Topping Concrete Cylinders: Humboldt H-2951 Kit for 6x12in Cylinder
Concrete Cylinder Topping
Concrete cylinder topping is a critical step in compressive strength testing of concrete cylinders. This involves preparing the ends of the cylinders so they are smooth, parallel and uniform, creating a bearing surface perpendicular to the applied axial load. By doing so the loading forces are evenly distributed during testing which is important for accurate results. The topping process involves applying a capping material such as sulfur capping and sulfur mortar or pads to the ends of the cylinders. These capping material create a plane surface perpendicular to the specimen axis so the test specimens are intact and reliable.
Ways to Top
There are several ways to top concrete cylinders, each with its own benefits. Sulfur mortar topping is a common method of topping where a sulfur capping based topping partially melted is applied to the ends of the cylinders. This method is known for its hard smooth surface for testing. Neoprene pads with metal retaining rings is another popular method. These elastomeric pads distribute the compressive force evenly across the specimen surfaces making them a good choice for many testing applications. Some labs grind the cylinder ends to produce plane surfaces especially when testing high strength concrete. Each of these methods ensures the concrete cylinders are topped properly for accurate and consistent results in compressive strength testing.
Why Proper Topping is Important in Compressive Strength Testing
Proper topping is critical in compressive strength testing of concrete. It ensures the loading forces are evenly distributed during testing which is important for accurate results. Improper topping can cause uneven forces which can result to inaccurate test results. This can be serious in construction projects where concrete strength and reliability is critical. Proper topping also ensures the test specimens are prepared according to the standard, ASTM C39 and C617. Following these standards is important to ensure the test results are reliable, consistent and comparable across different testing applications.
H-2951 Kit Features and Benefits
The H-2951 Kit is a popular topping kit for concrete molds with several features and benefits. One of its key features is the reusable Neoprene pad in a steel retainer ring. This design provides a smooth, parallel and uniform bearing surface perpendicular to the applied axial load for accurate and reliable results. The kit is designed for compression testing of concrete cylinders and is available in various diameters to fit different testing applications. The Neoprene pads come in different durometers so the kit can be used for testing concrete cylinders of different strengths. The reusability of the kit makes it a cost effective option for labs and testing facilities.
Meets the Following Standards
The Humboldt H-2951 Kit meets the following standards:
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ASTM C39: Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens. This standard covers the testing of compressive strength of concrete cylinders for accurate and consistent results.
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ASTM C617: Standard Practice for Capping Cylindrical Concrete Specimens. This standard covers the proper topping of concrete test cylinders for smooth, parallel and uniform ends.
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ASTM C1231: Standard Practice for Unbonded Caps for Concrete Cylinders. This standard specifies the use of unbonded caps like neoprene pads for concrete cylinder testing for even loading forces and accurate results.
By meeting these standards, the Humboldt H-2951 Kit ensures concrete cylinder capping and compressive strength testing is done according to industry standards for reliable and consistent results.
Meets the following standards: AASHTO T22, AASHTO T23, AASHTO T126, AASHTO T231, ASTM C31, ASTM C39, ASTM C192, ASTM C617
Kit includes: (1) H-2945 cylinder carrier, (1) H-2952 vertical cylinder capper, (1) H-2953 partially melted capping compound quailty melting pot, (1) H-2959 capping compound and (1) H-2958 ladle. See individual components for details.
