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ConcreteCubeTestsExplained PDF
ConcreteCubeTestsExplained PDF
Explained
An easy to use guide to Concrete Cube Tests
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We can supply all of the equipment on a purchase or hire basis and train your staff, just contact us for
details. When is this most common?
A few dont's
Cube failures can be very expensive, in terms of both time and money, whilst they are resolved. Ensure that
you avoid them if at all possible by following our tips;
Dont make your own moulds - Over the years we have seen a wonderful selection of home-made cube
moulds, from those that a cabinet maker would be proud of, to those made from five old bits of chipboard
nailed together. None were any good whatsoever. The moulds must be made from machined steel to ensure
perfect contact with the testing machine.
Dont be tempted by single use polystyrene moulds that you may have seen. These are suitable for very
low strength concrete such as trench fill. When used for structural concrete, you will be left with an orange
peel surface that, again, will not make full contact with the testing machine.
Dont give the job to your most junior, inexperienced member of the staff unless you are satisfied that
they are conscientious and fully trained.
Our trained technician will arrive at the appointed time with his own equipment.
2.
3.
4.
All he needs from you is access for his van to the point of discharge next to the truck mixer.
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I need cube results for stripping formwork is this the same procedure?
More or less. The cubes are made in the same way but should be additional to and separate from the quality
control cubes. The stripping cubes should be kept at the same ambient temperature as the shuttered concrete
until theyre taken to our laboratory. If you tell us your requirements, we will then cure them in a similar
way until we start crushing them.
What next?
We hope that this gives you a basic understanding of cube procedures. If you would like more information
or would like to arrange for us to make or collect your cubes, please call us or follow the links below, email
us at info@testcrete.co.uk or call us on 01405 860905;
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