Material Testing Manual

CE 331 MATERIAL
TESTING LAB MANUAL

LABOROTARY MANUAL
AHALIA SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

PALAKKAD
CE 331 MATERIAL TESTING LAB MANUAL
EXP NO.1
Date:
STANDARD CONSISTENCY OF CEMENT
AIM:
To determine the percentage of water for normal or standardconsistency for a given

sample of cement.
GENERAL:
Standard consistency of cement paste is defined as the consistency which will

permit the Vicat’s plunger (10mm diameter, 50mm long) to a point 5 to 7 mm from bottom
of the Vicat’s mould.Since different batches of cement differ in fineness, pastes with the
same water content may differ in consistency when first mixed. For this reason, the
consistency of paste is standardized by varying the water content until the paste has a given
resistance to penetration, when it is first mixed. When testing the Portland cement, it is
necessary to carry out trial mixes until a mix of the required consistency is needed for the
determination of the water content of mortar for tensile test, soundness test, setting time
test and compressive test.
APPARATUS:
Vicat’s apparatus with Vicat’s plunger, vicat’s mould, gauging trowel, measuring jar,
weighing balance, stop watch, glass plate, enamel trough
PROCEDURE:
1) Weighed about 400g of cement accurately and placed it in the enamel

trough.
2) To start with, add about 25% of clean water and mix it thoroughly with cement.
Taking care that the time of gauging was not less than 3 minutes and not more than
5 minutes; gauging time is counted from the time of adding water to dry cement
until commencing to fill the mould.
AHALIA SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY 1

Vicat’s Apparatus

3) Fill the Vicat’s mould with this paste, the mould resting upon non porous plate.
4) After completely fixing the mould smoothen off the surface of the paste, making
it level with the top of the mould. This mould was slightly shaken to expel air.
5) Place the test block in the mould with non-porous plate resting under the rod
bearing plunger. Adjust the indicator to show 0-0 reading when it touches the
surface of the test block.
6) Lowered the plunger gently to touch the surface of the test block and
quickly released allowing itto sink into the paste.
7) Prepared trial paste with varying percentage of water and test is repeated
as described above until the needle penetrates 5mm-7mm.
8) Amount of water necessary for making up the standard consistency as
defined was found.
PRECAUTION:
a) The cement balls if any should be powered before adding water to the
cement.
b) While preparing the test block do not press the cement in the mould.
c) The experiment should be performed away from vibration and other
disturbances.
RESULT:
Standard consistency of cement =
INFERENCE:

OBSERVATIONS & CALCULATIONS:
Weight of cement = ……. gm
Type of cement =
Water for standard consistency P = ml
Volume of water taken = 0 .85 x P = ……….ml
Time at which water is first added (T1) =
Sl Time at which penetration reading taken Penetration

No. reading(mm)
Hour Min Second
Time when needle fails to penetrate

5±0.5mm from the bottom of the mould(T2)
Initial setting time (T2-T1)

EXP NO. 2
Date:
INITIAL AND FINAL SETTING TIME
AIM:
To determine the initial and final setting timesfor a given sample of cement
GENERAL:
It is essential that cement set neither too rapidly nor too slowly. In the
first case there might be in sufficient time to transport and place the concrete
before it becomes too rigid. In the second case too long a setting time tends to
slow up the work also it might postpone the actual use of the structure because
of inadequate strength at the desired age. Setting should not be confused with
hardening, which refers to the gain in mechanical strength after certain degree of
resistance to the penetration of a special attachment is passed into it. Two
periods of time are used to access the initial setting time and the final setting
time.
APPARATUS:
Vicat’s apparatus with Vicat’sneedle, vicat’smould, gauging trowel, measuring jar,
weighing balance, stop watch, glass plate.
PROCEDURE:
1) Taken 400 gms of cement and prepare neat cement paste with 0.85 times
the water required for standard consistency
2) Start the stopwatch at the instant when the water was added to the
cement.
3) Fill the Vicat’s mould with cement paste prepared. Gauging time should
not be less than 3 min and not more than 5 min.
4) Fill the mould completely and smoothen the surface of the paste making
it level with the top of the mould to give a test block.

5) Place the test block confined in the mould and resting on non-porous
plate under the needle.
6) Lower it gently in contact with the surface of the test block and quickly
release, allowing it to penetrate the test block and not the penetration after
every two min.
7) Repeated this procedure until the needle pierces the block by5±0.5 mm
measured from the bottom of the mould. Stop the stop watch and note
the time which is the initial setting time.
8) For determining the final setting time, replace the needle of the Vicat’s
apparatus by the needle with an annular attachment.
9) Go on releasing the needle as described earlier till the needle makes an
impression there, while the attachment fails to do so.
10) The period elapsed between the time at which the water is added to the
cement and attachment fails to do so, shall be the final setting time.
PRECAUTION:
a) The cement balls if any should be powered before adding water to the cement.
b) While preparing the test block do not press the cement in the mould.
c) Releasethe initial and final setting times needle gently.
d) The experiment should be performed away from vibration and other disturbances.
RESULT:
Initial setting time of cement =
Final setting time of cement =
INFERENCE:

OBSERVATIONS AND CALCULATIONS
Dimension of cube mould=
Weight of cement added= kg
Weight of fine aggregate= kg
Water cement ratio=
Amount of water added= ml

EXPT NO. 3
Date:
CASTING OF CEMENT MORTAR CUBE
AIM:
To prepare cement mortar cube of 1:4 mix.
GENERAL:
The strength of cement is usually determined from tests on, mortar made with
cement. The compressive strength of cement is determined as respected by compressive
strength test on mortar cubes prepared by standard sand for conforming to IS 650-
1966(specification for standard sand for testing of cement).the cube having a side area
50cm2.
APPARATUS:
1) Vibrating machine conforming to IS 10080-1982 (specification for vibrating

machine for casting standard cement mortar cubes.)
2) Cube mould conforming to IS 10080-1982.
3) Trowel.
4) Balance.
5) Standard weighting machine.
6) Graduated glass cylinder.
PROCEDURE:
1) The material for each cube should be mixed separately and quantities of cement
standard and water are as follows,
Cement 200g; standard sand- 600g; water- p/4+3% of combined weight of cement
and sand.
2) Place the mixture of cement and standard sand in non-porous plate in the
preparation of 1:3 by weight as given above.
3) Mix it dry with a trowel for one minute and add the required quantity of water and
mix until the mixture for uniform colour.
4) The mixing time should not exceed four minutes and should not be less than 3
minutes. If it exceeds mixture was rejected and operation was repeated.

5) Oil the interior face of the mould.

6) Place the assembled mould on the table of vibration machine; firmly hold in its
position by mean of clamps.
7) Securely attach a hopper of suitable size and shape at the top of the mould to
facilitate filling and this hopper should not be removed until completion of the
vibration period.
8) Immediately after mixing the mortar as specified above, place the entire quantity
of mortar placed in the hopper of the cube mould and compact the same by vibration
for a period of 2 minutes at the specified rate of 1200±400 vibration per minute.
9) The filled mould was kept at a temperature of 27±20 C in an atmosphere of at least
90% relative humidity for 24 hours.
10) At the end of the period they were remove from the mould and immediately
submerged from fresh water and kept there until taken out just prior to testing.
RESULT:
EXP NO.4

Date
BULK DENSITY AND SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF

FINEANDCOARSEAGGREGATES
AIM:
To determine the bulk density and specific gravity offine and coarse
aggregates.
GENERAL:
Bulk density is the weight of a unit volume of aggregate usually stated in

kilogram per liter. In estimating quantities of materials and in mix computations,
when batching is done on a volumetric basis it is necessary to know the
conditions under which the aggregate volume is to be measured viz. a) loose or
compact b)dry damp or inundated. For general information and for comparison
of different aggregates, the standard conditions were dry and compact. For
scheduling volumetric batch quantities the unit weight in the loose damp state
was known.
The Specific gravity of a substance is the ratio of the unit weight of the
substance to the unit weight of water. Applied to the aggregate the term specific
gravity refers to the density of the individual particles and not to the aggregate
mass as a whole.
APPARATUS:
a) A balance sensitive to 0.5 % of the weighed
b) Cylindrical containers
c) Tamping rod 16 mm in dia and 60mm long rounded at one end.
PROCEDURE:
1) The given container had been cleaned and weighed (W1)
2) One third of the container had been filled by the given aggregate (coarse)
and tamped with 25 strokes of the rounded end of the tamping rod.

3) The process was repeated for next two layers.

4) The surplus aggregate struck off, using the tamping rod as a straight edge.
5) The container with compacted material was weighed (W2).
6) Water had been poured into the container until the voids were completely
filled. Noted the weight again(W3).
7) The container was emptied and again filled with loose aggregates.
8) The container with the contents was weighed (W4).
9) Voids were then filled by water and weight was again noted down (W5).
10) The container was cleaned and filled completely with water and weight
was noted down (W6).
11) The procedure was repeated for fine aggregate also.
RESULT:
Sl.no Parameter Fine Aggregate Coarse Aggregate

Compacted Loose Compacted Loose
1. Bulk
Density(kg/L)
2. Specific Gravity
3. Moisture
content
INFERENCE:

OBSERVATIONS:
NO. Description Coarse Aggregate Fine aggregate
Loose(kg Compact(k Loose(kg) Compact(kg

) g) )
1 Weight of container,W1
2 Weight of container +
(loose/compacted)matter,W2
3. Weight of container +
(loose/compacted)matter +
Water ,W3
4 Weight of container +
Water, W4
5. Bulk Density =
𝑊𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑎𝑔𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑔𝑎𝑡𝑒(𝑊2−𝑊1)
𝑉𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒(𝑉)
6. Specific Gravity =
𝑊𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑒𝑟𝑡𝑎𝑖𝑛 𝑣𝑜𝑙. 𝑜𝑓 𝑎𝑔𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑔𝑎𝑡𝑒

(𝑊2 − 𝑊1))
𝑊𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑙 𝑣𝑜𝑙. 𝑜𝑓 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟
(𝑊2 − 𝑊1) − (𝑊3 − 𝑊4)

Table1: IS sieves for analysis of aggregates for concrete (refer IS

2386(part1)1963
Fig 2.1 Grading Zones
I.S. Sieve Grading
Designation Zone I Zone II Zone III Zone IV
10 mm 100 100 100 100
4.75mm 90 -100 90 -100 90 -100 95 -100
2.36mm 60-95 75-100 85-100 95 -100
1.18mm 30-70 55-90 75-100 90-100
600μ 15-34 35-39 60-70 80-100
300μ 05-20 08-30 12-40 15-50

150μ 0-10 0-10 0-10 0-15
EXP NO. :5
Date:
GRAIN SIZE DISTRIBUTION OF FINE AND COARSE AGGREGATES
AIM:
To determine the grain size distribution and fineness modulus of coarse and fine
aggregate by conducting dry sieve analysis. Also identify to which zone the
given sample of aggregate belongs.
GENERAL:
The aggregate most of which passes IS 4.75 mm sieve is classified as

fine aggregate. The fine aggregate obtained from natural disintegration of rocks
and deposited by streams are known as natural sand. Fine aggregate resulting
from crushing of hard stone and natural gravel are known as crushed gravel
stone respectively.
Aggregate most of which retained on IS 4.75 mm sieve is known as

coarse aggregate. It may be from the force of uncrushed gravel or stone resulting
from natural disintegration of rocks. Crushed gravel or stone aggregate is
obtained by crushing gravel or hard stone. Mixture of the above two is classified
as partially crushed gravel or stone.
Sieve analysis carried out for the determination of particle size

distribution of fine, coarse and all aggregates by sieving or screening
Fineness modulus is a term indicating the coarseness and fineness of the
material. It obtained by adding the cumulative percentages of aggregate retained
on each of the sieve and dividing them by 100.

OBSEVATIONS AND CALCULATIONS:
Sieve analysis of coarse aggregate
I.S.Sieve Weight % weight Cumulative% Cumulative

Size retained(g) retained Weight weight of
retained(x) passing(100-x)
Weight of coarse aggregate used for sieving = …………kg

(𝑐𝑢𝑚𝑢𝑙𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 % 𝑟𝑒𝑡𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑒𝑑)
Fineness modulus =∑
100
APPARATUS:
Balance: - The balance or scale shall be such that it is readable and

accurate to 0.1% of the weight of the test sample.
Sieves: - Sieves of the sizes given in the table conforming to IS. 460-1962
Specification for test sieves shall be used.
Sample: - The weight of the sample available shall be not less than 2.5kg.
The sample for sieving shall be prepared from the larger sample either by
quartering or by means of a sample divides (2kgs of sample may be used)
PROCEDURE:
1) The sample was brought to an air dry condition before weighing and sieving. This
may be achieved by drying at room temperature or by heating at a temperature
of100-110oC. 2kg of dry sample shall be taken. Ensure that the sieves are cleaned
before use.
2) The dried sample was weighed.
3) The weighed sample is placed on sieve and sieved successively on the appropriate
sieves starting with the largest.
4) Each sieve was shaken over a clear tray for a period of notless than 2 minutes. The
shaking was done with a varied motion backwards & forwards, left and right,
circular clockwise and with frequent jarring so that the material is kept moving over
the sieve surface in frequently changing directions.
5) On completion of sieving weight of the aggregates retained on each sieve taken in
order. If sieving carried out with a set of sieves on a machine, not less than 10
minutes sieving shall be required for each test.
6) This procedure was done for both coarse and fine aggregates.

Sieve analysis of fine aggregate
I.S.Sieve Weight % weight Cumulative% Cumulative weight

Size retained(g) retained Weight of passing(100-x)
retained(x)
Weight of Fine aggregate used for sieving = ……………kg.
(𝑐𝑢𝑚𝑢𝑙𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 % 𝑟𝑒𝑡𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑒𝑑)
Fineness modulus = ∑
100

RESULTS:
Sl Fine Coarse
No Aggregate Aggregate
.
1. Effective Size(D10)
2. Uniformity
Coefficient(D60)
3. Fineness Modulus
4. Grading Zone
INFERENCE:

OBSERVATIONS & CALCULATIONS;
Weight of dry sand (200ml)= …………….g

Volume of water corresponding to 2 % by weight of dry sand=………..ml.
Consolidated volume V0 =……………..ml.
Volume of % of bulking Remarks

% of Volume of
moist sand 𝑣−𝑣0
moisture water in ml x100
(V ml) 𝑣0

EXPT NO. 6
Date: BULKING OF SAND
AIM:
To determine the maximum percentage of bulking of given sample of dry sand by
plotting percentage of bulking against moisture content.
GENERAL:
Bulking increases volume of sand, caused by films of surface water pushing the
sand particles apart due to surface tension. Fine sand bulks, more than coarse sand. With
moisture content of 5 to 6 % the increase in volume of sand varies from 20 to 40 %
depending upon the fineness of sand. Normally beyond this percentage moisture content
bulking of sand tends to decrease with further addition of water.
When sand is batched by volume, bulking results in smaller weight of sand

occupying fixed volume. The concrete mix will be deficient in sand and volume of concrete
is also reduced. Therefore while adding fine aggregate to concrete mix by volume it is
necessary to correct the volume of sand to give allowance for bulking.
APPARATUS
1) 250ml measuring jar

2) Mixing Tray
3) Steel rod 600 dia
PROCEDURE:
1) Take about 200ml of sand from the sample and find the weight.
2) Add water at 2% by weight of clay sand and mix thoroughly in the try by hand.
3) Pour the damp sand with the cylinder (consolidated by shaking) and not its
volume (V).

4) Repeat this with different % of water at a 2% of increase.

5) Finally pour water into measuring cylinder containing moist sand sufficient to
merge out the sand completely. Stir the sand well.
6) Allow the sand to settle and it will be such that sand surface is now below the
original level. Note down the volume V0.
7) Calculate this % of bulking for each % of water added by using the equation
𝑣−𝑣0
x100.
𝑣0
8) Draw the graph between % of bulking on Y axis and percentage of moisture on X
axis. Note down the maximum % of bulking of water content.
RESULT:
Maximum bulking of given sample of sand =…………….. at water content of
INFERENCE:


EXPT NO. 8
Date:
SLUMP TEST
AIM:
To determine the workability of fresh concrete of given proportions by

slump test where the nominal maximum size of the aggregate does not exceed
38mm.
GENERAL:
This is a test used extensively at construction site all over the world. The
slump test is very useful in detecting the variations in the uniformity of a mix of
given nominal proportions. It also gives an idea of W/C ratio needed for
different works.
Fresh unsupported concrete flows to the sides and a sinking in the height
takes place. This vertical settlement is known as slump. Fresh concrete is
filled in a mould of specified shape and dimensions and settlement or slump is
measured. Then the supporting mould is removed.
Concrete is said to be workable if it can be easily mixed, compacted and

easily finished. A workable concrete should not show any segregation or
bleeding. Segregation is said to occur when coarse aggregate tries to separate
out from the fine material and we get concentration of coarse aggregate at one
place. These result in large voids, less durability and less strength. Bleeding of
concrete is said to occur when excess water comes out at the surface of the
concrete. This causes small pores on the mass of the concrete and is undesirable.

Sl W/C Vol. of Slump(mm) Remarks(Nature of slump &

.No ratio water(ml) characteristics)
1 0.45
2 0.50
3 0.55
Volume of Frustum = Volume of big cone – Volume of small cone
𝟏 𝟏
= Π R2 H - Π r2 h
𝟑 𝟑
10% extra volume =
Density of concrete =
Mass = Density x Volume
Ratio of mix = 1: 1.5: 3
Mass of cement =
Mass of fine aggregate =
Mass of coarse aggregate =

APPARATUS:
a) Slump cone: The mould for the test specimen shall be in the form of the
frustum of a cone having the following material dimensions.
Bottom diameter = 200mm
Top diameter = 100mm
Height = 300mm
The mould shall be constructed of metal (brass or aluminum shall
be) in the form of the frustum of a cone having the following internal
should be at least 1.6mm thickness and the top and bottom shall be open
and at right angles to the axis of the cone. The mould shall have a smooth
internal surface. It shall be provided with suitable foot pieces and handles
to facilitate lifting it from the moulded concrete test specimen in a
vertical direction as required by the test. A mould provided with suitable
guide attachment may be used.
b) Tamping rod: The tamping rod shall be of steel or other suitable material
16mm in diameter, 600 mm long and rounded at one end.
c) Balance
d) Trowel
e) Scale etc.
PROCEDURE:
1) The internal surface of the mould was cleaned thoroughly and free
from moisture and any set concrete before commencing the test.
2) shall be placed on a smooth horizontal rigid and non absorbent
surface, such as a carefully leveled metal plate
3) The mould was firmly held in place and while it is being filled.

4) The mould shall be filled in four layers each approximately one

quarter of the height of the mould. Each layer shall be tamped with 25
strokes with rounded end of the tamping rod.
5) Tamping should be distributed in a uniform manner over the cross
section of the mould and for the second and subsequent layers shall be
penetrate into the underlying layer. The bottom layer shall be tamped
throughout its depth.
6) After the top layer has been compacted the concrete shall be struck off
level with a towel or the tampering rod, so mould is exactly filled.
Any mortar which may have leaked out between the mould and the
base plates shall be cleaned away.
7) The mould shall be removed from the concrete immediately by
raising it slowly and carefully in a vertical direction. This allows the
concrete to subside and the slump shall be measured immediately by
determining the difference between the height of the mould and that of
the highest point of the specimen being tested.
8) The above operations shall be carried out at a place free from
vibration or shock and within a period of 2 minutes after sampling.
The test was repeated with varying water cement ratios and the
corresponding slump values were noted.
9) The nature of the slump and segregation characteristics was also
noted.
10) A curve was plotted as the w/c ratioin the X –axis and slump in the Y-
axis
Prepare a concrete mix of 1:1.5: 3 with 0.5 w/c ratio and measure the
slump change the w/c ratio and note the corresponding slump.

PRECAUTIONS:
• Apply the strokes with the tamping rod uniformly throughout the full
depth of the concrete of previous layer.
• Remove the mould very slowly by lifting it upwards so that within mould
does not get distributed.
• The base plate used in the experiment should be clean and smooth so that
there is complete contact between base plate and bottom of the mould.
• Test should be performed away from the ground vibrations produced due
to machinery as some other sources.
• Test should be completed in a minimum time of say 2 to 3 min.
RESULTS
Sl.No 1 2 3
W/C Ratio
Slump(cm)
A graph is also plotted with slump V/s w/c ratio.
INFERENCE:

A – Metal Pot F - Screw
B – Sheet Metal Cone M – Swivel Arm
C – Glass Disc N –Swivel Arm Funnel
D –Funnel J- Graduated rod
E –Guide Sleen

EXP.NO.8
Date:
VEE BEE CONSISTOMETER TEST
AIM:
To determine the workability of concrete mix using the Vee Bee Consistometer
test.
GENERAL:
This method is an indirect method to measure the workability of concrete

mixes. This test measures the time required for the shape of concrete to change from
slump cone shape to cylindrical shape in seconds known as Vee Bee degree. This is
suitable for very dry concrete mixes whose slump rate cannot be measured by slump
test. This test is applicable if Vee Bee time is 3 -30 seconds.
APPARATUS:
Vee Bee Consistometer consisting of
1) Vibrating table
2) A metal pot
3) A sheet metal cone open at both ends
4) Standard iron rod, stop watch etc.
PROCEDURE:
1) Place the slump cone inside the sheet metal cylindrical pot and perform the
slump test.
2) The glass disc is attached to swivel arm and is placed on the top of the
concrete pot.

OBSERVATIONS AND CALCULATIONS:
Volume of Frustum = Volume of big cone – Volume of small cone

1 1
= Π R2 H - Π r2 h
3 3
Density=Mass/ Volume
Mass of concrete = Density X Volume
Add 10% weight age =
Mass=
Ratio of mix =1: 1.5: 3
Quantity of cement = x+1.5 x +3x =……………….
Quantity of fine aggregates = 1.5x
Quantity of coarse aggregate = 3x
Water
W/C =------- W/C=------- W/C =-------
C= C= C=
Vee Bee Consistometer
Mix Trial W/C ratio Vee Bee Degree Remarks

details no:
(Time in seconds)

3) Switch on the vibration and simultaneously start the stop watch.

4) The vibration is continued till such a time as the conical shape of concrete
assumes a cylindrical shape and is judged by the disappearance of glass discs
transparency.
5) Immediately when cylindrical shape is reached, switch off the stop watch and
vibration process.
6) Note down the time needed to obtain the cylindrical shape.
7) This time is known as Vee Bee degree.
RESULT:
SL No. W/C ratio Vee Bee degree
INFERENCE:

Brick Dimensions Area of the Maximum Load Compressive Average

No of brick bed at failure Compressive
face(mm2) Strength strength
Ton N
N/mm2 N/mm2
Maximum load of failure

Compressive Strength =
area of brick
EXPT NO.9

Date:
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF BRICKS
AIM:
To determine the compressive strength of the given sample of brick
GENERAL:
Bricks are generally subjected to compression and rarely tension. Bricks when
tested in accordance with the procedure laid down in IS 3495(part-I) 1992 shall have a
minimum average compressive strength for various classes as given in IS 1077-1992
(specification for common burnt clay building bricks.
APPARATUS:
A compression testing machine
PROCEDURE:
Preconditioning:-
1) Remove unevenness observed in the bed faces to provide two smooth and parallel
faced by grinding.
2) Immerse the bricks in water at room temperature for 24 hours.
3) Take out the specimen from water and drain out any surplus moisture at room
temperature
4) Fill the frog (if provided) and all voids in the bed face flush with cement mortar (1
cement, 1 clean coarse sand of grade 3mm and down) store under the damp jute
bags for 24 hours followed by immersion in clean water for three days.
5) Remove and wipe out any traces of moisture.
Procedure for Testing:

1. Place the specimen with flat faces horizontal and moisture filled faces facing upward
between two, three plywood sheets each of 3 mm thickness and carefully centered
between plates of the testing machine.
2. Apply an axial load at a uniform rate 14 N/ mm2 per minute till failure and note the
maximum load at failure. The load at failure shall be maximum load at which the
specimen fails to produce any further increase in the indicator reading on the testing
machine.
RESULT:
Average compressive strength of brick = …………….
INFERENCE:


EXPT NO.10
Date:
COMPACTION FACTOR TEST

AIM:
To determine the workability of freshly mixed concrete by compaction

factor test.
GENERAL:
Compaction factor test specifies the procedure for determining the

workability of concrete where the nominal maximum size of the aggregate does not exceed
38mm. The test is designed primarily for use in the laboratory but if circumstance permit,
it may also be used in the field. It is more precise and sensitive than the slump test and is
particularly useful for concrete mixes of very low workability and are normally used when
concrete is to be compacted by variation. Such concrete may consistently fail to slump.
The test is based on the definition that workability is that property of the concrete which
determines the amount of work required to produce full compaction. This test therefore
consists essentially of applying a standard amount of work to standard quantity of concrete
and measuring the resulting compaction.
APPARATUS:
a) Compaction factor apparatus: It consists of two conical hoppers mounted above a

cylindrical mould. The essential dimensions of hopper and mould and the distance between
them shall be as shown in the table.
b) Trowels
c) Tamping rod
d) Weighing machine
e) Graduated cylinder

PROCEDURE:
1) The sample of concrete to be tested shall be placed gently in the upper hopper. The
hopper shall be filled level with its brim
2) The trap door shall be opened so that the concrete falls into the lower hoppers.
Essential dimensions of the compaction factor apparatus for use with aggregate not
exceeding 38mm .
Dimensions(cm)
Upper hopper ‘A’
Top internal diameter
Bottom internal diameter
Internal height
Lower hopper ‘B’
Top internal diameter
Bottom internal diameter
Internal height
Cylinder ‘C’
Internal diameter
Internal height
Distance between bottom of upper
hopper and top of lower hopper
Distance between bottom of lower
hopper and top of cylinder

3) Certain mixes have a tendency to stick in one or both the hoppers. If this occurs,
the concrete may be heaped through by pushing the rod gently into the concrete
from the top. During this process the cylinder shall be covered by trowels
,immediately after the concrete has come to rest the cylinder shall be uncovered
and the trap door of the lowest hopper opened and the concrete allow to fall into
the cylinder ,excess concrete remaining above the level of the top of the cylinder
shall then be cut off by holding trowel in each hand with the plane of the blocks
horizontal and moving them simultaneous one from each side across the top of
cylinder at the same time keeping them rest on the edge of the cylinder.
4) The outside of cylinder shall then be wiped clear.
5) The above operation shall be carried out at a place free from vibration or shock
6) The weight of the concrete in the cylinder shall be known as weight of partially
compacted concrete.
7) The cylinder shall be refilled with concrete from the same sample to layers
approximately 50mm deep.
8) The layers should be heavily compacted preferable vibrated so as to obtain the full
compaction.
9) The top surface of the cylinder shall be wiped clear and weight of fully compacted
cylinder is noted nearest to 0.01 N.
10) The compaction factor defined as the ratio weight of partially compacted concrete
to the weight of fully compacted concrete .It shall be started to the nearest second
decimal.

OBSERVATIONS AND CALCULATIONS:
Weight of the empty cylinder =
Observations Trials
1 2 3
a) Weight of the cylinder W1(kg)
b) Weight of the cylinder +Concrete falling

through a standard height W2 (kg)
c)Weight of partially filled concrete(W2-W1)kg
d)Weight of fully compacted concrete + Cylinder

W3(Kg)
e)Weight of fully compacted concrete (W3-W1)

kg
f)Compaction Factor = (W2-W1)/ (W3-W1)
g)Proportins of the sample
h)W/C ratio chosen

RESULT:
Sl no W/C ratio Compaction factor
INFERENCE:

EXPT NO:11
Date:
FLOW TABLE TEST
AIM:
To determine the workability of concrete expressed in terms of flow percentage.
GENERAL:
This is a test which gives an indication of the cohesiveness and the proneness to
segregation. In this test a standard mass of concrete is subjected to jolting. The spread or
flow of the concrete is measured and the flow is related to workability.
APPARATUS:
1) Flow table apparatus- Flow table apparatus consists of flow table about 25 cm
in dia. over which concentric circles are marked. A mould made from smooth
metal casting in the form of a frustum of a cone is used .The base is 25 cm in
dia. upper surface 17cm in dia. and the height of the cone is 12cm.
2) Tamping rod.
PROCEDURE:
1) The table is made level and properly supported. Before commencing the test ,
the table top and the inner surface of the mould is wiped with damp cloth .
2) The slump cone is placed centrally on the table.
3) The mould is kept on the center of the table firmly held and is filled in two
layers. Each layer is tamped 25 times with a tamping rod.

4) After the top layer is loaded evenly, the excess of the concrete which has
overflowed the mould is removed.
5) The mould is lifted vertically upwards and the concrete stands on its own
without support.
6) The table is then raised and dropped 15 times in about 15 seconds.
7) The diameter of the spread concrete is measured in about 6 directions to the
nearest 5mm and the average spread is noted.
The flow of concrete percentage increases the average diameter of the spread
concrete over the base diameter of the mould.
𝑠𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑑 𝑑𝑖𝑎 .𝑖𝑛 𝑐𝑚−25

Flow percent = x100
25
This is done with 3 w/c ratios.

Flow percentage
Mix Trial Avg dia
Spread diameter in cm 𝑑−25
details no ‘d’ = x100
25

RESULT:
Flow % f or W/C ratio for……….. =
Flow % f or W/C ratio for ……… =
Flow % f or W/C ratio for ……… =
INFERENCE:

EXPT NO : 12
Date :
TRANVRERSE STRENGTH OF TILES

AIM:
To determine the flexural strength of given sample of dry flooring tiles and MP clay
roofing tiles.
GENERAL:
The roofing tile can be made from suitable clay of even texture and shall be well
burnt. They shall be free from impurities such as twists, bends, cracks, and
laminations. The roofing tiles can be free form impurities such as particles.
When struck the tile shall give a ringing sound and when broken the
fracture shall be clean and sharp at the edges. The average weight of 6 tiles shall
not be less than 2 Kg and more than 3 Kg. The strength requirements of roofing
tiles as per IS-654-1992 are 1) Water absorption 2) permeability 3) breaking
load.
APPARATUS:
Tiles, flexural strength testing machine, weighing balance ,electric oven etc.
PROCEDURE:
1) Three tiles were tested in dry conditions. After drying it in oven at 100 0C. Another
three tiles were tested after soaking in water at 240C to 300C for 24 hours.
2) The tile was evenly supported flat wise on the beams at with a span equal to three
fourth of the dimension of the tile and resting on the natural bottom surface.
3) Applying the load with direction of the load perpendicular to the span at a given
uniform rate of 450 to 550 N/mm.
4) The individual breaking load should be recorded and flexural strength can be
obtained by dividing the breaking load by width of the tile.
5) Calculate the average of six values and expressed the result in N/mm.

Slno: Identification Length Width Breaking Flexural Strength

marks (cm) (cm) Load
Floor Tile
Roofing tile
RESULT:

Slno: Identification Length Width Breaking Flexural

marks (mm) (mm) load(N) Strength
(N/mm)
1
2
3
Average flexural strength of given sample of clay tile =
INFERENCE:
EXPT NO. 13

Date:
SOUNDNESS OF CEMENT
AIM:
To determine the soundness of given cement by Le- Chatelier’s method.
GENERAL:
One of the most important properties of cement is its soundness.

Unsoundness of cement is caused by undue expansion of some of the constituents
like free lime produced in manufacturing process of cement. Another possible cause
of unsoundness is the presence of too high magnesia content in the cement. As the
cement absorbs moisture free lime expands to many times its original volume and
develops considerable heat both of which are injurious to concrete. The immediate
hydration of free lime may not take place because after the cement is set, and since
lime expands manifold and with considerable force when hydrated, its delayed
hydration may readily disrupt the mass. One advantage of slow setting cement is that
more tiome is given to hydrate the lime before the mass becomes rigid. In the
soundness test, a specimen of hardened cement paste is boiled for a fixed time soi that
any tendency to expand is speeded up and can be detected.
APPARATUS:
Le-Chatelier’s apparatus, two glass plate, temperature control water bath, scale
trowel, measuring cylinder, balance, and tray.
PROCEDURE:
1) Place the mould on glass sheet and fill it with the cement paste formed by
gauging cement with 0.78 times the water required to give a paste of standard
consistency (approximately 30%), keeping the edge of the mould gently
together .

2) Cover the mould with another glass plate

3) Placed a small weight on the covering glass and immediately submerge the
whole assembly in water at a temperature of 27±20 C and keep it there for 24
hours.
4) Measure the distance D1 between the indicator points after 24 hours and
again submergethe whole assembly in water at a temperature of 27±20 C.
5) Heat the water and bring the water to boiling in 25 to 30 minutes and keep it
boiling for 3 hours.
6) Remove the mould from the water, allow it to cool and measure the distance
D2 between the indicator points.
7) The difference between two measurements represents the expansion of cement
i.e. distance D2-D1.

Type of cement =
Initial distance between the indicator points, D1 =
Final distance between the indicator points, D2=
Expansion of cement = D2 –D1

PRECAUTIONS:
a) Note the measurements D1, D2 accurately.

b) Do not apply extra pressure while filing the moulds .
c) Cooling of the sample should be gradual .
RESULT:
Soundness of cement =…………………mm.
INFERENCE:

EXPT NO. 13
Date:
NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING OF CONCRETE
REBOUND HAMMER TEST
AIM:
To determine the compressive strength of concrete by using the rebound
hammer.
APPARATUS:
• Rebound Hammer instrument.
• Abrasive Stone
PROCEDURE:
Hold the instrument firmly so that the plunger is perpendicular to the test surface. Gradually
push the instrument toward the test surface until the hammer impacts. After impact,
maintain pressure on the instrument and if necessary depress the button on the side of the
instrument to lock the plunger in its retracted position. Read the rebound number on the
scale to the nearest whole number and record the rebound number. Take ten readings from
each test area. No two impact tests shall be closer together than 25 mm. Examine the
impression made on the surface after impact, and if the impact crushes or breaks through a
near-surface air void, disregard the reading and take another reading.

Make at least ten readings from a concrete surface and discard the highest and lowest
rebound numbers. Average the remaining eight numbers. If desired, take a few test readings
before you complete your series of ten regular tests. Use the average rebound number to
estimate the strength of the concrete. Compare your average rebound number to the chart
shown on your Concrete Rebound Hammer.


TESTING:
Test three cubes for compressive cubes at the periods mentioned below, the period
being reckoned from the completion of vibration:
Ordinary Portland cement 3 and 7 days
Rapid hardening Portland cement 1 and 3 days
Low heat Portland cement 3, 7 and 28 days
Sl no At 7 days stage Average

compressive
Load Compressive strength Kg/ cm2
strength Kg/ cm2
Tonne Kg

Observations and calculations:
Type of cement =
Brand of cement=
𝑀𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑚𝑢𝑚 𝑙𝑜𝑎𝑑 𝑎𝑡 𝑓𝑎𝑖𝑙𝑢𝑟𝑒

Compressive strength =
𝐴𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑔𝑒 𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑜𝑓 𝑚𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑎𝑟 𝑐𝑢𝑏𝑒
Sample calculation
Compressive strength =
1) Placed the test on platform of the compression testing machine without any packing
between the cube and the steel plates of the testing machine.
2) Applied the load steadily and uniformly starting from zero at a rate of
350kg/cm2/minute till the cube fails.
3) Calculated the compressive strength as specified under computations.
RESULT:
The average value of compressive strength of cement mortar cubes at 7 days =
INFERENCE:

Material Testing Manual

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Material Testing Manual

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Material Testing Manual

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

CE 331 MATERIAL

TESTING LAB MANUAL

AHALIA SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

To determine the percentage of water for normal or standardconsistency for a given

Standard consistency of cement paste is defined as the consistency which will

1) Weighed about 400g of cement accurately and placed it in the enamel

AHALIA SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY 1

AHALIA SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY 2

Standard consistency of cement =

AHALIA SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY 3

OBSERVATIONS & CALCULATIONS:

Weight of cement = ……. gm

Water for standard consistency P = ml

Volume of water taken = 0 .85 x P = ……….ml

Time at which water is first added (T1) =

Sl Time at which penetration reading taken Penetration

Time when needle fails to penetrate

Initial setting time (T2-T1)

AHALIA SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY 4

AHALIA SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY 5

AHALIA SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY 6

OBSERVATIONS AND CALCULATIONS

Dimension of cube mould=

Weight of cement added= kg

Weight of fine aggregate= kg

Water cement ratio=

Amount of water added= ml

AHALIA SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY 7

CASTING OF CEMENT MORTAR CUBE

To prepare cement mortar cube of 1:4 mix.

1) Vibrating machine conforming to IS 10080-1982 (specification for vibrating

AHALIA SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY 8

5) Oil the interior face of the mould.

AHALIA SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY 9

BULK DENSITY AND SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF

Bulk density is the weight of a unit volume of aggregate usually stated in

AHALIA SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY 10

3) The process was repeated for next two layers.

Sl.no Parameter Fine Aggregate Coarse Aggregate

AHALIA SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY 11

Loose(kg Compact(k Loose(kg) Compact(kg

𝑊𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑒𝑟𝑡𝑎𝑖𝑛 𝑣𝑜𝑙. 𝑜𝑓 𝑎𝑔𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑔𝑎𝑡𝑒

AHALIA SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY 12

Table1: IS sieves for analysis of aggregates for concrete (refer IS

Fig 2.1 Grading Zones

I.S. Sieve Grading

Designation Zone I Zone II Zone III Zone IV

10 mm 100 100 100 100

4.75mm 90 -100 90 -100 90 -100 95 -100

2.36mm 60-95 75-100 85-100 95 -100

1.18mm 30-70 55-90 75-100 90-100

600μ 15-34 35-39 60-70 80-100

300μ 05-20 08-30 12-40 15-50

AHALIA SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY 13

150μ 0-10 0-10 0-10 0-15

GRAIN SIZE DISTRIBUTION OF FINE AND COARSE AGGREGATES

The aggregate most of which passes IS 4.75 mm sieve is classified as

Aggregate most of which retained on IS 4.75 mm sieve is known as