ASTM Grout Cylinders, Tapered Cylinder Mold for Volume

ASTM Grout Cylinders, Tapered Cylinder Mold for Volume Change

Grout is so important in masonry construction. Grout is the backbone of the wall system. The composition of grout (cement, aggregate, lime, water) must be carefully controlled to meet masonry construction standards. Admixtures like air-entraining admixtures can also enhance grout properties. Testing grout (compressive strength testing) is crucial to meet standards. The standard test method for sampling and testing grout, ASTM C1019-20 is the guide for testing grout compressive strength. For ASTM grout prism testing, the Masonry Block Cap, 12 x 16in from Certified MTP can be used.

Cylinders: Tapered Cylinder Mold for Grout Volume Change

Grout Cylinders and ASTM Standards

Grout cylinders are a big deal in the construction industry, used to test concrete compressive strength and quality and durability. High slump grout is essential to ease placement, to fill small spaces and navigate around obstacles. ASTM provides standards for testing and evaluating grout cylinders. Self-consolidating grout (SCG) is the new kid on the block, high fluidity and stability, no need for consolidation. ASTM C39 is the standard test method for compressive strength of cylindrical concrete specimens, ASTM C31 is the standard for making and curing concrete test specimens. Understanding these standards is key to preparing, curing and testing grout cylinders correctly. By following these standards, construction professionals can ensure their concrete meets performance criteria, safer and more durable structures.

Applications

Grout mixes are designed to meet specific masonry construction requirements, compressive strength, flowability and durability. The proportions of cement, aggregate and water in the grout mix must be carefully controlled to achieve the desired properties. Fine grout and coarse grout are two types of grout mixes, each with its own characteristics and applications. Fine grout is for smaller grout spaces, coarse grout is for larger grout spaces.

Applications

Coarse grout is used for larger grout spaces, like concrete units (CMUs). Coarse grout in these applications provides several benefits, increased compressive strength, durability and thermal storage capacity. Coarse grout is also used with joint reinforcement, like rebar, to provide additional structural support to the wall. Application of coarse grout requires careful consideration of grout proportions, cement to aggregate ratio to meet compressive strength and durability standards. Admixtures like pumping aids can also enhance flowability of the grout, making it easier to place and consolidate.

Cylinders, Tapered, for Grout Volume Change

Meets: ASTM C1090

Concrete test specimens can be prepared by two methods, site mixed grout, where individual ingredients are mixed on-site to achieve the desired consistency and properties. Ready mixed grout is another method where grout is produced following specific specifications and mixing techniques as per ASTM C 476.

The cementitious mixture in grout composition includes cement, aggregate and water to provide fluidity and structural integrity to fill cores or cavities during masonry construction.

What is Grout Volume Change Testing

Grout volume change testing is an important test to evaluate hydraulic-cement grout performance in various construction projects. The test method as per ASTM C1090 measures the change in height of cylindrical specimens from hydraulic-cement grout under controlled conditions. Grout mixtures must be determined according to specific guidelines in ASTM C 476. The cylinder diameter must be proportional to the nominal maximum size of the coarse aggregate to achieve accurate testing and compliance for concrete strength evaluation. Testing must be carried out and evaluated as per ASTM specifications to ensure proper quality and performance. This test is to check if the grout can maintain its volume and not shrink or expand which can affect the surrounding concrete. By following this standard construction professionals can ensure the grout used in their projects meets the performance criteria and hence the durability and safety of the structure. The specified compressive strength of the grout must also be addressed, to meet or exceed project-specific requirements as per ASTM C 476. Drilled cores can also be used as cylindrical concrete specimens for testing compressive strength, as per ASTM C42.### Concrete Test Specimens

Curing Test Specimens

Curing test specimens is a crucial step to ensure they develop the desired strength and durability. There must be sufficient water left after absorption by units for proper cement hydration. As per ASTM C31, specimens must be cured in a controlled environment with consistent temperature and humidity. The initial curing period is 24 hours, during which the specimens must be stored in a temperature range of 60-80°F (15-27°C). Specimens must be shielded from direct sunlight and radiating heating devices. After initial curing period, specimens can be stored in a moist room or water storage tank. Proper curing which includes maintaining higher water content is essential to ensure it reaches its maximum load bearing capacity and achieves the desired strength.

Tapered Cylinder Molds

Tapered cylinder molds are for grout volume change testing as per ASTM C1090. These molds are metal or plastic and tapered to facilitate easy removal of the cured grout specimen. Grout fluidity is critical to flow into smallest spaces and around obstructions to ensure proper placement and consolidation during construction. Molds are non-absorbent and non-reactive to the grout to get accurate test results. Tapered shape allows for precise measurement of change in height which is critical for grout volume change characteristics. This design ensures molds give reliable and consistent results making it a must have tool for any project involving hydraulic-cement grout. For other concrete testing needs, consider the 4x8 grey concrete cylinder molds available for purchase. Fine aggregate as per ASTM C404 and TMS 402/602 plays a significant role in grout mixtures to ensure the required proportions and grading align with sand specifications.

How to do Grout Volume Change Test

Grout volume change test requires attention to detail and following ASTM C1090. During grout placement, absorption by units must be considered as it impacts cement hydration and overall grout strength. The test involves preparing cylindrical specimens from hydraulic-cement grout and exposing them to controlled environment. Managing excess water in the grout mix is critical to achieve desired properties, such as strength and to prevent potential efflorescence issues. The specimens are then measured for change in height over a period of 28 days. The test method involves the following steps:

1. Grout specimens preparation: Grout is mixed and poured into tapered cylinder molds and then vibrated to remove air bubbles.

2. Initial curing: Specimens are cured in controlled environment for a specified period at a temperature of 23 ± 2.0°C (73 ± 3°F).

3. Measurement: Specimens are measured for change in height at regular intervals of 1, 7, 14 and 28 days. During strength test, a compressive axial load is applied to the specimens until failure occurs and the maximum load is recorded.

4. Data analysis: Measured change in height is used to calculate the grout volume change.

By following these steps construction professionals can get accurate results and ensure the grout meets the standards for their projects.

Measuring Changes in Height of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens

Measuring changes in height of cylindrical concrete specimens is part of testing their compressive strength. Understanding grout properties, such as composition and performance is critical for testing. accurate testing and quality control in masonry construction.

According to ASTM C1090, the standard test method for measuring changes in height of hydraulic-cement grout, the test method covers measurement of changes in height of hydraulic-cement grout when cylinders are protected from evaporation, drying, moisture uptake, carbonation, and extreme temperatures. This is especially important for masonry structures as grout performance directly impacts structural integrity and compliance with building codes and specifications. The test method involves measuring the initial height of the specimen and then measuring the change in height after a specified period of time. These measurements are critical to determine the volume stability of the grout and ensure it meets the required performance standards.

What to do with the Test Results

Interpretation of test results from grout volume change test requires careful analysis of the data and its implications to the grout performance. The values obtained from these tests are critical to understand the grout’s behavior under various conditions. The test results will give information on how the grout can maintain its volume and prevent shrinkage or expansion. Ensuring the grout has sufficient water is important to achieve the desired consistency and workability which directly impacts its strength and performance in construction. The strength is calculated by dividing the maximum load at failure by the cross-sectional area of the specimen. The data can be used to:

1. Check if it is suitable for specific application: By knowing how the grout behaves under controlled condition professionals can determine if it’s good for their project.

2. Compare different mixes or products: Test results will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of various formulations and help in selecting the best product for the job.

3. Check if there’s an issue with the formulation or application: Any significant volume change means there’s an issue that needs to be addressed to ensure long term durability and structural integrity of the construction.

By following the essential guide to the Mini Slump Cone for accurate concrete testing and ASTM C1090 and interpreting the test results correctly engineers and construction professionals can ensure it is used in their project meets the required standards and gives long term durability and structural integrity.

Supports initial curing test specimens: ASTM C1090

Used to measure volume change, the mold is made of steel tubing 0.25” wall x 3” dia. x 6”H (6 x 76 x 152mm). The mold supports ASTM standards for volume change test. Grout can include pea gravel as part of its aggregate, with specific guidelines for maximum aggregate sizes. The mold is split longitudinally with two quick-acting clamps welded to the mold. Top edge of mold is machine tapered to a narrow rim. Specimens are critical in this application as they ensure accurate testing and compliance. Includes detachable base plate.

A Micrometer Bridge Set is useful tool for measuring volume change in various applications. It consists of micrometer, bridge supports and reference bar. During grouting at the job site, the initial volume is measured and the micrometer bridge set allows to measure at different time intervals. By measuring the change in volume you can monitor the grouting process and identify any potential issue such as shrinkage or expansion. This information is critical to ensure structural integrity and prevent damage. The Micrometer Bridge Set is a reliable and accurate way to measure volume change over time.

Accessories:

• Flow Cone for flowable grouts; requires HMA-146 or HMA-147 Orifice, sold separately

• Flow Cone Stand for flow cone positioning

• Flow Cone w/ 0.75in Orifice for less flowable grouts

• 2qt Stainless Steel Beaker for one test

• 6qt Stainless Steel Beaker for up to three tests

• Large Display Stopwatch for flowability time

How to handle and store specimens

Handling and storing specimens requires attention to detail to avoid damage or contamination. The type, such as cementitious, determines the properties and structural integrity of the specimens. According to ASTM C31 specimens must be handled and stored in a way that prevents damage from jarring or vibration during testing. The specimens must be protected from moisture loss by wrapping them in wet burlap or plastic. When transporting specimens they must be cushioned to prevent damage and kept in a controlled environment to prevent moisture loss. Label and identify each specimen clearly to track and record them properly. Follow these best practices to maintain the integrity of the specimens and get accurate and reliable test results.