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This document has been approved for use by agen-

cies of the Department of Defense and for listing in the


DOD Index of Specifications and Standards.

Recommended Practice for Evaluation of Strength


Test Results of Concrete (ACI 214-77)*
(Reapproved 1997)

Reported by ACI Committee 214


V. M. M A L H O T R A
Chairman

EDWARD A. ABDUN-NUR RICHARD J. DOERMANN V . RAMAKRISHNAN


H O W A R D T . ARNI R I C H A R D D. GAYNOR HUBERT RUSCH
JOSEPH F. ARTUSO ARNOLD R. KLINE ROBERTO SANCHEZ-TREJO
ROBERT M. BARNOFF K. R. LAUER? ROBERT G. SEXSMITH
T. G. CLENDENNING A . M . NEVILLE V. D. SKIPPER
HERBERT K. COOK ROBERT E. PHILLEO J. DERLE THORPE
FRANCIS J. PRINCIPE

Statistical procedures provide valuable tools for assessing results of strength tests,
and such an approach is also of value in refining design criteria and specifications.
The report discusses briefly the numerous variations that occur in the strength of
concrete and presents statistical procedures which are useful in interpreting these
variations.

Keywords: coefficient of variation: compression tests: compressive strength; concrete construction:


concretes: cylinders: evaluation; quality control; sampling; standard deviation; statistical analysis;
variations.

CONTENTS
Chapter I-Introduction ...................................................... 2
Chapter 2-Variations in strength .............................................2
2.1-General 2.3-Testing methods
2.2-Properties of concrete
Chapter 3-Analysis of strength data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
3.1-Notation 3.4-Strength variations
3.2-General 3.5-Standards of control
3.3-Statistical functions
Chapter 4-Criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4. l-General 4.4-Quality control charts
4.2-Criteria for strength 4.5-Tests and specimens required
requirements 4.6-Rejection of doubtful specimens
4.3-Additional information
Chapter 5-References . . . . . . . . . ..... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

*Adopted as a standard of the American Concrete Institute in August 1977, to super- C%.@yyrightl976, American Concrete Institute. All rights reserved including rights
cede ACI 214-65, in accordance with the Institute’s standardization procedure. This of reproduction and use in any form or by any means, including the making of copies by
recommended practice for evaluation of strength test results has been developed from any photo process, or by any electronic or mechanical device, printed, written, or oral,
data derived from tests performed on concrete limited to a compressive strength of 6000 or recording for sound or visual reproduction or for use in any knowledge or retrieval
psi or less. system or device, unless permission in writing is obtained from the copyright
Whairman during development of the revision. proprietors.
CHAPTER I-INTRODUCTION
The purposes of strength tests of concrete are ture. To be meaningful, conclusions on strength of
to determine compliance with a strength specifica- concrete must be derived from a pattern of tests
tion and to measure the variability of concrete. from which the characteristics of the concrete can
Concrete, being a hardened mass of heterogeneous be estimated with reasonable accuracy. Insuf-
materials, is subject to the influence of numerous ficient tests will result in unreliable conclusions.
variables. Characteristics of each of the ingredi- Statistical procedures provide tools of consider-
ents of concrete, depending on their variability, able value in evaluating results of strength tests
may cause variations in strength of concrete. and information derived from such procedures is
Variations may also be introduced by practices also of value in refining design criteria and speci-
used in proportioning, mixing, transporting, plac- fications. This report briefly discusses variations
ing, and curing. In addition to the variations which that occur in the strength of concrete, and presents
exist in concrete itself, test strength variations will statistical procedures that are useful in the inter-
also be introduced by the fabrication, testing, and pretation of these variations with respect to re-
treatment of test specimens. Variations in the quired criteria and specifications. For these sta-
strength of concrete must be accepted, but con- tistical procedures to be valid, the data must be
crete of adequate quality can be produced with derived from samples obtained by means of a
confidence if proper control is maintained, test random sampling plan designed to reduce the
results are properly interpreted, and their limi- possibility that choice will be exercised by the
tations are considered. sampler. “Random sampling” means that each
Proper control is achieved by the use of satis- possible sample has an equal chance of being
factory materials, correct batching and mixing of selected. To insure this condition, the choice must
these materials, correct batching and mixing of be made by some objective mechanism such as
sired quality, and good practices in transporting, a table of random numbers. If sample batches are
placing, curing, and testing. Although the com- selected by the sampler on the basis of his own
plex nature of concrete precludes complete judgment, biases are likely to be introduced that
homogeneity, excessive variation of concrete will invalidate results analyzed by the procedures
strength signifies inadequate concrete control. presented here. Reference 1 contains a discussion
Improvement in control may permit a reduction of random sampling and a useful short table of
in the cost of concrete since the average strength random numbers.
can be brought closer to specification require- Additional information on the meaning and use
ments. of this recommended practice is given in Realism
Strength is not necessarily the most critical fac- in the Application of A C I Standard 214-65? This
tor in proportioning concrete mixes since other volume is a compilation of information on ACI
factors, such as durability, may impose lower 214-65 that was presented at a symposium held
water-cement ratios than are required to meet at Buffalo, N. Y., in 1971. In addition to the papers
strength requirements. In such cases, strength from the symposium, it includes reprints of some
will of necessity be in excess of structural de- pertinent papers that were published earlier in
mands. Nevertheless, strength tests are valuable the ACI JOURNAL, and of discussion that resulted
in such circumstances since, with established from them. Although the information given was
mix proportions, variations in strength are indi- based on ACI 214-65, most of it is still relevant.
cative of variations in other properties. An additional source of material on evaluation of
Test specimens indicate the potential rather strength tests is ACI Bibliography No. 2, published
than the actual strength of the concrete in a struc- in 1960.s

CHAPTER 2-VARIATIONS IN STRENGTH


2.1-General ing properties of the concrete mixture and in-
The magnitude of variations in the strength of gredients, and (b) apparent differences in
strength caused by variations inherent in the test-
concrete test specimens depends on how well the
ing.
materials, concrete manufacture, and testing are
controlled. Differences in strength can be traced 2.2-Properties of concrete
to two fundamentally different sources as shown It is well established that strength is governed
in Table 2.1: (a) differences in strength-produc- to a large extent by the water-cement ratio. The

2 ACI STANDARD
TABLE 2.I-PRINCIPAL SOURCES OF mixtures used, since each will contribute to varia-
STRENGTH VARIATION tions in the concrete strength. The temperature of
Variations in the properties Discrepancies in testing fresh concrete influences the amount of water
of concrete methods needed to achieve the proper consistency and con-
-
sequently contributes to strength variation. Con-
Changes in water-cement Improper sampling struction practices may cause variations in
ratio: procedures strength due to inadequate mixing, poor com-
Poor control of water
Excessive variation of
paction, delays, and improper curing. Not all of
moisture in aggregate these are reflected in specimens fabricated and
Retempering stored under standard conditions.
Variations in water require- Variations due to fabrica-
ment: tion techniques The use of admixtures adds another factor since
Aggregate grading, ab- Handling and curing of each admixture adds another variable to concrete.
sorption, particle shape newly made cylinders The batching of accelerators, retarders, pozzolans,
Cement and admixture Poor quality molds and air-entraining agents must be carefully con-
properties
Air content
trolled.
Delivery time and
temperature 2.3-Testing methods
Variations in characteristics Changes in curing: Concrete tests may or may not include all the
and proportions of ingre- Temperature variation variations in strength of concrete in place de-
dients: Variable moisture pending on what variables have been introduced
Aggregates Delays in bringing cylin- after test specimens were made. On the other
Cement ders to the laboratory
Pozzolans hand, discrepancies in sampling, fabrication cur-
Admixtures ing, and testing of specimens may cause indica-
tions of variations in strength which do not exist
Variations in transporting, Poor testing procedures:
placing, and compaction Cylinder capping in the concrete in the structure. The project is
Compression tests unnecessarily penalized when variations from this
Variations in temperature
and curing
source are excessive. Good testing methods will
- reduce these variations, and standard testing
procedures such as those described in ASTM
first criterion for producing concrete of constant standards should be followed without deviation.
strength, therefore, is a constant water-cement The importance of using accurate testing ma-
ratio. Since the quantity of cement and added chines and producing thin, high-strength, plane,
water can be measured accurately, the problem of parallel caps should need no emphasis since test
maintaining a constant water-cement ratio is results can be no more accurate than the equip-
primarily one of correcting for the variable ment and procedures used. Uniform test results
quantity of free moisture in aggregates. are not necessarily accurate test results. Lab-
The homogeneity of concrete is influenced by oratory equipment and procedures should be cali-
the variability of the aggregates, cement, and ad- brated and checked periodically.

CHAPTER 3-ANALYSIS OF STRENGTH DATA


3.1-Notation = average range
da and = factors for computing within-test = standard deviation
lldz standard deviation from average range
- within-test standard deviation
-
fcr = required average strength to assure that
no more than the permissible propor- - batch-to-batch standard deviation
-
tion of tests will fall below specified - a constant multiplier for standard de-
-
strength viation (0.) that depends on the number
fc’ = specified strength of tests expected to fall below f:
- number of tests -
- coefficient of variation
x = range
En = maximum for average range used in
-
- within-test coefficient of variation
control charts for moving average for -
- an individual test result
range = average of test results

STRENGTH TEST EVALUATION 3


kgf /cm2
199 183 197 211 225 239 253 267 281 295 209 323
I I I I I I I I I I I I

I 68.27%
I
_----c--_--4
r=---r------
T
I
I

COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH PS I

Fig. 3.3(a)-Frequency distribution of strength data and corresponding normal distribution

3.2-General 3.3-Statistical functions


To obtain maximum information, a sufficient The strength of concrete test specimens on con-
number of tests should be made to indicate the trolled projects can be assumed to fall “into a
variation in the concrete produced and to permit pattern similar to the normal frequency distribu-
appropriate statistical procedures to be used in tion curve illustrated in Fig. 3.3 (a). Where there
interpreting the test results. Statistical procedures is good control, the strength values will be
provide the best basis for determining from such bunched close to the average, and the curve will
results the potential quality and strength of the be tall and narrow. As the variations in strength
concrete and for expressing results in the most increase, the values spread- and the curve be-
useful form. comes low and elongated, as illustrated by the
idealized curves shown in Fig. 3.3 (b) . Because the
characteristics of such curves can be defined
mathematically, certain useful functions of the
kgf/cm2
strength can be calculated as follows:
I 169 197 225 263 261 309 337 366 394 4 1
I I I I
I I I I I 3.3.1 Average, X-The average strength of all
individual tests
Q s 340 PSI (23.9 kgf/c.m2)
j&x1+x2+x,+...+x,
n (3-1)

Where X1, X2, X3 . . . X, are the strength results


of individual tests and n is the total number of
T= 550 psi (39.4 k&b?-) tests made. A test is defined as the average
strength of all specimens of the same age fabri-
cated from a sample taken from a single batch of
concrete.
3.3.2 Standard deviation, a-The most generally
2000 2400 2600 3200 3600 4000 4400 4600 5200 5600 6( recognized measure of dispersion is the root-mean-
Compressive strength, psi square deviation of the strengths from their
average. This statistic is known as the standard
Fig. 3.3(b)-Normal frequency curves for different stand- deviation and may be considered to be the radius
ard deviations of gyration about the line of symmetry of the

4 ACI STANDARD
area under the curve of the frequency distribu- TABLE 3.4.1 l-FACTORS FOR COMPUTING WITHIN-
tion of strength data, such as that shown in Fig. TEST STANDARD DEVIATION*
3.3 (a). The best estimate of CI, based on a finite
Number of
amount of data, is obtained by Eq. (3-2)) or by specimens d-2 l/CL
its algebraic equivalent, Eq. (3-2a). The latter
equation is preferable for computation purposes, 2 1.128 0.8865
because it is not only simpler and more adaptable 3 1.693 0.5907
4 2.059 0.4857
to desk calculators, but it avoids the possibility of 2.326 0.4299
5
trouble due to rounding errors. 6 2.534 0.3946
7 2.704 0.3698
o= (E(Xl--)2+ (x,-x)2+... 8 2.847 0.3512
9 2.970 0.3367
+ (Xn - X)2]/n - l}fh (3-2) 10 3.078 0.3249

or *From Table B2, ASTM Manual on Quality Control of Ma-


terials, Reference 4.

G=
d ~xi” - (CXi)'
n-1
3.3.3 Coefficient of variation, V-The standard
(3-2a)
crete are required to establish reliable values for
R. The within-test standard deviation and coef-
ficient of variation can be conveniently computed
as follows:
deviation expressed as a percentage of the aver-
age strength is called the coefficient of variation: j-R
01 = - (3-4)
2

v = + x 100 (3-3) VI = g x 100 (3-5)

3.3.4 Range, R-Range is the statistic found by where


within-test standard deviation
=
subtracting the lowest of a group of numbers from Cl

the highest one in the group. The within-test l/d2 = a constant depending on the number of
cylinders averaged to produce a test
range is found by subtracting the lowest of the
(Table 3.4.1)
group of cylinder strengths averaged to produce
R = average range within groups of com-
a test from the highest of the group. The within-
panion cylinders
test range is useful in computing the within-test
standard deviation discussed in the following sec- VI = within-test coefficient of variation
tion. X = average strength
3.4.2 Batch-to-batch variations-These variations

3.4-Strength variations reflect differences in strength which can be at-


tributed to variations in
As mentioned previously, variations in results (a) Characteristics and properties of the in-
of strength tests can be traced to two different gredients
sources: (a) variations in testing methods and (b) Batching, mixing, and sampling
(b) properties of the concrete mixture and in-
(c) Testing that has not been detected from
gredients. It is possible by analysis of variance
companion cylinders since these tend to be treated
to compute the variations attributable to each more alike than cylinders tested at different times
source.
3.4.1 Within-test variation - The variation in
strength of concrete within a single test is found
by computing the variation of a group of cylinders
fabricated from a sample of concrete taken from \
a given batch. It is reasonable to assume that a 34.1%
test sample of concrete is homogeneous and any
variation between companion cylinders fabricated
from a given sample is caused by fabricating,
curing, and testing variations.
1 Q.
A single batch of concrete, however, provides
insufficient data for statistical analysis and com-
Fig. 3.4.2(a)-Approximate division of the area under
panion cylinders from at least ten batches of con- the normal frequency distribution curve

STRENGTH TEST EVALUATION


The batch-to-batch and within-test sources of where
variation are related to the overall variation G = overall standard deviation
[Eq. (3-3) ] by the following expression: o1 = within-test standard deviation
o2 = batch-to-batch standard deviation
o2 = 012 + 022 (3-6) Once these parameters have been computed,
and with the assumption that the results follow a
normal frequency distribution curve, a large
amount of information about the test results be-
comes known. Fig. 3.4.2 (a) indicates an approxi-
mate division of the area under the normal
frequency distribution curve. For example, ap-
proximately 68 percent of the area (equivalent to
68 percent of the test results) lies within 3t la of
the average, 95 percent within t 20, etc. This
permits an estimate to be made of the portion of

TABLE 3.4.2-EXPECTED PERCENTAGES OF TESTS


LOWER THAN &’ WHERE x EXCEEDS f: BY THE
AMOUNT SHOWN

Average Expected Expected


Average
strength, perceo;ltage strength,
percztage
x low tests X low tests

46.0 fc’ + 1.60


42.1 fc’ + 1.7
38.2
34.5
30.9 2.3
27.4 1.8
24.2
fe’ + 0.800
f: + 0.90
21.2
18.4
k;’
018
70 80 90 1 fc’ + 0 15.9
Percent of average strength 13.6 p;
11.5
* 0:25
Fig. 3.4.2(b)-Cumulative distribution curves for different 0.19
fc’ + 1.50 f0’ + 3.0 0.13
coefficients of variation
-

kgf/c&
84.4 70.3 56.2 422 28.1 14.1 0

60

8 80
s
&
z 90
ce
$j 9 5
e 96
97

1400 1200 1000 800 600 400 200 0


Compressive strength-psi below average
Fig. 3.4.2(c)-Cumulative distribution curves for different standard deviations

ACI STANDARD
TABLE 3.5-STANDARDS OF CONCRETE CONTROL

Overall variation

Standard deviation for different control standards, psi (kgf/cmz)


Class of operation
Excellent Very good Good Fair Poor

General construction below 400 400 to 500 500 to 600 600 to 700 above 700
testing (28.1) (28.1) (35.2) (35.2) (42.2) (42.2) (49.2) (49.2)
Laboratory trial below 200 200 to 250 250 to 300 300 to 350 above 350
batches (14.1) (14.1) (17.6) (17.6) (21.1) (21.1) (24.6) (24.6)

Within-test variation

Coefficient of variation for different control standards, percent


Class of operation
Excellent Very good Good Fair Poor

Field control testing below 3.0 3.0 to 4.0 4.0 to 5.0 5.0 to 6.0 above 6.0
Laboratory trial
batches below 2.0 2.0 to 3.0 3.0 to 4.0 4.0 to 5.0 above 5.0

the test results expected to fall within given 3.5-Standards of control


multiples of 0 of the average or of any other spe- The decision as to whether the standard devia-
cific value. Table 3.4.2 has been adapted from the
tion or the coefficient of variation is the appro-
normal probability integral of the theoretical
priate measure of dispersion to use in any given
normal frequency distribution curve and shows
the probability of tests falling below f: in terms situation depends on which of the two measures
is the more nearly constant over the ‘range of
of the average strength of the mix x = fcr =
strengths characteristic of the particular situation.
(fO’ + to). Cumulative distribution curves can
also be plotted by accumulating the number of Present information indicates that the standard
tests below any given strength expressed as a deviation remains more nearly constant par-
percentage of the average strength for different ticularly at strengths over 3000 psi (211 kgf/cm2).
coefficients of variation or standard deviations. For within-test variations the coefficient of varia-
Fig. 3.4.2(b) and 3.4.2 (c) present such informa- tion is considered to be more applicable (see Ref-
tion. erences 5-10).
In these figures, the ordinate indicates the per-
cent of the population of strength values which Table 3.5 shows the variability that can be ex-
may be expected to exceed the strength indicated pected for compressive strength tests on projects
by any abscissa value for a selected coefficient of subject to different degrees of control. These
variation or standard deviation. values are not applicable to other strength tests.

CHAPTER 4-CRITERIA
4.1-General ever, to specify a minimum strength since there
The strength of control cylinders is generally is always the possibility of even lower strengths,
the only tangible evidence of the quality of con- even when control is good. It is also recognized
that the cylinders may not accurately represent
crete used in constructing a structure. Because of
the possible disparity between the strength of the concrete in each portion of the structure. Fac-
test cylinders and the load-carrying capacity of a tors of safety are provided in design equations
which allow for deviations from specified
structure it is unwise to place any reliance on
strengths without jeopardizing the safety of the
inadequate strength data.
structure. These have been evolved on the basis
The number of tests lower than the desired of construction practices, design procedures, and
strength is more important in computing the load- quality control techniques used by the construc-
carrying capacity of concrete structures than the tion industry. It should also be remembered that
average strength obtained. It is impractical, how- for a given mean strength, if a small percentage

STRENGTH TEST EVALUATION


kgf/cm*

Standard deviation, psi


Coefficient of variation, percent

Fig. 4.1 (a)-Ratio of required average strength to Fig. 4.1(b)-Excess of required average strength to
specified strength fc’ for various coefficients of variation specified strength fc’ for various standard deviations and
and chances of falling below specified strength chances of falling below specified strength

of the test results fall below the design strength, sidered to have been complied with if the tests
a corresponding large percentage of the test re- represent either a group of 30 consecutive batches
sults will be greater than the design strength of the same class of concrete or the statistical
with an equally large probability of being located average for two groups totalling 30 or more
in a critical area. The consequences of a localized batches. “Similar” conditions will be difficult to
zone of low-strength concrete in a structure de- define and can be best documented by collecting
pend on many factors; included are the probability several groups of 30 or more tests. In general,
of early overload, the location and magnitude of changes in materials and procedures will have a
the low-quality zone in the structural unit, the de- larger effect on the average strength level than
gree of reliance placed on strength in design, the on the standard deviation or coefficient of varia-
initial cause of the low strength, and the conse- tion. S i g n i f i c a n t changes generallyinclude
quences, economic and otherwise, of structural changes in type and brand of portland cement, ad-
failure. mixtures, source of aggregates, mix proportions,
The final criterion which allows for a certain batching, mixing, delivery, -or testing. The data
probability of tests falling below ft used in design should represent concrete produced to meet a
is a designer’s decision based on his intimate specified strength close to that specified for the
knowledge of the conditions that are likely to proposed work, since the standard deviation may
prevail. “Building Code Requirements for Rein- vary as the average strength varies. The required
forced Concrete (AC1 318-71) ,” provides guide- average strength fcr for any design can be com-
lines in this regard, as do other building codes and puted from Eq. (4-l) or (4-la), (Table 3.4.2), or
specifications. approximated from Fig. 4.1 (a) or 4.1 (b) , depend-
To satisfy strength performance requirements ing on whether the coefficient of variation or
expressed in this fashion the average strength of standard deviation is used.
concrete must be in excess of f6, the design fc’
strength. The amount of excess strength depends
on the expected variability of test results as
fw = (1 - tv) (4-1)
expressed by a coefficient of variation or standard fcr = fc’ + to (4-1a)
deviation, and on the allowable proportion of low where
tests. fcr = required average strength
Strength data for determining the standard fc’ = design strength specified
deviation or coefficient of variation should rep- t= a constant depending upon the proportion
resent a group of at least 30 consecutive tests made of tests that may fall below fJ (Table 4.1)
on concrete produced under conditions similar to v= forecast value of the coefficient of varia-
those to be expected on the project. The require- tion expressed as a fraction
ment for 30 consecutive strength tests will be con- CT= forecast value of the standard deviation

8 ACI STANDARD
kgf/cm2
141.I 69 197 225 253 281 309 337 366 3
I”“1 ’ ” ’ ” ” ” ”

2400 2800 3200 3600 4ooo 4400 5200


Compressive Strength, psi

Fig. 4.1(c)-Normal frequency curves for coefficients of variation of 10, 15, and 20 percent

Whenever the average of a certain number of TABLE 4.1-VALUES OF t


-
-
tests TZ is involved in the specification, Eq. (4-l)
Percentages of tests
is modified as follows: falling within the Chances of falling
limits X * to below lower limit t
.-
fer= -$ (4-lb)
40 3 in 10 0.52
l--Z= 50 2.5 in 10 0.67
Vn 2 in 10 0.84
6680.27 1 in 6.3 1.00
and 1.5 in 10 1.04
;: 1 in 10 1.28
fcr = fc’ + to
Vn
(4-lc) ;8
95.45
1
1
1
in
in
in
20
40
44
1.65
1.96
2.00
Fig. 4.1 (c) demonstrates that as the variability 98 1 in 100 2.33
1 in 200 2.58
increases fcr must increase and thereby illustrates ii.73 1 in 741 3.00
the economic value of good control. -
The requirement of at least 30 test results men- For small jobs that are just getting started,
tioned previously is based on the fact that 25 to where no prior information is available, the con-
30 randomly selected test results from a normally crete should be designed to produce an average
distributed population provide estimates of the strength fcr at least 1200 psi (84.4 kgf/cm2) greater
population average and standard deviation that than fl. As the job progresses and more strength
can be used as the population values. If only a tests become available, all the strength tests can
small number of results is available on which to be analyzed together to give a more reliable esti-
base estimates, then the values, especially for mate of the standard deviation, and Eq. (4-1),
standard deviation, are unreliable, and there is no (4-la), (4-lb) , and (4-1c) can be used to calculate
way in which fcr can be determined so that a a less conservative fCr.
specific percentage of future tests will be above
f’ assuming that the present test results are the
o’nly information available. 4.2-Criteria for strength requirements
If previous information exists for concrete from The amount by which the average strength of
the same plant meeting the similarity require- a concrete mix fcr should exceed fC’ depends on
ments described above, that information may be the criteria used in the specifications for a par-
used in deciding on a trial value of c to be used in ticular project. The following are examples of
determining the target fcr. calculations that would have to be made to select

STRENGTH TEST EVALUATION 9


the design strengths of a mix that will meet the jc’+ $=
f
requirements of a particular code or specification.
CT =

’ n 2.33(750)
4.2.1 Criterion No. 1-A stated maximum pro- = 4000 psi +
portion of random individual strength tests that VT
will be permitted to fall below fc’ on the average. = 5000 psi (351 kgf/cm2)
ASTM C 94-74 uses a similar approach. For con- As a result, for a structural design strength fJ
crete in structures designed by the ultimate of 4000 psi (281 kgf/cm2), the concrete mixture
strength method, ASTM recommends that not should be proportioned for an average strength of
more than 10 percent of the strength tests have not less than 5000 psi (351 kgf/cm2).
values less than the specified strength f:. Coefficient of variation method
As an example, consider the situation where no Considering a coefficient of variation of 15 per-
more than 1 in 10 random individual strengths cent and using Eq. (4-lb) and Table 4.1, we have
will be permitted to be below an f: of 4000 psi
(281 kgf/cmz). f CT =
fc’
tv
Standard deviation method 1 --
v’
Consider very good quality control as indi- 4000
-
cated by a standard deviation of 450 psi (31.7 -
2.33 (0.15)
kgf/cm2). Using Eq. (4-la) and Table 4.1, we have l- -
v3
f CT = fc’+ to = 5000 psi (351 kgf/cm2)
= 4000 + 1.28 x 450
= 4580 psi (322 kgf/cm2) Using this approach the concrete mixture
should be proportioned for an average strength
As a result, for a structural design strength fJ of not less than 5000 psi (351 kgf/cm2).
of 4000 psi (281 kgf/cm2), the concrete mixture 4.2.3 Criterion No. 3-A certain probability that
should be proportioned for an average strength of a random individual strength test will be more
not less than 4580 psi (322 kgf/cm2). Note that than a certain amount below f:.
the coefficient of variation is (450/4580) x 100 = This approach is also used in ACI 318-71 by
9.8 percent. stipulating that the probability of a random test
Coefficient of variation method result being more than 500 psi (35.1 kgf/cm2)
Consider good quality control as indicated by below fi should be 1 in 100.
a coefficient of variation of 10 percent. Using Eq. As an example, consider a probability of 1 in
(4-l) and Table 4.1, we have 100 that a strength test will be more than 500
psi (35.1 kgf/cm2) below an fi of 4000 psi (281
fcr = kgf/cm2) .
Standard deviation method
fcr = fc Considering a standard deviation of 750 psi
1 - 1.28 (0.10)
- (53 kgf/cm2) and using Eq. (4-la) and Table 4.1,
1.15 fi [see also Fig. 4.1 (a)] we have
- 4600 psi (324 kgf/cm2) fc?_ = fc’- 500 + to
Using this approach and this data the concrete = 4000 - 500 + 2.33 (750)
mixture should be proportioned for an average = 5245 psi (369 kgf/cm2)
strength of not less than 4600 psi (324 kgf/cm2). As a result the concrete mixture should be pro-
4.2.2 Criterion No. 2-A certain probability that portioned for an average strength of not less than
an average of n consecutive strength tests will be 5245 psi (369 kgf/cm2).
below fJ. Coefficient of variation method
ACI 318-71 suggests that after sufficient test Using Eq. (4-l) and Table 4.1, and a coefficient
data become available from a project, the fre- of variation of 15 percent, we have
quency of occurrence of averages of three con-
secutive tests below fc’ should not exceed 1 in 100. fcr = *; -
-;y
As an example, consider the situation where no
more than 1 in 100 of averages of three consecu- 4000 - 500
tive strength tests will be permitted to be below jcr = 1 - 2.33 (0.15)
an fc’ of 4000 psi (281 kgf /cm2). = 5390 psi (379 kgf/cm2)
Standard deviation method Using this approach, the concrete mixture
Consider a standard deviation of 750 psi (53 should be proportioned for an average strength of
kgf/cm2). Using Eq. (4-1c) and Table 4.1, we have not less than 5390 psi (379 kgf/cm2).

10 ACI STANDARD
TABLE 4.3-EVALUATION OF CONSECUTIVE LOW STRENGTH
TEST RESULTS
1 2 5

Probability of
Averages less than indicated averages less
require investigation* than f,‘,t
percent
Number of
consecutive Criteria for original selection of for
tests
averaged 1 test in 100
1 test in 10 less than
below fc [fc’ - 500 psi
(35.2 kgf/cms] 1 test in 10
below f0
I I I
For V = 15,
percent For given CT For given 0

fc’ - 500 + 0.76 10.0


fc’ - 500 + 0.88 3.5
fc’ - 500 + 1.14a
fc’ - 500 + 1.30 E
fc’ - 500 + 1.41 0:2
fr’ - 500 + 1.49 0.1
*The probability of averages less than the levels indicated is approximately 2 percent if the
population average equals f Go and the standard deviation or coefficient of variation is at the
level assumed.
tIf the population average equals f CP and the standard deviation or coefficient of variation
is at the level assumed.

4.2.4 Criterion No. 4-A certain probability that tests should not normally fall. These values are
a random individual strength test will be less than based on the premise that the concrete is pro-
a certain percentage of fc’. portioned to produce an average strength equal
As an example consider a probability of 1 in to fcr. The values in Column 2 are theoretically
100 that a strength test will be less than 85 per- correct only for concrete with a coefficient of
cent of an fc’ of 4000 psi (281 kgf /cm2). variation of 15 percent. Those in Columns 3 and
Standard deviation method 4 apply to any known standard deviation. In
Using Eq. (4-la) and Table 4.1 and a standard either case the probability of their being exceeded
deviation of 750 (53 kgf/cm2), we have when the concrete is properly controlled is only
fcr = 0.85 fc’ + to about 0.02. Thus, failure to meet the tabulated
= 0.85 (4000) + 2.33 (750) limits in a larger proportion of cases than that
= 5145 psi (361 kgf/cm2) stated may be an indication that the current
As a result the concrete mixture should be pro- average strength is less than fcr or that (r or V has
portioned for an average strength of not less than increased. This could be caused by lower strength
5145 psi (361 kgf/cm2). or poorer control than expected, or both. The
Coefficient of variation method possibility should not be overlooked that the low
Using Eq. (4-l) and Table 4.1 and a coefficient tests may be caused by errors in sampling or test-
of variation of 15 percent, we have ing rather than deficiency in the concrete itself.
In any case, corrective action is warranted.
0.85 fc’ Column 5 shows the probability that the average
fcr = ~1 - tv of any given number of consecutive tests will fail
- 0.85 (4000) to equal or exceed f: if the concrete is propor-
- 1 - 2.33 (0.15) tioned to produce an average strength equal to
= 5230 psi (368 kgf/cm2) fcr. It can be seen that increasing the number of
tests to be averaged increases the likelihood that
Using this approach, the concrete mixture fc’ will be exceeded since variations tend to bal-
should be proportioned for an average strength of ance out with an increased number of tests in a
not less than 5230 psi (368 kgf/cm2). set. For enforcement purposes, it is appropriate
and logical to select the number of consecutive
4.3-Additional information tests to be averaged in such a way that the ac-
Table 4.3 presents additional information. The ceptance level is equal to fG’. This would mean an
values in the body of the table in Columns 2, 3, average of three consecutive tests for concrete in
and 4 are the strength levels below which in- which one out of ten tests would be permitted to
dividual tests or averages of different numbers of be lower than f:. It should, however, be remem-

STRENGTH TEST EVALUATION 11


bered that, according to the statistical theory as- While these do not contain all the features of
sumed in the derivation of the values, such fail- formal control charts they should prove useful to
ures may be expected by chance alone one time the engineer, architect, and plant superintendent.
in 50, even if the concrete is controlled exactly
as anticipated and is overdesigned to yield an (a) A chart in which the results of all strength
average strength equal to fcr. tests are plotted as received. The line for the re-
Most specifications for concrete strength require quired average strength is established as indicated
that a test be comprised of two or three specimens by Eq. (4-la) or Table 4.3 and the specified design
from the same sample of concrete. The specimens strength.
are necessary to obtain a reliable average for a
(b) Moving average for compressive strength
given sample and to provide range data R for
where the average is plotted for the previous five
determining within-sample variations.
sets of two companion cylinders for each day or
shift, and the specified strength in this case is
4.4-Quality control charts
the lower limit. This chart is valuable in indicat-
Quality control charts have been used by manu- ing trends and will show the influence of seasonal
facturing industries for many years as an aid in changes, changes in materials, etc. The number
reducing variability and increasing efficiency in of tests averaged to plot moving averages with
production. Methods are well established for the
an appropriate lower limit can be varied to suit
setting up of such charts and are outlined in con-
venient form in the ASTM Manual on Quality each job.
Control of Materials .4 Based on the pattern of (c) Moving average for range where the
previous results and limits established therefrom, average range of the previous ten groups of com-
trends become apparent as soon as new results are panion cylinders is plotted each day or shift. The
plotted. Points which fall outside the calculated maximum average range allowable for good lab-
limits indicate that something has affected the oratory control is also plotted. Maximum average
control of the process. Such charts are recom- range is determined as discussed in Section 4.5.
mended wherever concrete is in continuous pro-
duction over considerable periods. Fig. 4.4 shows Charts (a), (b), and (c) for 46
Three simplified charts prepared specifically tests. To be fully effective charts should be main-
concrete control are illustrated in Fig. 4.4. tained throughout the entire job.
I 1 I I I 1 ’ 1 1 1 ’
’ ’ ’ ’ ’ ’ Charts for individual strength tests

4000 280

2000-- Required strength = fl+ tcr --140,


p- E
Moving average for strength c
W-
Each point, average strength
of five previous test groups __280 z
4000 Required average strength, fcr-,

300--
e, - - - - - - - -
E Averoge range for two cylinders = .0564 fcrA Each point average of _,
g lOO-- ten previous ranges
Average range tor three cylinders = 0846 fcr
I I II ! I I I I I I I I I I 11 1 11 11 1
0 4 8 I2 I6 20 24 28 32 36 40 44 48
Sample numbers
Fig. 4.4-Quality control charts for concrete.

12
4.5-Tests and specimens required for good control (Table 3.5), and the estimate of
For any particular job, a sufficient number of the corresponding average range will be:
tests should be made to insure accurate represen- Rm = (0.05 x l.l28)f,, = 0.05640&
tation of the variations of the concrete. Concrete for groups of two companion cylinders
tests can be made either on the basis of time
elapsed or cubic yardage placed and conditions R, = (0.05 x 1.693)&r = O.O8465f,
on each job will determine the most practical for groups of three companion cylinders.
method of obtaining the number of tests needed. A cylinder of concrete 6 in. in diameter and 12
A test is defined as the average strength of all in. high which has been moist cured for 28 days
specimens of the same age fabricated from a at 21 C is generally considered a standard speci-
sample taken from a single batch of concrete. men for strength and control of concrete if the
A project where all concrete operations are coarse aggregate does not exceed 2 in. in nominal
supervised by one engineer provides an excellent size. Many times, particularly in the early stages
opportunity for control and for accurate estimates of a job, it becomes necessary to estimate the
of reliability with a minimum of tests. Once op- strength of concrete being produced before the
erations are progressing smoothly tests taken each 28-day strength results are available. Concrete
day or shift, depending on the volume of concrete cylinders from the same batch should be made
produced, are sufficient to obtain data which re- and tested at 7 days, or at earlier ages utilizing
flect the variations in the concrete of the struc- accelerated test procedures. The 28-day strength
ture. In general, it is advisable to make a sufficient can be estimated by extrapolating early test data.
number of tests so that each different type of con-
crete placed during any one day will be repre- The strength of concrete at later ages, particu-
sented by at least one test which is an average larly where a pozzolan or cement of slow strength
of two standard 6 x 12 in. cylinders tested at the gain is used, is more realistic than the standard
required age. Single specimens taken from two 28-day strength. Some structures will not be
different batches each day will provide more re- loaded until concrete has been allowed to mature
liable information on overall variations, but it is for longer periods and advantage can be taken of
usually desirable to make companion specimens strength gain after 28 days. Some concretes have
from the same sample to obtain a check on the been found to produce at 28 days less than 50
within-test variation. percent of their ultimate strength. If design is
The number of specimens required by the en- based on strength at later ages, it becomes neces-
gineer (architect) should be based on established sary to correlate these strengths with standard
standards but may be reduced as the reliabilities 28-day cylinders since it is not practicable to use
of the producer, the laboratory, and the contrac- later age specimens for concrete acceptance. If
tor are established. possible, the correlation should be established by
The laboratory has the responsibility of making laboratory tests before construction starts. If mix-
accurate tests, and concrete will be penalized un- ing plants are located in one place for long enough
necessarily if tests show greater variations or periods, it is advisable to establish this correlation
lower average strength levels than actually exist. for reference even though later age concrete is
Since the range between companion specimens not immediately involved.
from the same sample can be assumed to be the Curing concrete test specimens at the construc-
responsibility of the laboratory, a control chart tion site and under job conditions is sometimes
for ranges (Fig. 4.4) should be maintained by the recommended since this is considered more rep-
laboratory as a check on the uniformity of its resentative of the curing applied to the structure.
operations. It should be noted that these ranges These special tests should not be confused with,
will not reveal day to day differences in test- nor replace, standard control tests. Tests of job-
ing, curing, and capping procedures or testing cured specimens may be highly desirable and are
procedures which affect strength levels over long necessary when determining the time of form
periods. The range between companion cylinders removal, particularly in cold weather, and when
depends on the number of specimens in the group establishing the strength of steam-cured concrete
and the within-test variation. This relationship is pipe, block, and structural members.
expressed by the following equation [see Eq. (3-4) The potential strength and variability of con-
and (3-5)] crete can be established by standard 6 x 12 in.
cylinders made and cured under standard condi-
(4-2)
tions. Strength specimens of concrete made or
where Em is the average range in Control Chart cured under other than standard conditions pro-
(c) of Fig. 4.4. The within-test coefficient of vide additional information but should be analyzed
variation VI should not be greater than 5 percent and reported separately.

STRENGTH TEST EVALUATION 13


4.6-Rejection of doubtful specimens a test of three or more specimens be discarded if
The practice of arbitrary rejection of test cylin- its deviation from a test mean is greater than
ders which appear “too far out of line” is not 30, and should be accepted with suspicion if its
recommended since the normal pattern of proba- deviation is greater than 20. If questionable varia-
bility establishes the possibility of such results. tions have been observed during fabrication, cur-
Discarding tests indiscriminately could seriously ing, or testing of a specimen, the specimen should
distort the strength distribution, making analysis be rejected. The test average should be computed
of results less reliable. from the remaining specimens.
It occasionally happens that the strength of one A test (average of all specimens of a sample)
cylinder from a group made from a sample devi- should never be rejected unless the specimens are
ates so far from the mean as to be highly im- known to be faulty, since it represents the best
probable. It is recommended that a specimen from available estimate for the sample.

CHAPTER 5-REFERENCES
1. Natrella, M. G., “Experimental Statistics,” Hand- Concrete for Structures in Current Practice,” RRL Re-
book No. 91, U. S. Department of Standards, National port No. LR 300, Road Research Laboratory, Craw-
Bureau of Standards, Washington, D. C., 1963, pp. l-4 thorne, Berkshire, 1970, 22 pp.
to l-6. 7. Murdock, C. J., “The Control of Concrete Quality,”
2. Realism in the Application of ACI Standard 214-65, Proceedings, Institution of Civil Engineers (London),
SP-37, American Concrete Institute, Detroit, 1973, V. 2, Part I, July 1953, pp. 426-453.
215 pp. 8. Erntroy, H. C., “The Variation of Works Test
3. “Evaluation of Strength Tests of Concrete,” ACI Cubes,” Research Report No. 10, Cement and Concrete
Bibliography No. 2, American Concrete Institute, De- Association, London, Nov. 1960, 28 pp.
troit, 1960, 13 pp.
4. ASTM Manual on Quality Control of Materials, 9. Riisch, H., “Statistical Quality Control of Concrete,”
STP 15-C American Society for Testing and Materials, Materialpriifung (Dusseldorf), V. 6, No. 11, Nov. 1964,
Philadelphia, Jan. 1951, 127 pp. pp. 387-394.
5. Neville, A. M., “The Relation Between Standard 10. “Tentative Recommended Practice for Conduct-
Deviation and Mean Strength of Concrete Test Cubes,” ing an Interlaboratory Test Program to Determine the
Magazine of Concrete Research (London), V. 11, No. Precision of Test Methods for Construction Materials,”
32, July 1959, pp. 75-84. (ASTM C 802-74T), 1975 Annual Book of ASTM Stand-
6. Metcalf, J. B., “The Specification of Concrete ards, Part 13, American Society for Testing and Ma-
Strength, Part II, The Distribution of Strength of terials, Philadelphia, pp. 414-443.

ACI STANDARD

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