QUALITY CONTROL IN CONCRETE

CONSTRUCTION

I. QUALITY CONTROL MEASURES IN

CONCRETE
II. SAMPLING AND TESTING FRESH
CONCRETE
III. DESIGN OF CONCRETE MIXTURE

I. QUALITY CONTROL MEASURES IN CONCRETE

A. SELECTION, SAMPLING AND TESTING OF

THE INGREDIENTS OF CONCRETE
1. CEMENT
2. FINE AGGREGATE
3. COARSE AGGREGATE
4. WATER

1. Cement
1.1 Portland Cement Type I (ASTM C
150/AASHTO M 85)
Cement is a by-product of lime, silica, alumina and iron.
The main component of cement is lime which is around 6065%

Composition of Portland Cement:

Clinker
Portland Cement

Gypsum

It shall conform to the applicable requirements of Item 700,

Hydraulic Cement. Only Type I Portland Cement shall be used
unless otherwise provided for in the Special Provisions. Different
brands or the same brands from different mills shall not be mixed
nor shall they be used alternately unless the mix is approved by
the Engineer. However, the use of Portland Pozzolan Cement Type
IP meeting the requirements of AASHTO M240/ASTM C 695,
Specifications for Blended Hydraulic Cement shall be allowed,
provided that trial mixes shall be done and that the mixes meet
the concrete strength requirements, the AASHTO/ASTM provisions
pertinent
to the use Hydraulic
of Portland Pozzolan
TypeType
IP shall1P
be adopted
1.2 Blended
Cement

(ASTM C595)
Blended Hydraulic Cement a hydraulic
cement consisting of two or more inorganic
constituents
( at least one of which is not
Portland cement or cement clinker) which
separately or in combination contribute to strength
gaining properties of the cement, (made with or

The most common materials used in blended cements are blastfurnace slag and fly ash. Natural pozzolans and microsilica (silica
fume) are other constituents in blended cements.

Pozzolan is a material that has little or no hydraulic activity of its

own, but it acts as hydraulic cement when mixed with water and CaO.
In blended cement Portland cement is the source of CaO for
pozzolanic reactions (Ca(OH)2, it is produced when Portland cement
hydrates. Pozzolans are high in SiO2 and may contain significant
amount of Al2O3.

Composition of Pozzolan

Welded tuff
Natural Pozzolan
Pozzolan

Fly Ash
Artificial

1.3 Sampling of cement for quality test

Quantity of sample
10 kgs. For every 2,000 bags or fraction thereof
Sampling procedure
Obtain sample from one of each 50 bags by means of a
cement sampler then combine to make 10-kg sample to
represent 2,000 bags

Samples shall be shipped and stored in an airtight and moistureproof containers

and accompanied by sample card
2. Fine Aggregate
2.1 Sampling
Quantity of sample for quality test

50 kgs. for every 1,500 cu.m. or fraction thereof

 Sampling procedure

Do not take sample from the outer surface of stockpile as

segregation occurs when dry

Obtain wet sample at the middle or beyond the outer surfa

of stockpile to ensure uniformity

2.2 Properties
Bulk specific gravity ranges from 2.5 to 2.7

Fineness modulus (FM) ranges from 2.5 to 3.0

Once established, variation should not be more than +/- 0.10
The higher the FM the coarser the aggregate

Used of finer FA is not economical as more cement will be need

On the other hand, used of coarser FA will result to poor

workability

There should be constant checking of gradation (every 75 cu.m

3. Coarse Aggregate
3.1Sampling

Quantity of sample for quality test

70 kgs. for every 1,500 cu.m. or fraction thereof
Sampling procedure

Obtain sample near the top, at the middle and near the
base of the
stockpile then combine to make 70-kg sample
3.2 Properties
Bulk specific gravity ranges from 2.5 to 2.7
Abrasion loss should not be more than 40%
There should be constant checking of gradation (every 75
cu.m.)
For processed aggregate, the maximum nominal size of
particles is
the largest sieve size listed in the applicable specification,
upon which
4. Water
should
beispotable
withtoPH
which ranges from 4.5
any
material
permitted
bevalue
retained
to 8.0

B. STORAGE, HANDLING AND PROCESSING OF

MATERIALS FOR CONCRETE

1. Cement

Requirements for storage

Warehouse or shed should be airtight as possible. No cracks

opening between walls and roof should be tolerated.

Flooring of shed should be well above the ground

Cement sacks should be stacked close together to reduce

circulation
of air but should not be stacked against outside walls
Warehouse doors and windows should be kept closed
except when
cement is taken out for use

Cement which has been in storage for so long a period that ther

2. Aggregate

In stockpiling aggregate, care should be exercised such that the

is no
segregation of the coarse from the finer sizes. Degradation
breakage
of coarse particles during production or stockpiling should b
avoided.

Aggregate should be handled and stored to produced minimu

segregation
of sizes in order to produce practically uniform concrete.

The stockpile should be built in layers of uniform thicknes

weather handled
by truck, clamshell or conveyor, and not built up in high con
shape piles
which results in the segregation of sizes. Also, in removing th
stockpile, it
should be done in approximately horizontal layers to minimiz
segregation.

C. CONDITIONS FOR ACCEPTANCE OF

MATERIALS

1. No materials shall be incorporated into the work until tested an

found
satisfactory.

2. The approval of preliminary samples shall not be considered as

guarantee
of acceptance of all materials from the same source as to the
quality or
quantity of such material.

3. Any material which had been sampled and passed as satisfacto

may
be re-sampled and retested anytime before, during and after
incorporation
into the work.

D. CONCRETE PRODUCTION CONTROL

Flow Chart of Preparation for Fresh Concrete

Trial mix is conducted to determine the exact proportion by

weight of materials in concrete. This is the basis in judging
the consistency of fresh concrete.

DEPARTMENT ORDER
November 16, 2000
NO. 211, Series of 2000
SUBJECT: CONCRETE POURING PERMIT

============================================================

It has bee observed

that many in DPWH projects, the basic requirement of a
permit for concrete pouring has oftentimes been neglected by
the contractors. As a result, defects/deficiencies arising from
the concerned Project Engineer not being able to check that
the proper preparations and procedures are taken, occur
frequently.
====================================

Henceforth, in order to ensure that all concreting works

are done in accordance with the approved plan and
specification, it is hereby directed that no contractor shall
start any concreting without a pouring permit duly approved
and issued by the concerned Project Engineer.
All pouring requests shall be approved only after the
Project Engineer has checked and ascertained that the
necessary preparations and procedures have been taken in
accordance with the approved plans and specifications using

Concrete Production Control Tests:

1. Slump test
2. Unit weight
3. Air content

Whether the concrete is mixed at the site, at the central

plant, or by transit mixer, the following quality control
measures should be strictly observed:

1. The measuring scales should be calibrated and checked

periodically
(including water gage).

2. The moisture content of the aggregates on stockpiles

should be checked
constantly for correction of mix proportions.

3. Measurements of aggregates, water and cement should

be checked
slowly.

In controlling the quality of concrete structure, there is

no substitute for on site control inspection. Total
dependence on test results from control specimens can be
misleading. For example, the structure can be defective
even if the test specimens give satisfactory results. This is
possible if: (Quality control tests should be augmented with
actual inspection for quality assurance pursuant to MPWH
Circular No.38 dated November 12, 1981)
1. Water is added after the test specimen have been
taken.
2. Placing of concrete is delayed.

3. Weather conditions (heat or rain) are unsuitable.

4. Consolidation is inadequate or improper (Vibrators

shall not be
operated longer than 15 seconds in any one
location)

On the other hand, unsatisfactory specimen test results do not

necessarily mean that the structure is defective. Under this condition,
the actual concrete may be good or acceptable if:

1. Sampling is incorrect
2. Specimen preparation is incorrect
3. Specimens are damaged
4. Curing and protection is incorrect
5. Testing is incorrect
6.

Calculation of test results is erroneous

7. Test specimens are not properly identified which

can result in
testing the wrong samples.

II. SAMPLING AND TESTING OF FRESH

CONCRETE
A. SAMPLING FRESH CONCRETE (AASHTO
DESIGNATION:
T141-74 / ASTM DESIGNATION: C172-71)
SCOPE

This method describes the procedures for obtaining

representative samples of fresh concrete as delivered
to the project site and on which tests are to be
performed to determine compliance with quality
requirements of the specifications under which the
concrete is furnished. The method includes sampling
from stationary, paving and truck mixers, and from
agitating and non-agitating equipment used to

2. SAMPLING
The elapsed time between obtaining the first and final
portions of the composite samples shall be as short as
possible, but in no instance shall it exceed 15
minutes.
Transport the individual samples to the place where
fresh concrete tests are to be performed or where test
specimens are to be molded. They shall then be
combined and remixed with a shovel to ensure uniformity.
Start test for slump or air content, or both, within 5
minutes
after the sampling is completed.
Start molding test specimens for strength
within 15 minutes after fabricating the
composite sample. Keep the elapsed time between
obtaining and using the sample as short as possible
and protect the sample from the sun, wind, and other
sources of rapid evaporation and from contamination.

3.PROCEDURE
Size of sample Make the samples to be used for
strength
tests a minimum of one (1) cubic foot.

a. Sampling from Stationary Mixers, Except Paving

Mixers

Sample the concrete at two or more regularly spaced

intervals during discharge of the middle portion of the
batch. Take the samples within the time limit of 15 minutes
and composite them into one sample for test purposes. Do
not obtain samples from the very first or last portions of the
batch discharge. Perform sampling by passing a
receptacle completely through the discharge stream or by
completely diverting the discharge into a sample container.

b. Sampling from Paving Mixers

Sample the concrete after the contents of the paving

mixer have been discharged. Obtain samples from at least
five different portions of the pile and then composite into
one sample for test purposes. Avoid contamination with
subgrade materials or prolong contact with an absorptive
subgade.
c. Sampling from Revolving Drum/Truck Mixers or
Agitators

Sample the concrete at two or more regularly spaced

intervals during discharge of the middle portion of the batch.
Take the samples within the time limit specified for sampling
fresh concrete and composite them into one sample for test
purposes. Sample by repeatedly passing a receptacle through
the entire discharge stream or by completely diverting the
discharge into a sample container. Regulate the rate of

B. SLUMP TEST FOR CONSISTENCY OF PORTLAND

CEMENT CONCRETE (AASHTO DESIGNATION:
T 119- 74 / ASTM DESIGNATION: C 143-74)
1. APPARATUS

a. Galvanized Mold No. 16 gage (frustrum of cone with

base diameter of
8 inches, top diameter of 4 inches and height of 12
inches)

b. Scoop

c. Trowel

d. Tamping Rod (5/8 inch or 16 mm in diameter, 24

inches or 0.60 meter
in length with one end bullet pointed)

2. PROCEDURE

a. Dampen the mold and place on a flat, moist nonabsorbent surface.

b. Fill the mold with fresh concrete in three layers, each

approximately one-third the volume of the mold. In
placing the
concrete, move the scoopful around the edge of the
mold as the
concrete slides from it, in order to insure
symmetrical distribution
of concrete within the mold.

c. Each layer should be rodded with 25 strokes of a 5/8

inch diameter
rod having a length of 24 inches and bullet-pointed
at the lower
end. The strokes should be distributed in a uniform
manner over

e. Remove the mold from the concrete by raising it

carefully in a
vertical direction, then measure immediately the
slump by
determining the difference between the height of the
mold and the
height of the concrete.

d. After the slump measurement is completed, tap

gently the sides of
the concrete frustrum with the tamping rod. The
behavior of the concrete under this treatment is a
valuable indication of the cohesiveness, workability,
and placeability of the mix. A well proportioned
workwble mix will gradually slump to lower elevation
and retain its original identity, while a poor mix will
crumble, segregate and fall apart.

In construction work, slump test is the last barrier of Go or

No Go point before the concrete is placed, and a lot
depends on the results. The common mistakes that should
be avoided are: 1)Poor sampling, 2)Neglecting to dampen
the cone, 3)Improper rodding, 4)An unstable base, and
5)Wrong type of rod and the test results bears little
relation to actual concrete quality.

TOLERANCE IN SLUMP
VARIATION
(AASHTO DESIGNATION: M
157-86)
DESIGNED SLUMP
ALLOWABLE VARIATION
2 inches or less

inch

2 4 inches

1 inch

more than 4 inches

1 inches

C. UNIT WEIGHT AND YIELD OF CONCRETE (AASHTO

DESIGNATION:
T 121-82 / ASTM DESIGNATION: C 138-77
APPARATUS

1. Balance

2. Tamping Rod plane round and straight steel rod; 16

mm , 600 mm in length and rounded tamping end
3. Measure a cylindrical container made from steel that is
not readily attacked by cement paste, watertight and
sufficiently rigid to retain its form and calibrated volume
under rough used. (Capacity of measure 14 liters)
4. Strike-off flat rectangular plate (6 mm thick) or glass or
acrylic plate (12 mm thick) and length/width of at least
50 mm greater than the diameter of the measure.
5. Mallet with rubber or rawhide head, 0.34-0.80 kg.

2. CALIBRATION OF MEASURE (AASHTO

DESIGNATION: T 19-80)

a. Weigh empty measure

b. Fill the measure with water at room temperature

c. Determine the weight of water in the measure

d. Calculate the volume of the measure

3. SAMPLE

Obtain the sample of freshly mixed concrete in

accordance with the Standard Method of Sampling Fresh
Concrete (AASHTO DESIGNATION: T 141)

4. PROCEDURE

4.1 Consolidation
a. Place the concrete in the measure in three layers
of approximately equal layers
b. Rod each layer 25 times
c. Rod the bottom layer throughout its depth but the
rod shall not forcibly strike the bottom of the
measure
d. Distribute the strokes uniformly over the crosssection of the measure and for the top two layers,
penetrate about 25 mm into the underlying layer
e. After each layer is rodded, tap the sides of the
measure smartly 10 to 15 times with the
appropriate mallet

4.2 Strike-off after consolidation, strike-off the top

surface of the
concrete and finish it smoothly with the flat strike-off
plate

4.3 Cleaning and weighing after strike-off, clean all

excess concrete
4.4 Calculation
from the exterior of the measure and determine the
net mass
of the concrete.
Unit Weight = Net Mass of Concrete
Volume of Measure
Yield =
Total Mass of Batch
Unit Weight of Concrete

EXAMPLE (APPLICATION) : DESIGNED CEMENT FACTOR = 9.00 BAGS/CU.M.

MATERIAL BATCH
WT./BAG

BATCH WT. FOR A 4-CU.M.

TRANSIT MIXER

CEMENT

40

40 X 4 X 9 = 1,440 KGS.

FINE AGG.

68

68 X 4 X 9 = 2448 KGS.

138

138 X 4 X 9 = 4968 KGS.

COARSE
AGG.

TOTAL
FOR A 4-CU.M.18TRANSIT
= 9,504
WATER BATCH WEIGHT
18
X 4 X 9 = MIXER
648
KGS.
ASSUMPTION:
UNIT WT. OF FRESH CONCRETE AS TESTED = 2,300 KGS./CU.M .
YIELD = 9,504/2,300 = 4.13 CU.M.
ACTUAL CEMENT FACTOR = 4 X 9 / 4.13 = 8.72 BAGS/CU.M.
CEMENT VARIATION = (9.00 8.72) X 100% / 9.00 = 3.11% > 2 %
ADJUSTMENT
IS NEEDED

D. MAKING AND CURING CONCRETE COMPRESSION

AND FLEXURE
TEST SPECIMENS (AASHTO DESIGNATION: T 23 /
ASTM DESIGNATION: C 31)
COMPRESSION TEST SPECIMENS
1. Size of Specimen compression test specimens shall
be cylindrical with a length equal to twice the diameter.
Standard cylindrical specimens shall be 150 mm (6) in
diameter by 300 mm (12) in length, if the coarse does not
exceed 50 mm (2) nominal size. (Note: Diameter of
specimen 3 x maximum nominal size of aggregate)
2. Molds shall be cylindrical in form, made of nonabsorbent material, and shall be substancial enough to hold
their form during the molding of test specimens. Metal
molds shall each be provided with a machined metal base
plate and means shall be provided for securing the base
plate to the mold. The assembled mold and base plate
shall be water-tight and shall be oiled with mineral oil
before use.

3. Molding Specimens
a. Fill mold in three equal layers of approximately equal volume.
In placing each scoopful of concrete, the scoop shall be moved
around the top edge of the mold as the concrete slides from it
in order to insure symmetrical distribution of the concrete
within the mold.
b. Rod each layer 25 times with a tamping rod 16 mm , about
600 mm in length and bullet-shaped at the lower end. The
strokes shall be distributed uniformly over the cross-section of
the mold and shall just penetrate into the underlying layer.
Rod the bottom layer throughout its depth.
c. Tap the sides of the mold after rodding to close the voids left
by the tamping rod.
d. Struck off the top surface of the concrete with a trowel and
cover with a glass or metal plate to prevent evaporation.
e. Let specimens undisturbed in their molds for 24 hours then
cure specimens in a curing tank completely immersed in a
vertical position.
f. Send specimens to the laboratory not more than 7 days prior
to the time of testing.

FLEXURE TEST SPECIMENS

1. Size of Specimens The cross-section of the flexure test
specimens shall be 150 mm x 150 mm (6 x 6) if the coarse
aggregate does not exceed 50 mm (2) in maximum nominal
size. For larger coarse aggregate, the minimum crosssectional dimension shall be not less than three times the
maximum nominal size of the coarse aggregate
2. Molds shall be rigid and non-absorptive and shall be at
least 75 mm (3) longer than the required span length
(Commonly used length = 18+3 = 21 inches). Means shall
be provided for securing the base plate to the mold . The
assembled mold and base plate shall be watertight and shall
be lightly oiled with a mineral oil before use.
3. Molding Specimens
a. Fill mold with concrete in two equal layers. The top
layer shall
slightly overfill the mold.

b. Rod each layer 63 times (50 times for each square foot of
area) with a tamping rod 16 mm , about 600 mm in length
and bullet-shaped at the lower end. The strokes shall be
distributed uniformly over the cross-section of the mold and
shall just penetrate into the underlying layer. Rod the bottom
layer throughout its depth.
c. After rodding each layer, the concrete shall be spaded along
the sides and ends with a masons trowel or other suitable
tool.
d. After the rodding and spading operations are completed,
struck off the top with a straightedge and finished with a
wood float. (Note: The test specimens should be made
promptly and without interruption)
e. Cover the specimens immediately with a double layer wet
burlap.
f.

Let specimens undisturbed in their molds for 24 hours then

cure specimens in a curing tank completely immersed. (Note:
Never cure specimens in a running water)

III. DESIGN OF CONCRETE

MIXTURE
DEFINITION
The design of concrete mixture is the determination of the
relative weight proportions of cement, fine aggregate, coarse
aggregate and water by absolute volume as outlined in the
American Concrete Institute (ACI) Standard 211.1,
Recommended Practice for Selecting Proportions for Normal
and Heavy Weight Concrete.

PURPOSE
The concrete mixture is designed to give the most
economical and most practical combination of the materials
which will produce the desired workability, strength and
durability.

PRELIMINARY TESTS
All the materials used in producing concrete should be
tested as to quality ahead of the start of concreting work,
taking into consideration the duration of testing and curing
period of trial mix for strength test specimens.

SPECIFICATION:
A. PAVEMENT
1. Cement Factor 9.10 bags/cu.m.
2. Strength at 14 days
a. Flexural Strength 3.8 MPa (550 Psi) If tested by
the Third-Point
Loading
b. Flexural Strength 4.5 MPa (650 Psi) If tested by
the Mid-Point
Loading

c. Compressive Strength (Core Sample) 85% of

3,500 Psi

B. STRUCTURAL CONCRETE
USES OF EACH CLASS OF CONCRETE
Class A: All superstructures and heavily reinforced
substructures. The
important parts of the structure included are
slabs, beams,
girders, columns, arch ribs, box culverts,
reinforced abutments,
retaining walls and reinforced footings and large
diameter castin-place reinforced concrete piles (bored piles).
Class B: Footings, pedestals, massive pier shafts, pipe
bedding, and gravity
walls, unreinforced or with only a small amount of
reinforcement.
Class C: This reinforced sections, railings, precast R.C. piles

COMPOSITION AND STRENGTH OF CONCRETE

Class
of
Conc

A
B
C
P
Seal

Min.
Cmt
Cont.
Per
cu.m.
Kg.*
(bag)
360
(9)
320
(8)
380
(9.5)
440
(11)
380
(9.5)

Max.
Water/
Cmt
Ratio
Kg./Kg.
0.53
0.58
0.55
0.49
0.58

DesigMin.
Consisnated
Comp.
tency
Size of Strength
Range in
CA
at
Slump,M
Square 28 days
m
Opening
Mpa
(inch)
Std. Mm
(Psi)
50-100
37.5-4.75
20.7
(2-4)
(1-No.4) (3,000)
50-100
50-4.75
16.5
(2-4)
(2-No.4)
(2,400)
12.5-4.75
20.7
50-100
(-No.4)
(3,000)
100 max. 19.0-4.75
37.7
(4 max.) (-No.4)
(5,000)
100-200
25-4.75
20.7
(4-8_
(1-No.4)
(3,000)

The measured cement content shall be within plus or minus 2 mass percent
of the design
cement content.

Under the present specifications, the concrete design

is based on a fixed cement content, with the used of duly
approved aggregates. The maximum net water content
and minimum strength requirement are specified.
It will be necessary for the Project Engineer to
determine in advance of construction by means of trial
mixes, the exact proportions by weight for each class of
concrete. If the trial mix or batch is made in the
laboratory, representative samples of the concrete
materials which will be used in the work should be
furnished. However, in some respects it is preferable to
run the trial batches right on the job, using the intended
batch size during actual construction and the
contractors regular batching and mixing equipment. By
this procedure, there is better basis in judging workability
because of a laboratory batch is usually much smaller,
hence, not truly representative of working conditions.
Samples are obtained from the trial batches to be tested
for strength in the laboratory.

The first trial mix is selected on the basis of

established relationships such as those given in
Table V. This Table, which has been developed
from experience and data from several research
agencies, indicates the amount of water required
per cubic meter of concrete and the percent of
sand (of total aggregate by absolute volume)
required for good workability. The values in Table
V are based on a mix having a water-cement
ratio of 0.57 by weight, 75.0 mm slump and
natural sand having a fineness modulus of 2.75.
For other conditions it will be necessary to make
certain changes in Table V in accordance with the
corrections or adjustments given below Table V.

TABLE V
APPROXIMATE SAND PERCENT AND WATER CONTENT PER CUBIC METER OF
CONCRETE

Based on mix having a water-cement ratio of 0.57 by weight of 22.8

kilograms per bag of cement (22.8 liters per bag of cement), 75.0
mm slump and natural sand having a fineness modulus of 2.75.
Max.
Rounded Coarse
Angular Coarse
Nominal
Aggregate
Aggregate
Size of
Sand % of
Net
Sand % of
Net Water
Aggregate
Total
WaterContent
Total
Cont. Per
Mm (inch)
Agg. ByAbs.
Per Cu.M
Agg. ByAbs.
Cu.M
Vol.
Cu.m.

Kg. or Liters

Vol.
Cu.m.

Kg. or
Liters

12.5 ()
51
199
56
214
19.0 ()
46
184
51
199
25.0 (1)
41
178
46
192
37.5 (1)
37
166
42
181
50.0 (2)
34
157
39
172
75.0 (3)
31
148
36
163
150.0
(6)having either
26 proportions,
131see adjustments
31
For
mixes
below.146

Adjustments of above table for other conditions

Changes in Conditions Stipulated in

Table V

1)Each 0.05 increase or decrease in

water-cement ratio
2)Each 0.10 increase or decrease in
fineness modulus of sand
3)Each 25 mm increase or decrease in
slump
4)Manufactured Sand
5)For less workable concrete as
pavement

Effect on Values
in Table V

Percent
Sand

Net
Water
Content

3%

+3

+8.9 kg.

-3

-4.7 kg.

DETERMINATION OF BATCH WEIGHTS

Let:

V = absolute volume of material

W = weight of same material with absolute volume V
The ratio between W and V is equal to the unit of the
material, or
W = unit weight of material
V

The unit weight of material can be determined using its Bul

Specific Gravity
The Bulk Specific Gravity (BSG) which can be
determined by laboratory test is defined as the ratio of
the weight in air of given volume of a permeable
material to the weight in air of an equal volume of
water, or

BSG
=

weight of material
cu.m
_______________________
weight of water
cu.m.

By examination:
Weight of material = unit weight of material
Cu.m.
Weight of water = unit weight of water = 1,000
kg/cu.m.
Cu.m.

OR,

unit weight of
material
1,000

_____________________

BSG
=

unit weight of material

___________________
=
unit weight of
water

THEREFORE:
Unit Weight of Material = BSG x 1,000
W = BSG x 1,000
V
V =

W
_
BSG x 1,000

W = V x BSG x 1,000

BATCH WEIGHTS PER BAG OF CEMENT:

Cement

V x BSG x 1,000

Fine Aggregate

V x BSG x 1,000

Coarse Aggregate

V x BSG x 1,000

Water

V x BSG x 1,000

TO SOLVE FOR ABSOLUTE VOLUME, V:

1. For cement, use V = W/BSG x 1,000

2. For Water, use V = W/BSG x 1,000

and Table V
to
determine W
3. For FA and CA, absolute volume can
be determined by mathematical
manipulation and by the aid of Table
V

WORKSHEET FOR DESIGN OF CONCRETE MIX (AGGREGATES AT SSD

CONDITION)
DATA FROM PRELIMINARY TEST:
Fine Aggregate: Lab. No.
sguw-01/FA-1g
Coarse Aggregate: Lab.
No. sguw-01/CA-1g
Manufactured ( x ) Natural ( )
Rounded ( ) Angular ( x )
Fineness Modulus
3.08 Maximum Size, mm
50 ( 2)
Specific Gravity (SSD)
2.69 Abrasion Loss, %
. Moisture Content, % ___________ Specific Gravity (SSD)
2.68
Absorption, %
2.25 Moisture Content, %
________________
=
==
= = =kg/cu.m
= = = =(Loose)
= = = = = = = 1,503
= = = = Unit
===
= = =kg/cu.m
= = = =(Loose)
==
Unit
Weight,
Weight,
=====
==============
1,498
DESIGN
Specific SPECIFICATION:
Gravity of Cement
3.15 Absorption, %
Class of Concrete
Pavement
Water Content
2.81
____________
Type & Brand of Cement
Type I/Holcim
Water Source
Flexural
3.8 (550)
Slump, mm
75 (3)
ApprovedStrength,
Source Mpa/Psi
Water-Cement
Ratio
0.57 Cement Factor
Admixture Brand
____________
9.4

DESIGN PER BAG OF CEMENT:

1) Absolute Volume of Concrete, cu.m.
1/C.F. = 1/9.4
=
0.1064
2) Absolute Volume of 40 kg bag of cement, cu.m.
40/
(3.15x1,000) = _ 0.0127
3) Absolute Volume of Water, cu.m. = Water from Table V
=
176.2
=
0.0187
(C.F. x 1,000) x 1.00
4)
Absolute Volume of Water & Cement, cu.m.
=
9.4x1,000
0.0314
5) Absolute Volume of Fine & Coarse Aggregate, cu.m.
=
0.0750
Correction of Fine Aggregate, % of Total Agg. By Absolute Volume
Fine Aggregate

39 %

(From Table V)

CORRECTION ON NET WATER CONTENT:

Net Water Content = 172 kgs. (from
Table V)
Correction:
a)For manufactured sand = +8.9
kgs.
b)For pavement = -4.7 kgs.

Corrected net water content = 176.2

kgs./cu.m. of conc.

CORRECTION ON % SAND:

a)Water-cement ratio
w = 176.2 = 0.47
c
9.4 x 40

Correction = 0.47 0.57 x 1% = (-)

2.00%
0.05

b)Fineness modulus of sand

Correction = 3.08 2.75 x 0.5% = (+)
1.65%
0.10
c)Slump none
d)Manufactured sand = (+) 3%
e)Less workable concrete = (-) 3%
Total Correction = (-) 0.35%
Corrected Fine Aggregate =

38.65%

6) Absolute Volume of Fine Aggregate, cu.m.

0.0290
( Abs. Vol. FA & CA x Corrected % sand = 0.0750 x 0.3865)
7) Absolute Volume of Coarse Aggregate, cu.m.
0.0460
(Abs. Vol. FA & CA Abs. Vol. Sand = 0.0750 0.0460)

==============================
= = =BATCH
= = = =WEIGHTS
= = = = =PER
= = BAG
= = =OF
= CEMENT:
Unit Wt.
Uncorre Correct
Abs.
of
Specific
c-ted
ed
Material
Vol.,
Water,
Gravity
Weight, Weight,
cu.m.
kg/cu.m
kg
Kg.
.
Cement
0.0127
3.15
1,000
40.00
FA
0.0290
2.69
1,000
78.01
CA
0.0460
2.68
1,000
123.28
Water
0.0187
1.00
1,000
18.70
Note: The above batch weights are subject to correction to
suit actual
moisture content of aggregates in the field.

CORRECTION ON BATCH WEIGHTS:

FROM PRELIMINARY TESTS:
Absorption FA = 2.25%; CA = 2.81%
SUPPOSING IF THE ACTUAL MOISTURE CONTENT OF AGGREGATES
WERE AS FOLLOWS:
MC (FA) = 2%; MC (CA) = 3%
CORR.WT. = UNCORR.WT. + UNCORR.WT(MC ABSORPTION)/100

CORR.WT.(FA) = 78.01 + 78.01(2-2.25)/100 = 78.01 0.20 = 77.8

KGS.

CORR.WT.(CA) = 123.28 + 123.28(3-2.81)/100 = 123.28 + 0.23 =

123.51 KGS.
CORR.WT.(WATER) = 18.67 + 0.20 0.23 = 18.67 KGS.

MATERIAL

UNCORR. WT.

CORR. WT.

CEMENT

40

40

FINE AGG.

78.01

77.81

COARSE AGG.

123.28

123.51

WATER

18.70

18.67

TOTAL

259.99

259.99

ADJUSTMENT OF TRIAL BATCH

Adjustment of trial batch will sometimes have to be made
due to the following:
1. Over or under sanded mix
2. Water content exceeds the maximum allowable
3. The cement content as determined by a yield test
differs by more
than 2.00% of the specified value.

ADJUSTMENT FOR VARIATIONS IN WORKABILITY

If the first trial mix is either over or under sanded, it is
obvious that the fine-coarse aggregate ratio is to be adjusted
until the optimum sand content consistent with the placing
conditions is obtained. Under the Standard Specifications,
where the cement factor is held constant, the use of the
lowest percentage of sand consistent with workability will
result in the highest quality of concrete. This is due to the fact
that a reduction in fine-coarse aggregate ratio will result in
reducing the water-cement ratio, thereby increasing the

As a rule, the yield is not appreciably affected by

adjustment of the fine-coarse aggregate ratio, provided the
total weight of aggregate is held constant. Two or three
additional trials would be sufficient, each varying the sand
content by increments of one percent in the desired direction
and including a corresponding change in the coarse aggregate
such that the total aggregate weight is maintained. In case of
adjustments necessitating additional sand, the water content
should be checked in order to be sure that the maximum
allowable water content has not been exceeded.

ADJUSTMENT FOR VARIATION IN YIELD

If the yield test indicates that there is variation in the
cement by more than 2%, adjustment in the batch weights may
be made by decreasing or increasing the absolute volume of
total aggregate by an amount equal to the difference between
volume produced and calculated volume.

EXAMPLE: (ADJUSTMENT FOR VARIATION IN YIELD

ACTUAL CEMENT FACTOR = 4 X 9 / 4.13 = 8.72 BAGS/CU.M.

CEMENT VARIATION = (9.00 8.72) X 100% / 9.00 = 3.11% > 2 %

ADJUSTMENT
IS NEEDED
ACTUAL ABOLUTE VOLUME OF CONCRETE/BAG OF CEMENT = 1/8.72
= 0.11468 CU.M.
DESIGNED ABSOLUTE VOLUME/BAG OF CEMENT = 1/9.00 = 0.11111
CU.M.
Therefore, the excess in volume is equal to the ACTUAL
ABSOLUTE VOLUME of concrete minus DESIGNED ABSOLUTE
VOLUME of concrete per bag of cement. The adjustment is made
by decreasing the absolute volume of total aggregate by an
amount equivalent to the excess in volume. The change in total
batch weight in kilogram of aggregate per bag of cement maybe
approximated by multiplying the volume difference in cu.m. by
2.65 x 1,000, which is the unit weight of rock in kg./cubic meter.
This adjustment is only approximate, however it is sufficiently
accurate to serve as a basis for the initial correction of batch
weights to be checked further by the yield test.

IN EXAMPLE:
EXCESS VOLUME = 0.11468 0.11111 = 0.00357 CU.M.

EXCESS WEIGHT = 0.00357 X 2.65 X 1,000 = 9.46 KGS.

HENCE:
REDUCE TOTAL WEIGHT OF AGGREGATE PER BAG OF CEMENT BY
9.46 KGS.

ADJUSTMENT FOR EXCESS WATER CONTENT

Under the present specifications, the maximum net water
content of 6 gallons (22.8 liters)per bag of cement will rarely, if
at all, be exceeded due to to specified aggregate gradation.
Excess water for proper workability will be required if the
aggregate are poorly graded, have poor particle shape or have
excess of flat or elongated particles. The specifications do not
allow the use of such aggregates.

Just in case the maximum net water content is exceeded,

adjustment can be made in the following manner:
SUPPOSING:
Actual cement content/bag of cement per yield test = 9.05
bags/cu,m,
Actual water added per bag of cement during batching = 24 liters
(24 kgs.)
USING SAME BATCH WEIGHTS AND ACTUAL MOISTURE CONTENT
OF

CORR.WT.(WATER) = 18.67 + 0.20 0.23 =

18.67 KGS.

AGGREGATES IN PREVIOUS EXAMPLE:

FREE WATER = 24.00 + 0.20 - 0.23 KG. = 23.97 KGS. > 22.8
KGS.
TOTAL WATER CONTENT /CU.M. OF CONCRETE = 23.97 X 9.05 =
216.93 KGS.

BATCH WEIGHTS FOR ONE

SPECIMEN:
LET
V = VOLUME OF MOLD
VOLUME OF 1 SPECIMEN WITH 25% VOLUME ALLOWANCE =
1.25V
VOLUME OF CONCRETE/BAG OF CEMENT = 1/CEMENT FACTOR
BY RATIO & PROPORTION
BATCH WT. FOR 1 SPECIMEN = BATCH WT. /BAG OF CEMENT
1.25V
1/CEMENT FACTOR
BATCH WT. FOR 1 SPECIMEN = BATCH WT./BAG OF CEMENT X

GOOD DAY
AND
HAVE A
PLEASANT
WEEKEND