Coarse Aggregate Specific Gravity and Absorption Set

Coarse Aggregate Specific Gravity and Absorption Set

If you need to weigh coarse aggregate samples while suspended in water, this is the product for you. The Coarse Aggregate Specific Gravity & Absorption Set includes a Wire Basket with handle and 24qt polyethylene Water Container to provide accuracy and precision during testing.

The basket is No.8 stainless steel mesh and 8in dia. x 8in H (203x203mm) in size. There’s plenty of room to weigh different aggregate samples. Stainless steel construction means the basket can take a beating and the mesh will keep aggregate particles from escaping during washing or weighing. The handle on the basket is ergonomic for easy lifting so you can carry it between areas.

The Water Container is polyethylene and 24qt in size. This is the perfect size to hold water and suspend the aggregate samples during testing. It’s durable and lightweight so it’s easy to handle and move.

This product meets AASHTO T85 and ASTM C 127 test methods so it’s reliable and accurate. Whether in the lab or in the field the Gilson SG-6 Coarse Aggregate Specific Gravity & Absorption Set is the tool for you if you need to test coarse aggregate samples for specific gravity and absorption.

In summary this product is well designed, durable and easy to use. From the stainless steel mesh basket to the polyethylene water container every part of the set is high quality and designed for accuracy and precision during testing. Whether you’re a pro or a DIYer the Gilson SG-6 Coarse Aggregate Specific Gravity & Absorption Set is a must have for your testing needs.

What is Specific Gravity of Coarse Aggregates

Specific gravity is a fundamental property of coarse aggregates that is critical in determining their quality and suitability for various construction applications. It is defined as the ratio of the weight of a given volume of material to the weight of an equal volume of water at a specified temperature. This property is important because it helps to understand the density and apparent relative density of the aggregate particles which directly affects the mix design and the overall strength and durability of the concrete.

To measure specific gravity of coarse aggregates standard test methods such as ASTM C127 or AASHTO T 85 are used. These methods involve a step by step test procedure where the weight of a given volume of aggregate is compared to the weight of an equal volume of water. By dividing the weight of the aggregate by the weight of the water the specific gravity is calculated. This is important for engineers and construction professionals because it affects the material’s performance in various applications.

Test Procedure to Determine Specific Gravity of Coarse Aggregates

The test procedure to determine specific gravity of coarse aggregates involves several steps:

1. Sample Preparation: Start by getting a representative sample of coarse aggregate. This coarse aggregate sample is then dried to a constant mass in an oven set at 100°C to 110°C. This step removes all moisture so you have a baseline to measure from.

2. Measurement of Sample Mass: Once dried the mass of the sample is measured using a balance or scale. This is critical because it’s the basis for the calculation of specific gravity.

3. Measurement of Water Mass: Next measure the mass of an equal amount of water. This step is for comparison purposes because specific gravity is the ratio of the aggregate’s weight to the water’s weight.

4. Calculation of Specific Gravity: Calculate the specific gravity by dividing the weight of the aggregate by the weight of the water. This gives you the bulk specific gravity which is important for aggregate density.

5. Determination of Apparent Specific Gravity: To determine the apparent specific gravity bring the aggregate to a saturated surface dry (SSD) condition. Measure the weight of the SSD aggregate then compare to the weight of an equal amount of water. This value accounts for the volume of aggregate particles minus the volume of aggregate pores filled with water.

By following these steps you can determine the specific gravity and apparent specific gravity of coarse aggregates and meet the requirements for construction projects.

Best Practices for Coarse Aggregate Testing

To get accurate and reliable results in coarse aggregate testing follow best practices. Here are some tips:

1. Get a Representative Sample: Always get and prepare a representative sample of coarse aggregate for testing. This will ensure the test results are reflective of the entire material.

2. Follow Standard Test Methods: Follow standard test methods such as ASTM C127 or AASHTO T 85. These methods will give you consistent and reliable results so the specific gravity values are accurate.

3. Calibrated Equipment: Make sure all equipment including balances and scales are calibrated. Accurate measurements are critical for specific gravity and absorption of coarse aggregates.

4. Consistent Temperature: Test at a consistent temperature to avoid variations in results. Temperature variations will affect the measurements and give you inaccurate specific gravity values.

5. No Trapped Air: During testing avoid trapped air in the aggregate samples. Trapped air will give you erroneous measurements and affect the test results.

By following these best practices engineers and construction professionals can ensure the coarse aggregate meets the requirements and has the properties needed for a specific construction project. Accurate testing is key to getting the desired performance and durability in concrete structures.