Compressive Strength Test of Cement

Compressive Strength Test of Cement

Instruments

• Compression Testing Machine: Used to apply load on the cement specimens.
• Cube Molds: Standard size molds (usually 70.6 mm or 100 mm cubical molds).
• Vibrating Machine: To compact the cement paste inside the molds.
• Measuring Tools: Vernier calipers for dimensional accuracy.

Standards

• IS 4031 Part 6: Indian standard specifying methods for testing the compressive strength of cement.
• ASTM C109/C109M: Standard test method for compressive strength of hydraulic cement mortars.

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Preparation of Specimens:

   • Mix cement and sand in prescribed proportions (e.g., 1 part cement to 3 parts sand).
   • Add water to the mix in the specified ratio for standard consistency.
   • Fill the cube molds with the prepared cement mortar.
   • Compact the mortar using a vibrating machine for proper consolidation.
   • Level the surface and cure the specimens in water for a specific period (usually 24 hours).

2. Testing Procedure:

   • Remove the cured specimens from molds and submerge them in water for curing until the testing age (e.g., 7 or 28 days).
   • Place the specimen in the compression testing machine, ensuring uniform loading.
   • Apply load continuously and uniformly at a rate of 140 kg/sq.cm per minute.
   • Record the maximum load at which the specimen fails.

Use

• Purpose: Determines the ability of cement to withstand loads and is critical for assessing the quality and durability of cement.
• Application: Important for design and construction of concrete structures, ensuring structural integrity and safety.

Sample Calculation

• Formula: Compressive Strength = (Maximum Load / Cross-sectional Area)
• Example: If a cube of a cross-sectional area of 50 sq.cm fails under a maximum load of 250 kN, then the compressive strength is calculated as:$$\text{Compressive Strength}=\frac{250\text{kN}}{50\text{sq.cm}}=5\text{kN/sq.cm}\text{or}50\text{MPa}$$

Suitability

• Suitability: Ensures the selected cement meets required performance criteria for construction projects.
• Classification: Helps classify cement into grades based on compressive strength (e.g., 33, 43, and 53-grade cement).

Key Concepts

• Compressive Strength: A measure of the maximum load a cement specimen can bear before failure, indicating its load-bearing capacity.
• Curing: Process of maintaining adequate moisture, temperature, and time to allow the cement to achieve desired strength.

These study notes cover the essential aspects of the compressive strength test of cement, which are crucial for understanding its quality and performance in construction.