Yamaguchi, Jerald Heaven R. Group no.

6
CE152P-2/E02. 09/13/2023

Experiment no. 3

TIME SETTING OF CEMENT

I. Introduction

In the realm of civil engineering, the performance of cement is of paramount

importance, as it forms the very foundation of countless structures that define our

modern world. Experiment no. 3, focused on the time setting of cement, delves into

a critical aspect of cement behavior—its ability to solidify and harden over time.

This experiment seeks to shed light on the temporal characteristics of cement paste

using a specialized tool known as the Gilmore Needles. The findings derived from

this experiment hold profound significance for civil engineering, as they directly

impact construction timelines, structural integrity, and the overall durability of

engineered structures. By preparing a cement paste of normal consistency and

recording the crucial transition times, engineers and researchers gain invaluable

insights into the behavior of cement in real-world applications. The initial setting

time, signifying the commencement of the setting process, and the final setting time,

indicating the completion of this transformation, provide critical data for optimizing
construction processes and ensuring the structural stability of civil engineering

projects.

The core objective of this experiment is to ascertain the time setting of cement.

This critical parameter is determined by monitoring the precise moments when a

cement paste transitions from a liquid state to a solid state, marking the initial and

final setting times. To achieve this objective, a set of meticulously selected apparatus

and materials is employed, including graduated cylinders, glass plates, sampling

spoons, spatulas, mixing bowls, scales, and, of course, the Gilmore Needles.

II. Materials and equipment

• Graduated cylinder

• 4 Glass plates

• Sampling spoon

• Spatula

• 2 Mixing bowls

• Scale

• Gilmore needles

• Cement sample

II. Procedure

1. Prepare the cement paste of normal consistency by mixing 500g of cement

and water (use the amount of water obtained in expt. No.2 for normal

consistency).

2. Record the time when water is added to the cement.

 3. Mold a circular pat with flat top on a clean glass plate. (Base diameter=3 in.

Top diameter=2 in. Thickness =0.50 in)

4. Record initial and final setting times in minutes.

IV. Discussion and Interpretation:

In Experiment No. 3, we aimed to determine the time setting of Type 1

hydraulic cement by using the Gilmore Needles method. The data collected from the

trials provides us with valuable insights into how this specific cement variant

transitions from a liquid state to a solid state. Let's delve into the interpretation of

the results, compare them to expected or theoretical values, and address any

observed trends, patterns, or limitations associated with the experimental setup.

Type of Cement TYPE 1

Weight of Cement(grams) 500g

Volume of water at normal consistency (ml) 180 ml

 Time of making the cement pat (H:M) 1:15

Trial no. 1 2 3 4

Time of Initial 2:56 3:01 3:04 3:04

Setting (H:M)

Time of Final
Setting (H:M)

Initial Set (H:M) 1:41 1:46 1:49 1:49

Final Set (H:M)

Average initial set (H:M) 1:46

Average final set (H:M)

The expected or theoretical values for initial and final setting times can vary

depending on the specific cement type and environmental conditions. This suggests

that the cement used exhibits a consistent setting behavior under the given

experimental conditions. It is crucial to consult industry standards and specifications

for Type 1 hydraulic cement to make a meaningful comparison. The absence of data

for final setting times limits our ability to compare the results with expected values

comprehensively. In addition, variations in environmental conditions, such as

temperature and humidity, can influence setting times. These factors should be

controlled and monitored more rigorously in future experiments. Lastly, human error

in recording the exact time of setting can introduce uncertainties into the results.
 V. Conclusion

In Experiment No. 3, focused on the time setting of Type 1 hydraulic cement

using the Gilmore Needles method, we embarked on a journey to understand a

critical aspect of cement behavior. This experiment aimed to determine the initial

and final setting times of the cement, shedding light on its transformation from a

liquid state to a solid state. Let us summarize the key findings, evaluate the

achievement of the laboratory objectives, and discuss the broader implications of

these results in the field of materials testing in civil engineering.

The primary objective of this laboratory activity was to determine the time

setting of cement using the Gilmore Needles method. While we successfully

determined the initial setting time, the unavailability of data for final setting times

prevents us from fully achieving the objectives in this regard. Therefore, future

experiments should aim to obtain data for both initial and final setting times to

comprehensively meet the laboratory goals.

In conclusion, Experiment No. 3 provided valuable insights into the initial

setting time of Type 1 hydraulic cement, though limitations were encountered due to
the unavailability of data for final setting times. The knowledge gained from this

experiment underscores the importance of precise timing and control over cement

setting in civil engineering applications. Future research should focus on refining

experimental procedures to obtain comprehensive data and further advance our

understanding of cement behavior in practical construction contexts.

VI. Recommendations

Based on the outcomes of Experiment No. 3 and the inherent limitations

observed during the testing process, several recommendations are proposed to

enhance the experimental setup and procedures, as well as identify areas for further

research:

• Collect Data for Final Setting Times

- One of the primary limitations of this experiment is the absence of data for final

setting times. To obtain a more comprehensive understanding of cement behavior, it

is crucial to modify the experimental procedure to record the final setting times

accurately. This could involve using additional monitoring equipment or refining the

testing process.
 • Control Environmental Conditions

- The setting times of cement are highly sensitive to environmental factors such as

temperature and humidity. To ensure the reliability of the results, establish strict

controls over these conditions during the experiment. Consider using environmental

chambers or controlled testing environments to minimize external influences.

• Increase Replication

- Expanding the number of trials can help reduce the impact of variability and

human error on the results. Performing a higher number of repetitions can lead to a

more robust dataset and improve the accuracy of the average setting times.

• Automation and Data Logging

- Implement automated data collection and logging systems to reduce human error

in timing and recording. This can lead to more precise and consistent results.

By implementing these recommendations, future experiments on cement setting

time can yield more robust and comprehensive results. These improvements will not

only enhance the accuracy and reliability of the data but also contribute to advancing

knowledge in the field of civil engineering and construction materials.

VII. REFERENCES

ASTM C191/C191M-21, “Standard Test Methods for Time of Setting of

Hydraulic Cement by Vicat Needle,” ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA,

2021. [Link: https://www.astm.org/Standards/C191.htm]

Mehta, P. K., & Monteiro, P. J. M. (2014). “Concrete: Microstructure,

Properties, and Materials.” McGraw-Hill Education.

Neville, A. M. (2011). “Properties of Concrete.” Pearson.