring. The smaller the gap though sampling sources of concrete aggregate is not within
between the ring and the pad, the less the pad will deform or the scope of this manual. In many instances aggregate samples
spread laterally. Reducing the amount of lateral deformation or for trial batches and preliminary laboratory tests will be
spread will reduce the amount of cracks along the edge of the obtained several months before the job is started or even before
pad and increase pad life. The practice requires that the base of the aggregates that will be used on the job are produced. Under
the ring which contacts the bearing blocks of the compression these conditions samples must be taken with particular care.
machine must be plane to 0.002 in. (0.05 mm). Past production records should be examined to determine if the
38.4 In addition to being properly centered in the testing samples taken are likely to represent material to be produced in
machine, the cylinder must be tested in the vertical position. the future. When construction is started, the material furnished
The pad is made of soft material and the only method to ensure to the project must be tested to determine if it is of similar
that the cylinder is perpendicular to the platen of the compres- quality to that used in earlier tests. When aggregate samples are
sion machine is to check the perpendicularity of the cylinder for preparation of trial batches the moisture condition of the
under load. material should be noted in order that the aggregate can be
38.4.1 Center the pad caps on the cylinder and place the incorporated in laboratory batches in a moisture condition
cylinder on the lower platen of the testing machine. As the representative of the aggregate to be used in the job concrete.
upper spherically seated block is brought to bear on the pad This is particularly important for highly porous aggregates
cap, make sure to carefully center the upper pad on the block such as structural lightweight concrete aggregates.
and rotate the block’s movable portion gently by hand so that 39.1 Particular attention is directed to the need for observ-
uniform seating is obtained. ing the requirements for minimum sample sizes in different
38.4.2 Begin applying load to the cylinder. Before the load methods. The test methods to be performed should be exam-
has reached 10 % of the anticipated cylinder strength, stop ined carefully to determine the number and size of test portions
increasing the load. While holding the load constant, check to required. The size of sample obtained from the field should be
see that the cylinder is vertical within a tolerance of 1⁄8 inch in at least twice as large as the total amount required for the tests
36
to be conducted to provide for any waste, reruns of tests, or 6 in. (150 mm) of blocks 6 in. (150 mm) in diameter or larger,
additional tests if required. or by more than 0.001 in. (0.02 mm) in the diameter of any
smaller block. Remove and disassemble the upper spherically
40. FORCE VERIFICATION OF TESTING seated bearing assembly, clean the spherical portion and
MACHINES (See Practices E 4)2 spherical seat of debris and existing oil, lubricate the spherical
Test Method C 39 requires verification at a 13-month maxi- portion with a light coating of a petroleum based oil such as a
mum interval. Verification is also required after the machine is conventional motor oil, and reassemble. Warning: The use of
installed or relocated, whenever repairs or adjustments that a pressure type grease must be avoided because the design of
affect the operation of the force applying or the load indicating the spherically seated bearing block is intended to cause the
system are made, and whenever there is reason to doubt the bearing block to lock into place under load and the grease will
accuracy of the results. Small portable testing machines and not allow this to occur, creating a potentially hazardous
machines subjected to repeated explosive breaks or operating situation. In some machines, it is not possible to obtain
under other unfavorable conditions may require more frequent verification within the required 1 % accuracy over the full
verification. range of movement of the loading platen. To ensure accurate
40.1 Calibration equipment, such as proving rings and load verification, have the machine verified at the height normally
cells, requires very careful handling, and their use is not used in routine testing.
recommended unless the operator has become familiar through 40.3 During the verification operation, additional blocks
experience with the methods and precautions involved. Litera- should be used above and below the calibration device to
ture from the National Institute of Standards and Technology protect the bearing surfaces of the testing machine. The
and ASTM covers many details of requirements and use of calibration device must be properly centered in the testing
calibration equipment. Definitions and information about veri- machine to avoid eccentric loading errors. The operator of the
fication of machines are given in Practice E 4. calibration device should relate the zeroing technique used
40.2 In preparation for verification of the testing machine, during the verification/calibration operation to laboratory per-
ensure that both the upper and lower bearing surfaces do not sonnel. The laboratory personnel must use this zeroing during
depart from a plane by more than 0.001 in. (0.02 mm) in any normal testing operations to ensure accurate test results.
37

Manual of Aggregate and Concrete Testing

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Manual of Aggregate and Concrete Testing1

Bleeding of Concrete (C 232) 26

(See Practice C 31)2 #7 ⁄ in. (19 mm)

9.1 An important part of properly casting specimens in the

into the surface of freshly fabricated cylinders is prohibited by 6 (150) ⁄ [16]

9.4.10 Another factor which can influence the ultimate

fail. The actual observed maximum or breaking load should be

FIG. 5 Equipment for Wet Sieving Concrete by Hand

22. AIR CONTENT OF FRESHLY MIXED

23.5 Material (Admixture)—Concrete produced in the labo- laboratory, ft3.

SUGGESTED OPERATING PROCEDURES

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