Wagner Turbidimeter: A Guide to the Wagner Turbidimeter Test
The Wagner Turbidimeter measures the finenessof the cementcomponent in Portland cement by measuring the surface area. Fineness of cement is one of the properties that affect the strength. The purpose of the this test is to check compliance to specific standards for hydraulic cement specifications. A constant light source passes through a cement suspension and is detected by a photoelectric cell. The apparatus determines specific surface area and turbidity. Values are measured accurately and correlated to particle sizes of 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, 10 and 7.5 micrometers. Turbidity changes as the particles settle from suspension. Turbidity is related to surface area as per ASTM and AASHTO methods.
Includes photoelectric cell, light source, heat absorbing device, light filter, shield, sedimentation tank in metal cabinet with wall mounts and adjustable shelf. Timing burette with stand, microammeter, stirring apparatus, wet sieving assembly with No. 325 sieve, flasks, test tubes and instruction book. 6V storage battery or other constant emf source required but not included. NIST Portland Cement standard reference materialfor calibration available separately.
Electrical: 115V/60Hz
Meets Test Methods: AASHTO T98 ASTM C 115. For information on concrete consistency, you may refer to ASTM C143: The Essential Guide to Concrete Slump Testing.
The Wagner Turbidimeter is a rugged and reliable instrument to measure the fineness of Portland cement. For those interested in measuring moisture in wood and other materials, the Wagner Orion 930 Dual Depth Pinless Wood Moisture Meter Kit offers a non-damaging sensor and precise measurement technology. With its modern technology and precise measurements it will measure the surface area of the cement accurately.
Has a constant light source, the Wagner Turbidimeter passes the light through a cement suspension and is detected by a photoelectric cell. This will give you values of particle sizes at various micrometer levels from 50 to 7.5 micrometers.
Turbidity changes as the particles in the cement settle from suspension is directly related to surface area. The computed surface area is calculated as per ASTM and AASHTO methods so you get consistent results every time.
The Wagner Turbidimeter comes with all the necessary accessories to test accurately. A photoelectric cell, light source, heat absorbing device, light filter, shield and sedimentation tank all in a metal cabinet with wall mounts and adjustable shelf.
To test accurately the Turbidimeter also comes with a timing burette with stand, microammeter, stirring apparatus, wet sieving assembly with No. 325 sieve, flasks, test tubes and instruction book. But a 6V storage battery or constant emf source is required and not included.
The Wagner Turbidimeter meets AASHTO T98 and ASTM C 115 test methods. Meets highest standards.
To calibrate order NIST Portland Cement standard reference material separately.
With its features, performance and accessories the Wagner Turbidimeter is the perfect instrument for laboratories and industries that test cement.
Introduction to the Test
The Wagner Turbidimeter is a crucial instrument used to determine the fineness of Portland cement, a vital characteristic that affects the strength capabilities of concrete. This test method is a standard procedure in the construction industry, ensuring that cement meets the required specifications for use in various construction materials. The instrument utilizes a heat absorbing device, a photoelectric cell, and a light source to measure the turbidity of a cement suspension, which is directly related to the specific surface area of the cement component. By passing a constant light source through the suspension, the photoelectric cell detects changes in turbidity, allowing for precise measurement of the cement’s fineness. This process is essential for quality control in the production of Portland cement, enabling manufacturers to determine the fineness of their product and make necessary adjustments to meet regulatory limitations. The Wagner Turbidimeter ensures that the cement used in construction projects has the appropriate fineness, contributing to the overall strength and durability of concrete structures.
Procedure
To use the Wagner Turbidimeter you must follow the steps below:
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Prepare the cement suspension.
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Stir the sample using the stirring apparatus.
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The instrument has wet sieving assembly, sedimentation tank and timing burette which are all important in the testing process.
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Follow the protocol to ensure precision. Housing the instrument in a metal cabinet and use a shield to protect the photoelectric cell from external light source.
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The instruction book provided with the instrument will guide you on how to calculate the specific surface area and fineness.
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The test method will give you a precise measurement of the fineness of Portland cement in terms of total surface area per gram or kilogram.
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Regular calibration of the instrument is necessary to maintain accuracy. Follow the regulatory limitations and health practices associated with the test method.
Applications
Turbidimeter test is used in construction industry to measure the fineness of portland cement which is one of the material of construction. This test method ensures that the cement meets the required fineness standards which is necessary to achieve the desired strength of concrete. Also this test method will determine the total surface area of the cement which is one of the important properties that affect the performance of the cement in various applications. Use the most updated standards and practices to ensure compliance with industry requirements and safety measures.
The reading from the microammeter in the Turbidimeter apparatus is critical in assessing the quality and performance of cement. Turbidimeter test is used in construction, civil engineering and materials science to check the quality and performance of cement.
Comparison
Turbidimeter test is a standard test method for portland cement fineness and compared with other methods like Blaine air permeability test. Turbidimeter test is more accurate and reliable as it uses constant light source and photoelectric cell to measure the changes in the turbidity of the cement suspension. It is also more convenient to use, requires minimal equipment and can be done quickly. But before use please identify and adhere to the regulatory limitations as Turbidimeter test is not suitable for all types of cement. Also calibration and maintenance of the instrument is very important to get accurate results. It is the user’s responsibility to evaluate and establish appropriate safety measures and comply with any relevant regulatory obligations before proceeding with the tests.