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May 15, 2022|Concrete Placement

What Factors Do You Consider in Placing Mass Concrete?

Workers Doing Mass Concrete Work in Texas & Louisiana

What is mass concrete and when is it used? When placing mass concrete, there are a few key factors to consider to ensure a successful pour. Read on to learn what those factors are and more about this oft-used substance.

What is Mass Concrete and What Are Its Benefits?

Mass concrete is a type of concrete that is characterized by being extremely dense and strong. This makes it ideal for certain construction projects, such as dams and other large structures. While mass concrete is more expensive than regular concrete, its benefits can make it worth the extra cost in many cases.

One of the main advantages of mass concrete is its durability. This is due to the high density of the material, which makes it less likely to be damaged by weathering or other environmental factors. Additionally, mass concrete is not as susceptible to changes in temperature as regular concrete, making it a good choice for outdoor projects.

Another benefit of mass concrete is its strength. This makes it ideal for projects that require a lot of support, such as bridges and parking garages. Additionally, mass concrete can be used to create thinner walls than regular concrete, which can save on construction costs.

Mass Concrete Placement Factors for Success

Concrete projects require professionals that are familiar with the key factors for success. Experienced concrete contractors understand how mass concrete placement can be successfully accomplished and take into account the following factors:

Adequate Planning and Preparation

This includes ensuring that the foundation is properly prepared, the forms are properly installed, and the reinforcement is in place. The concrete mix should also be designed specifically for mass concrete placement.

Temperature Control

Placement temperature is an important factor that must be considered for concrete to set correctly. If the concrete is too cold, it will not set properly and may crack. Conversely, if the concrete is too hot, it will also not set properly and can lead to several other issues. The ideal placement temperature for mass concrete is between 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Placement Rate

Another critical factor to consider is the rate of placement. If the concrete is placed too quickly, it can result in voids and honeycombing. On the other hand, if the concrete is placed too slowly, it can lead to excessive bleeding and segregation. The ideal rate of placement for mass concrete is between 2-4 inches per minute.

Compaction

It’s important to ensure that the concrete is properly compacted. If the concrete is not compacted sufficiently, it can lead to a number of issues such as voids, honeycombing, and even cracking. The ideal compaction method for mass concrete is vibration. Vibration helps to settle the concrete and remove any air pockets that could cause problems down the line.

Protection from Weather

Mass concrete should be protected from hot sun and strong winds to prevent drying out too quickly. This can be done with shading, windbreaks, or misting.

Curing

Proper curing is essential to achieve the desired strength and durability of mass concrete. This can be done with moist curing methods, steam curing, or other means.

All these factors must be considered to place mass concrete successfully. By taking the time to plan and prepare for the pour, contractors can avoid many potential problems and ensure a high-quality finished product.

The Advantages of Mass Concrete in Large Structures

When it comes to large structures, mass concrete is often the material of choice. This is because mass concrete provides a number of advantages over other materials, including:

  • Its high compressive strength makes it ideal for supporting large loads.
  • It has excellent fire resistance, which is crucial in protecting buildings and occupants from fire.
  • It is extremely durable, meaning it can withstand the elements and continue to perform its function for many years.
  • It is relatively easy to work with, making it a good choice for construction projects where time is of the essence.

These advantages make mass concrete an ideal choice for a wide range of applications, from bridges and dams to skyscrapers and airport runways. If you’re planning a large construction project, mass concrete should be on your radar.

Why Choose Ashton Sawing & Drilling?

If you’re in need of concrete placement services in Texas or Louisiana, look no further than Ashton Sawing & Drilling. We have the experience and equipment to handle any size job, big or small. Whether you need a few slab placements or an entire parking lot poured, we’re here to help. We also offer a variety of other services such as concrete cutting, drilling, and much more. Contact us today to learn more about what we can do for you.