How to test cement at site

In order to verify the quality of cement in the jobsite, it becomes essential to carry out cement quality tests at a site within limited period of time.

In several situations, it becomes difficult to conduct any laboratory test in the short period of time. So, it is recommended to conduct the quality check by applying some elementary field tests.

Testing of cement :-

Standard consistency test, Fineness Test, Soundness Test, Strength Test, Field Testing

Field Testing: Open the bag of cement and takes a look to confirm whether there is any observable lumps in it. Such lumps are developed with the absorption of moisture from the atmosphere.

The color of cement should be consistent. It should contain typical cement color i.e. light greenish grey.

If thrusted, the feeling should be cool. If hydration reaction occurs inside the bag, it will turn into hot.

If you touch the cement, it should provide a smooth feeling rather than rough feeling. If the feeling is rough, it signifies adulteration with sand.

If the cement is thrown in a bucket engrossed in water, the particles should flow prior to sink.

If an inflexible paste of cement is made and cut with sharp edges and put on a glass plate below water, the shape of the cement will be unchanged and retain strength after 24 hours devoid of any cracking.

The smell of Cement Paste: A thin paste of cement with water should sense sticky among the fingers. If the cement includes in excess of pounded clay and silt as an adulterant, the paste will provide an earthy smell.

A 25mm × 25mm × 200mm (1”×1”×8”) block of cement with water is produced. The block is then drowned in water for three days. After extracting, it is supported 150mm separately and a weight of 15kg homogeneously placed over it. If it demonstrates no sign of failure the cement quality is good.

Video Source: Tutorials Tips