Unit Weight Bucket, Aluminum, 1/2 Cu Ft

Unit Weight Bucket, Aluminum, 1/2 Cu Ft

The 1/2 cubic foot Unit Weight Bucket is a specialized tool precision-machined from high-quality cast aluminum. It is primarily used to determine the unit weight of freshly mixed concrete and aggregates, which is a critical factor in quality control for construction projects.

Key Applications & Importance: This bucket is essential for conducting several standard tests, including:

• Unit Weight (or Density) of Fresh Concrete: This measurement helps ensure the concrete mixture is consistent and meets project specifications. Variations in unit weight can indicate issues with air content, water-cement ratio, or aggregate proportions.
• Yield Calculation: Yield is the volume of concrete produced per batch. By comparing the actual yield (measured with the bucket) to the designed yield, contractors can verify they are getting the expected volume of concrete, which impacts project cost and material management.
• Gravimetric Air Content: The bucket is used to calculate the air content of concrete by weight, providing a cross-check for results obtained from a pressure meter.
• Void Content of Aggregates: It helps determine the space between aggregate particles, an important property for mix design calculations.

Design and Features:

• Superior Accuracy: Each bucket is precision-machined to exact internal dimensions, ensuring the 1/2 cu. ft. volume is highly accurate, which is crucial for reliable test results.
• Durable Construction: Made from sturdy cast aluminum, the bucket is lightweight yet robust enough to handle the rigors of field and lab use.
• Corrosion Resistance: The aluminum material is naturally resistant to corrosion from alkaline cement pastes, ensuring a long service life and preventing contamination of the test sample.
• Integral Handles: Unlike bolted-on handles that can loosen over time, the handles are cast as part of the bucket itself, providing a secure and durable grip for safe handling and transport.
• Compliance with Standards: The bucket is designed and manufactured to meet the strict requirements of multiple industry standards, including ASTM C29 (Standard Test Method for Bulk Density ("Unit Weight") and Voids in Aggregate), ASTM C138 (Standard Test Method for Density (Unit Weight), Yield, and Air Content (Gravimetric) of Concrete), AASHTO T19, and AASHTO T121.

Specifications:

• Capacity: 1/2 cu. ft (14.1 liters)
• Material: Cast Aluminum
• Inside Diameter: 10" (254mm)
• Inside Height: 11" (279mm)

Recommended Accessories for Standard Testing: To perform testing according to ASTM/AASHTO standards, the following accessories are typically required:

• Tamping Rod: A hemispherical-tipped steel rod used for consolidating concrete within the bucket.
• Strike-Off Plate or Bar: A flat, rigid bar or plate used to remove excess concrete and create a level surface flush with the top of the measure.
• Rubber Mallet: Used for tapping the sides of the bucket to release trapped air bubbles after consolidation.

The Unit Weight Bucket is an indispensable tool for concrete technicians, quality control personnel, and civil engineers. Its precision, durability, and compliance with industry standards ensure accurate and repeatable measurements, which are fundamental to building high-quality, long-lasting pavements and structures.