Terms Detail No.

of EN
Sampling EN 196-7
Loss on Ignition EN 196-2
Density EN 196-6 Annex NC
Fineness Air permeability ASTM C 204
Humidiy
Consistency EN 196-3 Annex NA
Setting time EN 196-3
Soundness EN 196-3
Mechanical strength morrat prism EN 196-1
 Test name

Pyknometer
Blaine test

Vicat test
Le Chatelier
Taking and preparing samples of cement
EN 196-7 [No = 0, Yes =1]
Compliance of
Requirement
the lab
1. General

In the case of the checks carried out within the context of a certification procedure
1 the measures other than those described below to endure that the samples are
representative are within the jurisdiction of the certification body ( see Clause 4).

In the case of taking delivery of a supply, the sampling operations shall, in practice,
2 take place in the presence of the manufacturer (or vender) and the customer (or
purchaser) or their respective representatives.
The absence of one of them shall not, however, be a barrier to the operations but if
3
this occurs it shall be mentioned in the sampling report (see clause 7).
4 The sample is normally taken before or during delivery.
However, if necessary, it may be taken after delivery but with a maximum delay of 24
5
h.
6 In this latter case the results of the checks shall be interpreted with care.
The time of sampling shall be carefully recorded in the sampling report (see clause
7
7).
When samples are taken after delivery, the requirements in the first paragraph above
8
remain applicable.
2. Sampling equipment
The equipment shall be chosen and used in accordance with the following rules:
9 The equipment shall be approved by all the parties.
Does the equipment made of non-corrodible material, which is not liable to react with
10
the cement?
11 The equipment shall be maintained always in working order and in a clean state.
Care shall be taken to ensure that it is carefully cleaned after each sampling
12
operation.
Care shall also be taken to ensure that it is not contaminated by lubricants from other
13
equipment used.
Permanent equipment shall be installed at locations where there are no hard
14
deposits.
 Permanent equipment shall be installed at locations where the flow of cement is
15
homogeneous (no segregation) at the time it is being used.
In particular, when it is used it shall not be operated during fluidization under air
16
pressure.
If fluidization is necessary, no samples shall be taken until the cement has settled for
17
at least half a minute after stopping the air supply.
3. Procedures for taking samples and precautions to be taken depending on the procedures adopted Sampling equipment
General
The most suitable equipment for the circumstances shall be used to take a sample,
18
observing the following precautions as appropriate.
Sampling from bags, drums and containers of comparable size
When the cements is packed in bags, drums or other small containers, the sample
19 indicated in 42 and 43 shall comprise either a single bag or a single container
chosen at random from a sufficiently large stock.
Sampling from large containers
Samples shall be taken while the container is being filled or emptied taking the
20
precautions not to operate in dusty or polluting atmospheres
Samples shall be taken while the container is being filled or emptied taking the
21 precautions to take the number of samples necessary to obtain the quantity
prescribed in the 42 and 43.
Samples shall be taken while the container is being filled or emptied taking the
22 precautions to transfer the collected cement into a clean, dry and airtight container
before proceeding with the operations described in clause 5.
Sampling from bulk transport (after loading or before unloading)
For all equipment used, care shall be taken not to take material from the top or
23
bottom layers of the mass of cement.
24 The thickness of the layer to be considered is at least 15 cm.
25 Take the same precautions as those described in 20, 21 and 22.
Sampling while loading into bulk transport or silos
26 Taking samples may be carried out only if suitable equipment is available.
Taking samples may be carried out only if there is access to a homogeneous phase
27
of cement.
28 Take the same precautions as those described in 20, 21 and 22.
Sampling from silos
 In the absence of a suitable fixed sampling device and appropriate quantity of
29 cement shall be discarded when discharge commences to remove the hard deposits
or unwanted mixtures of different cements in the distribution system.
This quantity is left to be determined by the manufacturer's representative present at
30
the sampling operation.
The necessary quantity prescribed in 42 and 43 shall be then be collected in a clean
31
and dry container.
Sampling from bag filling machines
The quantity taken shall comprise a bag of cement obtained during the normal
32
operation of the machine.

It can equally comprise the equivalent quantity (see 42 and 43) sampled by a
33
mechanical device fitted in the supply hopper directly above the discharge spouts.

Does the machine is used for packing different cements, it shall be completely
34 purged of all the cement previously packed until the cement from which samples are
to be taken arrivals.
Depending on the type of packing machine, the quantity so removed may be
35
considerable.
The manufacturer's representative present at the sampling operations shall
36
determine this quantity.
4. Frequency at which samples are taken and choice of sample type
The frequency of taking samples and the type of sample (spot sample or composite sample) depends on the provisions contained
37 in the agreements between producer and customer
38 in the national, European (EN 197, for example) or even international standards.
39 in the certification procedures.
5. Size and preparation of samples
Size of sample to be taken for verification of compliance
Each laboratory sample (or sample for retest or retained sample) shall be of such a
40 size that all the tests specified in the contract or required by standards indicated in
the contract or the certification procedure can be carried out twice.

Thus, unless specified to the contrary, the mass of these samples shall be at least 5
41
kg (or more, if necessary, to fill completely the container indicated in (Containers)).
 The total quantity (spot sample or composite sample) to be taken for verifying
42 compliance shall be greater than at least equal to that required for supplying to all the
laboratories concerned the samples indicated in 40.
This quantity shall be taken by the equipment specified in clause 2 and in accordance
43
with the procedures started in clause 3.
44 In general taking a sample of 40 kg to 50 kg will suffice.
Homogenisation
a) General requirements
As soon as the quantity of 40 kg to 50 kg indicated in 42 and 43 has taken collected, it
45 shall be carefully homogenized (preferably in a laboratory) with clean dry implements
not liable to react with the cement.
The homogenisation shall preferably be achieved using a mixing machine, the
46 efficiency of which shall have been previously demonstrated (see Verification of the
efficiency of the homogenizing procedure selected).
Whatever procedure is chosen, it shall be carried out as quickly as possible to
47
minimize the exposure of the cement to the air.
In the absence of a homogenizer, the following procedure is to be adopted: the
quantity of cement to be distributed between the laboratories (see 42 and 43) shall
48
be tipped onto a clean dry cloth (or plastics sheet) and shall then be mixed carefully
using a shovel.

This procedure shall only be used if a) the ambient relative humidity is less than 85 %
49
or b) all risk of the sample being affected by wind, rain, snow or dust is avoided.
b) Verification of the efficiency of the homogenizing procedure selected
Take approximately equal quantities of two cements of differing characteristics (I.e.
50
Blaine fineness, by EN 196-6, and additionally colour).
Mix these using one of the procedures described in (General requirements) and note
51
the time between starting and finishing the operation.
Once the operation is judged to be complete, take fifteen 'micro-samples', each of 12
52 g to 20 g, from points equally distributed within the mass of which the homogeneity is
to be verified.
53 Determine the Blaine fineness three times on each of these micro-samples.
Homogenization shall be considered to be obtained if the analysis of variance shows
54
there to be no significant differences between the 15 micro-samples.
 This analysis shall be carried out as described in the literature dealing with statistical
55
control.
In case of an unsatisfactory result, the mixing shall be repeated, but doubling the
56
time of the mixing operation.
If, after this second trial, there are no significant differences between the 15 micro-
samples, the method with twice the homogenization time shall be considered valid,
57
but, if no noticeable improvement has been obtained in relation to the first trial, the
chosen method shall be declared unsuitable.
Finally, if there is no decisive improvement, it shall be decided, in view of the time
58
required, whether it is worth repeating the trial with a longer time.
c) Choice of method
The verification of the efficiency of the homogenizing method (see Verification of
59 the efficiency of the homogenizing procedure selected) is only to be carried out
at the time of choosing the method.
This choice is left to the initiative of the manufacturer, but he shall be in a position to
prove (for example to an expert representing a customer or the certification body)
60
that he has carried out the trial described above by presenting a dossier drawn up on
the occasion.
Division of the quantity necessary for verification of compliance

after homogenization (see Homogenization) of the sample made up as specified in

42 and 43, it shall be divided into the required number of sample divider or ,after
61 quartering the quantity to be distributed, by extracting with a hand scoop increments
of approximately 0.5 kg from each of the quarters and transferring these successively
into containers prepared for receiving the laboratory (or retained) samples.

This operation shall be continued until the desired mass (started in 40 and 41) is
62
obtained in each container.
The sequence of distributing the contents of the hand scoop from which each laboratory sample is gradually made up shall be as follows:
63 - Distribute successively to each of the laboratory containers X, Y, X, etc.
64 - first a scoopful from A,
65 - then a scoopful from B,
66 - then a scoopful from C,
67 - then a scoopful from D.
 - This represents one distributing sequence; repeat the same sequence as many
times as necessary to reach the quantity prescribed in 40 and 41 (see Figure 1).

68

Each laboratory ( or retained) sample so prepared shall be packaged as stated in

69
clause 6 and despatched with the minimum delay.
It is then up to the receiving laboratory, to store, prepare and treat the sample in a
70
manner appropriate to its subsequent use.
Foreign bodies in the sample
During the above operations any foreign bodies which may appear shall , in all
71
cases, be noted in the sampling report (clause 7).
If they appear to be uniformly distributed in the cement (for example, a powder other
72
than cement, lumps) it is not possible to remove them from the sample.
73 Other wise, they shall be removed.
And they shall be kept by one of two parties (manufacturer, customer) with the
74
agreement of the other in the case of taking delivery of a supply,
Or they shall be kept by the agency responsible for inspection in the case of a
75
sampling operation performed in the context of certification regulations.
6. Packaging and storage
Principle
 The packaging of the samples and the method of storage shall always be such as to
76
preserve the properties of the sampled cement.
77 Any conditions likely to affect this shall be indicated.
Containers
The sample shall be packed, despatched and stored in bags, drums, or ,solid
78
containers.
These shall be made of a material which is inert with respect to cement and non-
79
corrodible.
80 They shall be dry, impervious (to air and moisture) and clean.
In this respect they shall not have been previously used for packaging products
81
which are likely to affect the samples.
To prevent aeration the containers shall as far as possible, be completely filled and
82
their closure sealed with adhesive tape.
when made of plastics, containers or bags shall only be used under the following conditions.
83 - the period of storage shall be limited to 3 months.
84 - the sheet from which they are made shall be at least 100 um thick.
- the plastics material shall under no circumstances cause the cement to become 'air
85
entraining' whether by loss from the material or as a result of surface treatment.

- On this point, check for the absence of risk by carrying out appropriate tests where
86
needed.
87 - Provision shall also be made to seal them where necessary by using suitable tape.
Storage condition
88 The sample shall preferably be stored at a temperature of less than 30 oC.
Identification of samples
In order to identify the samples unambiguously, the containers (bags or drums) shall
89
be clearly and indelibly marked in at least one place.
When there is only one mark, this shall be on the body of the container and not on
90
the lid.
Furthermore, a copy of the sampling report described in clause 7 shall be slipped
91
where necessary into a protective envelope placed inside the container.
Authentication of samples
If necessary, when this required by the contract of sale or certification regulations,
92
the container shall bear an agreed seal authenticating the sample.
 93 This seal shall be fixed so as to prevent the unauthorized opening of the container.
7. Sampling report
General
A sampling report corresponding to each sample shall be drawn up to by the person
94
responsible for the operation.

Copies shall be attached to the laboratory (or related) samples prepared and
95
distributed in accordance with the clauses of the contract or certification regulations.
Information to be included
a). Obligatory information
The report shall, unless otherwise agreed by the parties, include the following obligatory information.
96 - Name and address of the body responsible for the sampling.
97 - Name and address of the customer (in the case of taking delivery).
98 - Complete standard designation of the cement as specified in EN 197.
99 - Identity of the production works.
100 - Place, date and time of sampling.
101 - Type of sample (spot or composite comprising 'n' spot samples),
102 - Identification mark on the sample container.
103 - Any comments, particularly a) the presence of foreign bodies
- Any comments, particularly b) the circumstances in which the operations took place
104 which are likely to have an effect on the quality of the cement sampled, for example,
transport conditions.
- Any comments, particularly c) all information allowing a more precise identification
105
of the cement sampled to be made, for example, the silo number.
b). Optional information
The report shall, unless otherwise agreed by the parties, include the following obligatory information.
Definition of the lot, the approximate mass of the cement and the type of stock from
106
which the sample has been taken. Ex. 3000 t in bags in a warehouse
107 The type of container used fro the laboratory samples.
c). Authorization of the report

The report and copies shall be signed by the representatives of the parties present at
108
the sampling and/or any other responsible witness approved by the parties.
d). Despatch of the report
109 Copies of the report shall be sent without delay to each of copies concerned.
In addition, one of them shall be enclosed in the container of each laboratory sample
110
and each retained sample as started in (Identification of samples).
Score of compliance
 Back to Menu

Any comment
quipment
depends on the provisions contained
mple is gradually made up shall be as follows:
s.
mation.

mation.
Loss on Ignition Back to Menu
EN 196-2 [No = 0, Yes =1]
Compliance of
Requirement Any comment
the lab
Measuemant
1 Is the igniting in air at 975 ± 25oC?
2 Does the heating time takes 5 min?
3 Leaving the crucible in the furnace for a further 10 min
4 Does the cooling crucible to room temperature in the desiccator?
5 Corrections for oxidation of Sulfides
Calculation
6 Is the standard deviation is within 0.04 % (For repeatability)?
7 Is the standard deviation is within 0.08 % (For reproducibility)?
Score of compliance 0

Total 7
% of compliance 0.0
Specific gravity
EN 196-6 Annex NC [No = 0, Yes =1]
Compliance of
Requirement
the lab
1. Apparatus and displacement liquid
1 Pyknometer, of normal capacity 50 ml conforming to BS 733.
2 Displacement liquid is redistilled kerosine

Does the density of kerosine does not change by more than 0.005 g/cm3
3
when evacuated for a period of 5 h at a pressure less than 2.5kPa?

4 Small funnel, to fit inside the neck of the pyknometer.

Balance, does the capable of weighing up to at least 100 g to an accuracy of
5
± 0.0005 g?
Does the thermostatically controlled water bath, capable of being maintained
6 to within ± 0.2 oC at a selected operating temperature slightly above room
temperature?
Does the vaccum desiccator and pump, capable of reducing the pressure to
7
less than 2.5 kPa?
2. Determination of density of displacement liquid

8 Does Clean and dry the pyknometer and stopper and weigh to ± 0.0005 g?

Does fill the pyknometer with de-aerateted distilled or de-aerated deionized

9 water at room temperature and, without using undue force, insert the stopper
with a slight trwist, care being taken to avoid trapping air bubbles/

Does immerse the pyknometer nearly to the top of its neck in the water bath
10
and leave for at least 30 min?
After ensureing that air bubbles are abesnt and that the pyknometer is filled
to the top of the capillary bore, does remove with dry filter paper any water on
11 the the top of the neck of the pyknometer where stopper and neck meet, and
dry the sides and the top of the stopper, taking care not to withdraw any
water from the capillary?
Does remove the pyknometer from the water bath and, after allowing it to
12 cool for a few minutes, wipe it free of water with the minimum of handling,
and weigh to ± 0.0005 g?
By stopping up the pyknometer with more distilled or deionized water, does
13 re-immersing it in the water bath and proceeding as before, make two
additional weighings of the pyknometer filled with water/
Does calculate the mean of these three weighings, and from the difference
between this mean weighing and the first weighing of the pyknometer and
14
stopper alone, calculate the mass, W1 of water to fillthe bottle at the selected
operating temperature?
Does clean and dry the pyknometer and stopper used in the above test and
15
reweigh to ± 0.0005 g?
3. Determination of density of cement

16 Does clean and dry the pyknometer and stopper and weigh to ± 0.0005 g?

Does place an 8 g to 10 g representative sample of cement in the

pyknometer by means of the small funnel, reweigh with stopper to ± 0.005 g
17
and, from the diffence between the first and second weighings, calculate the
mass, W4, of the sample of cement in the pyknometer/
Does add sufficient displacement liquid to cover the cement sample and half
fill the pyknometerensuring that the cement is thoroughly wetted by swiring
18
the contents gently, care being taken to keep cement particles cleaer of the
neck of the pyknometer?

Does place the pyknometer together with a small beaker containong some
19 displacement liquid, in the vacuum desiccator and evacuate at a pressure of
less than 2.5 kPa for at least 30 min until bubbles of air cease to be evolved?

Doesremote the pyknometer from the desiccator and fill with displacement
20
liquid from the beaker?
4. Calculation
Does make two separate determination on different portions of the sample of
21 cement. If the two results differ by more than 0.02 g/cm3 discard the results
and make two fressh determinations?

Does calculate the density of the sample of cement to the nearest kg/m3 by
22
taking the result obtained at calculation and multiplying by 1000?
5. Report
When reporting in units of g/cm3, does report the indivisual results to the
23
nearest 0.001 g/cm3 and the average density to the nearest 0.01 g/cm3?
When reporting in units of kg/m3, does report the indivisual results to the
24
nearest kg/m3 and the average density to the nearest 10 kg/cm3/
Score of compliance
 Back to Menu

Any comment

Number of checks
Blaine Back to Menu
EN 196-6 [No = 0, Yes =1]
Compliance of
Requirement Any comment
the lab
1. Apparatus and displacement liquid
Permeability cell
The cell shall be a rigid right cylinder of the dimensions and tolerances shown in
figure 1 a).

It shall be of austenitic stainless steel or other abrasion - resisting, non -

2
corrodible material.
Does the top and bottom faces being flated and normal to the axis of the
3
cylinder, as the upper surface of the ledge at the bottom of the cell?
Does the outer surface of the bottom of the cylinder tapered to form an airtight fit
4
with the conical socket of the manometer?
Perforated disc.

The disc shall be of non - corrodible material, perforated with 30 to 40 holes of 1

5
mm diameter, and shall have the dimensions and tolerances shown in figure 1b).

When in position on the ledge in the cell, does the plane surfaces normal to the
6
axis of the cell?
Plunger

Page 24 of 73
 The plunger is a piston, capable of sliding freely in the measuring cell by means
of a clearance to be applied in such a way that, when the cap of the plunger
7 comes to rest on the upper face of the cell cylinder, a distance of 15 ± 1 mm will
be maintained between the upper face of the perforated disc and the lower face
of the piston.
Does the piston provided with a flat connected to an annulus around the head to
8
enable air to escape?
Does the plunger of austenitic stainless steel or other abrasion - resisting and non
9 - corrodible material: it shall have the dimensions and tolerances shown in figure
1c)?
A plunger can only be used with the corresponding cell the dimensions of which
10
match within the permitted tolerances.
Manometer
Does the manometer shall be a rigidly and vertically mounted U - tube of
11 borosilicate glass tubing arranged as in figure 1d) and having the dimensions and
tolerances shown in this figure?
One arm of the manometer shall ne provices at the top with a conocal socket to
12
form an airtight fit with the conocal surface of the cell.
The same arem shall also have four etched lines and a T - joint whose positions
13
shall have the dimensions and tolerances shown in figure 1d).
Does the side brance of the T - joint shall leas to an airtight stopcock beyond
14 which shall be attached a suitable aspiration device such as the rubber tube and
bulb shown in figure 1d?

Fill the manometer tube with the liquis to wet the inner surface. Empty the tube
15
and refillit so that the manometer liquid is level with the lowest etched line.

This manometer liquid shall be changed (or cleaned) after servicing or before a
16
new calibration.
Manometer liquid
Does the manometer be filled to the level of the lowest etched line with a non -
17 volatile, non - hygroscopic liquid of low viscosity and density, such as dibutyl
phtaalate or light mineral oil?
Timer
Having a positive startting and stopping mechanism, readable to 0.2 s or better,
18
and accurate to 1 % or bettwer over time intervals up to 300 s.
Balance

Page 25 of 73
 capable of weighting about 3 g to the nearest 1 mg (for the cement) and about 50
19
g to 110 to the nearest 10 mg (for the mercury).
Pyknometer

20 Pyknometer, or other convenient means of determining the density of cement.

2. Materials
Mercury
21 It is reagent rgade or better.
Reference cement
22 It is known specific surface.
Light oil

23 It shall be to prevent formation of mercury amalgam on the inner surface of cell.

Circular discs of filter paper
24 They have a smooth circumference adapted to the dimensions of the cell.
25 Does the filter paper is od medium prrosity (mean pore diameter 7 um )?
3. Test conditions
Does the labotratory in wich the air permeability test is carried out shall be
26 maintained at a temperature of 20 ± 2 oC and a relative humidity not exceeding 65
%?
All materials for test an calibration shall be at the laboratory temperature when
27
used and shall moisture during storage.
4. Compacted cement bed
Basis
Does the compacted cement bed comprises a reproducible arrangement of
28
cement particles with a specified volume of air defined between the particles?
This air volume is defiedn as a fraction of the total volume of the bed and is
29
termed the porosity, e.
It follows that the volume fraction occupied by the cement particles is (1 - e). If V
is the total volume of the bed, the absolute volume of cement is V (1-e) in cm3,
30
and the mas of cement, m is ρV(1-e) in g where ρ is the solid density of the
cement particles in g/cm3.

Thus, knowing ρ, a mass of cement can be weighed to produce a desires

31 porosity, e in the compacted bed of total volume V. The determination of ρ is
described (Determination of density) and that of V in (Determination of bed volume)

Page 26 of 73
Preparation of the sample
Agitate the sample of cement to be tested by shaking for 2 min in a stoppered jar
32
to disoerse agglomerates.
33 Wait 2 min.
Stir the resulting powder gently using a clean dry rod in order to sitribute thefines
34
throuht the cement.
Determination of density
35 Determine the density of the cement using a device such as a pyknometer.
36 Use a non - reactive liquid in the determination.
The quantity od cement used will depend on the nature of the apparatus but shall
37
be such that the value of ρ determined is accurate to 0.01 g/cm3.
Verify this accuracy by a repeat determination and record the mean of the two
38
determinaions to the nearest 0.01 g/cm3 as the density.
Formation of the bed
To give a cement bed of porosity e = 0.500 wigh a quantity of cement, m1,
39
calculated from m1 = 0.500 ρV
40 This mass, correctly compacted, will produce a bed of porosity 0.500.
Place the perforated disc on the ledge at the bottom of the cell and placeon it a
41
new filter paper disc.
ensure that the filter paper disc fully covers the perforated disc and is flat by
42
pressing with a clean dry rod.

43 Place the weighed quantity of cement, m1, in the ell taking care to avoid loss.

Tap the cell to level the cement, place a second new filter paper dicson the
44
levelled cement.
45 Insert the plunger to make contact with the filter paper disc.
Press the plunger genlty but firmly until the lower face of the cap is in contrat with
46
the cell.

Slowly withdraw the plunger about 5 mm, rotate it through 90o and gently but
47
firmly press the bed once again until the plubger cap is in contact with the cell.

48 The bed is now compacted and ready for the permeability test.
49 Slowly withdraw the plunger.
5. Air permeabily test
Procedure

Page 27 of 73
 Insert the conical surface of the cell into the socket at the top of the manometer,
50
using if necessary a little light grease to ensure an airtight joint.
51 Take care not to disturb the cement bed.
52 Close the top of the cylinder with a suitable plug.
Open the stock and with gentle aspiration raise the level of the manometer liquid
53
to that of the highest etched line.
Close the stopcock and observe that the level of the manometer liquid remains
54
constant.
55 If it falls, remake the cell / manometer joint and check the stopcock.
Repeat the lealage test until the improved sealing produces a steady level of the
56
liquid.
Open the stopcock and by gentle aspiration adjust the level of the liquid, to that of
57
the highest etched line.
58 Close the stopcock.
59 Remove the plug from the top of the cylinder.
60 The manometer liquid will begin to flow.
Start the timer as the liquid reaches the second etched line and stop it when the
61
liquid reaches the third etched line.

62 record the time, t, to the nearest 0.2 s and the temperature to the nearest 1 oC.

Repeat the procedure on the same bed and record the additional valued of time
63
and temperature.
Prepare a fresh ed of the same cement with a second sample following the
64 procedure of (Formation of the bed) or , where there is little cement available, by
breaking up the first bed and reforming it as in (Formation of the bed).
Carry out the permeability test twice on the second bed, recording the values of
65
the time and temperature as before.
6. Calibration of apparatus
Determination of the bed volume
Owing to the need for clearance between the cell and the plunger, the volume of
66
the compacted cement bed varies for each cell - plunger combination.
The volume of the compacted cement bed shall be established for a given cell -
67
plunger clearance.
68 This volume is to be determined as follows
69 Apply a very thin film of light mineral oil to the cell interior.
70 Place the perforated disc on the ledge in the cell.

Page 28 of 73
 Place two new filter paper discs on the perforated disc and endure that each
71
covers the base of the cell whilst flat by pressing with a rod.
72 Fill the cell with mercury.
73 Remove any air bubbles with a clean dry rod.
ensure that the cell is full by pressing a glass plate on the mercury surface until it
74
is flush with the cell top.
empty the cell, weigh the mercury to the nearest 0.01 g, m2, and record the
75
temperature.
76 Remove one filter paper disc.
Form a compacted cement bed by the method descried in (Formation of the bed)
77
and place on it a new filter paper disc.
78 Refill the cell with mercury, removing air bubbles and levelling the top as before.
Remove the mercury, weigh it to the nearest 0.01 g , m3, and check the
79
temperature.
Repeat the procedure with fresh cement beds until two values of V are obtained
80
differing by less than 0.005 cm3.
81 Record the means of these two values as V.
Determination of the apparatus constant
From a supply of reference cement of known specific surface prepre a compacted
cement bed and measure its permeability by the procedure given in (Preparation
82
of the sample), (Determination of density), (Formation of the bed0 and
(Procedure).
83 Record the time, t, and the temperature of test.
Using the same bed repeat twice the procedure of (Procedure) and record the
84
two furthervalues of time and of temperature.
85 Repeat the whole on two further samples of the same reference cememt.
For each of the three samples calculate the means of the three times and
86
temperatures.
87 Take the mean of the three values of K as the constant K for the apparatus.
Recalibration
Repeated use of the apparatus may cause changes in the cement bed volume
88 and in the apparatus constant (because of the wear of cell, plunger and
perforated disc).
These changes can be determined with the help of a so - called secondary
89
reference cement whose specific has been measured.

Page 29 of 73
 The cement bed volume and the apparatus constant shall be recalibrated with the
reference cement:
a) after 1000 tests
b) in the case of using
90
- another type of manometer fluid
- another tpe of filter paper
- a new manometer tube
c) at systematic devications of the secondary reference cement.
7. Special cements
Certain cememts having unusual particle size distributiins and in particular, fine
91 cements of higher strength grades may prove difficult to form into a
compactedbed of porosity e = 0.500 bythe method of (Formation of the bed).

Should thumb pressure on the plunger cap fail to bring it in contact with the top of
92 the cell or if, after making contact and removing the pressure the plunger moves
upwards, the porosity of e = 0.5000 shall be considered unattainable.

For such cases the porosity required for a well - compacted bed shall be
93
determinend experimentally.
The mass of cement, m4, weighed to make the bed as in (Formation of the bed)
94 then becomes: [ m4 = (1-e1) ρ1V ] (Where e1 is the porosity determined
experimentally.)
8. Simplification of the calculations
Effect of controlled temperature
Under the specified laboratory conditions a value of (0.1η)^0.5 is 0.001349 can
95 be taken to apply with an extreme error of 0.5 % and a more probable error of 0.3
% or less.
Effect of density of cement

The elimination of the density (ρ) terms has previously been done where the only
cements in question were pure Portland cements for which a value of ρ of 3.15
was assumed to apply. That assumption is known to produce errors of up to 1 %.
96
With the increasing use of Class Ce II, III adn IV cement much greater errors are
certain. This standard requies the density of cement to be determined and used in
the calculation of specific surface.
9. Expression of results

Page 30 of 73
 Where the porosity is e = 0.500, the four times and temperatures resulting from
97 the procedure of (Procedure) shall be examined to check that the temperatures
all fall within the specified range of 20 ± 2 oC.
If they do, the mean of the four times shall be inserted in equation 3 or equation
98 10 and the resulting value of S, to the nearest 10 cm2/g, shall be reported as the
specific surface of the cement.

A difference of 1 % between the means of the finedess measurements carried out

99
on two difference powder beds from one and the same samples is accetable.

100 The standard deviation of the repeatability is about 50 cm2/g

101 The standard deviation of the reproducibility is about 100 cm2/g
Where the porosity is e = 0.500, equation 8 shall be used and the result to the
102
nearest 10cm2/g reported as the specific surface of the cement.
If owing to a breakdown in control or for other reasons, the four temprates do not
103 lie within the specified range of 20 ± 2 oC, a value of S shall be calculated for
each combination of time and temperature using equation 2 or equation 8.
The mean of the four values of S shall be reported, to the nearest 10cm2/g, as the
104
specific surface of the cement.
Score of compliance Number of checks
1. Apparatus and displacement liquid 0 20
2. Materials 0 5
3. Test conditions 0 2
4. Compacted cement bed 0 22
5. Air permeabily test 0 16
6. Calibration of apparatus 0 25
7. Special cements 0 4
8. Simplification of the calculations 0 10
9. Expression of results 0
Total 104
% of compliance 0.0

Page 31 of 73
Normal Consistency (Standard Consistence)
EN 196-3

Requirement
1. General requirements for testing
Laboratory
Is the laboratory in which specimens are prepared and tested shall be maintained at a
1
temperature of (20 ± 2) oC?
Is the laboratory in which specimens are prepared and tested shall be maintained at a
2
relative temperature of not less than 65 %?
Balance
3 Capable of weighing to the nearest 1 g.
Graduated cylinder or burette
4 Capable of measuring to the nearest 1 % of the volume measure.
Mixer
5 Confmorming to En 196-1
Distilled or deionized water
6 It shall be used for making, storing and boiling specimens.
Cement, water and apparaturs
7 Does the making and testing specimens be at a temperature of (20 ± 2) oC?
2. Standard consistence test
Apparaturs
Plunger

Does the plunger of non-corrodible metal in the form of a right cylinder of (50 ± 1) mm
8
effective length and of (10.00 ± 0.05) mm diameter?
9 Does the total mass of moving parts shall be (300 ± 1) g?
10 Their movement shall be truly vertical and without appreciable friction.
11 Their axis shall coincide with that of the plunger.
Vicat mold (figure 1(a) 1.)

12 Does the Vicat mold to contain the paste under test shall be of hard rubber?
 It shall be of truncated conical form (40.0 ± 0.2) mm deep and have internal diameters
13
at top and bottom of (70 ± 5) mm and (80 ± 5) mm respectively.
It shall be adequately rigid and shall be proved with a plane glass base-plate
14
largerthan the mould and at least 2.5 mm tick.
3. Procedure
Mixing the cement paste
15 weigh, to the nearest 1 g, 500 g of cement.
Weigh a quantity of water, e.g. 125g, in mixer bowl or measure the water from the
16
graduated cylinderor burette and place it into the mixer bowl.
17 Add the cement carefully to the water in order to avoid loss of water or cement.
18 The time of addition shall be not less than 5 s nor more than 10 s.
Note the time of completion of the addition as zero timefrom which later
19
measurements of time shall be made.
20 Start the mixer immediately and run at low speed for 90s.
Stop the machine after 90 s for 15 s during wichremove with a suitable scraper any
21
paste adhering to the bowl outside the mixing zone and return it to the mix.
22 Restart the mechine and run at low speed for a further 90 s.
23 The total mixer running time shall be 3 min.
Filling the mould
Transfer the paste immediatrly to the mould, which has previously been placed on a
24
lightly greased plane glass base-plate.
25 And fill it to excess without undue compaction or vibration.
Remove the excess by a gentle sawing motion with a straight-edged implement in
26
such a way as to leave the paste filling the mould and having a smooth upper surface.

All materials for test an calibration shall be at the laboratory temperature when used
27
and shall moisture during storage.
Penetration test
Calibrate the Vicat apparatus with the plunger, attached in advance of the test, by
28 lowering the plunger to rest on the base-plate to be used and adjusting the pointer to
read zero on the scale. Raise the plunger to the stand-by position.
Immediately after leveling the paste, trnsfer the mould and base-plate to the Vicat
29
apparatus andposition it centrally under the plunger.
30 Lower the plunger gently until it is in contact with the paste.
puase in that position for between 1 s and 2 s in order to avoid initial velocity or forced
31
acceleration of the moving parts.
Then release the moving parts quickly and allow the plunger to penetrate vertically
32
into the centre of paste.
Read the scale when penetration has ceased or 30 s after the release of the plunger,
33
whichever is the earlier.
Record the scale reading, which indicates the distance between the bottom face of
34 the plunger and the base- plate, together with the water content of the paste
expressed as a percentage by mass of the cement.
35 Clean the plunger immediately after each penetration.
Repeat the test with pastes containing different water contents until one is found to
36
produce a distance between plunger and base-plate of (6 ± 1) mm.
Record the water content of that paste to the nearest 0.5 % as the water for standard
37
consistence
Score of compliance
1. General requirements for testing
2. Standard consistence test
3. Procedure
Total
% of compliance
 Back to Menu
[No = 0, Yes =1]
Compliance of
Any comment
the lab
 Number of checks
0 7
0 7
0 23
37
0.0
Initial setting time (IST)
EN 196-3

Requirement
1. Apparatus
Room or humidity cabinet

1 Is the room or a humidity cabinet of adequate size and maintained at (20 ± 1) oC?

Is the room or a humidity cabinet of adequate size and maintained not less than 90
2
% relative humidity?
Vicat appatus for initial set

Revove the plubger and replace it by the needle (Fgure 1(d)) which shall be of seteel
3 and in the form of right cylinder of effective length (50 ± 1) mm moving parts shall be
(300 ± 1) g.
Their movement shall be truly vertical and without appreciable friction, and their axis
4
shall coincide with that of the needle.
2. Determination of initial seting time
Calibrate the Vicat apparatus with the needle (Figure 1(d)), attached in advance of
5 the test, by lowering the needle to rest on the base-place to be used and adjusting
the pointer to read zero on the scale.
6 Raise the needle to the stand-by position.
Fill a Vicat mould with paste of standard consistence and level it, in accordance with
7
(Mixing the cement paste) and (Filling the mould).
Place the filled mould and base-place in the room or humidity cabinet specified in
8 (Room or humidity cabinet) and , after a suitable time, transfer to the Vicat apparatus
and position under the needle.
9 Lower the needle gently until it is in contact with the paste.
Pause in that position fro between 1 s and 2 s in order to avoid initial velocity or
10
forced acceleration of the moving parts.
Then release the moving parts quickly and allow the needle to penetrate vertically
11
into thepaste.
Read the scale when penetration has ceased, or 30 s after the release of the needle,
12
whichever is the earlier.
Record the scale reading, which indicates the distance between the end of the
13
needle and the base- plate, together with the time from zero.
It shall be adequately rigid and shall be proved with a plane glass base-plate
14
largerthan the mould and at least 2.5 mm tick.
Record the penetration test on the same precimen at conveniently spaced positions,
15 not less than 10 mm from the rim of the mould or from each other, at convenientlr
spcaed intervals of time, e.g. at 10 min intervals.
 Weigh a quantity of water, e.g. 125g, in mixer bowl or measure the water from the
16
graduated cylinderor burette and place it into the mixer bowl.
Between penatration tests keep the specimen in a room or humidity cabinet as
17
specified in (Room or humidity cabinet).
18 Clean the Vicar needle immediately after each penetration.
Record thetime measured from zero at which the distance between the needle and
19 the base-plate is (4 ± 1) mm as the initial setting time of thecement to the nearest 5
min.
The requred accuracy may be assured by reducing the time interval between
20 penetration tests near the end-point and observing that successive results do not
fluctuate excessively.
NC-1. Mixing the cement paste
NC-1 Weigh, to the nearest 1 g, 500 g of cement.
Weigh a quantity of water, e.g. 125g, in mixer bowl or measure the water from the
NC-2
graduated cylinderor burette and place it into the mixer bowl.
NC-3 Add the cement carefully to the water in order to avoid loss of water or cement.
NC-4 The time of addition shall be not less than 5 s nor more than 10 s.
Note the time of completion of the addition as zero timefrom which later
NC-5
measurements of time shall be made.
NC-6 Start the mixer immediately and run at low speed for 90s.
Stop the machine after 90 s for 15 s during wichremove with a suitable scraper any
NC-7
paste adhering to the bowl outside the mixing zone and return it to the mix.
NC-8 Restart the mechine and run at low speed for a further 90 s.
NC-9 The total mixer running time shall be 3 min.
NC-2. Filling the mould
Transfer the paste immediatrly to the mould, which has previously been placed on a
NC-10
lightly greased plane glass base-plate.
NC-11 And fill it to excess without undue compaction or vibration.
Remove the excess by a gentle sawing motion with a straight-edged implement in
NC-12 such a way as to leave the paste filling the mould and having a smooth upper
surface.
All materials for test an calibration shall be at the laboratory temperature when used
NC-13
and shall moisture during storage.
Score of compliance
1. Apparatus
2. Determination of initial seting time
NC-1. Mixing the cement paste
NC-2. Filling the mould
Total
% of compliance
 Back to Menu
[No = 0, Yes =1]
Compliance of
Any comment
the lab
 Number of checks
0 4
0 16
0 9
0 4
33
0.0
Soundness test (Le Chatelier expansion)
EN 196-3

Requirement
1. Apparatus
Le Chatelier apparatus
The mould shall be of sprng bras with indicator needles and shall have the
dimensions shown in figure 2 (a).

Does the resilience of the mould that the action of a mass of 300 g applied as shoen
2 in figure 2 (a) shall increase the distance between the indicator ends of the needles
by (17.5 ± 2.5 ) mm without permanent deformation?
3 A pair of plate glass baseand cover plates shall be provided for each mould.
4 Each plate shall be larger than the mould.
Does the cover plate weighed at least 75g; an additional small mass may be placed
5
on a thin plate to satisfy thi s requirement?
Water-bath

With means of heating, capable of containingimmersed Le Chatelier specimens and

6
of raising the temperature of the water from (20 ± 2) oC to boiling in (30 ± 5) min.
Humidity cabinet
7 Is the humidity cabinet adequate size and maintained at (20 ± 1) oC?
8 Is the humidity cabinet more than 98 % relative humidity?
2. Procedure
Carry out the test simultaneously on two specimens from the same batch of cement
9
paste.
10 Prepare a cement paste of standard consistence.
Place a lightly oiled Le Chatelier mould on the lightly oiled base -plate and fill it
11 immediately without undue compaction or vibration using only the hands and a
straight-edged implement,if desired, to level the top surface.
During filling,prevent the split in the mould from accidentallyopening e.g. by gentle
12
pressure with thefingers or by trying or by use of a suitable rubber band.
Cover wthe mould with the lightly oiled cover plate, add the additional mass, if
13 necessary, and then immediately place the complete apparatus in the humidity
cabinet.
14 Maintain it for (24 ± 0.5) h at (20 ± 1)oC and not lss than 98 % relative humidity.
At the end of the (24 ± 0.5) h period measure the distance (A) between the indicator
15
points to thenearest 0.5 mm.
 Then heat the mould gradually to boiling during (30 ± 5) min and maintain the water-
16
bath at boiling temperature for 3 h ± 5 min.
at the end of the boiling period the distance (B) between the indicator points may be
measured to the nearest 0.5 mm.

17

18 Allow the mould to cool to (20 ± 2) oC.

Measure the distance ( C ) between the indicator ponts to the nearest 0.5 mm.

19

For each specimen, record the measurements A and C and calculate the difference
20
C - A.
21 Calculate the mean of the two values C- A to the nearest 0.5 mm.
3. Interpretation

The main purpose of the soundness test is to assess the possible risk of late
22
expansion due to hydration of uncombined calcium oxide and/or magnesium oxide.
23 For this purpose report the mean difference C - A.
24 The time of addition shall be not less than 5 s not more than 10 s.
4. Reset
Should the fresh cement fail to comply with the specified soundness requirement it
25
may be retested after atorage.
For this purpose, spread out the cement in a layer of 7 cm thickness and store it for
26 7 days in an atmoshere maintained at (20 ± 2)oC and not less than 65 % relative
humidity.
Score of compliance
1. Apparatus
2. Procedure
3. Interpretation
4. Reset
Total
% of compliance
 Back to Menu
[No = 0, Yes =1]
Compliance of
Any comment
the lab
 Number of checks
0 8
0 13
0 3
 0 2
26
0.0
Compressive strength Back to Menu
EN 196-1 [No = 0, Yes =1]
Compliance of
Requirement Any comment
the lab
1. Principle
1 Is the test specimens 40 mm x 40 mm x 160 mm in size?
These specimens are cast from a batch of plastic mortar containing one part by
2 mass of cement and three parts by mass of standard sand with a water / cement
ratio of 0.50.
Standard sands from various sources and countries may be used provided that they
have been shown to give cement strength results which do not differ significantly
3
from those obtained using the CEN Reference sand (see Acceptance testing of sand
and of alternative equipment)
Does the mortar prepared by mechanical mixing and is compared in a mould using a
4
standard jolting apparatus?
Alternative compaction equipment and techniques may be used provided that they
have been shown to give cement strength results which do not differ significantly
5
from those obtained using the standard jolting apparatus (see Acceptance testing of
sand and of alternative equipment)
Does the specimens in the mould are stored in a moist atmosphere for 24 h and then
6
the demoulded specimens are stored under water until strength testing?
At the required age, the specimens are taken from their wet storage, broken in
7
flexure into two halves and each half tested for strength in compression.

Page 46 of 73
2. Laboratory and equipment
Laboratory
Does the laboratory where preparation of specimens takes place shall be maintained
8
at a temperature of (20 ± 2) oC?
Does the laboratory where preparation of specimens takes place shall be maintained
9
at a relative humidity of not less than 50 %?
Does the moist air room or the large cabinet for storage of the specimens in the
10
mould shall be continuously maintained at a temperature of (20 ± 1) oC?

Does the moist air room or the large cabinet for storage of the specimens in the
11
mould shall be continuously maintained at a relative humidity of not less than 90 %?

Does the temperature of the water in the storage containers shall be maintained at
12
(20 ± 1) oC?
Does the temperature of the air in the laboratory shall be recorded at least once a
13
day during working hours?
Does the relative humidity of the air in the laboratory shall be recorded at least once
14
a day during working hours?
Does the temperature of the storage containers shall be recorded at least once a day
15
during working hours?
Does the temperature of the moist air room or cabinet shall be recorded at least
16
every 4h?
The relative humidity of the moist air room or cabinet shall be recorded at least every
17
4h.
Where temperature ranges are given, the target temperature at which the controls
18
are set shall be the middle value of the range.

Page 47 of 73
 General requirements for the equipment
The tolerances shown on the drawings (Figure1 to Figure 3) are important for correct operation of the equipment in the testing procedure.

When regular control measurements show that the tolerance are not met, thee
19
equipment shall be rejected or adjusted or repaired where possible.
20 Records of control measurements shall be kept.

Acceptance measurements on new equipment shall cover mass, volume, and

21 dimensions to the extent that these are indicated in the European Standard paying
particular attention to those critical dimensions for which tolerances are specified.

In those cases where the material of the equipment and influence the results, the
22
materials specified mould shall be used.

Page 48 of 73
 Test sieves
Wire cloth test sieves conforming to the requirements of ISO 2591-1 and ISO 3310-1
shall be of the sizes from ISO 565 given in Table 1 (series R 20).

23

Page 49 of 73
 Mixer
Does the mixer consist essentially of a stainless steel bowl with a capacity of about 5
24
L?
25 Does the mixer consist essentially of the general shape and size shown in Figure 1?
Does the mixer consist essentially of be provided with means by which it can be fixed
26
securely to the mixture frame during mixing?
27 Does the mixer consist essentially of the height of the bowl in relation to the blade?
Does the mixer consist essentially of the height of the bowl in relation to some extent
28
the gap between blade and bowl can be finely adjusted and fixed?
Does the mixer consist essentially of a stainless steel blade of the general shape
29
shown in Figure 1?
Does the mixer all consist essentially of a stainless steel blade of the general size
30
shown in Figure 1?
Does the mixer consist essentially of a stainless steel blade of the tolerances shown
31
in Figure 1?
Does the mixer consist essentially of revolving about its own axis as it is driven in a
32 planetary movement around the axis of the bowl by an electric mortar at controlled
speeds?
33 The two dimensions of rotation shall be opposite.
34 The ratio between the two speeds shall not be a whole number.
Where more than one mixer is used, blades and bowls shall form set which are
35
always used together.
36 Does the gap between blade and bowl shown in Figure 1 be checked every month?
Does the gap of (3 ± 1) mm refers to the situation when the blade in the empty bowl
37
is brought as close as possible to the wall?
Simple tolerance gauges ("feeler gauges") are useful where direct measurement is
38
difficult.
The mixer shall operates at the speeds given in Table 2.

39

Page 50 of 73
 Moulds
Does the mould consist of three horizontal compartments so that three prismatic
40 specimens 40 mm X 40 mm in cross section and 160 mm in length can prepared
simultaneously?
41 Does the mould made of steel with walls at least 10 mm thick?
Does the surface Vickers hardness of each internal side face shall be at least HV
42
200 (see ISO 409-1 and ISO 6507-1)?
Does the mould be constructed in such a manner as to facilitate the removal of
43
moulded specimens without damage?
44 Each mould shall be provided with a machined steel or cast iron baseplate.
45 The mould, when assembled, shall be positively and rigidly held together.
46 The mould, when assembled, shall be positively and rigidly fixed to the baseplate.
47 Does the assembly shall be such that there is no distortion of leakage?
Does the baseplate shall make adequate contact with the table of the compacting
48
apparatus?
49 Does the baseplate be riding enough not to induce secondary vibrations?
50 Each part of the mould shall be stamped with identifying marks to facilitate assembly.
Each part of the mould shall be stamped with identifying marks to ensure compliance
51
with the specified tolerances.
52 Similar parts of separate mould assemblies shall not be interchanged.
53 Moulds shall be replaced when any one of the specified tolerance is exceed.
The mass of the mould shall accord with the requirements for the combined mass in
54
(Jolting apparatus).
In assembling the cleaned mould ready for use, a suitable sealing material shall be
55
used to coat the outer joints of the mould.
56 A thin film of mould oil shall be applied to the internal faces of the mould.
To facilitate the filling of the mould a tightly fitting metal hopper with vertical walls 20
57
mm to 40 mm in height shall be provided.

Page 51 of 73
 When viewed in plan, the hopper walls shall overlap the internal walls of the mould
58
by not more than 1 mm.
Does the outer walls of the hopper provides with a means of location to ensure
59
correct positioning over the mould?
For spreading and striking off the mortar two spreaders and a metal straightedge of
the type shown in Figure 3 shall be provided.

60

The assembled mould shall comply with the following requirements.

Does the internal dimensions and tolerance of each mould compartment, based on
61
four symmetrically- placed measurements, shall be (160.0 ± 0.8) mm in length?

Does the internal dimensions and tolerance of each mould compartment, based on
62
four symmetrically- placed measurements, shall be (40.0 ± 0.2) mm in width?

Does the internal dimensions and tolerance of each mould compartment, based on
63
four symmetrically- placed measurements, shall be (40.1 ± 0.1) mm in depth?

Does the flatness tolerance ( see ISO 1101, 14.2) over the whole of each internal side
64
face shall be 0.03 mm?
Does the perpendicularity tolerance ( see ISO 1101, 14.8) for each internal face with
65
respect to the bottom surface of the mould and shall be 0.2 mm?
66 The adjacent internal face as datum faces shall be 0.2 mm
The surface texture (see ISO 1302) of each internal side face shall be not rougher
67
than N8.

Page 52 of 73
 Jolting apparatus
Does the apparatus consists essentially of a rectangular table rigidly connected by
68
two light arms to a pivot at 800 mm from the centre of the table?
Does the table shall incorporate at the centre of its lower face a projecting lug with a
69
rounded face?
70 Beneath the projecting lug shall be a small stop with a plane upper surface.
In the rest positions, the common normal through the point of contact of the lug and
71
the stop shall be vertical.
When the projecting lug rests on the stop, does the top face of the table be
72 horizontal so that the level of any of the four corners does not deviate the mean level
by more than 1.0 mm?
73 Does the table have a dimensions equal to or plane machined upper surface?
74 Clamps shall be provided for firm attachment of the mould to the table.
Does the combined mass of the table, including arms, empty mould, hopper and
75
clamps shall be (20.0 ± 0.5) kg?
Does the arms connecting the table assembly to the pivot shall be rigid and
76 constructed of round tubing with an outside diameter lying in the range 17 mm to 22
mm selected from tube sizes given in ISO 4200?
Does the total mass of the two arms, including any cross bracing, shall be (2.25 ±
77
0.25) kg?
Does the pivot bearings of the ball or roller type and protected from ingress of grit or
78
dust?
Does the horizontal displacement of the centre of the table as caused by the play of
79
the pivot shall not exceed 1.0 mm?
Does the lug and the stop made of through-hardened steel of at least HV 500
80
Vickers hardness value (see ISO 409-1)?
81 The curvature of the lug shall be about 0.01 mm-1
In operation, the table is raised by a cam and allowed to fall freely from a height of
82
(15.0 ± 0.3) mm before the lug strikes the stop.

Page 53 of 73
 Does the cam made of steel of at least HV 400 Vickers hardness value and its shaft
83 shall be mounted in ball bearings of such construction that the free drop is always
(15.0 ± 0.3) mm?

84 The cam follower shall be of a construction with ensures minimal wear of the cam.
Does the cam driven by an electric mortar of about 250 W through a reduction gear
85
at a uniform speed of one revolution per second?
A control mechanism and a counter shall be provided which ensure that one period
86
of jolting comprises exactly 60 jolts.
Does the position of the mould on the table that the longitudinal dimensions of the
87 compartments is in line with the direction of the arms an perpendicular to the axis of
rotation of the cam?
Suitable reference marks shall be provided to facilitate the positioning of the mould in
88 such a way that the centre of the central compartment is directly above the point of
impact.
Does the apparatus shall be firmly mounted on a concrete block of mass of about
89
600 kg?
Does the apparatus shall be firmly mounted on a concrete block of volume of about
90
0.25 m3 ?
Does the apparatus firmly mounted on a concrete block of dimensions giving a
91
suitable working height for the mould?
Does the entire base of the concrete block shall stand on an elastic pad, e.g. natural
92 rubber, having a suitable isolation efficiency preventing, external vibrations from
affecting the compaction?
Does the base of the apparatus fixed level to the concrete base by anchor bolts and
93 a thin layer of mortar shall be placed between the base of the apparatus and the
concrete base to ensure overall and vibration free contract?

Page 54 of 73
 Compressive strength testing machine
The testing machine for the determination of compressive strength may be provided
94 with two or more load ranges. The highest value of the lower range should be
approximately 1/5 of the highest value of next higher range.
It shall have an accuracy of ± 1.0 % of the recorded load in the upper four-fifths of
95
the range being used.
96 It shall provided a rate of load increase of (2400 ± 200) N/s.
It shall be fitted with an indicating device which shall be so constructed that the value
97 indicated at failure of the specimen remains indicated after the testing machine is
unloaded.
This can be achieved by the use of a maximum indicator on a pressure range or
98
memory on a digital display.
Manually prepared testing machines shall be fitted with a pacing device to facilitate
99
to control of the load increase.
The vertical axis of the ram shall coincide with the vertical axis of the machine and
100 during the direction of movement of the ram shall be along the vertical axis of the
machine.
Furthermore, the resultant of the forces shall pass through the centre of the
101
specimen.
The surface of the lower machine platen shall be normal to the axis of the machine
102
and remain normal during loading.
The centre of the upper platen spherical seating shall be at the point of interaction of
103 the vertical machine axis with the plane of the lower surface of the upper machine
platen with a tolerance of ± 1 mm.

The upper platen shall be free to align as contact is made with the specimen, but
104
during loading the relative attitude of the upper and lower platens shall remain fixed.

The testing machine shall be provided with platens made of hard steel, with a
105 Vickers hardness (see ISO 409-1) if at least HV 600, or preferably of tungsten
carbide.
106 These platens shall be at least 10 mm thick.
107 These platens shall be at least (40.0 ± 0.1) mm wide.
108 These platens shall be at least (40.0 ± 0.1 mm long.

Page 55 of 73
 Does the flatness tolerance according to 14.2 of ISO 1101 over the entire contact
109
surface with the specimen shall be 0.01 mm?
Does the surface texture according to ISO 1302 not smoother than N3 and not
110
rougher than N6?
Alternatively, two auxiliary plate of hard steel, or preferably of tungsten carbide, at
111
least 10 mm thick may be provided.
Two auxiliary plate of hard steel, or preferably of tungsten carbide, complying with
112
the requirements for the platens may be provided.
Provision shall be made for centring the auxiliary plates with respect to the axis of
113
the loading system with an accuracy of ± 0.5 mm.

Where there is no spherical seating in the testing machine or where the spherical
114 seating is blocked, or where the diameter of the spherical seating is greater than 120
mm, a jig according to (Jig for compressive strength testing machine) shall be used.

Page 56 of 73
 Jig for compressive strength testing machine
When (Compressive strength testing machine) requires the use of jig (see Figure 6) it
shall be placed between the platens of the machine to transmit the load of the
machine to the compression surfaces of the mortar specimen.

115

116 A lower plate shall be used in this jig and it can be incorporated in the lower platen.
The upper platen receives the load from the upper platen of the machine through an
117
intermediate spherical seating.
This seating forms part of an assembly which shall be able to slide vertically without
118
appreciable friction in the jig guiding its movement.
The jig shall be kept clean and the spherical seating shall be free to rotate in such a
119 way that the platen will accommodate itself initially to the shape of the specimen and
then remain fixed during the test.
All requirements started in (Compressive strength testing machine) apply equally
120
when a jig is used.

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3. Mortar constituents
CEN Reference sand
The CEN Reference sand shall be natural, siliceous sand consisting preferably of
121
rounded particles and has a silica content of at least 98 %.
Its particle size distribution shall lie within the limits defined in Table 3.

122

123 Does the sieve analysis of the sand be carried out with a representative sample?
Sieving shall be continued until the amount of sand passing through each sieve is
124
less than 0.5 g/min.
Does the moisture content lesser than 0.2 % determined at the loss of mass of a
125
representative sample of sand after 2 h drying at 105 oC to 110 oC?
Does the moisture content shall be expressed as a percentage by mass of the dried
126
sample?
CEN Standard sand
CEN Standard sand shall comply with the particle size distribution and moisture
127
content specified and determined as in (CEN Reference sand).
128 During production these determinations shall be carried out at least once a day.
These requirements are insufficient to ensure that the Standard sand is equivalent to
129
the Reference sand.
Such equivalence shall be maintained by a certification testing programme
130
comprising comparison of the Standard sand with the Reference sand.
This programme and the associated calculation are described in (CEN Standard
131
sands in Acceptance testing of sand and of alternative equipment)
CEN Standard sand may be delivered in separate fractions or premixed in plastic
132
bags with a content of (1350 ± 5) g
The type of material used for the bags shall have no effect on the results of the
133
strength testing.
Cement
When the cement to be tested is kept for more than 24 h between sampling and
134 testing, it shall be stored in completely filled and airtight containers made from a
material which does not react with cement.
Water
135 Distilled water shall be used for reference testing.

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136 For other tests, drinking water may be used.

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4. Preparation of mortar
Composition of the mortar
The proportions by mass shall be one part of the cement, three parts of Standard
137
sand and one half part of water. (I.e. water / cement ratio = 0.50)
138 Each batch for three test specimens shall consist of (450 ± 2) g of cement.
139 Each batch for three test specimens shall consist of (1350 ± 5) g of sand.
140 Each batch for three test specimens shall consist of (225 ± 1) g of water.
Batching of mortar
141 Does the cement, sand, water and apparatus be at the laboratory temperature?
Carry out weighing by means of a balance accurate to ± 1 g. If the water is added
142
from automatic 225 mL pipettes they have to be accurate to ± 1mL.
Mixing of mortar
143 Mix each batch of mortar mechanically using the mixer.
144 With the mixer in the operating position.
145 - Pour the water into the bowl and add the cement.
146 - Then start the mixer immediately at the low speed (see Table 2).
147 - After 30s, add the sand steady during the next 30 s.
- When separate sand fractions are used, add the required quantities of each
148
fraction in succession starting with the coarsest.
149 - Switch the mixer to the high speed (see Table 2).
150 - Continue the mixing for and additional 30 s.
151 - Stop the mixer for 1 min 30 s.
- During the first 15, remove by means of a rubber scraper all the mortar adhering
152
to the wall and bottom part of the bowl and place in the middle of the bowl.
153 - Continue the mixing at the high speed for 60 s.
154 Does the timing of the various mixing stages shall be adhered to within ± 1 s?

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5. Preparation of test specimens
Size of specimens
155 Does the test specimens be at 40 mm X 40 mm X 160 mm prisms?
Moulding of test specimens
156 Mould the specimens immediately after the preparation of the mortar.

With the mould and hopper firmly clamped to the jolting table, introduce, using a
157 suitable scoop, in one ore more increments, the first of two layers of mortar (each
about 300 g) into each of the mould compartments, directly from the mixing bowl.

Spread the layer uniformity using the larger spreader (see Figure 3), held vertically
158 with its shoulders in contact with the top of the hopper and drawn forwards and
backwards once along each mould compartment.
159 Then compact the first mortar mould compartment.
160 Then compact the first layer using 60 jolts.
161 Introduce the second layer of mortar, level with the smaller spreader (see Figure 3).
162 Compact the layer with a further 60 jolts.
163 Lift the mould gently from the jolting table.
164 Remove the hopper.
Immediately strike off the excess mortar with the metal straightedge (see Figure 3)
165 held almost vertically an slowly, with a transverse sawing motion (see Figure 2) once
in each direction.

166 Smooth the surface of the specimens using the same straightedge held almost flat.
Label or mark the mould to identify the specimens and their position relative to the
167
jolting table.

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6. Conditioning of test specimens
Handling and storage before demoulding.

168 Wipe of the mortar left on the perimeter of the mould as a result of the striking-off.
169 Place a 210 mm x 185 mm plate glass sheet of 6 mm thickness on the mould.
170 A plate of steel or other impermeable material of similar size may be used.
Place each covered mould, suitably identified, without delay on a horizontal base in
171
the moist air room or cabinet (see Laboratory).
172 Th moist air shall have access to all sides of the mould.
173 Moulds shall not be stacked one upon the other.
174 Each mould shall be removed from storage at its appropriate time for demoulding.
Demoulding of specimens
175 Carry out demoulding with due precautions.
Carry out demoulding, for 24h tests, not more than 20 min before the specimens are
176
tested.
Carry out demoulding, for tests at ages greater than 24 h, between 20 h and 24 h
177
after moulding.
Keep the demoulded specimens selected for testing at 24 h (or at 48 when delayed
178
demoulding was necessary) covered by a damp cloth until tested..
Suitably mark specimens selected for curing in water for identification later, e.g. by
179
water-resistant ink or crayon.

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 Conditioning of specimens in water
Submerge the marked specimens without delay in a convenient manner, either
180 horizontally or vertically, in water at (20 ± 1) oC in suitable containers (see
Laboratory)
With horizontal storage, keep vertical faces at cast vertical, and the struck-off surface
181
uppermost.
Place the specimens on non-corrodible gratings and keep them apart from each
182
other so that the water has free access to all six sides of the specimens.
At no time during storage shall the spaces between the specimens or the depth of
183
water above the upper faces of the specimens be less than 5 mm.
Only stores specimens made with cements of similar chemical composition in each
184
container.
Use tap water for initial filling of the containers and for occasional topping up to
185
maintain a reasonable constant level.
186 During storage of the specimens, complete replacement of water is not permitted.

Remove the specimens required for testing at any particular age (other than 24 h or
187 48 h in cases of delayed demoulding) from the water not more than 15 min before
the test is carried out.
188 Remove any deposit on the test faces.
189 Cover the specimens with a damp cloth until tested.
Age of specimenn for strength tests
Calculate the age of specimens from the time of mixing of the cement and water at
190
the beginning of the test.
Make strength tests at different ages within the folloing limits
191 - The age of specimens for 24 h shall be 15 min
192 - The age of specimens for 48 h shall be 30 min
193 - The age of specimens for 72 h shall be 45 min
194 - The age of specimens for 7 days shall be 2 h.
195 - The age of specimens for ≥ 28 days shall be 8 h.

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7. Testing the specimens
Testing procedure

The compressive strength tests shall be carried out on the two halves of the prism
196
broken by suitable means which do not subject the prism halves to harmful stresses.
Compressive strength
Test the prism halves in compression on the side faces by means of the equipment
197 specified in (Compressive strength testing machine) and (Jig for compressive strength
testing machine).
198 Centre the prism halves laterally to the platens of the machine within ± 0.5 mm.
And longitudinally such that the end face of the prism overhangs the platens or
199
auxiliary plate by about 10 mm.
Increase the load smoothly at the rate of (2400 ± 20 ) N/s over the entire load
200
application until fracutre.
Where the load increase is regulated by hand, make adjustment for the decrease of
201
the loading rate near the fracture load.
Calculate the compressive strength Rc in N/mm2 from:

202

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8. Conformity testing of cement
Definition of test result
The test result I expressed as the arithmetic mean of the six compressive strength
203
determinations made on a set of three prisms.

If one result within the six determinations varies by more than ± 10 % from the mean
204
of the six, discard this result and calculate the mean of the five remaining results.

If a further result within these five determinations varies by more than ± 10 % from
205
their mean, discard the set of results.
Calculation of test result
From the individual strength results obtained from prism helves expressed to the
206 nearest 0.1 N/mm2 calculate the mean in accordance with (Definition of test result)
and express this to the nearest 0.1 N/mm2.
Reporting of results
207 Record all individual results.
Report the calculated mean and whether any results has been discarded in
208
accordance with (Definition of test result).
Measures of the precision of the method
209 The precision of the method is measured by its repeatability (see ).
210 The precision of the method is measured by its reproducibility (see Reproducibility).
The precision of the test method for conformity testing is measured by its
211
reproducibility.
The precision of the test meshed for acceptance testing and for production control
212
purposes is measured by its repeatability.
Reproducibility
The reproducibility of the method of compressive strength determination is a
quantitative expression of the error associated with test results obtained with
213 normally identical samples of a cement, by different operators working in different
laboratories, at different times, using standard sand of different origin and different
sets of equipment.
For the 28-day compressive strength there producibility under these conditions
214 between well-experienced laboratories, expressed as the coefficient of variation, may
be expected to be less than 6 %.

This implies that the difference between two corresponding test results obtained in
215
different laboratories may be expected (probability 95 %) to be less than about 15%.

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9. Acceptance testing of sand and of alternative equipment
Precision of the test method

The precision of the test method for acceptance testing and for production control
216
purpose is measured by its repeatability (for reproducibility see Reproducibility)
Repeatability

The repeatability of the method of compressive strength determination is a

quantitative expression of the error associated with test results obtained in one
217
laboratory with nominally identical samples of a cement, under nominally identical
conditions ( same operator, same equipment, same sand, short interval of time, etc.)

For the 28-day compressive strength the repeatability under these conditions within a
218 well-experienced laboratory, expressed as the coefficient of variation, may be
expected to lie between 1 % and 3 %.

Page 66 of 73
 CEN Standard sands
a). Certification testing of sand
A sand to be used as a test sand in accordance with this standard shall be certified
219
and shall then be designated "CEN Standard sand, EN 196-1".
Certification testing during the initial production period (minimum of 3 months) of a
proposed new CEN Standard sand is necessary to prove its suitability (in addition,
220
an annual verification test is required to ensure long-term uniformity of quality, see
b). Verification testing of sand).
The certification testing shall be based on compressive strength testing at the age of
221 28 days and shall be undertaken by testing laboratories approved for this purpose by
the appropriate national standardization organisation.
The approved testing laboratories shall collaborate internationally and take part in
222 co-operative testing schemes to ensure that the properties of Standard sands from
producers in different countries are acceptance criteria.
b). Verification testing of sand
The verification testing procedure, which is required for the annual renewal of the
certificate, comprises an annual test of a random sample of sand by an approved
223
testing laboratory and an inspection by the certification agency of the sand
producer's records of his quality control tests.
The sand producer's quality control tests shall be carried out regularly by the
224 producer's laboratory or by a service laboratory (monthly in the case of continuous
production).
The records of the results of the quality control tests for at least three years shall be
225 available to the certification agency for inspection as part of the verification
procedure.

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 c). Method of certification testing of CEN Standard sand
c)-1. Acceptance criterion
This standard is based on an acceptance criterion such that a sand, which in the
long run would give a 28-day compressive strength differing by about 5% from that
226
obtained with the CEN Reference sand, has a probability of at least 95% of being
rejected.
c)-2. Execution of each comparative test
Using samples of the cement selected for this purpose, prepare 20 pairs of batches
227 of mortar using the proposed CEN Standard sand for one batch and the CEN
Reference sand of for the other.
Prepare the two batches in each pair in a randomised order, one immediate after the
228
other, in accordance with this standard.
After a curing time of 28 days tests all sic prisms of a pair of batches for compressive
strength and calculate the test result for each sand in accordance with Calculation of
229
test result in Conformity testing of cement , as x for the proposed CEN Standard sand
and as y for the CEN Reference sand.
c)-3. Evaluation of each comparative test
The mean compressive strength (y) over all 20 batches prepared with the proposed
230
CEN Standard sand
The mean compressive strength (x) over all 20 batches prepared with the proposed
231
CEN Standard sand

232

c)-4. Treatment of outliers

If the presence of an outlying difference is suspected, calculate the algebraic
233
difference (d=x-y) between each pair of test results
234 The mean value of the 20 differences (d=x-y)
235 The standard deviation of the 20 differences (s)
236 The value of 3s

237

c)-5.Requirement for acceptance

The proposed CEN Standard sand shall be considered acceptable for certification
238 where each of the three values of D, calculated in accordance with (c)-3. Evaluation
of each comparative test), is less than 5.0.

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 Where one or more of the calculated values of D is equal to, or greater than, 5.0
239
the sand is not acceptable.

Page 69 of 73
 d). Method of verification testing of CEN Standard sand
d)-1. Annual test by the certification agency
A single random sample of the sand shall be taken by the certification agency in
accordance with (b). Verification testing of sand) and shall be tested in accordance
240 with the general procedure described in (c). Method of certification testing of CEN
Standard sand), using one cement selected for this purpose by the certification
agency.
Where the value of D, calculated as in (c)-3. Evaluation of each comparative test), is
241 less than 5.0, the sample shall be considered to comply with the requirements of
the verification test.
Where the value of D is equal to, or greater than 5.0 a further three random
242 samples shall be tested according to the complete certification testing procedure
described in (b). Verification testing of sand)
d)-2. Monthly test by the sand producer
A monthly test shall be carried out by the sand producer, in the same way as the
verification test described in (d)-1. Annual test by the certification agency), but
243 making at least ten comparisons, by comparing a random sample of the sand
produced during that month with a certification tested CEN Standard sand, using
one cement selected for this purpose by the certification agency.

Where the value of D, calculated as in (c)-3. Evaluation of each comparative test), is

greater than 2.5 more than twice within a series of 12 successive monthly
244 comparative tests, the certification agency shall be informed, and shall undertake a
complete certification testing procedure on three random samples in accordance
with (c). Method of certification testing of CEN Standard sand)

Page 70 of 73
 Acceptance testing of alternative compaction equipment
a) . General
Where acceptance testing of alternative compaction equipment is requested, the
certification agency shall select there commercially available sets of the equipment
245
which shall be placed in an approved testing laboratory, alongside a standard set
of equipment complying with (Jolting apparatus)
- The equipment under test shall be accompanied by a full technical description of
246
the design and construction
247 - The equipment under test shall be accompanied by the instruction for servicing.
- The equipment under test shall be accompanied by a list of checks to ensure the
248
correct operation
- The equipment under test shall be accompanied by a full description of the
249
proposed compaction procedure.
The certification agency shall make a careful comparison of the technical
250
description provided.
An approved testing laboratory shall then carry out three comparative tests using
251 for each set a different one of three cements selected for this purpose by the
certification agency and CEN Reference sand.

When each of these three tests leads to acceptance of the alternative equipment,
252
the proposed compaction equipment is considered as an acceptable alternative.

Page 71 of 73
 b). Testing of alternative equipment
b)-1. Execution of each comparative test
Using samples of the cement selected for this purpose, 20 pairs of batches of
253 mortar shall be compacted using the proposed alternative procedure for one batch
and the standard procedure for the other.
Two batches in each pair shall be prepared in randomized order, one immediately
254
after the order.
The treatment of the prism after compaction shall be carried out in accordance
255
with this standard.

After a curing time of 28 days all six prisms of a pair of batches shall be tested for
compressive strength and the test result for each method of compaction shall be
256 calculated in accordance with (Calculation for test result in Acceptance testing of
sand and of alternative equipment), with x for the proposed CEN alternative
compaction method and with y for the standard jolting table.

b)-2. Evaluation of each comparative test

Calculate the following parameters:
- The mean compressive strength (y) over all 20 batches prepared with the standard
257
equipment.
- The mean compressive strength (x) over all 20 batches prepared with the proposed
258
alternative compaction equipment.

259

b)-3. Requirement for acceptance of the proposed alternative equipment

The alternative equipment shall be considered acceptance when each of the three
260 values of D, calculated in accordance with (b)-2. Evaluation of each comparative test),
is less than 5.0
In such a case the technical description of the equipment shall be deemed to be an
annex to (Jolting apparatus) , and the description of the compaction procedure shall
261
be deemed to be an annex to (Moulding of test specimens in Preparation of test
specimens).
Where one or more of the calculated values of D is equal to, or greater than, 5.0 the
262
sand is not acceptable.

Page 72 of 73
 Score of compliance Number of checks
1. Principle 0 7
2. Laboratory and equipment 0 113
3. Mortar constituents 0 16
4. Preparation of mortar 0 18
5. Preparation of test specimens 0 13
6. Conditioning of test specimens 0 28
7. Testing the specimens 0 7
8. Conformity testing of cement 0 13
9. Acceptance testing of sand and of alternative equipment 0 47
Total 262
% of compliance 0.0

Page 73 of 73