What is cube testing?
- Cube testing is when samples are taken from freshly batched concrete. Test cubes are then crushed weeks after to allow us to measure the concrete strength.
How long does it take to do a cube test?
- The set of cubes are tested at 7 days and 28 days. An indication of results can be determined in the 7 days but to get a full realistic representation the final test is carried out on cured concrete 28 days after. Results can be passed to the customer with records also being held with us.
What is the process?
- When we supply a certain type of concrete, we take a cube test which is essentially a sample. We make a set of 100 x 100 x 100mm cube moulds and cure them in room temperature of 20 degrees for 24 to 48 hours.
- The following day we split the moulds, giving us two small concrete cubes.
- We mark a reference on the cubes which allows us to identify the customer and mix of concrete.
- They are then put into a warm tank of water which is held at 20 degrees in conjunction with that we fill in a sampling record with all customer details.
- As mentioned previously, the test is carried out on the 7th and 28th day when the cubes are crushed to determine the compressive strength.
What are the benefits?
- Cube testing allows us to show customers that our concrete does fulfil their requirements.
- It also allows us to use the reference ‘quality assured’ as we are meeting the British Standard.
- Fulfilling legal requirements.
- Monitor and control strengths and cement levels inhouse.
Please get in touch today to discuss how we can help you with your requirements.