Concrete Testing

Introduction

Concrete is almost always used as structural elements in various designs. Concrete goes through a curing process which can frequently be difficult to manage given construction schedules, weather conditions, and more factors. The curing process is critical to maintaining concrete strength as engineered, and therefore there is quite a range for what an engineered and poured concrete could actually end up in terms of executed PSI strength.

Strength and Consistency Test

Therefore, throughout the process of pouring concrete, there are various ways to ensure that the concrete has been mixed properly, has the right consistency, and ultimately can tell information about the concrete strength that was poured. For many codes, depending on the amount of concrete poured in the project, these tests may be required with documentation submitted to the reviewers.

Different Tests

Slump Test - Measures consistency

Usually performed at the job site. Concrete is placed in a 12” high truncated cone, 8” at the base and 4” at the top. It is compacted into the cone and then the cone is removed and the slump is recorded.

• Too much slump indicates excessive water in the mix
• Small slump indicates that the mixture will be difficult to place properly
• This is sort of a ‘this porridge is too hot, this one is too cold, this one is just right’ type of test.