Concrete Cube Mold, Plastic, 6in x 6in (150MM)
Single cavity Plastic Concrete Cube Mold is used to make concrete compressive strength specimens or mortar penetration test specimens.
One piece mold made from heavy duty plastic with reinforcing ribs.
Produces consistent quality test specimens. Meets ASTM C403
Specimen removal is easy, fast and simple. Just remove the plug from the hole in the bottom of the mold and blow compressed air into the hole. The mold will pop off the hardened specimen. Replacement plugs sold separately.
Instead of plug, you can use tape to cover the hole.
Form release recommended before use.
Inside Dimensions 5.9 x 5.9 x 5.9in (150 x 150 x 150mm), WxDxH. The mold is suitable for use if the largest aggregate does not exceed 20 mm.
Outside Dimensions 8.5 x 8.5 x 7.1in (216 x 216 x 180mm), WxDxH. Also suitable for use if the largest aggregate does not exceed 20 mm.
Meets Test Methods: AASHTO T197 ASTM C 403
What is a Concrete Cube Test?
A concrete cube test is a standard method to determine the compressive strength of concrete. This involves pouring fresh concrete into a cube mold, let it cure and then test its compressive strength using a compression testing machine. The compressive strength is calculated using the load applied by the compressive strength testing machine and the cross section area of the cube. Usually done after 7 and 28 days of curing but may vary depending on project specifications. The concrete cube test is a must have for concrete structures to ensure quality and reliability of the material and to get critical data on the material’s ability to withstand loads and stresses.
Why Concrete Cube Testing
Concrete cube testing is essential for structural integrity of buildings and other concrete structures. By testing the compressive strength of the concrete, this test gives you valuable information on the material’s ability to withstand loads and stresses. Regular concrete cube testing allows engineers and builders to detect potential problems early and take corrective action to prevent structural failures. Also cube testing ensures compliance to project specifications and industry standards like British Standards Institute so you can be sure of the quality and safety of the construction.
Equipment Needed for Concrete Cube Testing
To perform a concrete cube test effectively, having the right equipment is crucial. Here’s a rundown of the essential tools you’ll need:
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Cube Moulds: Typically made of steel or polyurethane, these moulds come in standard sizes of 150 x 150 x 150 mm. It’s important to ensure they are clean and oiled before use to prevent the fresh concrete from sticking.
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Tamping Rod: This rod, usually 16 mm in diameter and 60 cm in length with one end rounded, is used to compact the concrete within the mould. Proper compaction is key to achieving accurate test results.
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Trowel: A trowel is used to apply a layer of oil to the moulds and to smooth out the surface of the concrete once it’s poured. This helps in achieving a uniform surface for testing.
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Compressive Testing Machine: This compression testing machine applies a load to the concrete cube until it fails, measuring the compressive strength. Regular calibration of the compression testing machine is essential to ensure accurate results.
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Load Cell: Used to measure the load applied to the concrete cube, the load cell is a critical component in determining the strength of the concrete.
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Data Logger: This device records the data from the load cell and calculates the compressive strength of the concrete. Accurate data logging is vital for reliable test results.
Having the right equipment ensures that your concrete cube test is accurate and reliable, providing essential data on the compressive strength of your concrete.
The Concrete Cube Test Formula
The fresh concrete test formula is fundamental in calculating the compressive strength of concrete. Here’s how it works:
Compressive Strength = Load / Cross-sectional Area
Where:
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Load: This is the maximum load applied to the concrete cube before it fails, measured in either megapascals (MPa) or pounds per square inch (psi).
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Cross-sectional Area: This is the area of the face of the concrete cube that is being tested, typically measured in square millimeters (mm²) or square inches (in²).
By applying this formula, you can determine the compressive strength of the concrete, which is a critical factor in assessing its ability to withstand loads and stresses. Accurate calculation of compressive strength is essential for ensuring the quality and safety of fresh concrete structures.
Preparing and Testing Concrete Cubes
Preparing and testing concrete cubes is a meticulous process that ensures the accuracy and reliability of the concrete cube test. Here are the steps involved:
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Mixing the Concrete: The concrete must be mixed according to the project specifications, ensuring consistency and correct proportions. This step is crucial for achieving reliable test results.
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Filling the Moulds: Pour the fresh concrete into the moulds in layers. Each layer should be compacted using the tamping rod to eliminate air pockets and ensure uniform density.
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Curing the Concrete: The concrete cubes need to be cured in a controlled environment, typically at a temperature of 20°C and a humidity of 90%. Proper curing is essential for the development of concrete strength.
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Testing the Concrete: Concrete cubes are usually tested at 7 and 28 days, although other testing times may be specified in the project specifications. This helps in understanding the strength development over time.
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Applying the Load: Using the compression testing machine, apply the load to the concrete cube gradually until it fails. The load applied is recorded to determine the compressive strength.
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Recording the Data: The data from the load cell is recorded and used to calculate the compressive strength of the concrete. Accurate data recording is vital for reliable test results.
By following these steps meticulously, you can ensure that your cube testing process is accurate and reliable, providing essential data on the strength of the concrete for your construction projects.
Advantages of Concrete Mold
Using concrete mold has several advantages:
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Accurate: Concrete molds produce consistent and accurate results which is very important for quality of concrete.
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Easy to use: These molds are simple to use and no training required, perfect for builders and engineers.
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Cost effective: Concrete mold is a cost effective way to test concrete compressive strength, no need for expensive and time consuming testing methods.
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Versatile: Concrete mold can be used for various concrete mixes and can be customized to fit your project needs.
Summary
In summary, concrete cube testing is a must have for quality and reliability of concrete structures. Use a concrete mold and follow the testing procedure with wireless sensors and you will get accurate and reliable results to ensure structural integrity of buildings and other concrete structures. Whether you are working on a small residential project or a big commercial development, concrete cube testing is a tool you need to achieve your goals and succeed in your project.
