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ACI 351.

1 R-12

Report on Grouting between


Foundations and Bases for Support
of Equipment and Machinery

Reported by ACI Committee 351

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First Printing
@ March 2012
American Concrete Institute®
Advancing concrete knowledge

Report on Grouting between Foundations and Bases for Support


of Equipment and Machinery

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ISBN 978-0-87031-758—3
ACI 351.1 R-12

Report on Grouting between Foundations and


Bases for Support of Equipment and Machinery
Reported by ACI Committee 351

David Kerinsi, Chair Mukti L. Dasl', Secretary

Omesh B. Abhat Michael A. Paipall'


Richard P. Bohan Ira W. Pearce
William L. Bounds Charlie L. Rowan'i'
William D. Brant:K William E. Rushing Jr.
Michael M. Chehab Yasser Salem¥
Shu—Jin Fang Larry W. Schulze
Fred R. Goodwin Philip A. Smith”
Shraddhakar Harsh Widianto
Erick N. Larson F. Alan Wiley
Robert R. McGlohn? Sheng—Chi Wu“
Carl A. Nelson
Richard O’Malleyi J‘Members of Subcommittee 351.1 who prepared this report.
TSubcommittee 351.1 Chair.

This report provides an overview ofcurrent practices of grouting CONTENTS


for support of equipment and machinery. Materials and instal-
lation methods are described for epoxy and cementitious—based
Chapter 1—Scope, p. 2
grouts used as the load-transfer material between equipment bases
and theirfoundations.
1.1—Scope
Characteristics of placed material, test methods forforecasting
long—term performance, qualification of grout materials, founda— Chapter 2—Definitions, p. 2
tion design and detailing considerations, and installation proce— 2.1—Definitions
dures are described.
Chapter 3—Grout, p. 2
Keywords: bleeding; consistency tests; curing; durability; epoxy grout;
3. l—Requirements
cementitious—based grout; equipment grout; formwork (construction);
foundations; grout; hydraulic cement grout; inspection; machinery grout;
3.2—Overview of nonshrink grouts
mixing; placing; sand—cement grout; stiffness; strength; tests; volume 3.3—Selection
change. 3.4—Common issues

Chapter 4—Nonshrink cementitious grouts, p. 5


4. l—Introduction
4.2—Properties
ACI Committee Reports, Guides, and Commentaries are
4.3—Material requirements
intended for guidance in planning, designing, executing, and
inspecting construction. This document is intended for the use
4.4—Testing
of individuals who are competent to evaluate the significance
and limitations of its content and recommendations and who
will accept responsibility for the application of the material it
contains. The American Concrete Institute disclaims any and
all responsibility for the stated principles. The Institute shall
ACI 351.1R-12 supersedes ACI 351.1R—99 and was adopted and published March 2012.
not be liable for any loss or damage arising therefrom.
Copyright © 2012, American Concrete Institute.
Reference to this document shall not be made in contract
All rights reserved including rights of reproduction and use in any form or by any
documents. If items found in this document are desired by means, including the making of copies by any photo process, or by electronic or
the Architect/Engineer to be a part of the contract documents, mechanical device, printed, written, or oral, or recording for sound or Visual reproduc-
they shall be restated in mandatory language for incorporation tion or for use in any knowledge or retrieval system or device, unless permission in
by the Architect/Engineer. writing is obtained from the copyright proprietors.
2 GROUTING BETWEEN FOUNDATIONS AND BASES FOR SUPPORT OF EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY (ACI 351.1R-12)

Chapter 5—Nonshrink epoxy grouts, p. 10 2.1—Definitions


5. 1—Introduction aggregate reduction—reducing the normal four bags of
5 .2—Properties aggregate used with most commercial epoxy grout mixtures
5.3—Material requirements to two or three bags.
5.4—Testing amine blush—cloudy finish to the surface of an epoxy
grout that can inhibit bonding of subsequent applications.
Chapter 6—Design, detailing, and construction, chock—wedge or block for steadying a body and holding
p. 14 it motionless.
6.1—Design and detailing considerations for grout cure time—time after setting in which chemical and
6.2—Preparation for grouting physical changes in the grout produces long-term durability
6.3—Grout mixing and placing strength and serviceability.
6.4—Curing and protection flowable grout—a cementitious grout consistency with a
6.5—Qua1ity control/assurance flow of 125 to 145 by the flow test in accordance with the
applicable provisions of the ASTM C1437-07 test method;
Chapter 7—References, p. 21 the flow expressed as a percentage of the original base diameter
7.1—Referenced standards and reports after five drops of the flow table in 3 seconds.
fluid grout—a cementitious grout consistency with a time
CHAPTER 1—SCOPE of efflux of 10 to 30 seconds when tested by the flow cone
procedure of the ASTM C939—10 test method.
1.1—Scope grout shoulder—the portion of the grout that extends
This report provides an overview of current practices for beyond the base plate toward the edge of the concrete
grouting to support equipment and machinery. Recommen- foundation.
dations are provided for those portions of the grouting oper- plastic grout—a cementitious grout consistency with a
ation where a consensus could be developed among knowl- flow of 100 to 125 by the flow test in accordance with the
edgeable manufacturers and users. Various approaches are applicable provisions of ASTM C1437—07 test method; the
outlined for areas where opinions differ. Many statements flow calculated after five drops of the flow table in 3 seconds.
and much of the information contained in this report are working time—time in which the grout can be placed
based on published manufacturers’ data and observations without having a detrimental effect on the strength and
and practical experience by technical representatives and serviceability of the grout.
users. There is little current published research available at
this time, but the information in this report is the most current CHAPTER 3—GROUT
information available. This report describes materials and
installation methods for grouts used as load—transfer mate- 3.1—Requirements
rial between machine or equipment bases and their founda- After placement and hardening in the space between a
tions. Characteristics of the placed material, test methods machine or equipment base and the foundation. the grout is
for forecasting their long-term performance, and installa- expected to perform one of the following functions:
tion procedures are included. The information may also be - Permanently maintain the original level and alignment
appropriate for other types of applications where filling of of the machinery or equipment and transfer all loads to
the space between load-carrying members is required, such the foundation when shims and other temporary posi—
as under column baseplates or in joints between precast tioning devices are removed.
concrete elements. . Act together with shims or other alignment devices in
Machinery and equipment that have precise tolerances the transfer of loads to the foundation.
for alignment or require uniform support cannot be placed . Provide only stability support or corrosion protection
directly on finished concrete surfaces. Both the concrete for shims or other alignment devices that are designed
surface and the machine base have irregularities that result to transfer all loads to the foundation.
in alignment difficulties and bearing load concentrations. The most important requirement for a grout intended to
For this reason, machine bases or soleplates are aligned and transfer loads to the foundation is the volume-change char-
leveled by shimming or other means, and the resulting space acteristics that result in complete and permanent filling of
between the machine base and the foundation is filled with a the space. Plain grouts consisting of cement. aggregate, and
load-transfer grout material. The load-transfer grout materials water do not have these characteristics. Other properties of
most frequently used are nonshrink cementitious grouts and the grout, such as consistency, strength, chemical resistance,
nonshrink epoxy grouts. temperature resistance, and compatibility with the operating
environment are also important. These properties, however,
CHAPTER 2—DEFINITIONS are obtained more easily than the necessary volume-change
AC1 provides a comprehensive list of definitions through characteristics.
an online resource “AC1 Concrete Terminology” (http:/l For most applications, the space between the founda-
terminology.concrete.org). Definitions provided herein tion and the machinery or equipment base can best be filled
complement that resource. by placing a flowable grout into the space. To maintain

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GROUTING BETWEEN FOUNDATIONS AND BASES FOR SUPPORT OF EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY (ACI 351.1R-12) 3

permanent contact with the plate, formulate a grout using


special additives. A plain sand-cement grout with a flow-
PLACEMENT OF DRY PACK
comma
able consistency could be placed in the space and may uvens
develop adequate strength; however, after placement, the
or am PM
sounLv A'I'rAcueo
sand-cement grout will lose contact with the plate because on emu
of settlement, shrinkage, and bleeding or drying shrinkage.
The result will be an incompletely filled space, leaving the
equipment resting primarily or completely on the shims or
other alignment device. iiiii‘iiiiil
3.1.1 Volume change characteristics (nonshrink grout)—
When dealing with nonshrink grout, define the time at which
the initial volume measurement is made. Was it made imme-
diately after the mixing of the grout or after the grout had
hardened? This determination of when to make the first
measurement depends on the function of the product and Fig. 3.2.1—Dry-pack placement.
its intended use. The function of a nonshrink grout, whether
cementitious or epoxy, is to fill the void between the base 3.2—Overview of nonshrink grouts
plate and the foundation completely and permanently Several placement methods and materials have evolved in
without shrinking or separating from either, and to transfer an attempt to achieve the necessary volume-change charac-
all loads from the base to the concrete foundation (or main- teristics for a material that can be placed between a machine
tain precise alignment). These requirements demand that the base and the foundation that developed.
initial measurement be made at the time of the grout place- 3.2.1 Dry-pack (damp-pack)—One of the first methods
ment under the base plate. for permanently filling a space was to force (or dry-pack) a
To better understand the nonshrink properties of a grout or damp, cohesive mixture of sand and cement into the space.
support for equipment and machinery, a thorough study of The mixture contains only enough water for compaction and
ASTM Cl lO7/Cl lO7M-ll should be made. ASTM C1107/ hydration but not enough to permit settlement of the grout’s
Cl 107M-l 1 provides the test methodology for the nonshrink constituents. The grout mixture has the consistency of damp
characteristics and compressive strength of nonshrink sand and is placed in lifts of approximately l/2 to 3/4 in. (12
grout. Epoxy grout is briefly discussed in Section 3.2, and to 20 mm) in thickness. Each lift is placed between the base
Chapter 5 discusses nonshrink epoxy grout. plate and the substrate concrete using a flat-faced wooden
There are three test methods that are referenced in ASTM or metal tool. The end of the tool not in contact with the
C1107/C1107M-11. The first is ASTM C1090—10, “Standard grout may be struck with a hammer to increase compaction
Test Method for Measuring Change in Height of Cylindrical (Fig. 32.1).
Specimens from Hydraulic—Cement Grout.” This procedure This procedure produces a bearing surface that is filled
measures the height change (volume change) from the time with voids. In most cases, approximately 75 to 80% of the
of placement until the grout has hardened and has been put total bearing surface is supporting the load. This low percent
into service. of bearing can result in point loading in the bearing area and
The second test method is ASTM C827/C827M-08, may cause a foundation failure.
“Standard Test Method for Change in Height at Early Ages Dry-pack grout as placed produces less—than-optimal
of Cylindrical Specimens of Cementitious Mixtures.” This bearing, but is a true nonshrink system. The low water
test method measures the height change (volume change) content prevents settling in the plastic state, and the compac—
from the time of placement while the grout is still in the tion between the base plate and foundation during placement
plastic state and does not address hardened state expansion produces a positive pressure between the foundation and
or shrinkage. the base plate and prevents the grout from shrinking during
The third test method is ASTM C109/C109M—l 1, “Stan- drying in the hardened state.
dard Test Method for Hydraulic Cement Mortars (Using If properly placed, dry-pack grout is acceptable. It is diffi—
2-in. or [SO-mm] Cube Specimen)” This test method was cult, however (and in many cases impossible), to achieve
designed for testing portland cement mortars made with a proper placement. Dry-packing requires an almost unob—
specially graded sand. These mortars are extremely stiff and structed space and must be installed by skilled workers.
are dry-pack in nature; whereas nonshrink grout varies in 3.2.2 Gaseous grouts
consistency from dry-pack to fluid (self-leveling). This test 3.2.2.1 Grouts with aluminum powder—Another early
method does not address the variations in consistency. When method for making nonshrink grout was to add a small
fabricating procedures for 2 x 2 in. (50 x 50 mm) cubes are amount (usually 3 to 5 g per 90 lb [44 kg] of cement) of
used as outlined in this procedure for highly flowable grouts, aluminum powder to a plastic or flowable grout. The
segregation will occur, indicating a strength that is far below aluminum powder reacts with the soluble alkalies in the
the actual strength of the grout under testing. cement to form hydrogen gas. The gas formation causes the
grout to increase in volume only while it is in the plastic
state. The expansion is difficult to control due to the difficulty

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4 GROUTING BETWEEN FOUNDATIONS AND BASES FOR SUPPORT OF EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY (ACI 351.1R-12)

of blending very small quantities of aluminum powder between the base plate and the foundation. This type of
into the mixture and the sensitivity of the chemical reac- grout has been formulated in both metallic and nonmetallic
tion to temperature and soluble alkalies in the mixture. The grouts and, when done properly, will meet ASTM C1107/
hydrogen gas is highly compressible and can only produce C1107M-ll requirements. Grouts with expansive cement
expansion while the grout is in the plastic state and cannot systems are discussed further in Chapter 4.
create a positive pressure between the base plate and the 3.2.5 Epoxy grout—Since the late 1950s, epoxy grouts
foundation. Therefore, it cannot produce expansion in the have been used under machine and equipment bases. Epoxy
hardened state. Grouts that produce gas as their only method grouts are usually two-component epoxy adhesive systems
of expansion will ultimately shrink as the grout hardens. mixed with oven-dry aggregate. These epoxy grouts are
Aluminum powder grouts are discussed further in Chapter 4. characterized by high strength and adhesion properties.
Other grouts with some metallic additives such as magne- They are also resistant to attack by many chemicals and
sium powders have also been used. are highly resistant to shock and vibratory loads. Epoxy
3.2.2.2 Air-release system—In the late 1960s, a grout grouts have traditionally shown linear shrinkage; however,
was developed that used specially processed fine carbon. manufacturers have various methods to reduce or eliminate
The carbon particles release adsorbed air on contact with shrinkage. Epoxy grouts, when in their development stages
the mixing water and cause an increase in volume while the in the mid 1950s, were primarily commercially available
grout is in the plastic state. The material is less tempera- epoxy resin systems extended with graded silica aggregate.
ture-sensitive than aluminum powder and insensitive to the Such mixtures were quite strong but also brittle, resulting in
alkali content of the cement used. The air-release system is cracking. They were also difficult to place and were incon-
discussed further in Chapter 4. sistent in performance.
3.2.3 Grouts with oxidizing iron aggregate—1n the 19305, Modifications were made to improve and lessen the
an admixture was introduced that contained a graded iron tendency to crack. The modifications resulted in formula-
aggregate combined with a water-reducing retarder, an tions with higher creep values. Modern epoxy mixtures are a
oxidant (or catalyst), and possibly other chemicals. Sufficient compromise between crack and creep reduction.
volume increase to compensate for settlement shrinkage is Epoxy grouts do not have a standard test method devel-
caused by the oxidation of the metallic aggregate during the oped for the purpose of certification as a nonshrink grout.
first few days after hardening when blended in the field with ASTM C1107/C1107M-11 is a standard specification for
cement, fine aggregate, and water. The advantage of metallic cementitious grouts for the purpose of certification as a
catalyzed grout over that of dry-pack grout is that the nonshrink grout.
consistency is more placeable than that of dry-pack grout.
Metallic catalyzed grouts have a plastic consistency that can 3.3—Selection
be placed with a lower void ratio than that of a dry-pack 3.3.1 General—Both cementitious and epoxy grouts
grout. This will produce a grout pad with a greater bearing have limitations that must be considered when specifying a
capacity (load-carrying capability). Metal oxidizing grouts grout for a specific project. Two considerations that must
are discussed further in Chapter 4. be decided on are: l) the type of load that will be applied
Metallic catalyzed grout may initially show some plastic to the base plate; and 2) the operating temperature at which
shrinkage, but if properly designed, the oxidation of the iron the grout must perform. Uenerally speaking, epoxy grouts
will overcome the initial plastic shrinkage. The expansion can perform at temperatures below 130°F (55°C), whereas
that occurs can and will produce a pressure between the cementitious grout can operate at temperatures up to 400°F
underside of the base plate and the foundation. This pressure (200°C).
(expansive force) will offset any drying shrinkage that can Many of today’s commercially available grouts are well—
occur at a later time. balanced, preproportioned formulations that provide excellent
This is old technology and is generally not in use today. machine stability with minimal cracking or creep-related
The principal reason is unsightly rust stains on the shoulders problems. The use of preblended, prepackaged grouts
of the grout, and the unconfined areas of the grout cause the usually results in more consistent and predictable perfor-
shoulder of the grout to break up even when the grout that is mance than can be obtained with field-proportioned epoxy
confined under the base plate is sound. grout. Most manufactures of preblended grout have quality
3.2.4 Grouts with expansive cements—1n the late 19603, control programs that result in the production of a uniform
grouts were developed that use a system or combination product.
of expansive and other hydraulic cements and additives The following are general categories in which cementi-
to compensate for shrinkage. During hydration of these tious and epoxy grouts should be considered. Cementitious
systems, reactions between aluminates and sulfates occur to grouts are the most versatile as far as consistency, ranging
produce ettringite. Because ettringite has a greater volume from dry-pack to fluid. A cementitious grout having a fluid
than the reacting solid ingredients, the volume of the grout consistency will pass through an ASTM C939-10 flow cone
increases. The reaction occurs from the moment mixing in 30 seconds or less. This cementitious grout would be
water is added and continues at a decreasing rate until some- easier to place compared to an epoxy grout.
time after the grout hardens. 1f properly proportioned, it will 3.3.2 Static loading—Cementitious grouts are almost
compensate for shrinkage by inducing a positive pressure always specified for static or near-statically-loaded equip-

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GROUTING BETWEEN FOUNDATIONS AND BASES FOR SUPPORT OF EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY (ACI 351.1R-12) 5

ment foundation systems. Cementitious grouts generally 4.2—Properties


perform better than epoxy grouts in static load systems 4.2.1 General—The performance of a grout under a
because cementitious grouts have a lower creep factor. machine or equipment base depends on the properties
3.3.3 Dynamic loading—Dynamic systems relate to two of the grout in both the plastic and hardened states. The
different types. Dynamic loads produced by electric motors most important properties are workability, volume change,
or other rotating machines (sinusoidal waveform) are gener- strength, stiffness, and durability. The following sections
ally less harsh than impacting load produced by recipro- discuss these properties of cementitious grouts and their
cating equipment. Cyclic dynamic loads produce horizontal, effect on grout performance.
vertical uplifting, and downward forces on the base plate Cementitious grouts have properties in the plastic and
and grout pad. This can be addressed by either cementitious hardened states that make them acceptable for most applica-
or epoxy grouts, depending on the size of the load. When a tions. They are suitable for transfer of large static compres-
grout is being specified for dynamic loading systems, take sive loads and transfer of many dynamic loads. They are
into consideration the severity of the shock load to the base not recommended for dynamic equipment that exerts both
plate and, ultimately, to the grout. Epoxy grouts outperform vertical and horizontal loads, such as reciprocating gas
cementitious grouts in dynamic systems because epoxy compressors.
grouts are less rigid. 4.2.2 Workability—The workability of a grout while in
the plastic state must be adequate to allow placement of the
3.4—Common issues grout under a baseplate. This property is related primarily
Nonshrink grouts are designed to be confined between to the consistency of the grout and its ability to flow and
the base plate and the foundation. Some manufacturers of maintain these flow characteristics with time. For example,
nonshrink grout allow their products to be used as a patching a non-flowable grout may require rodding to aid in place-
mortar or overlay. Nonshrink grout used in this way is not ment under a baseplate, but the grout may still be workable
addressed in this document. Before using a nonshrink grout if it has a long working time. On the other hand, a fluid
as a patching mortar or overlay, the manufacturer of that grout may stiffen rapidly but require only a short time to
product should give approval for their application. be fully placed. Both of these grouts could have acceptable
One of the major concerns when using a nonshrink grout workability.
is hairline cracks in the shoulder of the grout. In most 4.2.3 Volume change—Except for dry-pack, plain grouts
cases, these hairline cracks are cosmetic in nature and do that are mixtures of only cement, aggregate, and water do
not affect the performance of the grout under the base plate not have the volume-change characteristics necessary for
unless located outdoors and subject to weather. If the grout machine-base grout. After being placed under a plate, a plain
is outside, a good fix is to seal the cracks to prevent water grout will generally exhibit significant bleeding, settlement,
infiltration. A closer examination of these cracks is required and drying shrinkage. For use as a machine—base grout,
to determine if they extend through the full depth of the admixtures or special cement systems should be used to
grout. This could indicate a foundation failure that would compensate for, or prevent, bleeding, settlement, and drying
require major repair. Cosmetic hairline cracks can be greatly shrinkage.
reduced by requiring the grout shoulder to extend no more 4.2.3.1 Cementitious grouts with gas generation admix-
than 2 to 3 in. (50 to 75 mm) beyond the base plate. tures—Several admixtures are available to react with the
Most designers of base plates assume that the load is trans- ingredients in fresh grout to generate one or more gases.
ferred uniformly across the base plate. When shims are left in The gas generation causes the grout to increase in volume
place, the grouts will, in most cases, act together with shims in while plastic. The expansion stops when the capability
the load transfer. The proportion of the load carried by the grout, for gas liberation is exhausted or the grout has hardened
however, depends on many variables such as size, number, and sufficiently to restrain the expansion. The most common
location of shims, and the volume-change characteristics of the gas-generating material used is aluminum powder, which
grout. Therefore, the participation of the grout cannot be deter- releases hydrogen. If the proper additive dosage is used,
mined accurately. The loads on the supported equipment and it will counteract settlement shrinkage and allow the grout
the supporting concrete will not be uniform and could result in to harden in contact with the baseplate. The expansion that
overstressing of the equipment base plate on the concrete. is produced is somewhat greater than would be needed to
Avoid welding to a base plate after grout installation to prevent prevent shrinkage while grout is in plastic state. Because the
thermal expansion of the base plate that could result in spalling 0r grout is vertically confined, expansion in excess of settle-
cracking of the grout or excessive stress in the anchors. ment shrinkage extends the grout laterally.
Where aluminum powder is used to generate gas, the
CHAPTER 4—NONSHRINK CEMENTITIOUS amount added to a batch is small. Therefore, to obtain uniform
GROUTS dispersion in the mixture, preblend the aluminum powder
with the dry cement or use a commercial, preblended grout.
4.1—lntroduction The total expansion of a grout with aluminum powder
This chapter provides an overview of current practices additive depends on several properties of the grout during
regarding the use of cementitious grouts to support equip- various stages of hardening. The rate of gas formation is
ment and machinery. affected by the temperature of the grout. The total expansion

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6 GROUTING BETWEEN FOUNDATIONS AND BASES FOR SUPPORT OF EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY (ACI 351.1R-12)

of the grout is affected by the temperature, the soluble alkali 0.05%, whereas settlement shrinkage in grout is generally
content of the mixed grout, and the rate of hardening of on the order of 1.0%.
the grout. The restraint provided to the grout as it develops As for most types of grout, those that are based on expan-
strength limits the amount of expansion. sive cements may be affected by temperature, water content,
4.2.3.2 Cementitious grouts with air-release admixtures— and method of curing. Generally, when used for machine
Several admixtures are available to react with water to bases, expansive cement grouts use other mechanisms, such
release air. The released air causes the grout to increase in as thickening agents, to limit the settlement shrinkage to
volume while plastic. The expansion stops when the capa- a small enough value that ettringite formation required to
bility for releasing air is exhausted or the grout has hardened overcome it will not cause disruption of the hardened grout.
sufficiently to restrain the expansion. The most common air- 4.2.3.5 Other mechanisms—Some preblended machine-
releasing material used is a fine carbon. If the proper dosage base grouts are based on proprietary mechanisms for
is used, it will counteract drying shrinkage and allow the compensating for settlement shrinkage. Several preblended
grout to harden in contact with the baseplate. The expansion grouts minimize or eliminate shrinkage by using water
that is produced is somewhat greater than would be needed to reducers, combinations of hydraulic cements, thickening
prevent shrinkage while grout is in plastic state. Because the agents, or all three additives.
grout is vertically confined, expansion in excess of shrinkage 4.2.4 Strength—The strength of a grout must be sufficient
extends the grout laterally. Unlike gas-generating grouts, to transfer all loads to the foundation. The compressive loads
special methods are not needed for blending fine carbon— result primarily from the weight of the machine. They may
based grouts because a much higher portion of admixture also, however, be due to anchor bolt tensioning and static
is used. Fine carbon admixtures are less sensitive than and dynamic forces resulting from equipment operation.
aluminum powder to temperature and are insensitive to the Typically, compressive strengths of cementitious grouts at
chemistry of the mixture. 28 days are between 5000 and 8000 psi (35 and 55 MPa).
4.2.3.3 Cementitious grouts with metal oxidation admix- Because the bond strength of cementitious grout to steel
tures—The addition of metal particles and an oxidant will not is relatively low, the grout is not generally used to transfer
prevent drying shrinkage but is designed to cause a compen- tensile loads to the foundation.
sating increase in volume in the hardened state. The expan- The compressive strength of most cementitious grouts
sion occurs because the oxidation products have a greater develops more rapidly than conventional concrete. For most
volume than the metal particles. The reaction begins after installations using cementitious grouts, the equipment can
the addition of water and the expansion gradually ceases due be placed in service in 3 to 7 days, depending on the design
to the combination of rigid vertical confinement, the hardening strength requirements and the strength-gain characteristics
and strength development of the cement matrix, and the of the grout, which is mostly temperature driven. If high
diminishing supply of moisture and oxygen. bearing loads are expected, however, longer waiting periods
Machine-base grouts that use this mechanism are usually are required.
preblended, which reduces the chance of proportioning 4.2.5 Elastic and inelastic properties—The modulus of
errors. Such proportioning errors could affect the rate of elasticity of cementitious grouts is typically larger than that
expansion. Also, grouts using this mechanism should be of the underlying concrete because of their greater compres—
used only under rigid bolted confinement. Unconfined areas sive strength. The typical modulus is 3000 to 5000 ksi (20
such as exposed shoulders will disintegrate. to 35 GPa).
The equipment baseplate should be rigid to withstand the The creep of cementitious grouts is approximately the
force exerted on the base by the expansion of the grout so same as concrete. The deformation of grout is usually not
that the alignment of the equipment is not affected. These significant due to the relative thickness of the grout as
grouts should not be used on equipment subject to thermal compared to the foundation. The load-deformation char—
movement, such as turbines or compressors, or be placed in acteristics of hydraulic-cement grouts are not significantly
contact with post-tensioned or prestressed cables, rods, or affected by temperatures less than 400°F (200°C).
bolts due to the corrosive potential of the oxidate. 4.2.6 Durability—Most cementitious grouts have good
4.2.3.4 Ettrlngite formation—The use of expansive resistance to freezing and thawing because of their high
cements in grout will result in the expansive formation of strength and impermeability. Their resistance to chemicals
ettringite during the plastic and hardened states. If prop- is usually the same as that of concrete. lf adjacent concrete
erly formulated, the resulting expansion will compensate foundations, columns, or floors must be protected from
for shrinkage and may cause small compressive stresses to chemical attack, exposed grout shoulders should be given
develop in grout under confinement. similar protection.
Machine-base grouts using the expansive cements covered Air entrainment is unnecessary, as the grout is sandwiched
by ASTM C845-04 do not have sufficient expansion unless between the foundation and the baseplate that protects the
additives are used to reduce settlement and provide expan- grout from water intrusion and the expansive damage that
sion during the plastic state. The standard expansive cements will occur during freezing and thawing.
are formulated to compensate for drying shrinkage in ground
floor slabs. Drying shrinkage is generally on the order of

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GROUTING BETWEEN FOUNDATIONS AND BASES FOR SUPPORT OF EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY (ACI 351.1R-12) 7

4.3—Material requirements The primary considerations for field-proportioned grouts


4.3.1 General—The materials for machine-base grouts used at dry-pack consistency are compressive strength and
are usually qualified by performing tests or by obtaining test convenience. Because the compaction of dry-pack affects
results or certifications from the manufacturer or an inde- the compressive strength as much as the proportions of
pendent testing laboratory. The following sections discuss the ingredients, special methods for making representative
the general recommendations for the material to be used in specimens should be developed by the engineer. Generally,
grout. 28-day strengths of 6000 to 8000 psi (40 to 55 MPa) are
The qualification of a cementitious grout should be based easily obtainable for most dry-pack grouts. The following
on a comparison of test results with predetermined require- sections discuss the requirements for the materials and the
ments for volume-change, bleeding, strength, and working methods for proportioning field-proportioned grouts.
time. The temperature and consistency of the grout used for 4.3.3.2 Cement—The hydraulic cement for field-propor-
testing should be known and should be the basis for setting tioned grout generally is required to conform to ASTM C150/
field requirements for as-mixed and in-place temperature C150M-l l. Blended and expansive cements conforming to
and consistency or maximum water content. ASTM C845-04 may be acceptable. Expansive cements are
4.3.2 Preblended grouts—The qualification requirements not generally used in field-proportioned grouts unless other
of preblended grouts may be based on the results of the tests additives are also used.
performed in accordance with ASTM C1090-10 and ASTM 4.3.3.3 Fine aggregate—Fine aggregate for field-propor-
C827/C827M-08 in combination with the performance eval- tioned grouts should conform to ASTM C33/C33M-ll,
uation test as given in Section 5.4.3. Some manufacturers Cl44-ll, or C404—11. All three specifications require a
and users employ both laboratory methods to evaluate a continuous grading, place limits on deleterious material, and
grout. Generally, acceptable results from one of the standard require tests for soundness.
tests along with successful results from a performance eval- The gradation of aggregate for field-proportioned grouts
uation test are sufficient for qualification of a grout. may require alteration in the field so that the maximum
Tests for bleeding in accordance with Section 4.4.5 particle size is appropriate for the minimum grout thick-
should be considered along with the results of the perfor- ness anticipated. Consider the addition of 3/8 in. (10 mm)
mance evaluation test, that is, bleeding should be no greater nominal, maximum-sized coarse aggregate for grout thick-
than that of the grout mixture that passes the performance ness over 3 in. (75 mm).
test. The results may be used to set field test limitations for 4.3.3.4 Admixtures—Admixtures that reduce settlement
bleeding or to verify compliance with specified bleeding shrinkage and provide expansion in the plastic state should
requirements. be used in all field-proportioned grout mixtures. Chemical
The qualification requirements for strength of preblended admixtures, such as high-range water-reducing admixtures,
grout may be based on the compressive strength of the water reducers, and air—entraining admixtures, may also be
concrete on which the grout will be placed. Generally, used.
28-day strengths of 5000 to 6000 psi (35 to 40 MPa) are Most commercially available grouting admixtures contain
easily obtained for most preblended grouts. a material that reacts chemically with alkalies in the cement
The procedures that are expected to be used in the field to form a gas. They may also contain a water—reducing
should be considered for evaluating working time. Some admixture. Admixtures based on other mechanisms for
grouts have long working times if agitated. Others may compensating or preventing settlement shrinkage or for
have longer working times but may have less desirable reducing bleeding are available.
performance for other properties such as volume change or 4.3.3.5 Proportioning Offield-proportioned grout—The
bleeding. proportioning of flowable field-proportioned grouts involves
For some applications, additional qualification require- the determination of the ratio of aggregate to cement, the
ments or limitations may be necessary. Special requirements water content, and the dosage of the grouting additive neces—
may include chemical resistance, resistance to freezing and sary to obtain the desired volume-change characteristics.
thawing, impact resistance, or cosmetic appearance. Limita- The aggregate used for proportioning should be obtained
tions on chloride ions, as given in AC1 318-1 1, may be placed from the job or from the proposed source for the job.
on certain ingredients in grout to be used in contact with The ratio of aggregate to cement and the water content
high-strength steels used in prestressed or post—tensioned should be determined from trial batches at standard labo-
construction. ratory temperature using a constant preliminary admixture
4.3.3 F[dd-proportioned grout dosage and a constant consistency. The ratio of aggregate-
4.3.3.1 General—The qualification requirements for field- to-cement for minimum water is usually 1.5 to 2.5 by mass,
proportioned grouts with a flowable consistency should be depending mainly on the fineness of the aggregate. The
essentially the same as those for preblended grouts given compressive strength of mixtures with minimum water and
in Section 4.3.2. For testing field-proportioned grouts, the a flowable consistency is usually 4000 to 6000 psi (25 to
standard height-change tests are very important. The propor- 40 MPa) at 28 days. Ice-cooled water is sometimes used
tions of aggregate, cement, and admixtures may be adjusted to reduce the necessary amount of mixing water to control
to obtain the desired volume-change characteristics. The bleeding or to increase the strength, workability, and
methods for proportioning grout are given in Section 4.3.3.5. working time.

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8 GROUTING BETWEEN FOUNDATIONS AND BASES FOR SUPPORT OF EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY (ACI 351.1R-12)

The dosage of the grouting admixture should be determined 4.4.2.1 Mixers for test batches—Test batches of grout are
from trial batches run at the selected ratio of aggregate to mixed frequently in a laboratory mortar mixer similar to that
cement to optimize volume change and bleeding characteris- specified in ASTM C305-l l. The laboratory mixer and the
tics that are normally specified if critical to the application. field mixer may not achieve equivalent mixing. The water
Initial batches should be run at laboratory temperatures. content for a specific flow may be different using the labora-
Volume change and bleeding should also be determined tory mixer than the field mixer because of mixer efficiency
for specimens cast and maintained at minimum expected and batch size.
placement temperature and at the most flowable consistency 4.4.2.2 Temperature of test batches—Test results obtained
or maximum water content. If specified volume change or on grouts mixed, placed, and maintained at standard labora-
bleeding requirements are not met at the lower temperatures, tory temperatures are sometimes different than the results
admixture dosage may be increased or proportions adjusted. that may be obtained at the maximum and minimum
The proportions of dry-pack grout are not as critical as for placing temperatures permitted in the field. Tests should
grouts of plastic or flowable consistency. Therefore, propor- be performed near both the maximum and minimum field
tioning from trial batches is usually not necessary. Dry-pack placing temperature for volume change, bleeding, working
with an aggregate-to-cement ratio of 2.5 to 3.0 by weight will time, consistency, setting time, and strength.
generally compact well and have compressive strengths of The temperatures of test batches may be varied by
approximately 6000 to 8000 psi (40 to 55 MPa) at 28 days. adjusting mixing water temperature, storing materials at
4.3.4 Water—Unless otherwise allowed by the manu- elevated or lowered temperatures, or a combination of the
facturer or designer of the grout, water for preblended or two. Molds for tests should be brought to the desired temper-
field-proportioned grout should be potable. If the water ature before use and should be maintained at that tempera-
is discolored or has a distinct odor, it should not be used ture for the duration of the test.
unless: I) it has a demonstrated record of acceptable perfor- 4.4.2.3 Batching sequence for test batches—The batching
mance in grout or concrete; or 2) the 7-day compressive sequence and mixing time or procedure used for test batches
strength of specimens made with the water is at least 90% of will affect the results of all tests. For preblended grouts, the
the compressive strength of identical specimens made with contents of the entire bag of grout should be mixed for the
distilled water. test batch. This ensures that segregation of the materials in
If grout or dry-pack is to be placed in contact with high- the bag will not affect the results. If a full bag cannot be
strength steel bolts or stressed rods or in contact with dissim- used, then dry materials should be blended to ensure unifor-
ilar metals, limits should be placed on the chloride and mity. Most manufacturers recommend that some or all
sulfide ion contents of the water. Allowable maximum chlo- water be added to the mixer before the dry preblended grout
ride ion concentration given in various documents ranges and then mixed for 3 to 5 minutes. The recommendations
from 100 to 600 ppm. Little or no information or guidance of the engineer or the manufacturer of the grout should be
is given for sulfide ion content, although it is recognized as followed. The mixing procedure and batching sequence used
a corrosive medium. for making test batches should be recorded. It should be as
close as possible to the procedure to be used in the field.
4.4—Testing 4.4.2.4 Consistency of test batches—The consistency of
4.4.1 General—The following sections discuss the test test batches should be the most flowable consistency that
methods used for evaluation of grouts. The results of these may be used for placement in the field or the maximum
tests are useful for evaluating the properties of grouts both recommended by the manufacturer or designer of the grout.
before and during placement and in service. Field personnel should be prohibited from using higher
Section 5.4.3 covers a test that is applicable to both water contents than were used for tests. The maximum
cementitious and epoxy grouts. Although the test does not water content or flow recommended by the manufacturer of
yield quantitative results, it is useful as an overall measure of preblended grouts should not be exceeded.
workability and in-service performance of a grout. Tests at the minimum permissible flow or water content
The evaluation of cementitious grout should include tests are not usually required because the performance of a grout
for volume change, strength, setting time, working time, is usually improved by lower water contents if it can still be
consistency, and bleeding. For field-proportioned grout, the properly placed.
tests should be performed on grout made from job materials. 4.4.3 Volume change
The proportioning methods for field-proportioned grout are 4.4.3.1 General—Volume change of machine-base grouts
given in Section 4.3.3.5. should be evaluated by using test methods that measure
4.4.2 Preparation of test batches—The equipment and height change from time of placement. The most common
methods used for preparation of test batches may affect the methods used for evaluating the volume-change characteris-
results of many of the tests performed on grout. The condi- tics of a grout are the micrometer bridge described in ASTM
tions of the tests may also affect the applicability of the C1090-10 and the optical method described in ASTM C827/
results to field situations. The following sections discuss C827M-O8. Both tests evaluate volume change by measure-
some of the considerations that should be examined before ment of height change.
preparation of test specimens. ASTM ClO90-lO measures height change from time of
placement to l, 3, l4, and 28 days; ASTM C827/C827M-08

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GROUTING BETWEEN FOUNDATIONS AND BASES FOR SUPPORT OF EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY (ACI 351.1R-12) 9

measures height change from time of placement to time of Hold Down Device
setting. Both ASTM C827/C827M-08 and ASTM C1090-10
are test methods used in ASTM Cl 107/Cl 107M-11 to E
g Set Screw
determine nonshrink characteristics of the grout in both the Top
plastic and the hardened state. ASTM CllO7/CllO7M-ll Plate;
1 l: l: I
requires that, to be certified as a nonshrink grout, the vertical
expansion at final set must not be greater than 4% per ASTM
C1090-10 at 28 days, and not less than 0.0% and not greater i
'_-__—61'a'ss_P ate —————— —:
l—n
l”' Eb
than +03% per ASTM C1090-10. \ l lo2\
4.4.3.2 Micrometer bridge (ASTM C1090-10)—The Grout level at-—\ I
the time of
micrometer bridge test method described in ASTM C 1090-10 placement
.
measures height change in grout between the time it is placed
and at 1, 3, l4, and 28 days of age. In this procedure, grout
is placed in a 3 in. (75 mm) diameter by 6 in. (150 mm) high
steel cylinder mold. A clear glass plate is placed on top of
and in contact with the grout and clamped down on the rim
until 24 hours after placing the mixture in the mold. The
position of the surface of the grout at the time of placement
is determined by immediately taking micrometer depth gauge
measurements from a fixed bridge over the cylinder to the
top of the glass plate and later adding the measured thickness
of the plate taken after it has been removed. Movement of
the grout after it has set and the plate has been removed is
measured directly to the surface of the grout for up to 28 days.
Specimens should be prevented from losing or gaining mois-
ture (refer to Fig. 4.4.3.2). Specimens tested in accordance
with ASTM C1090-10 should be maintained in accordance
with ASTM C1107/C1107M-11.
The micrometer bridge method, in some respects, models
an actual baseplate installation. The main difference being
that, in the test, the plate is placed onto the grout instead \ Fixed lndlcator Fixed beam
focusing ball light source
of the grout being placed under the plate. The grout is
completely confined vertically until the plate is removed
24 hours after placement. The advantage that the micrometer Calibrated
decimal
bridge has over simulated baseplate tests is that it provides scales

a numerical measurement and uses much less material. The


Adjustable
fact that the method is generally available makes it possible platform
on tracks
to evaluate materials or grouts submitted by a vendor. This
test method also permits measurement of expansion after Fig. 4.4.3.3—Optical method (ASTM C827/C82 7M—08).
hardening.
4.4.3.3 Optical method (ASTM C827/C827M—08)—ASTM
C827/C827M-08 measures the unconfined height change in the grout has hardened nor do they detect height change.
grout from time of placement until the grout hardens. The ASTM C940-10a is sometimes used for in-process testing
grout is placed in a 2 x 4 in. (50 x 100 mm) cylinder and a of unconfined height change and bleeding. It is relatively
plastic ball is placed onto the top of the grout. Vertical move- insensitive to a small height change and is most appropriate
ment of the ball is measured using an optical procedure that for recognizing gross errors in the formulation or mixing of
indicates either shrinkage or expansion (refer to Fig. 4.4.3.3). gas-liberating grouts.
The test method does not attempt to model baseplate 4.4.4 Consistency—The consistency of a cementitious
installations because the top surface and ball are unrestrained grout can be determined using one of the following devices.
throughout the test. The optical method has advantages over 4.4.4.1 Flow table—The flow table specified in ASTM
simulated baseplate tests in that it provides a numerical C230/C23OM-08 is used in the laboratory to determine the
measurement and uses much less material. The fact that the consistency of plastic or flowable grouts. The consistency of
method is generally available makes it possible to evaluate fluid grouts exceeds the range of the flow table.
tests submitted by a vendor. The flow table is a circular brass table 10 in. (250 mm)
4.4.3.4 Other volume change test methods—Length change in diameter. Grout is placed on the table into a bottomless
test methods such as ASTM C157/C157M-ll and C806-04 cone-shaped mold with a base diameter of 4 in. (100 mm)
are not applicable for measuring the total volume change of and the mold is then carefully lifted, leaving fresh grout
grouts. Neither method measures length change until after unsupported laterally. A shaft is then turned with a crank

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10 GROUTING BETWEEN FOUNDATIONS AND BASES FOR SUPPORT OF EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY (ACI 351.1R-12)

or motor. A cam on the shaft causes the table to be raised After the grout is struck off, it is covered with a metal
and then dropped a specified distance. The impact causes plate that is restrained from movement by clamps or weights.
the grout to increase in diameter. The average increase in Restraint for at least 24 hours is desirable for all types of
diameter is usually measured after five drops on the table in grouts and is particularly important because unrestrained
3 seconds (for cement tests in accordance with ASTM C150/ expansion usually results in lower strength than would occur
C150M-11, the flow is measured at 25 drops in 15 seconds). in grout under a baseplate. If cubes are stripped in 24 hours,
The consistency is reported as the diameter increase of the they should be placed in saturated limewater until 1 hour
grout expressed as a percent of the diameter of the mold base. before testing.
The flow table will accommodate a flow of 150% before the Many specifications require 2 x 2 in. (50 x 50 mm) cubes
grout runs off the table. to be fabricated in accordance with ASTM C109/C109M-
The flow table is usually only used in a permanent labora- 11. This procedure has been developed for the fabrication
tory although it has been used in field laboratories for large of cubes used to test the compressive strength of portland
projects. cement. The procedure does not address bearing strengths
4.4.4.2 Flow cone—The flow cone specified in ASTM at which nonshrink grout must be tested. This procedure can
C939-10 is used in the field and laboratory to determine and will result in lower compressive strengths than the grout
the consistency of fluid grouts. Grouts of plastic and flow- is capable of producing because the grout is not confined
able consistency generally are not tested by the flow-cone and can expand. ASTM C1107/C1107M-ll addresses the
method. fabrication procedure for grouts of all consistencies.
The flow cone is a funnel with a top diameter of 7 in. (180 4.4.7 Setting and working time—The time of setting
mm) and an orifice diameter of 1/2 in. (13 mm). The grout of grouts is determined by one of the following methods:
is placed to the top of the conical section (1725 mL) with ASTM C191—08, C807—08, C266-08el, C953-10, or C403/
the orifice covered with a finger. The finger is then removed C403M-08. The methods all give a valid reproducible indi-
from the orifice and the time is measured until the cone is cation of the rate of hardening of grout. The initial and final
evacuated completely. The flow cone is also used in the times of setting, determined by the five methods, are not
laboratory and field for making adjustments to water content generally the same. The results from time-of—setting tests
to obtain a desired consistency. should not be used as an indication for the working time of a
4.4.4.3 Slump cone—A slump cone, as defined in ASTM grout. The working time should be estimated by performing
Cl43/Cl43M-10a, has been used occasionally to measure consistency tests at intervals after completion of mixing.
consistency of grout in the field. The slump cones usually
are standard 12 in. (300 mm) cones, but 6 in. (150 mm) CHAPTER 5—NONSHRINK EPOXY GROUTS
cones are sometimes used. Either the slump or the diameter
of the grout is measured. The results are less precise than 5.1—lntroduction
those from a flow table; however, it is often the only prac- This chapter provides an overview of current practices for
tical method for measuring the consistency of plastic and epoxy grouting to support equipment and machinery. This
flowable grouts in the field. chapter describes materials, installation methods, and testing
4.4.5 Bleeding—Bleeding can be measured in the field for epoxy grouts used as load-transfer material between
and laboratory in accordance with ASTM C940—10a. The machine or equipment bases and their foundations.
test method involves placing 800 mL of fresh grout into a
1000 mL graduated cylinder and covering to prevent evap- 5.2—Properties
oration. The bleed water that collects on top of the grout 5.2.1 General—The performance of an epoxy grout under
before initial set is measured. Typical values range from a machine or equipment base depends on the properties of
no bleeding for many preblended grouts to 5% for plain the epoxy grout in both the plastic and hardened states. The
sand-cement grouts with a flowable consistency. Tests for most important properties are placeablility, volume change,
bleeding should be conducted at temperatures corresponding compressive strength, durability, and creep resistance at
to the lowest expected placing temperature. Modifications operating temperature.
of the test using different types of containers and different Epoxy grouts are used frequently where special properties
procedures are sometimes used in the field. such as chemical resistance, high early strength, or impact
4.4.6 Compressive strength—The compressive strength resistance are required. Properties of epoxy grouts may be
of cementitious grouts is determined using 2 in. (50 mm) altered significantly when subjected to high temperatures.
cube specimens. The placing and consolidation procedure in The following sections discuss the more important properties
ASTM C109/C109M-11 is inappropriate for dry-pack, flow- of epoxy grouts.
able, or fluid grouts, but is satisfactory for stiff or plastic 5.2.2 Workability—The physical characteristics of an
consistencies. Fluid and flowable grouts are placed in two epoxy grout while fluid should allow placement of the epoxy
layers and are each puddled five times with a gloved finger. grout under the baseplate. This property depends primarily
The manufacturer of preblended grouts should be on the consistency of the epoxy grout but is also dependent
contacted for recommendations regarding molding, storing, on its ability to flow and maintain these flow characteristics
and testing of specimens. with time. Workability becomes a very important property
to evaluate when grouting large skid-mounted equipment.

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Typical skids can be 30 to 35 ft (10 to 12 m) long and 15 permit epoxy grouts to absorb more energy than cementitious
to 18 ft (5 to 6 m) wide with no inspection or access points. grouts when loaded by impact.
This means the epoxy grout must flow 15 to 18 ft (5 to 6 m) 5.2.5 Elastic and inelastic properties—The modulus of
across a blind area. Excellent flow characteristics are neces- elasticity for epoxy grouts varies because of differences
sary to achieve this without creating voids or unsupported in the quantity and type of aggregate and fillers, and the
areas of the skid beams. differing properties of resins and modifiers. In general, the
For epoxy grouts, the user should judge from experience, modulus for filled epoxy grouts ranges from 750 to 2000
testing, and/or visual observations of the mixed epoxy grout ksi (5 to 14 GPa). Epoxy grouts generally exhibit greater
whether the epoxy grout has adequate flowability to allow creep than cementitious grouts and, at higher temperatures
complete placement under the baseplate or skid-mounted (above approximately 120°F [50°C]), the creep of epoxy
equipment. The user should also evaluate the consistency of grouts increases significantly. Special epoxy formulations
the epoxy grout with time to assure that placement can be are available for temperatures up to 300°F (150°C).
completed before stiffening occurs. Additional manpower Significant changes in strength, stiffness, and durability
and mixing equipment may be required to meet this require- properties should be expected. The epoxy grout manufac-
ment. Unless specially prescribed in the product literature, turer should provide specific data in accordance with ASTM
the user should not reduce the amount of aggregate in the C1181-00(2005) at the higher operating temperatures.
mixture (for example, change to a three-bag mixture for a 5.2.6 Durability—Epoxy grouts exhibit more impact
product that only publishes properties for a four-bag mixture) and chemical resistance than cementitious grouts. They
to achieve better flow, as poor base plate contact can result. are unaffected by moisture after hardening, but are quite
5.2.3 Volume change—For use as a machine-base epoxy sensitive to moisture prior to curing. Although epoxies are
grout, the epoxy grout usually contains specially blended resistant to many chemicals that would damage or destroy
aggregate, fillers, other proprietary ingredients, or any cementitious grouts, they are susceptible to attack by ketones
combination thereof, that will reduce or eliminate the and some other organic chemicals. The stiffness and durability
shrinkage that generally occurs in the plastic state. Aggre- of epoxy grouts is reduced at temperatures exceeding the
gate and fillers reduce the temperature during hardening by transition temperatures. This is usually approximately 120°F
reducing the volume of epoxy resin per unit volume. The (50°C). Consult the manufacturer’s literature for more
aggregate and fillers also help restrain the shrinkage. precise information.
Neat epoxy grouts that are mixtures of only the epoxy resin 5.2.7 Thermal properties—Epoxy grout installations may
and hardener (catalyst, converter) do not have the volume- be affected by the differences in coefficient of thermal expan-
change properties necessary for a machine-base epoxy sion of the epoxy and the adjacent concrete. The coefficient
grout. After flowing under a plate, the neat epoxy grout of thermal expansion for epoxy grout is approximately three
will generally exhibit shrinkage of several percent. Most of to five times that for cementitious grout. If a severe change
this shrinkage occurs while the resin is in a liquid state and in temperature occurs, wide grout shoulders or long pours
allows most of the shrinkage to occur without stress buildup. without expansion joints or reinforcement may experience
The epoxy grout may exhibit additional thermal shrinkage. cracks, destruction of the concrete surface, or debonding at
Polymerization of epoxy is an exothermic reaction. The the concrete-epoxy grout interface.
temperature drop that occurs after the completion of the
reaction causes the thermal shrinkage that may result in 5.3—Material requirements
stress buildup and may cause cracking. The materials for machine-base epoxy grouts are usually
Manufacturers specify various methods and placing qualified by performing tests or by obtaining test results or
procedures to control shrinkage to meet specific design certifications from the manufacturer, independent testing
requirements and tolerances. Their recommendations should laboratory, or both.
be followed. The qualifications of epoxy grouts should be based on a
5.2.4 Strength—The long-term compressive strength comparison of test results with predetermined requirements
of epoxy grouts is generally 50 to 100% greater than a for volume change, compressive modulus strength, creep,
hydraulic-cement grout mixed to a flowable consistency. working time, and flow. The performance evaluation test
The strength also develops much faster. At normal tempera- discussed in Section 5.4.3 may be used as an indication of
tures, epoxy grouts may be loaded 24 to 48 hours after place- acceptable performance.
ment. The strength of the epoxy, however, may decrease The temperature and ratio of the polymer bonding system
when subjected to temperatures above approximately 120°F to aggregate should be known and be the basis for setting
(50°C). As many types of equipment operate in the 140 to field requirements. Generally, compressive strength of at
180 OF (60 to 83°C) oil temperature range, loss of physical least 8000 psi (55 MPa) is achieved for most epoxy grouts.
properties at operating equipment temperature must be eval- Qualification requirements for flow, working time,
uated by the designer. thermal compatibility, and creep resistance for epoxy grouts
Epoxy grouts have high tensile strength and give high are necessary and should be established because these prop-
bond strength to cleaned and roughened steel and concrete erties vary greatly among different epoxy grouts.
surfaces. The higher strength and lower modulus of elasticity

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12 GROUTING BETWEEN FOUNDATIONS AND BASES FOR SUPPORT OF EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY (ACI 351.1R-12)

5.4—Testing Where anticipated installation and in-service temperatures


5.4.1 General—The following sections discuss the test will be much lower or higher than normal temperatures,
methods used for evaluation of machine-base epoxy grouts. special tests should be performed at those temperatures.
Section 5.4.2 covers the common tests for various proper- 5.4.2.6 Setting and working time—The temperature of the
ties of epoxy grouts. The results of these tests are useful for epoxy grout material, the concrete substrate, and the base-
evaluating the properties of epoxy grouts before and during plate or equipment to be grouted all impact the working and
placement and in service. setting time. The warmer the temperature, the shorter the
Section 5.4.3 covers the performance and flow evaluation setting and working time, and vice versa for colder tempera-
test that is applicable to both cementitious and epoxy grouts. tures. Below 50°F (10°C), the material may stay dormant
Although the test does not yield quantitative results, it is until it warms to 55 to 60°F (13 to 16°C), depending on the
useful as an overall measure of workability and in-service manufacturer. Above 90°F (32°C), the material may set in
performance of an epoxy grout. half of the 70°F (21°C) published working time (or less).
5.4.2 Evaluation ofproperties of epoxy grouts Care must be taken to condition all the material and compo-
5.4.2.1 General—The evaluation of epoxy grouts should nents to be grouted to as close to 70°F (21°C) as possible to
consist of tests for strength and evaluation of creep, volume allow for optimum setting and working time. The size of the
change, working time, and consistency or flow. Evaluation specimen is critical for epoxy grouts. Times of setting are
can be made by testing, visual observation of actual field longer for small specimens and shorter for large specimens.
applications, or other experience. Most ASTM methods, such as ASTM C580-02(2008),
5.4.2.2 Preparation oftest batches—Test batches of epoxy designate standard laboratory conditions of 73.4 i 4°F (23
grout are prepared by first mixing the resin and hardener i 22°C) to establish a standard basis for testing materials.
and then adding the aggregate or filler. Mixing of the resin Higher or lower temperatures may affect epoxy grout
and hardener is done by hand or by an impeller-type mixer properties such as flowability, working time, strength, and
on an electric drill rotating at a slow speed (less than 250 cure time. Where anticipated installation and in-service
rpm) so that air will not be entrapped. After the aggregate temperatures will be much lower or much higher than
is added, mixing is completed by hand or in a mortar mixer. normal temperatures, special tests should be performed at
Impeller-type mixers should not be used for epoxy grout those temperatures.
with aggregate or fillers because air may be mixed into the 5.4.2.7 Creep—ASTM C1181-00(2005) is the accepted
epoxy grout. The air would then slowly migrate to the top method for testing the long-term creep properties of epoxy
surface after placement, resulting in voids under a plate. It grout. The manufacturer should provide creep information
is strongly recommended that a mortar mixer in good repair in accordance with this method. Temperature and depth of
with rubber-tipped blades to scrape the sides be used. pour of the epoxy grout both greatly increase the potential
5.4.2.3 Volume change—There is no generally accepted for creep and long-term deformation over time.
method for testing the volume or height-change properties of 5.4.3 Performance andflow evaluation test
an epoxy grout. Instead, ASTM Committee C-3 has devel- 5.4.3.1 General—The performance and flow evalua—
oped ASTM Cl339-02(2008) to measure flowability and tion test is commonly termed “a simulated baseplate test.”
bearing area. Most test methods for epoxies measure length Although the test is not an ASTM standard method, some
change after the epoxy grout has hardened. These methods users find that the test provides a means to evaluate the
do not measure the height change from the time of place- overall workability and in-service performance of an epoxy
ment until the time of hardening. grout. The test apparatus essentially consists of a baseplate
5.4.2.4 Consistency—The consistency or flow of epoxy that simulates a typical epoxy grouting application. The test
grouts is normally not measured using the flow table or flow provides information that can be used along with the results
cone for cementitious grouts. The manufacturer usually gives of the test methods discussed in Section 4.4 to determine the
the precise proportions to be used with epoxy grouts. There- acceptability of the epoxy grout and the placement method
fore, the users should determine if the consistency obtained for a specific application.
is sufficient for proper field placement at the temperatures 5.4.3.2 Apparatus—The apparatus (Fig. 5.4.3.2)
to be used. Temperature dramatically affects the flow and generally consists of a stiff steel plate or channel supported
working time of epoxy grouts. A flow test reflecting actual on shims a few inches above a rigid concrete base. The plate
field conditions should be done when evaluating epoxy (commonly l x 2 or 3 ft [300 x 600 or 900 mm]) is held
grouts, as characteristics differ greatly between manufac- down by bolts anchored in the concrete with the epoxy grout
turers. Aggregates should not be reduced to increase flow flowing in the long direction. A longer (15 ft [5 m]) and
in the field because the design physical properties will have wider (3 ft [900 mm]) steel plate test should be performed
changed. Additionally, aggregate removal may lessen the when epoxy grouting large skid-mounted equipment. If a
bearing area due to increased release of air that was entrained plastic base plate is used, then the test should only be used
during mixing. to demonstrate the flowing characteristics of the grout and
5.4.2.5 Compressive strength—Compressive strength tests not its nonshrink characteristics. This test should be run on
on epoxy grouts can be performed using 2 in. (50 mm) cubes, a chipped concrete surface (1 in. [25 mm] peak-to-valley
or on 1 x l in. (25 x 25 mm) cylinders. The specimens are profile) with either a continuous flat plate similar to the
made and tested in accordance with ASTM C579-00(2005). baseplate or a series of l-beams crossing perpendicular to

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GROUTING BETWEEN FOUNDATIONS AND BASES FOR SUPPORT OF EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY (ACI 351.1R-12) 13

the long length. The I-beams may be spaced 2 ft (600 mm)


apart to represent a cross section of a typical equipment skid.
The-I beams create a turbulence that may result in exces-
sive air or lack of bearing area under or around the I-beams.
The grout surface area near the beam should be thoroughly
inspected after cure and removal of the I-beams. The epoxy
grout must be able to flow the entire distance at 2 to 3 in.
(50 to 75 mm) of depth before thickening as it enters the
plastic state. This test should be performed at the designed
aggregate load. The bottom of the baseplate is usually waxed
to facilitate the removal of the plate after the epoxy grout
has hardened. Some epoxy grouts, however, may require
bond to the plate to maintain contact with the plate during
hardening. For these epoxy grouts, the recommendations of
the epoxy grout manufacturer or designer for preparation of
steel surfaces should be followed.
The concrete surface under the plate is usually the smooth,
hard-troweled laboratory floor waxed to prevent bond.
Roughening of the base surface with a chipping gun and
moil point to approximate field conditions may be feasible in
some instances where a waste slab is available but the use of
a smooth base will not greatly affect placeability over a flow
distance as short as 2 to 3 ft (600 to 900 mm). Whether or not
the base is rough does not affect the ability of an epoxy grout
to maintain contact with the plate.
The space between the plate and the concrete is usually
near the maximum expected for field applications. Tests
with the maximum gap are helpful in evaluating the capa-
bility of an epoxy grout to maintain contact with the plate.
Tests using the minimum permitted or expected gap may be
Fig. 5.4.3.2—Perf0rmance andflaw evaluation test.
necessary when problems with workability or flow distance
are anticipated.
Formwork for the test should be the same as used in result in the desired in—place installations. The test some—
the field and should comply with the recommendations of times identifies problems related to placing that are indepen—
Section 6.2.5.3. dent of the epoxy grout being used. These problems could
5.4.3.3 Procedure—The batching, mixing, and placing of be incomplete placement, surface voids, or air entrapment.
epoxy grout for the test should attempt to model the methods The baseplate test provides a means of evaluating the
to be used in the field. As discussed in Section 5.2.2, the workability of an epoxy grout by visually observing the
methods used to prepare the epoxy grout may result in effects of epoxy grout consistency, working time, and, to
changes in workability or performance. some degree, setting time on the placing operation.
For epoxy grouts and preblended cementitious grouts, the Some laboratories and users employ sounding methods to
manufacturer’s recommendations for mixing and placing identify major areas of the plate where epoxy grout is not
should be followed. Particular attention is required to assure in contact. Some users and manufacturers, however, do not
that the final grout level around the plate perimeter is above believe the method is reliable. The laboratories that use the
the bottom of the plate as recommended by the manufacturer. sounding methods generally use a 1/2 in. (13 mm) steel rod
The epoxy grout is placed in a headbox (Section 6.2.5.3) to sound the plate at ages up to 28 days for cementitious
located on one short side of the plate. The epoxy grout grouts and 3 days for epoxy grouts. The rod is held vertically
should then be flowed under the plate using the procedures and dropped approximately 1 in. (25 mm). A hollow sound
to be used in the field. The flow of epoxy grout should not indicates lack of contact. A ringing sound may indicate tight
be assisted by strapping, rodding, or vibration, as this can contact. The sounding method does not detect the presence
entrap air in the epoxy grout. Curing and protection of the of small bubbles or voids caused by placing methods. These
epoxy grout should be in accordance with Section 6.4.2. are detected visually after the plate is removed. Sounding
5.4.3.4 Evaluation of results—The intent of this section is methods are not reliable for plates more than 1 in. (25 mm)
to guide the reader in evaluating performance tests to supple- thick that must be lifted to check epoxy grout surface and
ment physical property testing. The performance evaluation effect of placement method.
test does not provide quantitative results. When used with After epoxy grout has hardened, the baseplate test
results of other tests, it provides an indication of whether or provides some information on the capability of the epoxy
not the materials and placement procedures specified will grout to maintain contact with the plate. The plate should be

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14 GROUTING BETWEEN FOUNDATIONS AND BASES FOR SUPPORT OF EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY (ACI 351.1R-12)

removed and the epoxy grout surface inspected for voids and If possible, grout holes for placement should be located
weak surface material. The surface of the epoxy grout under so that grout does not travel more than approximately 48 in.
the baseplate or skid should be evaluated for percentage (1200 mm). The grout holes should be placed so that grouting
of bearing area versus air bubbles or foamy areas. Lack of can be started at one hole and continued at other holes to
uniform bearing area can cause point loading and excessive ensure that the grout flows under all areas of the plate.
surface wear in an operating environment. Holes for pumping epoxy grout are typically 3/4 to 2 in.
When epoxy grouts are tested, the bottom and sides of (19 to 50 mm) in diameter and threaded for standard pipe
the baseplate and I-beams should be thoroughly waxed to threads. Grout holes for free-pouring grout are typically 4 to
prevent bonding of epoxy grout. The plate should be sounded 6 in. (75 to 150 mm) in diameter.
at 3 days and then removed. The use of threaded jack bolts to 6.1.3 Concrete foundation—The concrete foundation
support the plate or l-beams will also facilitate their removal. should be designed to have sufficient stiffness to prevent
The epoxy grout surface should be evaluated for weak areas, flexural tension in the epoxy grout and to prevent thermal
foamy or cellular areas, bubbling, and the amount of large warping caused by temperature differential or change.
irregular placing voids. Because of the higher strengths of For epoxy grouts, the concrete foundation must be fully
epoxy grouts, some users accept uniformly distributed voids cured for typically 21 to 28 days to ensure the excess water
of up to 25% of the bearing area if the resulting baseplate has evaporated. Care must be taken if using a high-early-
bearing stress is less than the allowable stresses provided by strength concrete, as it may meet compressive requirements
the equipment manufacturer. Proper mixing and placing of while still hydrating and before the shrinkage has stabilized.
quality materials should reduce this to the 10 to 15% range. Meeting only the compressive strength requirements for
If the epoxy grout manufacturer requires bonding, the plate high—early-strength concrete does not mean that the excess
should be sandblasted to white metal and the bond evaluated water is gone. Excess water will migrate to the surface of the
by sounding. concrete due to the exothermic reaction of the epoxy grout
5.4.3.5 Flow distance and time test—The epoxy grout during curing. This water can inhibit the bond between the
must be at full depth for the entire distance from one side to epoxy grout and concrete.
the other before it stops flowing. The installer must not try to The concrete surface should be tested for moisture before
pour from both sides to reduce flow distance, as this entraps the epoxy grout is placed. ASTM D4263-83(2005) specifies a
air and creates a low spot under the skid equipment. Unsup- test for moisture. This test uses an 18 in. (457 mm) square
ported beams will vibrate and cause equipment problems of transparent polyethylene film taped to the top of the
and misalignment. concrete. Water drawn to the surface by capillary action will
A flow test of distance versus time at field depth and condense on the underside of the plastic sheet. Run the test
temperature should be run to evaluate the epoxy grout for 16 hours, per ASTM D4263-83(2005), to be sure that
material, placing method, mixing equipment, and labor water, which can be several inches below the top, does not
needed per specific application. reach what will be the grout-concrete interface. Once the
The installer should plan to have the necessary number of epoxy grout starts to cure, water usually cannot interfere
mortar mixers, placing equipment, and workforce needed to with the proper bond developing. The test should be done in
place all of the material within its working time. an area shaded from direct sunlight.
If severe changes in temperature are expected, wide
CHAPTER 6—DESIGN, DETAILING, grout shoulders over 6 in. (150 mm) or long pours should
AND CONSTRUCTION have expansion joints, reinforcement, or both to minimize
cracks or horizontal fractures near the concrete-epoxy grout
6.1—Design and detailing considerations for grout interface.
6.1.1 General—The success of a grouting operation 6.1.4 Anchorage design—The design of anchor bolts or
depends, to a great extent, on the design of the foundation other devices may have an effect on grout performance. For
and machine or equipment base, the clearance provided for vibrating machinery or impact loading, it is important for the
the grout, and the provisions made for obtaining complete grout to be maintained in compression. This can usually be
filling of the space. The following sections discuss some of accomplished by uniformly tensioning the anchor bolts after
the design and detailing requirements for obtaining acceptable the grout has developed a significant portion of its ultimate
grouting. strength.
6.1.2 Machine or equipment bases—The machine base 6.1.5 Clearances—The clearances provided for grout
should be detailed so that grout can be placed beneath the between the machinery or equipment base and the under-
plate without trapping air in unvented corners. If possible, lying foundation is often a compromise between two
perpendicular stiffeners should be placed above the plate. opposing requirements: minimum thickness of grout for
lf grout cannot be placed from one edge and flowed to the optimum economy, and performance versus maximum
opposite edge, air vent holes must be provided through the clearance under the baseplate for ease and proper placement.
plate to prevent air entrapment. A vent hole l/4 to 1/2 in. (6 The job can be jeopardized if the design thickness is too
to 13 mm) in diameter should be placed through the plate at small for the application. Avoid specifying a single grout
the intersection of all crossing stiffeners and at each point allowance for the project. Instead, specify an allowance and
where air may be trapped (refer to Fig. 6.1.2).

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GROUTING BETWEEN FOUNDATIONS AND BASES FOR SUPPORT OF EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY (ACI 351.1R-12) 15

grout type for each piece of equipment to account for the


different requirement.
6.1.5.1 Cementitioiis grout—For flowable, cementi-
tious grouts that are placed by gravity, the minimum thick-
ness should be approximately 1 in. (25 mm) for a 1 ft (300
mm) flow length. For each additional 1 ft (300 mm) of flow
length, the thickness should be increased approximately 1/2
in. (13 mm) to a maximum of approximately 4 in. (100 mm).
For grouts with a plastic consistency placed by gravity, the (TOP VIEW)
clearances should be increased by 1/2 to l in. (13 to 25 mm)
above that designated for flowable grouts. For fluid grouts,
the clearance can generally be reduced by l/4 to 1/2 in. (6 to
13 mm) but should not be reduced to less than 1 in. (25 mm). (SIDE VIEW) SECTION A—A

For placements made by pumping through connections in


Fig. 6.1.2—Air reliefholes.
the plate, the clearances do not have to be increased. If it is
anticipated that a grout hose may be placed under the plate,
adequate clearance for the hose must be provided. cracks at the concrete grout interface. Consult the manufac-
For installations to be dry-packed, the clearances should turer for more precise information.
be approximately 1 to 3 in. (25 to 75 mm). Larger clearances
make compaction impractical. To allow proper compaction, 6.2—Preparation for grouting
the width of the area to be dry-packed from any direction 6.2.1 General—The following sections discuss the surface
should be less than 18 in. (460 mm). Shims and jack bolts preparations and framework for cementitious and epoxy
have a direct impact on dry packing. Both the jack bolts and grouting of machinery or equipment bases. The manu-
shim displacement that causes movement can prevent proper facturer of epoxy grouts may modify or supplement the
compaction of grout. following recommendations.
6.1.5.2 Epoxy grouts—The flow characteristics of the The installer should furnish enough mixers, placing equip-
different brands of epoxy grout vary quite substantially ment, and workforce to install all of the epoxy grout material
between manufacturers and their products. Most commercial within the given working time based on the ambient,
epoxy grouts will flow 4 ft (1200 mm) at a 2 in. (50 mm) depth equipment, and material temperature.
at 70°F (22°C). As the length or flow distance increases, so 6.2.2 Anchor-bolt sleeves, shear key pockets, and other
should the depth of the pour to facilitate flow. The maximum holes—Anchor-bolt sleeves designed to be grouted, shear
depth should not exceed 4 in. (100 mm) depth. Deep pours key pockets and other holes, and similar items should be
of epoxies have caused many failures and are normally only cleared of debris, dirt, and water by oil—free compressed air
used on repairs, not on new installations. The additional or vacuum. Sometimes, sleeves are not grouted in to provide
material cost is more than justified by the reduction in instal- stretch length for tensioning anchor bolts. Concrete in the
lation time and the greater odds of a more complete bearing holes should be saturated with water for 24 hours and the
area, free of voids and exclusions that cause vibration and water removed just prior to grouting with cementitious
drive up future maintenance costs. grout. For epoxy grouts, all surfaces should be completely
6.1.6 Shims and leveling pads—All temporary metal shims dry as specified by the epoxy grout manufacturer.
and leveling screws should be removed after grouting. All Anchor-bolt sleeves and holes that are to be grouted
pads for leveling screws should be round in shape with both should be grouted before pouring grout under the plate.
top and bottom edges broken to relieve any stress concentra- This is necessary to assure that the grout maintains contact
tions. lf round pads are not to be used, round the corners of with the plate. If the total placement is attempted in a single
rectangular or square pads. pour, air may rise to the grout surface from the sleeves. This
6.1.7 Expansion joints—Expansion joints are used to will result in settlement of the grout, seriously reducing the
break the epoxy grout pour into sections. Joints are typi- contact areas of the plate. In areas subjected to freezing
cally spaced every 3 to 7 ft (1 t0 2 m) and at odd inside or temperatures, sleeves should be sealed and protected from
outside corners, and should run the full width and or length the damaging effects of freezing water.
of the pour. Redwood, red cedar, metal, or special chemical- 6.2.3 Concrete surface preparation—The concrete
resistant foam can be used. Closed-cell extruded polystyrene surface on which grout will be placed should be chipped
foam should not be used, as it can melt due to the exothermic with a moil point or chisel point to provide a l in. (25 mm)
reaction and create a void that may later fill with fluids. peak-to-valley profile for epoxy grout in accordance with the
6.1.8 Anchors and dowels—Chamfering the edges or recommendations of APl 686RP-09 and a U4 in. (6 mm)
mechanical locks consisting of dowels projecting from the peak-to-valley profile for cementitious grout after removal
concrete into the grout, help the epoxy grouts to overcome of all laitance from the concrete. The coefficient of expan-
the differential thermal properties between epoxy grout and sion between cement grout and concrete is the same except
concrete and provide a better adhesion of the epoxy grout for epoxy grouts, where the coefficient is three to five times
cap to the concrete. This also helps to prevent edge lifting greater than concrete. Therefore, a greater peak-to-valley

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16 GROUTING BETWEEN FOUNDATIONS AND BASES FOR SUPPORT OF EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY (ACI 351.1R-12)

surface depth is needed. Additionally, the laitance layer must


be removed and the aggregates exposed and broken. Broken
aggregates are used as a visual field check to ensure there is
a good bond between the cement paste in the concrete and
the aggregates in the concrete before pouring grout. This
procedure should remove all laitance and unsound or insuf-
ficiently cured material. The roughened and cleaned surface
should be protected from subsequent contamination.
If the surface is roughened by chipping, only small hand
tools or a small pneumatic hammer should be used. Nail-
point tools should be avoided because of the possibility of
initiating cracks in the surface of the foundation. For the
same reason, large jack hammers or paving breakers should
not be used. The surface should be thoroughly cleaned and
protected from subsequent contamination. Do not bush or
use bush-head bits for surface preparation of any area to be
epoxy grouted.
For cementitious grouts, the concrete surface should be
continuously saturated with water for at least 24 hours just
before grouting. The saturation of the surface is to prevent
water from being absorbed rapidly from the grout. The rapid
loss of water will result in shrinkage. For dry-pack grout, the
loss of water could result in insufficient hydration. For epoxy
grouts, the surface should be completely dry and should be
prepared for at least 1 week before epoxy grouting.
6.2.4 Metal surfaces preparation—Metal surfaces that
will be in contact with epoxy grouts should be sandblasted
to bright metal for the best bond. If epoxy grouting will be Fig. 6.2.5.1—Headb0x.
delayed for an extended time (1 to 2 months), then an epoxy
primer consisting of resin and converter may be used over surface of the machine base or baseplate. For epoxy grouts,
sandblasted surfaces to prevent heavy corrosion. Light rust forms should be coated with wax or lined with mylar film
is not a problem. Care must be used with primers because to facilitate form removal. For cementitious grouts, forms
the epoxy grout will bond to the primer. Most epoxy primers should be coated with compatible form oil or wax or lined
harden with age and may not provide a suitable surface after with polyethylene to reduce absorption of liquid and to facil—
3 to 6 weeks. If bond to the baseplate is desired, the epoxy itate form removal. Use care to prevent contamination of the
grout manufacturer’s recommendations should be followed concrete surface or the underside of the machine base with
to ensure the primer is abraided (using 60 grit sandpaper form release agent. To facilitate form removal, improve the
is one method) before epoxy grouting. The best bond is to appearance of the finished grout, and eliminate sharp edges,
white metal even with a mild rust bloom. The specifications chamfer strips may be attached to the form.
for white metal surface preparation are covered under SSPC- 6.2.5.1 Forms for placement offluid orflowable cementi-
SP-S or NACE-Z. tious grouts—Where the grout will be placed from one side
Metal surfaces that will be in contact with cementitious of the baseplate and flowed to the other side, the forms should
grouts should be cleaned of all paint, oil, grease, loose rust, be constructed to provide a method for developing a head
and other foreign matter. This can be accomplished by either on the placing side. The forms should also have sufficient
the hand tool method or the power tool method. The SSPC- clearance to permit strapping or rodding if such methods are
SP-2 is the standard for hand tool cleaning and SSPC-SP-3 acceptable to the grout manufacturer and specifier.
is the standard for power tool cleaning. The forms on the placement side should extend above the
6.2.5 Formwork—The design of formwork for epoxy bottom of the plate to form a headbox. The headbox should
grouting should take into account the type of grout, the begin 2 t0 4 in. (50 to 100 mm) from the plate and slope
consistency of the grout, the method of placement, and the away from the plate at approximately 45 degrees. The slope
distance the grout must travel. on the form permits the grout to be poured under the plate
The forms for all types of grout should be rigid, sufficiently with a minimum of turbulence and air entrapment. The form
tight-fitting, and sealed (such as taped or caulked) to prevent on the opposite side should be 2 to 4 in. (50 to 100 mm)
leakage. They should also extend at least 1 in. (25 mm) above from the plate and should extend at least 1 in. (25 mm) above
the highest elevation of the grout material under the grouted the bottom of the plate. The height of the headbox depends
element and should be built so that the grout can be placed on the distance the grout must flow. In general, the height
as continuously and expeditiously as possible. Forms may above the highest grout elevation under the plate should be
also be provided to prevent grout from flowing over the top approximately one-fifth of the travel distance for the grout.

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GROUTING BETWEEN FOUNDATIONS AND BASES FOR SUPPORT OF EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY (ACI 351.1R-12) 17

A portable headbox with the same configuration may be minutes. Some manufacturers recommend a low-speed drill
used (refer to Fig. 6.2.5.1). and an impeller mixer. The aggregate is usually mixed into
On the side of a plate parallel to the direction of grout flow, the preblended mixture in a mortar box, mortar mixer, or
the forms should generally be less than 1 in. (25 mm) from wheelbarrow for small pours. Do not use a rotating concrete
the plate. For placements where the grout will be pumped mixer.
under the plate through grout holes in the plate, the forms Grout should be stored and installed as required by the
should be at least 4 in. (100 mm) outside the plate on all manufacturers’ instructions and Material Safety Data
sides. The forms should extend at least 1 in. (25 mm) above Sheets. Some individuals have skin sensitization problems
the highest grout elevation under the plate. Forms may also with epoxy grout materials, and proper handling and safety
be built on the top of the plate to prevent excessive spillage should be employed.
onto the top of the plate. Altemately, the top surface can be 6.3.1 Consistency—The consistency needed for place-
waxed or oiled to make cleanup easier. ment of a grout depends on the clearance provided between
6.2.5.2 Farmsfor dry-packing—For placement of dry-pack, the machine base and the foundation, on the complexity of
the forms do not need to be as tight-fitting as for flowable the machine base, and on the method of placement. The
grouts but should be more rigid. The constant compaction of clearances and flow distances provided should be compared
the dry-pack will loosen forms unless they are well braced. with the recommendations given in Section 6.1.5.
If movement of forms occurs during compaction, it may The water content or consistency of the cementitious
result in insufficient compaction. grout should not exceed the maximum or minimum values
6.2.5.3 Epoxy grout—Forms for epoxy grout or other areas determined from qualification tests or recommended by
where bond is not desired should be coated with a thick wax the manufacturer. The water content is determined by the
coating or lined with mylar and be watertight. consistency necessary for placement. In general, the water
All inside corners and horizontal edges should have a content or flow should be the minimum that will reliably
45-degree chamfer strip to break the sharp edge. All outside result in complete filling of the joint space to be grouted.
corners should be rounded with a piece of PVC or other The consistency for placement by dry-packing should
plastic pipe split lengthwise down the middle and adhered be in accordance with the definition for dry-pack consis-
over the inside point of the outside corner, thus creating a tency. The water content should be adjusted if the dry-pack
round, half-moon indention after the forms are removed. becomes rubbery or crumbly.
Where the epoxy grout will be placed from one side of the The consistency for epoxy should be that resulting from
baseplate and flowed to the other side, the forms should be use of the manufacturers’ recommended proportions. Place-
constructed to provide a method for developing head pres- ment should not be attempted with any epoxy grout if the
sure or for using a head-box on the placing side. The forms resulting consistency is not suitable for the existing clear-
should also have sufficient clearance to permit the material ances and flow lengths using the method proposed.
to flow across. 6.3.2 Temperature—The ambient temperature, the grout
The forms on the placement side should extend above the temperature at placement, and the temperature of the founda—
bottom of the plate to form a headbox. The headbox should tion and baseplate all affect the workability, time of setting,
begin 2 to 4 in. (50 to 100 mm) from the plate and slope strength, and flow characteristics of grout. The temperature
away from the plate at approximately 45 degrees. The slope should therefore be adjusted to be within the ranges recom—
on the form permits the epoxy grout to be poured under the mended by the manufacturer for preblended grouts or the
plate with a minimum of turbulence and air entrapment. range of temperature for which grout performance has been
The form on the opposite side should be 2 to 4 in. (50 to evaluated. For temperatures above or below those ranges,
100 mm) from the plate and should extend at least 1 in. additional qualification tests should be performed or docu—
(25 mm) above the bottom of the plate. The height of the mented approval should be obtained from the manufacturer.
headbox depends on the distance the epoxy grout must flow. 6.3.2.1 Cementitious grouts—The temperature of the
In general, the height above the highest epoxy grout eleva- foundation and baseplate may be reduced to within the
tion under the plate should be approximately one—fifth of the permissible placing range for the grout by cooling with ice
travel distance for the epoxy grout. A portable headbox with or cold water. Under cold conditions, ambient, plate, and
the same configuration may be used. foundation temperatures can be increased by using heating
On the side of a plate parallel to the direction of epoxy blankets or heated enclosures. The as-mixed temperatures
grout flow, the forms should generally be less than 1 in. (25 of cementitious grouts may be reduced by using cold water,
mm) from the plate. ice, or precooled dry materials under cold conditions. The
initial as-mixed temperature may be increased by using
6.3—Grout mixing and placing warm water in cementitious grouts or by storing the ingredi-
Grouts should be batched and mixed in accordance with ents for cementitious grouts in a warm area.
manufacturer’s recommendations. In general, the grout 6.3.2.2 Epoxy grouts—The temperature of the founda-
is mixed only long enough to ensure that uniform consis- tion and baseplate may be reduced to within the permissible
tency and complete aggregate wetting are achieved. The placing range for the grout by cooling the enclosed work
liquid components of epoxy grouts are normally mixed in a area. The components of the grout may be precooled to the
bucket using a wooden paint paddle or hand stirrer for 3 to 5

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18 GROUTING BETWEEN FOUNDATIONS AND BASES FOR SUPPORT OF EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY (ACI 351.1R-12)

desired temperature. Do not use ice or water to cool the foun- decreases mixing time and increases production. Portable
dation and baseplate because water will prevent bonding. revolving-drum concrete mixers are not recommended
Under cold conditions, ambient plate temperatures and because they will not generally break up lumps. Production
foundation temperatures can be increased by using heating rates are generally lower for revolving-drum mixers because
blankets or heated enclosures. The initial as-mixed tempera- of difficulty in batching bagged material and because of
ture can be increased by storing the ingredients for epoxy buildup of material in the drum. Additionally, the fold in
grouts in a warm area. action of a revolving drum can entrain more air.
6.3.3 Mixing 6.3.3.3 Mixing time—The mixing time should be all the
6.3.3.1 Mixers for cementitious grouts—For plastic, flow- time necessary to provide uniform consistency and break
able, and fluid grouts, horizontal shaft mixers with stationary up all the lumps. For preblended grouts, mixing time should
drums that are normally recommended by grout manufac- comply with the manufacturer’s recommendation. Grout
turers and commonly used are preferable. Vertical shaft should be placed as soon as possible after the completion
mixers may also be used if approved by the manufacturer. of mixing. If the grout must be held in the mixer after the
The mixers should be clean and equipped with rubber— completion of the specified mixing time, the grout should be
tipped blades with close tolerances. They generally provide agitated at slow speed for a short time before dispensing. The
adequate shearing stresses in the fresh grout to break up all time that a batch can be held will be less at higher ambient
lumps and adequately disperse the constituents as well as temperature and may be brand specific.
permit the dry materials to be added with the water while No water should be added to cementitious grouts after the
the mixer is operating, which decreases mixing time and initial mixing is completed.
increases production. Portable revolving-drum concrete 6.3.4 Placing
mixers are not recommended because they will not impart 6.3.4.1 Poured placements—When grouts are to be placed
the necessary shear for mixing the grout. Production rates from the perimeter of a base, the forms should be constructed
are generally lower for revolving-drum mixers because as discussed in Section 6.2.5 so that a pressure head can be
of difficulty in batching bagged material and because of developed in a headbox on one side of the plate. All place-
buildup of materials in the drum. ments should be made from one side and should begin at one
Mixing of small quantities of plastic, flowable, or fluid end of the plate or skid and continue at that point until the
grout in a bucket using a propeller-type mixer and drill motor grout rises above the bottom of the plate on the opposite side
is acceptable, provided that the drill speed is slow enough of the plate or skid. Then, the placement point or portable
to prevent entrapping air into the grout. Hand mixing does headbox should be moved slowly along the side of the plate
not provide sufficient energy to disperse constituents or to from one end to the other or to the next expansion joint
break up lumps and therefore should be prohibited. Caution section. The placement point should be moved at the same
should be observed in using only portions of a package of rate as the face of grout moves along the length of the plate
preblended grout to be certain that all ingredients are repre- on the opposite side. The continuous movement of a single
sented properly in the portion taken. Generally, preblended face of grout prevents air entrapment. Grout should not be
grouts are batched by placing the minimum amount of water placed at various locations along one side because move—
in the mixer followed by the dry grout ingredients and then ment of the grout cannot be monitored and air can easily be
adding more water to achieve the desired consistency unless trapped between placing points. For the same reason, grout
otherwise recommended by the manufacturer. For field- should not be poured toward the center from opposite ends
proportioned grouts, the water should be placed in the mixer or sides. When using expansion joints, pour grout into the
followed by the cement, additives, and aggregate, in that adjoining expansion joint area to provide resistance and
order. weight to prevent the initial joint area from blowing out.
For grouts at dry-pack consistency, mixing is best accom- To encourage flow of grout, headboxes should be used to
plished in a horizontal shaft mortar mixer. Hand mixing, ensure adequate flow. To encourage flow of cementitious
however, may be used. For hand mixing, cement and aggre- grout, steel packing straps may be inserted on the placement
gate should be blended before addition of water. Mixing side and moved slowly back and forth. Chains should not be
should be performed on a watertight platform by repeatedly used because they tend to entrap air bubbles. Some manu-
turning the mass over with a shovel and final mixing accom- facturers of preblended grouts allow limited use of vibra-
plished by rolling and rubbing the material between gloved tors or plungers to assist grout flow. Machine base plates
hands. with stiffeners or other obstructions on the underside should
6.3.3.2 Mixersfor epoxy grouts—For epoxy grouts, mortar be vented. Suggestions on venting are provided in Section
mixers or horizontal shaft mixers with stationary drums that 6.1.2. The grout should be worked toward the vent until
are normally recommended by grout manufacturers and the grout reaches the vent. For thick placements of epoxy
commonly used are preferable. The mixers should be clean grouts, control of heat generation and shrinkage is critical
and equipped with rubber-tipped blades with close tolerance. and the manufacturers’ recommendations for thick place-
These mixers generally provide adequate shearing stresses ments should be followed.
in the fresh epoxy grout to break up all lumps and adequately 6.3.4.2 Pumped placement—When grout is to be placed
disperse the constituents. They also permit the dry materials through holes in the machine base, the forms should be
to be added with the resin while the mixer is operating that constructed as recommended in Section 6.2.5. Pumping

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GROUTING BETWEEN FOUNDATIONS AND BASES FOR SUPPORT OF EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY (ACI 351.1R-12) 19

should begin at the grout inlet nearest one end of the plate. these recommendations should be used unless the grout
Grout should be pumped into that inlet until it flows up into manufacturer specifies otherwise.
an adjacent inlet and flows from the entire plate perimeter The exposed surfaces of newly placed grout must be
adjacent to the inlet. The pump line can then be moved to the protected from rapid moisture loss. Moisture loss can be
adjacent inlet and pumping continued. The pump line should prevented by keeping the exposed surfaces wet for a given
be moved to successive inlets until grouting is complete. period of time or by applying a curing compound.
Grout should not be pumped into more than one inlet simul- Continuous moist curing for a few days after placement is
taneously or before grout flow has reached an adjacent inlet generally preferred because the resulting grout surface will
because air may be trapped. have higher strength and will be more durable. Moist curing
When a hose is to be used to pump grout under the plate, is generally achieved by applying wet rags or burlap to the
the hose should be inserted under the plate to the point exposed surfaces. The wet rags or burlap can then be covered
farthest from the point of insertion. The hose should be with plastic to prevent excessive evaporation. Soaker hoses
withdrawn as grout is pumped under the plate, but the hose are sometimes used.
outlet should remain embedded in the grout mass to prevent When moist curing is used, the grout surfaces should
development of air pockets. generally be kept wet and saturated for at least 7 days before
6.3.4.3 Dry-pack placement—Dry-pack placement and the surface is permitted to dry. A shorter period of moist
compaction should begin against a solid backing. The dry— curing is permissible if a curing compound is applied imme-
pack grout should be placed in layers having a compacted diately after moist curing is suspended.
thickness of approximately 1/2 in. (13 mm). Each layer of The main problem with the use of only moist curing is
grout should be compacted over its entire surface with the that it is impractical or difficult to enforce. Frequently, moist
square-cut end of a hardwood rod or board driven with a curing will be initiated correctly, but the grout surface may
hammer. The striking force should be sufficient for compac- be permitted to dry prematurely because of weekends, shift
tion of the material without moving the plate out of align- changes, or other circumstances.
ment. The direction of tamping should be varied so that all After placement of a grout, the foundation and machine
dry—pack is compacted. The surface of each layer should or equipment base should be kept at a temperature that is
be inspected visually by the installer before placement of within the temperature range specified for placing of the
the next layer to ensure that the entire surface has been fresh grout. The temperature should be maintained within
compacted. Just before placement of the next layer, the this range until the grout reaches final set. After final set, the
compacted dry-pack layer should be rubbed with the end of grout should be protected from cold or hot weather condi-
the tamping rod to provide a slight roughness to aid bond to tions until sufficient strength is achieved.
the next layers (refer to Fig. 3.2.1). During cold weather, cementitious grout must be kept
Proper water content has been achieved if the dry-pack warm enough to allow hydration to occur at a significant
does not slough and is not rubbery or crumbly. Batch size rate and to prevent damage by freezing. The grout should
should be small enough to minimize the need for retempering. be maintained above 50°F (10°C) for at least 3 days and
6.3.5 Removal of excess material—No forms, headbox, or protected from freezing for at least 3 additional days. During
epoxy grout (except spillage) should be removed from the hot weather, grout should be kept cool enough to prevent
formed shoulders until the grout has stiffened sufficiently to excessive heat development. If the temperature of the grout
ensure that the grout does not sag below plate level. is excessive at an early age, thermal shrinkage may occur
Epoxy grouts are formed to the desired configuration and when the grout cools to normal ambient temperatures. The
poured to the desired final elevation. The edge of epoxy grouts ambient temperature of the air surrounding the foundation
is not generally cut back to a 45-degree angle; however, if and machine base should be maintained below 100°F (38°C)
required, it can be formed to a 45-degree angle. Epoxy grouts for at least 3 days through the use of shade, wet burlap,
should be finished to remove air bubbles on the surface by soaker hoses, or other procedures.
the manufacturer’s recommendations. Cementitious grouts 6.4.2 Epoxy grams—After placement of an epoxy grout,
can be cut back at a slope of approximately 45 degrees from the foundation and machine or equipment base should be
the bottom of the plate. The sloped surface provides some kept at a temperature that is within the temperature range
later confinement for the grout under the plate and provides a specified for placing the fresh epoxy grout. The temperature
more uniform dispersal of the compressive stresses near the should be maintained within this range until the epoxy grout
plate edge, and can help conduct process fluids or lubricant reaches final set. After final set, the epoxy grout should be
leaking from the equipment away from the machine base. protected from cold or hot weather conditions until sufficient
strength is achieved.
6.4—Curing and protection During cold weather, epoxy grout must be kept warm
6.4.1 Cementitious grams—After cementitious grouts have enough to allow curing to occur at a significant rate and
been placed, they should be protected from excessive mois- to prevent damage by freezing. The epoxy grout should be
ture loss and from extremes in temperature. The following maintained at approximately 70°F (22°C) for at least 1 day
sections give recommendations for moisture retention and and protected from freezing for at least 1 additional day.
cold and hot weather protection. For preblended grouts, During hot weather, epoxy grout should be kept cool enough
to prevent excessive heat development. If the temperature

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20 GROUTING BETWEEN FOUNDATIONS AND BASES FOR SUPPORT OF EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY (ACI 351.1R-12)

of the epoxy grout is excessive at an early age, thermal procedure for assuring the correct proportions of hardener
stresses and cracking may occur when the epoxy grout cools and resin is to make a small test cookie and cure in a toaster
to normal ambient temperature. The ambient temperature of oven at an elevated temperature.
the air surrounding the foundation and machine base should 6.5.3 Field samples and tests for cementitious grouts—
be maintained below 90°F (32°C) for at least 2 days through Cementitious grouts with plastic, flowable, or fluid consis-
the use of shade, air chillers, fans, or procedures. tency should be sampled in the field and tested for volume
As the curing of epoxy grouts is generally not affected change, bleeding, and compressive strength. Grouts with
by exposure to air, the main consideration after placing is dry-pack consistency should be tested for compressive
protection from temperature extremes. Temperature of the strength.
foundation and baseplates must also be considered. During The frequency of sampling should be based on the volume
hot weather, epoxy-grouted equipment or baseplates are of grout placed or on the total baseplate area grouted in a
usually shaded to provide uniform curing conditions. specified time period. For preblended grouts, sampling on
The rate of polymerization of an epoxy is related to the basis of volume is more appropriate. A sample should
the temperature of the mixture. At temperatures near 0°F be taken at least every other day. Samples of grout and dry-
(—l8°C), the polymerization of many epoxies will nearly pack should be taken and test specimens made at the instal-
cease. As the temperature of the foundation and machine lation site.
base increases, the temperature of the epoxy increases due to If cores of hardened in-place grout are taken for the
heat flow from the surrounding materials and also from the purpose of determining strength, the user should specify
exothermic polymerization reaction. Because most epoxies that strength be determined on specimens whose length is
are formulated to be placed at temperatures of 70°F (22°C), equal to their diameter. This allows the test to approximate
it is desirable to maintain the air temperature around the the cube strength test that is usually specified for the original
foundation as close to 70°F (22°C) as possible. At higher qualification of the grout. If test samples cannot be obtained
installation temperatures, the polymerization produces that meet the length-to-diameter criteria, the comparison to
higher curing temperatures that will increase the thermal cube strength may not be valid. It should be borne in mind
stress when the epoxy grout cools as well as reduce working that grout is loaded along the short dimension of its position
time. in place rather than in the long dimension as for concrete in
columns, beams, and slabs.
6.5—Quality control/assurance Dry-packing operations require nearly constant inspec-
6.5.1 General—Continuous quality control is required to tion to ensure that the proper layer thickness and compac-
provide quality assurance and guide construction quality. tive effort are being used. A worker can easily increase his/
Quality control should be performed on a regular basis to her production by using large layer thicknesses. If possible,
ensure that: an occasional dry-pack installation should be dismantled to
- The epoxy grout has not exceeded its shelf life. check for areas of insufficient compaction.
- The foundation and baseplate have been properly 6.5.4 Documentation—Documentation must be main—
prepared. tained for all job site inspection and testing. This documen—
- The formwork is tight and has adequate stiffness. tation should include the location of the installation, the
- The required tests are performed at the specific type and brand of grout used, the environmental conditions
frequency. at the time of epoxy grout placement, the condition of the
- The correct placing methods are used. concrete, and the results of all physical tests (for example,
- Proper curing temperature is maintained for the required volume change, bleeding, and strength). The number of units
time. mixed, the time period to place, temperature, aggregate load,
° Shims, wedges, or leveling devices are removed, if mixing equipment, expansion joint locations, and workforce
required, after material has reached full cure. should be documented.
- Temperature of the baseplate material and air are within
specification limits. CHAPTER 7—REFERENCES
The following sections give recommendations for
sampling and testing of grouts. 7.1—Referenced standards and reports
6.5.2 Epoxy grouts flow test for skids—Qualify epoxy American Concrete Institute
grouts to meet new flow requirements for skid-mounted 318-11 — Building Code Requirements for Structural
equipment. As part of the qualification, the epoxy grouts Concrete and Commentary
must be able to flow under the typical skid with distances at
3 in. (75 mm) deep and at 70°F (22°C) before entering the American Petroleum Institute
plastic or thickened state. API 686RP-09 — Recommended Practice for Machinery
After initial qualification, epoxy grouts should be sampled Installation and Installation Design
in the field and tested for compressive strength. The
frequency of sampling should be based on the volume of ASTM International
epoxy grout placed. At least one sample should be taken C33/C33M-ll — Standard Specification for Concrete
from each shipment or production lot. A simple field check Aggregates

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GROUTING BETWEEN FOUNDATIONS AND BASES FOR SUPPORT OF EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY (ACI 351.1R-12) 21

C109/C109M-ll — Standard Test Method for Compres- C827/C827M-08 — Standard Test Method for Change
sive Strength of Hydraulic Cement Mortars (Using 2-in. or in Height at Early Ages of Cylindrical Specimens from
[SO-mm] Cube Specimens) Cementitious Mixtures
Cl43/Cl43M-10a — Standard Test Method for Slump of C845-04 — Standard Specification for Expansive
Hydraulic-Cement Concrete Hydraulic Cement
Cl44M-ll — Standard Specification for Aggregate for C939-10 — Standard Test Method for Flow of Grout for
Masonry Mortar Preplaced-Aggregate Concrete (Flow Cone Method)
ClSO/ClSOM-ll — Standard Specification for Portland C940-10a — Standard Test Method for Expansion and
Cement Bleeding of Freshly Mixed Grouts for Preplaced-Aggregate
C157/C157M-ll — Standard Test Method for Length Concrete in the Laboratory
Change of Hardened Hydraulic-Cement Mortar and Concrete C953-10 — Standard Test Method for Time of Setting of
Cl91-08 — Standard Test Method for Time of Setting of Grouts for Preplaced-Aggregate Concrete in the Laboratory
Hydraulic Cement by Vicat Needle C1090-10 — Standard Test Method for Measuring
C230/C230M-08 — Standard Specification for Flow Changes in Height of Cylindrical Specimens from Hydraulic-
Table for Use in Tests of Hydraulic Cement Cement Grout
C266-08el — Standard Test Method for Time of Setting CllO7/CllO7M-ll — Standard Specification for Pack-
of Hydraulic-Cement Paste by Gillmore Needles aged Dry, Hydraulic-Cement Grout (Nonshrink)
C305-ll — Standard Practice for Mechanical Mixing of Cl 18 1-00(2005) — Standard Test Methods for Compres-
Hydraulic Cement Pastes and Mortars of Plastic Consistency sive Creep of Chemical-Resistant Polymer Machinery
C403/C403M-08 — Standard Test Method for Time of Grouts
Setting of Concrete Mixtures by Penetration Resistance C1339-02(2008) — Standard Test Method for Flow-
C404-ll — Standard Specification for Aggregates for ability and Bearing Area of Chemical-Resistant Polymer
Masonry Grout Machinery Grouts
C579-00(2005) — Standard Test Methods for Compres- C1437-O7 — Test Method for Flow of Hydraulic Cement
sive Strength of Chemical-Resistant Mortars, Grouts, Mono- Mortar
lithic Surfacings, and Polymer Concretes D4263-83(2005) — Standard Test Method for Indicating
C580-02(2008) — Standard Test Method for Flexural Moisture in Concrete by the Plastic Sheet Method
Strength and Modulus of Elasticity of Chemical-Resis-
tant Mortars, Grouts, Monolithic Surfacing, and Polymer National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE)
Concretes NACE No. 2/SSPC-SP 10 — Near-White Metal Blast
C806-04 — Standard Test Method for Restrained Expan- Cleaning
sion of Expansive Cement Mortar
C807—08 — Standard Test Method for Time of Setting of The Society for Protective Coatings (SSPC)
Hydraulic Cement Mortar by Modified Vicat Needle SSPC-SP-2 — Hand Tool Cleaning
SSPC-SP-3 — Power Tool Cleaning
SSPC-SP-S — White Metal Blast Cleaning

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American Concrete Institute®
Advancing concrete knowledge

As ACI begins its second century of advancing concrete knowledge, its original chartered purpose
remains “to provide a comradeship in finding the best ways to do concrete work of all kinds and in
spreading knowledge.” In keeping with this purpose, ACI supports the following activities:

- Technical committees that produce consensus reports, guides, specifications, and codes.

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- Formal coordination with several international concrete related societies.

- Periodicals: the ACI Structural Journal and the ACI Materials Journal, and Concrete International.

Benefits of membership include a subscription to Concrete International and to an ACI Journal. ACI
members receive discounts of up to 40% on all ACI products and services, including documents, seminars
and convention registration fees.

As a member of ACI, you join thousands of practitioners and professionals worldwide who share a
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practices. In addition, ACI chapters provide opportunities for interaction of professionals and practitioners
at a local level.

American Concrete Institute


38800 Country Club Drive
Farmington Hills, MI 48331
U.S.A.
Phone: 248-848-3700
Fax: 248-848-3701
www.concrete.org
Report on Grouting between Foundations
and Bases for Support of Equipment and Machinery

The AMERICAN CONCRETE INSTITUTE


was founded in 1904 as a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to public
service and representing the user interest in the field of concrete. ACI gathers and
distributes information on the improvement of design, construction and
maintenance of concrete products and structures. The work of ACI is conducted by
individual ACI members and through volunteer committees composed of both
members and non-members.

The committees, as well as ACI as a whole, operate under a consensus format,


which assures all participants the right to have their views considered. Committee
activities include the development of building codes and specifications; analysis of
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Individuals interested in the activities of ACI are encouraged to become a member.


There are no educational or employment requirements. ACl’s membership is
composed of engineers, architects, scientists, contractors, educators, and
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Members are encouraged to participate in committee activities that relate to their


specific areas of interest. For more information, contact ACI.

www.concrete.org

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American Concrete Institute®
Advancing concrete knowledge

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