Procedures to Be Followed While Performing Concrete Compression Test

To identify concrete’s compressive strength, a sample must be gathered and tested via the concrete compression test. For this test, a concrete cylinder is cast as a sample to be tested in a laboratory with a compression machine. Three specimens are typically created and cured for up to 28 days on site before they are sent to the lab. Here are the procedures you must follow while performing a concrete compression test to determine the compressive strength:

• Have the right equipment – You will need a high-quality and reliable compression machine that can handle capacities like 2000 kN or 3000 kN, and capable of meeting CE norms requirements for operator health and safety, and EN 12390-4 standards for acceptable technical properties. You will need documentation tools (i.e. paper, writing instruments, and rulers or measuring tapes), or a system with built in data logging.

• Make sure the concrete specimen is ready – Concrete cylinders must be made and cured following standards like AS 1012.8.1 for a standard cylinder mould.

• Take measurements – Measure the concrete specimens and calculate their cross-sectional area in mm2. Take note of the results.

• Using the machine – Turn on the compression machine and place a specimen at the centre of the loading area before lowering the piston against the top of the concrete sample, but without applying the load. Apply the load once the piston is secure on the specimen. Initiate the concrete compression test through the machine.

• Increase the pressure – Adjust the piston’s pace rate to match that required by AS 1012.9 by working on the pressure increasing valve, or use the system’s automatic pace rate management. From there, you should gradually apply the load without shock.

• Observe the specimen – Stop applying the load when the concrete specimen starts to break. Take note of the ultimate load displayed on the machine’s screen.

• Remember to clean up – Once the piston is on its original position, take the cracked concrete and clean up before testing another sample.

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