Concrete is one of the Key materials used in the construction process. Be it bridges , skyscrapers, road residential buildings or in any construction project always concrete has played an important role.
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But have you ever thought about how it ensured that the concrete being used in the construction structures is strong durable and safe?
Now this is where concrete testing comes into the picture.
What is Concrete Testing?
Concrete testing is nothing but a process where the properties, durability, and strength of the concrete are evaluated.
This testing method is used to make sure concrete is meeting the required standards and quality requirements.
Concrete testing is done at various stages for success of the constructions project
Before the concrete is poured. This is done to check the quality of the concrete mix. During the curing process
To Analyze the development in strength. After the curing is done. Just to check the durability in the long term.
The various parameters to be checked in concrete testing
- To check how much load-bearing capacity compressive strength needs to be checked
- Porosity & Density.
- To monitor workability and consistency
- Durability
- Weather resistance.
Why is Concrete Testing Important?
As already discussed concrete is commonly used in all types of construction structures big or small from roads, pavements, bridges, high-rise buildings, dams, etc.
So concrete testing is a must for the safety, durability, and quality of construction projects.
There were cases where due to dubious construction practices & deteriorated concrete many people lost their lives.
What happens when concrete testing is not done and there is deteriorated concrete?
- There is separation of the upper surface from the main body occurs.
- A white powder Efflorescence containing salt forms on the surface
- Scaling and Flaking and concrete starts crumbling away.
- There is upward and downward bending of concrete Slabs
- Large splits, fractures, or breaks occur.
All of the above will demand costly repairs and would also spoil the business reputation. So Concrete testing Is must need component.
Benefits of Concrete Testing
There are many benefits of concrete testing
Optimizes Efficiency
By continuously testing the concrete the quality of the concrete can be determined and if required necessary changes can be made beforehand.
This gives the benefit of a high optimum mix with fewer defects.
Integrity and Safety
With regular testing of concrete, all the safety & legal requirements are met thereby delivering a safer, stronger structure that works under any conditions.
Find out the Root Cause
By using this technique of testing on continual basis if any issue arises one can analyze the reason why the problem arise.
So through proper addressing of the raised issue proper fixing can be done and the same would not arise in future.
Building Reputation
When concrete goes through testing frequently it is possible to deliver a durable and dependable project.
This results in satisfied clients and enhances your business reputation.
Types of Concrete Testing
There are various tests included in concrete testing, some are done on the site, field tests, and some in the laboratories.
However, it should meet the ASTM standards.
Testing of freshly poured concrete is done and even after the hardener the testing is carried on.
1. Compressive Strength
While testing the compressive strength we can determine how much load a structure can bear without any breaking or cracking.
In this type of testing, a concrete cylinder or cube is cured, and then under compression testing machine is exposed to pressure.
Then proper evaluation of concrete is done and how much load it can bear is noted.
The purpose is to check whether concrete is fit for bearing the structural load for which it was made.
2. Workability Test
To check the workability and the flowability of fresh concrete a Slump test is carried on to check how easily the concrete can be poured and shaped.
Fresh concrete is poured into metal cones in three layers each tamped with a rod. The concrete slumps down when the cone is lifted.
Then the difference between slumped concrete and cone is measured. This helps in finding out whether the concrete has the right kind of consistency and is not too watery Or stiff.
3. Air Content Test
This test is carried on to check the amount of air trapped in concrete.
A fresh concrete sample is placed in a container then the pressure is adjusted.
The calculation of air content is done based on pressure changes.
4. Water Entrance Test
The test is run to check the water tightness of concrete which is essential in cases where the structures are exposed to water. The water penetration depth is measured.
This helps in determining the water in filtration capacity of the concrete which is necessary in water-retaining structures and foundations.
5. Flexural Strength Test
This test helps in finding out the tensile strength of concrete to check its ability to resist bending. A testing machine is subjected to bending forces to test concrete beams.
The load at which the beam breaks is recorded. Helps in evaluating the crack resistance capacity of concrete under load.
This point is to be kept in mind while concrete testing is conducted. For more accurate and reliable concrete results you should follow the below.
Proper testing equipment is used, and machines are standardized or well-maintained:
- Multiple testing methods should applied to derive a more comprehensive evaluation.
- High-certified technicians should carry on the test so that there is reliability and accuracy.
- Standard procedures should be followed as per industry standard testing guidelines.
Conclusion
For a builder, contractor, or property owner by properly using the concrete testing component by meeting the standard guidelines, in the construction project helps in heading towards an informed decision and the success of your construction project.
Concrete testing is a very crucial element which is necessary for the safety, durability , longevity and success of a construction project . Concrete testing can also eliminate costly repairs and stand the test of time.
FAQS
Why is concrete testing important?
To ensure the safety, durability, strength, and quality of the construction project.
What are the tests for concrete?
Compressive strength test, air content test, water permeability test, ultrasonic pulse velocity test, concrete density test, heat of hydration test, slump test, etc.
What are the methods of testing concrete strength?
Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity test, wireless maturity sensors, redound hammer.
Penetration resistance test.
What is the standard for concrete testing?
ASTMC 39/C39M is the standard test for concrete compressive strength of concrete cylinders.
What is the 7-day concrete test?
A 7-day concrete test is used to measure the compressive strength of the concrete after 7 days.
