This database intends to provide a simple analysis tools to measure the performance of concrete mixes supplied to a construction site. In the UK and EU producers now have to comply with EN206-1:2000 for the supply of ready mixed concrete and they will have their own EN206 Conformity systems.

DataSeen Client Testing Database (Under Development)

To run a full EN206 system requires concrete family relationships to be established, something which a casual user will not have the information to do. An EN206 conformity period applies to a concrete producing plant rather than where the the products are being supplied.

The next best thing for users is to run an analysis which closely represents EN206 conformity parameters where practicable. At the very least casual users can detect variations or potential non-conformities which they can use to compare with their product suppliers records. A system to monitor individual mix designs is better than nothing at all!

It should be noted that this database does not constitute a concrete producers conformity requirement or commitment; rather a simple tool to use to give an indication that conformity within various applications is appropriate.

Test Samples

This database simply records test sample data and produces analysis to show trends and certain failures.

Reporting

There are a comprehensive set of reports provided in the database to provide the user with some guidance to their concrete suppliers performance. These reports can be used to demonstrate to the product supplier that at the very least there may be a potential problem.

Historically, cube samples taken on a construction site often suffer from adverse ambient site conditions or inexperienced sampling techniques, which generally result in lower strength gains. The producer however, takes concrete samples and stores the samples strictly in accordance with sampling and testing standards. If the producer does not do this his concrete mix design may suffer commercial penalties as control on the concrete may suffer. The producer should make every effort to maintain the quality of his product so that his risks are controlled and ultimately the customer does not suffer as a consequence.

Database Analytical Confidence

Any database or analytical tool will only be as good as the data being entered. As previously mentioned site testing plays an important role in the confidence of any results and subsequent analysis.

Follow the simple guide below to get the best from your concrete test data: -

• Always talk to your product supplier first and discuss how best to test concrete, he will most likely offer his expert advice. This also gives him a chance to look at what you are intending to test and how you are going to monitor his product's performance.
• Train the people who you intend to do the sampling.
• Appoint a reputable Construction Materials Testing House to test your cubes/cylinders/cores.
• Ensure the sampling is composite, (sampled throughout the load) and not a spot sample.
• Ensure that you have cube moulds that are within specification for their size and are clean and oiled. This is often difficult to maintain on a building site. Look after them as they can cost anything from £50 upwards for each 100mm cube mould. I have seen site cubes made in wooden 4 x 2 moulds before today, instant failures.
• After cubes are made make sure that they are stored in a heated cabin overnight at 20 degrees C.
• After the cubes are stripped ensure that they are immediately placed in a heated clean water tank at 20 degrees C +/- 2.
• Lastly, make sure that the Testing House collects the cubes on time!! Remember the cubes need to be collected within 6 days of manufacture to be tested on time. The first of a set of cubes needs to be tested at 7 days old.

If this simple guide is not followed, you may not get any useful analysis from any concrete monitoring system. At best you may see some wild trends developing, at worst you will get constant failures and be calling in your suppliers to justify the concrete performance. This could prove costly to you as almost all site cube failures will be discounted by expensive in-situ core testing.

There may be occasions where the concrete in-situ fails core testing and long remedial discussions ensue, even this delay can cost you money. Many site engineers and/or concrete producers have probably experienced this at some point in their history!

Sub Contract out Testing

For small to medium sites, If you think that you cannot comply with the simple testing guide then consider sub-contracting out the concrete sampling and testing to the Test House. They can sample and take the cubes back to the lab the same day. You will not not have to worry about equipment, qualified/trained staff or any site testing facilities. This could be the most inexpensive testing option for you.

Avoid or reduce the potential for questionable concrete quality and take care in concrete testing.

Client Database Reports: -

• Strength Analysis
• Strength Groups Analysis
• Consistence Analysis
• Slump Analysis
• Air Testing Analysis
• Concrete Location Report
• Concrete Suppliers report
• Concrete Mixes report

If you would like more information or to participate in the development of this database please contact me.

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