FIELD DENSITY BY SAND REPLACEMENT METHOD

Ref : IS 2720 Part 28

Purpose : To determine field density of soils containing coarse grained

particles

Apparatus : i. Sand pouring cylinder

ii. Metal tray with hole

iii. Tools for leveling and excavating
iv. Container
v. Calibrating container
vi. Plane surface i.e. A glass for Perspex plate
vii. Balance
viii. Sand: Dry and clean test sand of uniform gradation,
passing 1.0mm and retained on 0.6mm
Procedure: Calibration of Apparatus

i. Clean and dry test sand passing 1.0mm sieve and retained on 0.6mm sieve is
collected in sufficient quantity (about 15 kg)
ii. Remove the top cap of sand pouring cylinder and close the shutter
iii. Fill the cylinder with dry test sand up to about 10mm from the top and the
cap is replaced
iv. Weight of the cylinder with the sand is determined W1
v. Place the sand pouring cylinder over the calibration cylinder, open the
shutter and allow the sand to flow in to the calibration cylinder and close the
shutter
vi. Place the sand pouring cylinder on a clean plane surface (glass or Perspex
plate)
vii. Open the shutter and keep it open till the sand fill up core fully and there is
no visible moment of sand as seen from the top of the cylinder by removing
the cap.
viii. Close the shutter remove the cylinder
ix. Weigh sand which occupied the cone (W2gm)
x. Refill the sand pouring cylinder find the weight w1
xi. Place the cylinder centrally on top of the calibrating container and open the
shutter
xii. When the sand fills up the calibrating container and cone completely and
there is no movement of sand, close the shutter
xiii. Find the weight of sand pouring cylinder and remaining sand(W3gm)
xiv. Repeat the above procedure 3 times and determine mean values of W2
and W3
xv. Find the weight of the sand required to fill the calibrating container up the
top level
xvi. Find the volume of the calibrating container (v) b measuring the internal
dimensions (diameter and weight) or by filling with water and weighting
xvii. From the weight of the sand Wa and its volume V in the calibrating container
determine the density of sand.
Measurement of field density

i. The site where the field density is to be conducted is cleaned and leveled
using a scraper for an area of about 450mm square
ii. The metal tray with Central hole is placed on the prepared surface
iii. Using this central hole as pattern the soil/material is excavated using a trowel
upto a depth of 150mm
iv. Remove the loose material and collect it carefully in a metal container
v. Find the weight of metal container with soil W
vi. The sand pouring cylinder is refilled with sand such that its weight W1
vii. The metal tray with central hole is removed and the sand pouring cylinder is
placed centrally over the excavated hole
viii. The shutter is opened till the sand fills the excavated hole and the cone
completely and there is no further movement of sand in the cylinder
ix. The shutter is closed and the cylinder is weighted W4 gm
x. Find the weight of sand filling the excavated hole alone Wb
xi. Find the moisture content of the soil
 COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH TEST FOR CONCRETE

Ref : IS 516, 1959

Purpose : To find out the compressive strength of concrete.
Significance : To confirm grade of concrete used in the structure
for mix design purpose, for deciding time of de-
moulding, to decide curing period.
Apparatus : Compression testing machine capacity 200 tons.
Procedure :
1. Remove the cubes from water after curing period.
2. Cubes are to be dried for at least half an hour before
the cubes are tested.
3. Place the cube in the compression testing machine in
such a way that the load can be applied to the
faces other than the top and bottom of the cube as
cast.
4. Apply the load gradually without any shock at the
rate of 31.50 tons per minutes until cube fails to take
any more loads.
Calculation : Compressive strength = Failure load (Kg) / Surface
area of cube in cm2.
Note :(1) Minimum strength as per I.S. code at different ages should be
as follows. 3 days - 50% of the designed strength
7 days - 66.66% of the designed strength
28 days - 100% of the designed strength
(2) At the time of handling cubes corners should not be damaged.
(3) 1 Tone = 1000 kg., 1 KN. = 981 Kg.
(4) Standard deviation = SD = n = \/(x-x)/n-1
<a> where x = Average of n readings
<b> where n = No of readings.
<c> where x = Individual reading
(5) S.D. should be calculated regularly to monitor the mix design.
(6) S.D.s for diff. grade of concrete for moderate conditions as-
Grade M-10 M-15 M-20 M-25 M-30 M-35 M-40
S.D. 2.3 3.5 4.6 5.3 6.0 6.3 6.6
N/mm2 N/mm2 N/mm2 N/mm2 N/mm2 N/mm2 N/mm2
(7) Less S.D. means better control at site.
Frequency :
a. Standard deviation - Every Month (for each grade ) (Minimum 30
set required)
b. Following number of samples to be taken for the given daily
quantity of concrete
Daily Concrete Samples
1 5 cum 1
5 15 cum 2
15 30 cum 3
30 50 cum 4
50 + Every 50 cum 5+ 1 set for Additional 50
cum
 SLUMP TEST

Ref : IS 1199, 1959

Purpose : To find out the workability of fresh concrete.
Significance : Slump test of the most commonly used method for measuring
consistency of concrete; it does not measure all factors
contributing to workability. At the most it gives information
about uniformity.
Apparatus : Mould = Top diameter - 100mm, Bottom diameter - 200mm
Height - 300mm,
Tamping Road:Diameter - 16mm, Length - 600mm
Shape -Rounded at one END.
Procedure : (a) Fill mould in four layers.
(b) Tamp each layer 25 times with the help of tamping rod.
(c) Strike off the top level of concrete by trowel and tamping
rod.
(d) Remove the mould in vertical direction.
(e) Measure the difference in level between the height of
mould and that of the highest point of the subsided
concrete. (H1)
(f) This difference in height in mm is recorded as the slump
of concrete.
Note : Comparison Table
Degree of Workability Slump mm Compacting Factor
Very Low 0-25 0.78 to 0.80
Low 25-50 0.85 to 0.87
Medium 50-100 0.92 to 0.935
High 100-175 0.95 to 0.96
 FINENESS OF CEMENT

Ref : IS: 12269-1976

Purpose : To Determine the Fineness of Cement
Significance : The Fineness of Cement has an important bearing on the rate
of hydration and hence on rate of gain of strength and rate
of evolution of heat. Finer cement offers a greater surface
area for hydration and hence the faster and greater the
development of strength.
Definition : The area of cement particles of particular cement weight.
Apparatus : (a) IS sieve no. 9 (90 micron) (b) Pan (c) Balance & Weights
Procedures : (1) Weigh correctly 100 grams of cement (W1) gm.
(2) Take sample on an IS 90 micron Sieve.
(3) Break down the air set lumps.
(4) Sieve the sample giving circular and
vertical motion continuously for 15 minutes.
(5) Weigh the residue left on sieve (W2).
Calculation : Fineness of Cement = (W2/W1) x 100
Limit : (1) As per IS 269 - 1976 the residue by weighton IS test sieve
no. 9 is not to exceed 10% for Ordinary Portland Cement.
 COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH TEST OF CEMENT

Reference : IS 4031 (PART 6) - 1988

Purpose : To determine the compressive strength of cement.
Significance : Compressive strength of cement helps in determining grade
of cement, in calculations of mix designing proportioning of
concrete etc.

Apparatus : (a) Vibration machine.

(b) Graduated glass cylinder

(c) Cube mould of 70.6 mm size & poking rod.
(d) Gauging Trowel, Balance, Weights & Tray.
Procedure :
(1) Take cement 200 gm, standard sand 600 gm and water = ( P/4 + 3.0) percent
of combined mass of cement and sand, where P is the percentage of water
required to produce a paste of standard consistency determined as described
in IS:4031 (PART IV)-1988.
(2) Place mixture of above cement and sand (1:3) on a tray, mix it dry with a trowel
for one minute and then with water (as per step (1) of procedure) until the
mixture is of uniform colour.
(3) Properly oil the interior faces and bottom of mould which should be water tight.
(4) Place the assembled mould on the table of vibration machine and hold it firmly
in position by means of a suitable clamp. Attach a hopper of suitable size and
shape securely at the top of the mould to facilitate filling and this hopper shall
not be removed until the completion of vibration period.
(5) Immediately after mixing the mortar as in step (2) of procedure, place the
mortar in the cube mould and rod with the poking rod 20 times in about 8
seconds to ensure elimination of entrapped air to prevent honey combing.
Place the remaining quantity of mortar in the hopper of the cube mould and
rod again as done for the first layer.
(6) Compact the mortar by vibration machine for 2 minutes at the specified speed
of 12000 +/- 400 vibrations per minute.
(7) At the end of vibration remove mould together with the base plate from the
machine and finish the top surface of the cube in the mould by smoothening
the surface with the blade of trowel.
(8) Keep the filled mould in moist cloth for 24 hours after completion of vibration.
(9) At the end of this period remove them from the mould and immediately
submerge in clean fresh water.
(10)Test sets of three cubes for compressive strength at 3, 7 & 28 days in compression
testing machine. The cubes shall be tested on their sides without any packing
between the cube and the steel platens of the testing machine. Load shall be
steadily and uniformly applied at the rate of 35 N/mm 2 per minute.
(11) The load when the cube fails shall be noted and divided by cross sectional
area of the cube and record the results.
Limit : Minimum compressive strength in N/mm2 for different types of
cement at different ages:
Age in days 33 grade 43 grade 53 grade
3 16 N/mm2 23 N/mm2 27 N/mm2
7 22 N/mm2 33 N/mm2 37 N/mm2
28 33 N/mm2 43 N/mm2 53 N/mm2
 SETTING TIME OF CEMENT
Ref : IS 4031 (Part 5)-1988
Purpose : To determine initial and final setting time of Ordinary Portland
Cement.
Significance : This test gives a judgment about the available time for
transportation placing of concrete, commencement of
curing and stripping.
Apparatus : (a) Vicat apparatus, (Mould dia.: 80 mm, Height: 40 mm)
(b) Weights & Balance
(c) Trowel
(d) Initial & Final setting time needle
(e) Time Watch
Procedure :(1) Take 400 gm of cement and 85% water required for making
cement paste of normal consistency.
(2) The paste shall be gauged and filled into the vicat mould in
specified manner within 3-5 minutes.
(3) Start the time watch the moment water is added to the
cement. The temp of water and that of the test room at the
time of gauging temperature shall be within 27+/- 2 C.
(4) When the needle for Initial setting time, brought in contact
with the top surface and released quickly, fails to penetrate
the paste block for 5 to 7 mm measure from the bottom of the
mould is taken as Initial setting time.
(5) When the needle for Final setting time, placed gently on the
surface makes an impression on the paste but the circular
cutting edge of the attachment fails to do so, is taken as Final
setting time.
Limit : (1) Initial setting time not less than 30 minutes.
(2) Final setting time not more than 600 minutes.
 FLAKINESS INDEX (THICKNESS) TEST OF COARSE AGG.

Ref : IS 2386 (Part I) 1963

Purpose : To determine flakiness index of aggregate.
Definition : The flakiness index of agg. is the percentage by wt.of particles
in it whose least dimension (thickness) is less than 3/5 (three
fifth) of their mean dimension.
Significance : Flaky particles in concrete agg. have particularly
objectionable influence on the workability. Cement
requirement, strength and durability excessive flaky
aggregate makes very poor concrete.
Apparatus : Flakiness gauge.
Procedure :
a. Take a sample so as to get 200 nos. of pieces on each
fraction.
b. Divide the sample into four quadrants
c. Select two opposite quadrant and sieve them through the
sieve in the following Order and find its weight = W
(63,50,40,25,20,16,12.5,10 & 4.75mm)
d. Find the individual weight retained on sieves (a) GMS.
e. Find the no. of pieces retained on each sieve (b)
f. Find the no. of pieces of sample passing through thickness
gauge (Nos) (c)
g. Find the % weight of sample passing through thickness gauge
h. Flakiness index is the total weight of the material passing the
various thickness gauge or sieves expressed as % of total weight.
Wt. of sample passing through thickness gauge
Calculation : F.I. = --------------------------------------------------------- x 100
Total Wt. of sample
 AGGREGATE CRUSHING VALUE
Ref : IS 2386 (Part IV)
Purpose : To determine crushing value of aggregate.
Significance : The compressive strength is the most important property of
aggregate the compressive strength of parent rock does
not exactly indicate the strength of aggregate concrete.
Aggregate crushing valve gives a relative measure of the
resistance of an aggregate sample to crushing under
gradually applied compressive load.
Apparatus : (a) 15 cm dia steel cylinder with plunger and base plate.
(b) Straight metal tamping rod 16 mm dia & 45 to 60 cm long
rounded.
(c) A balance of capacity 5 kg readable & accurate to one
gram.
(d) I.S. Sieve of sizes 12.5mm, 10mm, 2.36mm & 1.18mm.
(e) A compressive strength testing machine.
(f) For measuring the sample. Cylindrical metal internal
diameter, Diameter - 15.2 cm, Height - 13.8 cm
Procedure :
(1) Take a sample of aggregate passing through an appropriate sieve, to provide
two test samples. For kapchi - 12.5 to 10mm IS Sieve, for grit-10 to 4.75 mm IS
Sieve.
(2) Dry the aggregate at the temperature of 100 C, to 110 C, and then cool at
room temperature.
(3) Fill up the cylindrical measure in three equal depth layers by tamping each layer
25 times by tamping rod.
(4) Take weight (a) of aggregate sample filled in measuring cylinder; fill this material
in test cylinder.
(5) Level the surface of the aggregate and insert the plunger.
(6) Place the apparatus with the test sample and plunger in position between the
platens of the testing machine.
(7) Apply uniform load so that total load is reached in 10 minutes. The total load
shall be 40 tons for kapchi & 10 tons for grit.
(8) Release the load & remove the whole material from the cylinder.
(9) Sieve the material on an appropriate I.S. Sieve.
For kapchi - 2.36 mm IS Sieve
For Grit - 1.18 mm IS Sieve
(10) Take weight (B) of material passing through sieve.
Calculation : Aggregate crushing value % = B/A x 100

Note : Aggregate crushing value < 30% by wt. for road &
pavement concrete
Aggregate crushing value < 45% by wt. for other concrete
 DETERMINATION OF SILT CONTENT IN SAND
Ref : IS 2386 Part-2
Purpose : To determine the silt content in Sand.
Significance : Excessive silt content results in increased shrinkage, increased
permeability poor bond characteristics etc.; it also
necessitates greater water requirements for given workability.
Apparatus : Jar. (Measuring Cylinder)
Procedure :
(1) Fill the jar with 100 ML. water.
(2) Add to it 3-4 tablets of NaOH and prepare NaOH solution or 1 tea spun of
Salt.
(3) Add sample of sand in the measuring jar upto height of 100 ML
(4) Fill the jar with additional 100 ML water.
(5) Stir the contents in the jar thoroughly and allow it to settle for 10-15 minutes.
(6) Measure the height of sand layer (d1) and height of silt layer (d2) in the jar.
Calculation :Silt content = d2/d1 x 100
Limit :The results of silt content should not be more than 8%
Note :In case of non-availability of NaOH, only water is used in the test and
the soil solution is allowed to settle for 2-3 hours.
 AGGREGATE IMPACT VALUE
Ref : (IS: 2386 - 1963, Part-IV)
Purpose : To determine the aggregate impact value.
Apparatus : (a) Impact test apparatus. (Size 10 CM dia - 5 CM HT.)
(b) Tamping rod.
(c) I.S.Sieve.
Procedure :
1. Take a sample of aggregate passing through appropriate I.S. Sieve.
2. Dry the aggregate sample in an over for a period of four hours at a temp of 100
C. to 110 C. and then cool it.
3. Fill the measure 75mm dia 50mm ht. in thee layer and temp each layer by 25
strokes of tamping rod.
4. Determine net weight of agg. (a) in the measure.
5. Place the test sample in the cup.
6. Compact the sample by subjecting it to 15 blows of @ 14 kg. Hammer at on
interval of not less than one second raise the hammer 380 mm above the upper
surface of the agg. and allow it to fall freely on the agg.
7. Remove the crushed aggregate from the cup.
8. Sieve the agg. on the appropriate sieve.
9. Weigh the agg. passing through sieve (B).
10. Weigh the agg. retained on the sieve (C).
11. Discard the result if the total weight (B+C) is less than the initial weight (A) and
make a fresh test sample repeat the twice.
Calculation : Agg. Impact value (%) = B/A x 100
 SIEVE ANALYSIS OF AGGREGATES

Ref :IS 2386 (Part I) 1977

Purpose :To determine the gradation of
aggregates/fineness modulus of aggregates.
Definition :Fineness modulus is an empirical factor obtained
by adding the cumulative percentages of
aggregate retained on each of the standard
sieves ranging from 80mm to 150 micron and
dividing this sum by an arbitrary no.100.
Significance :By sieve analysis a sample of aggregate is divided in
various fractions each consisting of particles of
the same size. Thus it imparts particle size
distribution of a sample which is called gradation
This has an important effect on the workability and
finishing characteristics of fresh concrete
consequently on the properties of hardened
concrete use of well graded aggregate renders
increased economy, higher strength, lower shrinkage
and greater durability.
Apparatus : I.S. Sieve
(1) For 63mm metal 63mm, 40mm,
20mm, 10mm, 4.75mm, 2.36mm,
1.18mm, 600 micron, 300 micron,
150 micron, pan.
(2) For 40mm metal 40mm, 20mm,
10mm to 150 micron (3)
For 20 M kapchi 20mm, 10mm to
150 micron pan. (4)
For 10 M Grit-10m, 4.75m to 150
micron pan. (5)
For Sand 4.75mm to 150 micron pan (6)
Brush etc.
Procedure : (1) Prepare the sample for testing from
a larger sample (for sand about 1kg,
Coarse agg. 15 kg.) by quartering make
four parts and take two or by means of the
sample divider.
 (2) Weight the air dried sample and
successively sieve on the
appropriate size starting with the
largest. (3)
Shake each sieve separately over a
clean tray until not more than a
Trace passes.
(4) Brush lightly on the sieves to
prevent blocking of the apertures.
(Openings of sieve)
Calculation : Fineness modulus = Sum of cumulative % on
150 micron retained/100
Note : (1) For Sand F.M.
Fine Sand 2.0-2.5
Medium Sand 2.5-3.0
Coarse Sand 3.0-3.5
(2) Grit 5.75-6.15
(3) kapchi 6.75-7.15
(4) Metal 7.75-8.15
 MOISTURE DETERMINATION
APPARATUS :-

a) Container
b) Balance
c) Desiccators
d) Oven
PROCEDURE :-

Take the clean container lid, dry and weigh. Take the quantity of
material specimen in the container crumbled and placed loosely and weigh
with lid. The keep it on oven with the lid removed and maintained the
temperature of the oven at 110 + 5oc and this material dry in oven for 24
hours every time the container is taken out of weighing replace the lid on the
container and cool in the container in a desiccators. Record the final mass
of container with lid with dried sample.
CALCULATION :-
The percentage of water content

W= W2 W3 x 100
W3 W1

where, W = water content percent

W2 = mass of container with lid or wet material
W3 = mass of container with lid with dry material
W1 = mass of container
 C. B. R. TEST

STATEMENT :-

The ratio of force per unit area required to penetrate a soil mass with circular
plunger of 50mm dia at the rate of 1.25mm / min to the required for
corresponding penetration of standard material. Generally the ratio is usually
determined for penetration of 2.5 to 5mm where the ratio at 5mm is
consistently higher than that 2.5 mm the ratio at 5 mm is used.
APPARATUS :-
a) Mould with base plate, stay rod, and wing nab
b) Collar
c) Spacer disc
d) Metal hammer
e) Expansion measuring apparatus
f) Weight
g) Loading machine
h) Penetration plunger
i) Dial gauges
j) Sieves
k) Miscellaneous apparatus

PROCEDURE :- Test for swelling

A filter shall be placed over the specimen and adjustable steam and
perforated plate shall be placed on compacted soil specimen in the mould
and the whole mould and weight shall be immersed in tank water allowing
free of access of water to the top and bottom of the specimen. This set up
shall be undisturbed for 96 hours and noting down the reading every day
against time of reading a constant water level shall be maintained.
At the end of soaking period final reading of dial gauge shall be
noted and the mould taken out in water tank
PENETRATION TEST :-

The mould is containing the specimen with the base plate in position but top
face exposed shall be placed on lower plate on testing machine and the
surcharge weight, sufficient to produce an intensity of loading equal to the
weight of the base material and pavement shall be placed on the
specimen. If the specimen has been soaked previously surcharged shall be
equal to that used poring soaking period to prevent of soil into the hole of
the surcharged weight 2.5 kg annular weight shall be placed on soil surface.
The soil surface, prior to seating the penetration plunger. After which
reminder of the surcharged weight shall be placed. Then the stress and strain
shall be then set to zero. The initial load applied to the plunger and shall be
 considered zero load. When determining load penetration relation, load shall
be applied to penetration plunger so that penetration shall be
approximately 12.5mm per minute reading of load shall be taken
penetration 4.0, 5.0 7.5, 10.0 and 12.5mm. The maximum load and
penetration shall be recorded it if occur for a penetration shall be less than
12.5mm. The plunger shall be raised and the mould detached from the
loading equipment. About 20 to 50g of soil shall be collected from the top
30mm layer of specimen and the water determined. If the water average
water content of whole specimen is desired water content sample shall be
taken from the entire depth test should be carefully examined the test is
completed for the presence of any oversize soil particles which are likely to
effect below the penetration plunger.

OBSERVATION :-

Expansion ratio = df ds / h x 100

Where,
df = final dial gauge reading in mm
ds = Initial dial gauge reading in mm

h = initial height of the expansion in mm

C. B. R. = PT / PS x 100
Where,
PT = corrected unit test load corresponding to chosen
penetration from the load penetration curve
PS = unit standard load for the same depth of penetration as for Ps
taken from standard load take.
 ATTERBERG LIMIT: METHODS OF DETERMINIG THE LIQUID LIMIT AND
PLASTIC LIMIT

APPARATUS :-

a) Mechanical liquid limit device

b) Grooving tool
c) Porcelain evaporating dish
d) Flat glass plate
e) Spatula
f) Palette knives
g) Balance
h) Oven
i) Wash bottle or Breaker container

PROCEDURE :-

About take 120g of soil sample is passing 425 microns sieve it shall
mixed with the distilled water in the evaporating dish or on the plat glass flat
to form uniform paste. The shall have consistency that will require 30 to 35
drops of the cap to cause require closer of standard groove. The paste shall
be left to stand for sufficient time (24 hours) so as to ensure uniform
distribution of moisture through out the soil mass.
The soil remixed thoroughly before test a portion of the paste shall be
placed in the cup above the spot where the cup rest on the base and it
squeeze down and spread in to the position few strokes of the spatula as
possible at the same time to trimmed to a depth of centimeter. The paint
and maximum thickness returning excess soil to dish. The soil in the cup shall
be decided by firm strokes or grooving tools along the diameter through the
centre line of come follower. So that clean sharp groove of the proper
dimension is formed. In case where grooving tool.
Then the cup shall be fitted and dropped by turning the crank at the
rate of two revaluation per second unit two halves of the soil cake comes in
content with bottom of groove along a distance about 12mm. The number
of drops required to cause the groove closed to length of 12mm shall be
recorded.
A little extra of the soil mixture shall be added to the cup and mixed
with the soil in the cup the pat shall be mixed in the cup and the test
repeated until two consecutive runs give the same under of drops for closure
the groove.
Formula :
Liquid Index (IL) = Wa Wp
Lp
Where,
Wa = natural moisture content of the soil
Wp = plastic limit of the soil
Ip = plastic index of soil

Consistency Index (Ic) = WL Wo

Ip
Where,
WL = Liquid limit of the soil
Wo = Natural moisture content of the soil
Ip = Plasticity Index of the soil
 DETERMINE OF BULK DENSITY AND VOIDS

STATEMENT :-

Bulk density or an aggregate gives the valuable information regarding the

shape and the grading of aggregate bulk density shows density the
aggregate is packed when filled in a standard manner. The sample gives
maximum bulk density and voids.
PROCEDURE :-

Materials are filled in the mould about 1/3 each times with thoroughly mixed
aggregate and every layer are tamped with 25 strokes by ended tamping
rod. The mould length 150 mm. Depth and breath 150 mm. This measure
carefully struck off level using tamping rod as a straight. The net weight of
aggregate to volume of mould.
FORMULA : - Bulk Density = The weight of material x 100
The volume of mould
a) PROCTOR DENSITY TEST

STATEMENT :-

Proctor compaction test is denoted specific amount of energy applied feed

compaction. Soil in a mould fixed volume standard modified proctor
compaction test are performed and this test is carried out in lab prior to
actual field compaction work. The proctor compaction test is obtained
optimum moisture content and maximum dry density. This test energy is
applied to compaction is increased compared to standard proctor test. The
need for modified compaction test heavy compaction is needed.
Compaction between standard and modified proctor test :

Test Mould Size Weight of No. of Drop No. of

hammer layer height of blows on
hammer each
layer
Std. 12.73 mm 2.6 kg 3 310 mm 25
Proctor height,100mm
diameter
Modified cylindrical 4.89 kg 5 450 mm 55
Proctor mould.12.73 mm
height; 100 mm
diameter
cylindrical mould

Modified proctor test give 5-10 % higher dry density 2-3% less OMC as
compared to standard proctor test
 APPARATUS :-
a) Cylindrical mould with volume 1000 cc (10 cm dia 12.73
height)
b) Metal hammer
c) Balance, electrical oven, moisture content cans
d) Sieves 50mm, 20mm, 4.75mm IS sieve
PROCEDURE :-
Take about 6 kg of dry soil sample and passing through 19mm IS sieve
is taken and 7 to 10% water is added and mixed thoroughly and three equal
parts of soil is divided and filled in proctor mould.

PRECAUTION :-
1) The empty mould is cleaned dried and weighed
2) The grease is applied inside the mould
3) The caller is attached and the mould is fixed
4) Wet soil sample is prepared and it is compacted in the mould
in 5 equal layers 55 blows and hammer weighing 4.89 kg
falling 450 mm given.
5) Each layer of compacted soil is scratch with spatula before
putting next layer
6) The caller is removed after compaction at all the 5 layers and
excess sample is trimmed to make it level to the top of mould
7) The soil is taken out from the mould and the representative
sample is taken from it for moisture content determination.
8) This procedure is repeated 5 to 6 times after adding and
though mixing little water to the soil sample every time until
the reading of bulk density goes on decreasing.

Observation :- a) Wet Density = w wm

Where, Vm
W Weight of mould + compacted soil
Wm weight of empty mould
Vm volume of mould
Dry density =Wet Density/ (1+Most%/100)
 DETERMINATION OF SPECIFIC GRAVITY
DEFINATION :-

It is the ratio of weight of given volume of solid at stated temperature to

weight in air of an equal volume of distilled water at that temperature it is
known as specific gravity at 27oc.
APPARATUS :-

1) Pycnometer 1 liter capacity fitted with a rubber bung

2) A ground glass plate or plastic slip cover for closing the gas jar
3) A mechanical shacking apparatus capable of rotating the
gas jar end-over-end at about 50 sec/min
4) A balance readable and accurate to 0.2 g
PROCEDURE :-

Dry the pycnometer thoroughly and weight with its tightly screwed
(M1). Then unscrew the cup and put in material of oven dried sample (W2).
Then add sufficient water to cover of material about half & full screwed the
cup and shake well so that soil becomes wet and air shall be removed. After
removing all entrapped water air again check the level of water in
pycnometer and water if required to top of cup and wipe off with dry cloth
from outside and take weight (W3). Then fill the pycnometer with water upto
its top and screw on the cup and add water upto top of the cup and weigh
the pycnometer after drying it on the outside thoroughly (W4) and this
process is repeated two times.

CALCULATION :-

The specific gravity G The particles shall be calculated from the

equation

G= M2 M1
(M4 M1) (M3 M2)

Where, M1 = Weight of empty pycnometer

M2 = Weight of pycnometer + dry material
M3 = Weight of pycnometer + dry soil + water
M4 = Weight of pycnometer + water
 DETERMINATION OF TIME OF SETTING

PURPOSE:

For the purpose of this procedure, the following definitions will apply,

1. Initial setting time: The elapsed time, after Initial contact of Cement
and water, required for the mortar (sieved from the Concrete) to
reach a penetration resistance of 3.43 N/mm2 (35kgf / cm2)
2. Final setting time: The elapsed time, after initial contact of Cement
and water; required for the mortar (sieved from the Concrete) to
reach a penetration resistance of 26.97 N/mm2 (275kgf / cm2)

Reference Standard-IS 8142: 1976

APPARATUS:

1. Containers for Mortar specimens: Rigid, Watertight, non-absorptive,

Non-oiled containers, cube, with minimum lateral dimension 150 mm
and height at least 150 mm
2. Penetration Resistance Apparatus: Spring reaction-type apparatus,
graduated from 5 kgf. to 60 kgf in increments of 1 kgf. Indication of
actual needle loads by these apparatus will be accurate to 1 kgf,
Removal needles of 645, 323, 161, 100, 65, 32 and 16mm2 bearing
areas will be provided. Each needle shank will be scribbled
peripherally at a distance of 25mm above the bearing face. The
length of the 16mm2 needle will be not more than 90mm to minimize
bending. Schematic diagram of the equipment is shown is figure.
3. Pipette or suitable instrument for drawing off free water from the
surface of the test specimens.
4. Tampering Rod: Round, straight steel rod 16mm in diameter and
approximately 600mm in length, having the tamping end rounded to a
hemispherical tip, of 16mm diameter.

STEPS:
PREPARATION OF MORTAR SPECIMENS:

1. From the concrete mixture under test, select a representative Sample

of concrete of sufficient volume to provide enough Mortar to fill the
test container, or containers, to a depth of at Least 140mm.

2. All of the mortar from the sample of concrete by sieving it through a

4.75mm IS sieve onto a non-absorptive surface is be removed.

3. Thoroughly remix the mortar by hand on the non-absorptive Surface

and place it in the container, or containers in layers of 50mm each,
and compact by rodding each layer. Rod the Specimen by the
means of the tamping rod held so as to penetrate the mortar with the
 round end. Rod the mortar once for each 6.5cm2, of top surface
area of the specimen and distribute the strokes uniformly over the
cross-section of the specimen. After completion of the rodding, tap
the sides of the containers lightly with the surface of the specimen.
The mortar surface will be at least 13mm below the top edge of the
container to provide space for the collection and removal of bleeding
water.

Minimum one specimen will be taken for each concrete mix

proportions.

STORAGE OF MORTAR SPECIMENS:

Store and maintain the specimens at the temperature selected for

testing the specimens. To prevent excessive evaporation of moisture,
keep the specimen covered with a suitable tight fitting, water-
Impermeable cover for the duration of the test, except when bleeding
water is being removed or penetration tests are being made. The
specimens will be shielded from the sun.

DETERMINATION OF SETTING TIME

1. Remove bleeding water from the surface of the mortar specimens just
prior to making a penetration test by means of pipette or suitable
instrument. To facilitate collection of bleeding water, till the specimen
carefully to an angle of about 12 degree Celsius from the horizontal by
placing a block under one side 2 minutes prior to removal of the
bleeding water.

2. Insert the needle of requisite, recommended size, depending upon the

state of hardening of the mortar, in the penetration resistance
apparatus and bring the bearing surface of the needle into contact
with the mortar surface. Gradually and uniformly apply a vertical force
downward on the apparatus until the needle penetrates the mortar to
a depth of 25mm depth in approximately 10 seconds. Record the
force required and the time of application and convert it to the
pressure in kg/cm2, based on the area of the needle and time at
which the reading is taken. In subsequent penetration tests take care
to avoid areas where the mortar has been distributed by previous
tests. The clear distance between the two needle impressions will be
at least two diameters of the needle being used, but not less than
13mm. The clear distance between any needle impression and the
side of the container, container will be less than 25 mm.

3. Make penetration tests at hourly intervals for normal mixtures and

normal temperature, the initial test being made after and elapsed time
of 3 to 4h. For accelerated mixtures or high temperatures, it may be
advisable to make the initial test after and elapsed time of 1 of 2h and
subsequent tests at 1/2h intervals. For low temperature conditions or
 related concrete mixtures, the initial penetration test may be deferred
for an elapsed time of 4 to 6h, and perhaps longer, Subsequent test
may be made at interval of 1h, unless the rate of increase in
penetration indicates that shorter interval are desirable.

CALCULATION:

INITIAL SETTING TIME:

1. Initial setting time = Time elapsed between initial mixing of cement

and water to the time at which penetration resistance is 35 kg/cm2.

FINAL SETTING TIME:

1. Final setting time = Time elapsed between initial mixing of Cement

and water of the time at which penetration resistance is 275kgf/cm 2.

Max Load applied on cube

W
specimen until Failure (Kn.)
Cross Sectional area of cube9 A
Strength Mpa. W/A
 TESTING OF COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF CONCRETE

Purpose:-

The purpose of this test is to determine compressive strength of

concrete specimen.

Apparatus:-

Compression testing machine of sufficient capacity for the test and

capable of applying load at desired Rate.

REFERENCE DOCUMENT
All appropriate parts of the reference documents below are to be held
by the laboratory officer for use with this procedure:-

Indian Standard IS 1199: 1959

Indian Standard IS 516: 1959

PROCEDURE

Cube specimens will be manufactured and cured as per IS 516:1959.

The test specimens will be stored at a place free from vibration, under damp
matting for 24 hours. The temperature of the place of storage will be within
the range of 220 C to 320 C. On removal from the moulds, they will be
marked and stored in water at a temperature of 270 C+/- 20 C until the time of
test. Specimens will be tested at the appropriate age immediately after
removal from water. Specimen density will be determined by either water
displacement method or measurement of dimensions. The platens of the
testing machine will be wiped clean and the specimen will be placed centrally
such that the cast surface is facing towards the rear. The load will be
applied without shock at a rate of 140 kg/cm2 till no greater load can be
applied. The maximum load applied will be recorded on form FT 7 and
compressive strength calculated.
 DETERMINATION OF YIELD OF CONCRETE

Purpose:

This test covers the procedure for determining the yield of concrete.

Apparatus:

Calibrated weighbridge

Procedure:

This procedure is carried out to ensure the correct volume of concrete

is batched and supplied to the customer, it is assumed that the plant weigh
gear is calibrated and functioning correctly.
Prior to loading, the truck mixer is topped up with washing water and
any fuel if required. Truck mixer is weighed the drum empty (We).
Truck mixer is loaded with the ordered volume (V) of concrete and weighed
(We).
(Wf-We)/ will give the unit weight v2.
A sample of concrete is taken in accordance with IS: 1199-1959 and
unit weight (V1) determined as per Work instruction W 10.

Yield as per mix design

CALICULATION
V2
_______________ x 100
V1

Relative yield should with in -2% to + 2%

 DETERMINATION OF FLEXURAL STRENGTH

Purpose:

Purpose of conducting this test is to determine the Flexural Strength

of Moulded concrete flexural specimen.

Reference Standard:- IS 516: 1959

Procedure:-

Flexural strength will be carried out on specimens of size of 15 x15x

70 cm or case the maximum size of aggregates is less than 19mm then
optionally on 10 x 10 x050 cm size specimens. The bearing surfaces of the
supporting rollers of the machine will be wiped clean. The specimen placed
such that the load will be applied on faces which will not include the top
surface as cast. The load will be applied on the upper surface of the
specimen along two lines 20 cm or 13.3 cm apart for 15 cm or 10 cm cross
section dimension respectively. The rate of loading will be 400 kg/min & 180
kg/min respectively for 15 mm & 10 mm size mould. The maximum load
applied will be noted.

Calculation:-

The flexural strength of the specimen will be calculated as follows.

Flexural strength f = p x 1
_____
b x d2
When the distance between the fine of fracture i. E. "a" and the
nearest support is greater than 20 cm for 15 mm specimen and greater than
13.3 for 10 mm specimen or

Flexural strength f = 3p x 1
_____
b x d2

When the distance between the line of fracture i. E. "a" and the
nearest support is less than 20 cm but greater than 17 cm for 15 mm
specimen and less than 13.3 but greater than 11cm for 10 mm specimen.

Where P= maximum load

l = length of span on which specimen is supported.

D = depth of the specimen
b = width of the specimen
Where f is in kg/cm2, p in kg, and dimensions cm.
 If the distance between the line of fracture and nearest support is less
than 17 cm or 11 cm for a 15 or 10 cm specimen respectively, the test will
rejected.

Report:

The report will contain the following information.

Date of Test

Age of Specimen

Curing condition

Weight of specimen

Dimensions

Maximum load

Flexural strength