Compression testing machines

Tests for high-strength and high-performance concrete

Fig. 1 Illustration of a specimen failure at 3750 images per second.

Fig. 2 Compressive testing machine frame.

 According to the usual definitions high-strength concretes as such are distinguished by a compressive strength > 65 N/mm² and high-performance concretes as such by a high degree of tightness, resistance to physical or chemical impacts, strength and self-compaction. Using the raw materials and processing methods common in practice it is already possible to realize building components with compressive strengths of about 150 N/mm².

Mortar and concretes with a compressive strength of up to 800 N/mm² are currently under development. Typical fields of application of high-strength concrete and high-performance concrete are:

» components subject to compression loading (e.g.: columns and walls)

» components subject to bending load (e.g.: bridge girders and beams)

» components subject to high mechanical and environmental load (e.g.: tunnels, industrial floors, road construction parts and offshore structures)

» components subject to high chemical load (e.g.: cooling towers, agricultural components with protection against...

Issue 04/2010 Quality inspection

Tests for high-strength and high-performance concrete

Related articles:

Improve quality and productivity through automation of concrete testing laboratories

Compressive strength classes and performance classes of ultra-high-performance concrete (Part 1)

Fatigue resistance of dry joints under compressive loading in modular concrete structures

Pressure testing machine for concrete test specimens

Compressive strength classes and performance classes of ultra-high-performance concrete (2)

BFT 03/2011