42 Aggregates

Sampling and preparation of aggregates

Sampling and Preparation of Particle Size and Shape

Aggregates
Sampling and preparation of aggregates and fillers is
necessary for a variety of reasons including research, design
and quality control.The main aim of sampling is to obtain a
sample representative of the average quality. Sampling
techniques and procedures are described in various
standards including BS 812:Part 101 and 102 and ASTM
D75. Individual items of equipment necessary for sampling
and preparation are described in the Soils Section of the
catalogue.
Amongst many of the applications to which aggregate lends
itself is its use in economical concrete mixes, impervious,
durable asphalts, macadams and road bases. Particle size,
shape and texture can have considerable effects on various
design properties and are generally specified within certain
limits. Rounded aggregate can lead to instability in a
bituminous mixture yet be ideal as a concrete aggregate
where good workability of the mix is essential for placing
and compaction.

Drying and Weighing EN 932-2 Determination of Particle Size

Most test techniques involve the use of drying ovens and balances.
A comprehensive range of equipment is described in the
Laboratory Equipment section of the catalogue.
Moisture Content
BS 812; ASTM C136; EN933-1
A comprehensive range of sieves, sieve shakers and ancillary
equipment will be found in the Laboratory Equipment section of
the catalogue.The range of sieves offered includes ISO 3310,
BS 410 and ASTM D11 mesh sizes and frames.

The moisture content of aggregate is of importance e.g. when Determination of Sand Equivalent
batching concrete or when compacting unbound materials to
achieve a specified density. Accurate means of determining Value
moisture content are specified in various standards and include ASTM D2419; AASHTO T176; EN 933-8
methods suitable for use in the laboratory or on the
construction site. Individual items of equipment necessary for The test is used to determine the relative proportions of clay-like
determining moisture content are described in the Soils Section or plastic fines and dusts in aggregate used for construction
and the Laboratory Equipment Section of the catalogue. purposes.

For Sand Equivalent Apparatus see Section 24

Sample Reduction Description of Aggregates

Riffling or quartering are the two methods most often Shape
used to reduce a bulk sample to a representative size
suitable for testing. Rounded
A Riffling, normally used for reducing Water worn or shaped
material which is in a surface by attrition
dry condition.
B Quartering can be used to Irregular
reduce damp material down Naturally irregular or
to a quantity which can be partly shaped
further prepared,
e.g. by drying and
Angular
then riffling. Flatten the main sample
Well-defined

Flaky Thickness is
small relative to other
two dimensions

Elongated
Length is larger relative
to other two dimensions
Divide into quarters Discard two
opposite quarters Texture
Glassy Rough
Conchoidal fracture Rough fracture, no easily
Smooth visible crystalline grains
Water worn or Crystalline
smooth due to fracture Easily visible grains
Continue process until a Granular
sample of the required size Uniform rounded Honeycombed
Remix remainder and is obtained Visible pores and cavities
grains
quarter again

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 Aggregates
Determination of flakiness and elongation 42
Determination of Flakiness and
Elongation
Aggregates which are flaky and/or elongated will often lower
the workability of a concrete mix and may also affect long
term durability. In bituminous mixtures flaky aggregate
makes for a harsh mix and may also crack and break up
during compaction by rolling.

Ordering Information
EL42-0410
Flakiness Gauge constructed of heavy gauge sheet steel to the
dimensions specified in BS 812. Weight 60 g

Flakiness Sieves and Gauges BS 812 BS 812 Flakiness Sieves

Model number Slot dimensions Passing size Retained size Elongation Index
width length
BS 812
EL42-0670 4.9 mm 30 mm 10.0 mm 6.3 mm
EL42-0680 7.2 mm 40 mm 14.0 mm 10.0 mm This method classifies aggregate elongation by measuring the length
of individual particles.The test is not applicable to material retained
El42-0700 10.2 mm 50 mm 20.0 mm 14.0 mm
on a 63.0 mm BS test sieve.
EL42-0710 14.4 mm 60 mm 28.0 mm 20.0 mm
EL42-0720 19.7 mm 80 mm 37.5 mm 28.0 mm Ordering Information
EL42-0730 26.3 mm 90 mm 50.0 mm 37.5 mm EL42-0820
EL42-0740 33.9 mm 100 mm 63.0 mm 50.0 mm Length Gauge manufactured to the dimensions specified in
BS 812. Weight 700 g

Grid Sieves EN 933-3

A series of grid sieves formed from 5 mm diameter steel parallel
bars securely fixed in a metal frame.

Model number Slot width Passing size Retained size

EL42-0326 40 mm 80 mm 63 mm
EL42-0324 31.5 mm 63 mm 50 mm
EL42-0322 25 mm 50 mm 40 mm
EL42-0320 20 mm 40 mm 31.5 mm
EL42-0318 16 mm 31.5 mm 25 mm EL42-0820 Length Gauge
EL42-0316 12.5 mm 25 mm 20 mm
EL42-0314 10 mm 20 mm 16 mm
Determination of the Shape Index
EL42-0310 8 mm 16 mm 12.5 mm This method described in EN933-4 measures the ratio of length to
EL42-0308 6.3 mm 12.5 mm 10 mm width of individual aggregate particles using a vernier calliper and a
specially designed 3:1 length gauge.
EL42-0306 5.0 mm 10 mm 8 mm
EL42-0304 4.0 mm 8 mm 6.3 mm Ordering Information
EL42-0302 3.15 mm 6.3 mm 5 mm EL42-0821
EL42-0300 2.5 mm 5 mm 4 mm 3:1 Shape Index Calliper. Weight 1 kg

Vernier Calliper see Laboratory

Equipment Section
EN933-3 Grid Sieves
EL42-0821 3:1 Shape Index Calliper, EL42-0820 Length Gauge

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 42 Aggregates
Density, voids and bulking

Density, Voids and Bulking

As with any porous material, the value obtained for the

particle density of an aggregate will depend on the method
of test and apparatus used. Different particle sizes within a
sample often have different particle densities.The term
particle density expressed in Mg/m3 is numerically equal to
the specific gravity. Various methods, depending upon the
type and size of material to be tested, are specified in
standards for testing aggregate.

Particle Density (specific gravity)

and Water Absorption
BS 812; ASTM C127; AASHTO T85; EN 1097-6, 12697-6
Method for aggregate between 63 mm and 5 mm

EL42-1700 Sand Absorption Cone with EL42-1720 Tamping Rod

Particle Density (specific gravity)

and Water Absorption
BS 812; ASTM C128; AASHTO T84

Method for aggregate 20 mm and smaller

The gas jar method described in BS 812 is suitable for all
aggregates smaller than 20 mm in size and is particularly suited to
friable aggregates.The pyknometer method described in ASTM
C128 is suitable for determining the particle density of samples of
fine aggregates.The particle density of fillers can be determined
using the density bottle method specified for testing cement.

Ordering Information
EL42-1000/01 Buoyancy Balance with Accessory EL42-1700
Sand Absorption Cone made of brass to the dimensions given
Buoyancy Balance 6000 g in BS 812, ASTM C128 and AASHTO T84. Weight 250 g

The buoyancy balance system developed by ELE consists of a rigid EL42-1720

support frame, incorporating a water tank mounted on a platform. Tamping Rod for use with cone.Tamping face is 25 mm diameter
and complies with BS 812, ASTM C128 and AASHTO T84.
A mechanical lifting device is used to raise the water tank through Weight 400 g
the frame height immersing the specimen suspended below the
balance. Accessory
EL42-1240 Absorbent Cloths, pack of 3.
The balance supplied may also be used as a standard weighing
device, thus providing a versatile and comprehensive weighing Bulk Density Measures
system in the laboratory.
Manufactured from heavy gauge steel these bulk density measures
Ordering Information comply with the requirements of either BS 812 or ASTM C-29.
Other than the 3 litre size all measures incorporate carrying
EL42-1000/01
handles as standard.
Bouyancy Balance, 6000 g x 0.1 g supplied with frame, water
tank and suspension hook. Catalogue no. Capacity Standard
For 220 – 240 V AC, 50 – 60 Hz, 1 ph. EL42-1995 3 litre BS 812; ASTM C29
EL42-2000 7 litre BS 812
Accessory
EL34-2830 10 litre BS 812-2, 3797, EN 1097-3
EL42-1005 Wire Basket with handle for BS 812 12350-6, ASTM C138
Relative Density. 200 mm diameter x 190 mm
deep, 1.70 mm wire mesh. EL34-2820 15 litre BS 812; ASTM C138
EL34-2800 30 litre BS 812; ASTM C138

122
 Aggregates
Soundness and chemical tests 42
Shrinkage of Aggregate
Soundness and Chemical Tests BS812-120, EN 1367-4

The presence of organic matter and certain chemicals can The volume of an aggregate which is susceptible to drying
have a considerable influence on the strength and durability shrinkage may change by as much as four times when moving from
of concrete.The ability of aggregates to resist excessive the wet to dry state.The test method described uses prisms of
change in volume (soundness) due to physical changes in the known dimensions made from aggregate up to a maximum size of
environment is also of importance. Knowledge of these 20 mm.
potentially harmful factors will ensure that precautions can
be taken at the mix design stage of a project. Ordering Information
EL42-2970
Chloride Content: Rapid method Three gang Prism Mould for specimens 50 x 50 x 200 mm.
Quantab chloride titrators can be used for estimating the chloride Weight 8 kg
content of aqueous solutions.They are suitable for site testing and Steel Inserts see EL34-8541
quality control of aggregates requiring less than 30 minutes to Measuring Apparatus see EL34-8500
obtain a result. Standard Length Rod see EL34-8509
Ordering Information EL42-2970 Three-gang Prism Mould with Accessories
EL42-2950
Quantab Chloride Titrator Strips.Type 1175 titration range
0.005% to 0.1% (30 to 600 ppm) NaCl. Pack of 50. Weight 10 g

EL42-2952
Quantab Chloride Titrator Strips.Type 1176 titration range
0.05% to 1% (300 to 6000 ppm) NaCl. Pack of 40. Weight 10 g

Organic Impurities in Fine Aggregate

ASTM C40

If aggregate contains organic impurities it may not be suitable for

inclusion in concrete. Organic impurities, usually tannic acid and its
derivatives, may interfere with the chemical reactions of hydration.
Impurities are more likely to be found in fine (sand) aggregate.
EL42-2950
Quantab Tritrator Strips Ordering Information
Sulphate Content: Rapid method EL42-3000
Glass Bottle 12 ounce (300 ml approx) capacity, graduated at
A qualitative or semi-quantitative test is recommended for 211/42, 411/42 and 7 ounce positions. Complete with screw cap.
determining sulphate ions in aqueous solutions. Sulphate test strips Weight 340 g
are convenient measuring devices for preliminary assessment of
sulphate content. EL42-3040
Colour Standard with five organic colour transparencies
Ordering Information mounted in a holder.
EL42-2958 Special Note:
Sulphate Test Strips detection range 200 to 900 mg/l. Sodium Hydroxide pellets are required but not supplied by ELE
Pack of 100. Weight 10 g
EL42-3040 Colour Standard
Soundness of Aggregates
BS 812; ASTM C88; AASHTO T104; EN 1367-2

The soundness of aggregates to physical changes caused by the

environment is important to the long-term durability characteristics
of concrete. Excessive changes in volume can be caused by freezing
and thawing, thermal changes at temperatures greater than
freezing, and cycles of wetting and drying. ASTM C88 specifies a
test method to determine the potential soundness or otherwise of
aggregates.

Hydrometers and Wire Baskets see Laboratory

Equipment Section

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 42 Aggregates
Mechanical properties

Mechanical Properties

The diverse range of aggregate available to the engineer

makes it essential to select a material that is adequate
for a given application.The following equipment is
designed to determine various mechanical characteristics
that need to be known in order to select the most
suitable and economic type of aggregate.

Aggregate Impact Value (AIV)

BS 812-112

The apparatus has been designed in a particularly heavy duty form,

with specially hardened steel surfaces for minimum wear.The
assembly is heavily plated to ensure corrosion resistance and forms
a rigid frame around the quick-release trigger mechanism which
ensures an effective free fall of the hammer when released.

A built-in counter automatically indicates the number of blows

delivered.

The apparatus is supplied complete with cylindrical measure

75 mm diameter x 50 mm deep, and a steel tamping rod 16 mm
diameter x 600 mm long.

Ordering Information
ACV Apparatus with Metal Measures and Tamping Rods
EL42-4000
Aggregate Impact Value Apparatus Aggregate Crushing Value (ACV)
Weight 52 kg and Ten Percent Fines Value (TFV)
BS 812-110, 111
EL42-4000 AIV Apparatus
These tests are a measure of the crushing properties of aggregate
and use the same basic equipment.The ACV test requires a
standard load of 400 kN to be applied over a period of 10 minutes
while the TFV test measures the force required to produce a
specified depth of plunger penetration.

ACV/TFV Standard Test

Ordering Information
EL42-4300
Aggregate Crushing Value Apparatus comprising 150 mm
nominal diameter steel cylinder, plunger and base plate.
Weight 16.6 kg

EL42-4360
Metal Measure 115 mm diameter x 180 mm deep.
Weight 870 g

Tamping Rod see EL34-0130

ACV/TFV Test for Aggregate

Smaller than 10 mm

Ordering Information
EL42-4500
Aggregate Crushing Value Apparatus comprising 75 mm
nominal diameter steel cylinder, plunger and base plate.
Weight 3.5 kg

EL42-4560
Metal Measure 57 mm diameter x 90 mm deep.

EL42-4580
Tamping Rod 8 mm diameter x 300 mm long with rounded end.
Weight 350 g

124
 Aggregates
Mechanical properties 42
Los Angeles Abrasion Machine Ordering Information
ASTM C131, C535; EN 1097-2
EL42-5305/01
Los Angeles Abrasion Machine as specified
■ European and ASTM methods For 220 – 240 V AC, 50 Hz, 1 ph
■ Revolution counter
■ Safety cut-out EL42-5310/01
Los Angeles Abrasion Machine with CE Safety Cabinet
■ Full width cover fitted with microswitches. Less charges.
For 220 – 240 V AC, 50 Hz, 1 ph
The Los Angeles Machine comprises a heavy steel cylinder, rotated
about its horizontal axis.
Accessories
The cylinder incorporates a removable internal shelf.Two EL42-5300/10 Set of Abrasive Charges (ASTM)
alternative shelf positions are provided, one for ASTM and one for EL42-5305/10 Set of Abrasive Charges (EN)
the EN test method.

The ELE Los Angeles Machine’s heavy duty steel cylinder is

manufactured from structural steel plate conforming to S275 of
EN 10025:1993

The filling aperture is provided with a cover and a safety stop

button is prominently positioned.The machine is fitted with a
revolution counter and steel tray for specimen unloading. Supplied
without abrasive charges which should be ordered separately.

EL42-5310/01 Los Angeles Abrasion Machine with CE safety cabinet EL42-5305/01 Los Angeles Abrasion Machine

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 42 Aggregates
Mechanical properties

Micro-Deval Apparatus
EN 1097-1

■ Satisfies European test method

■ Machine with safety cover and cutout
■ Positive drive system
■ 4 drums supplied as standard

The apparatus comprises a main frame assembly with drive motor

and twin roller bearers.Two models are available, EL42-5210/01
features a hinged safety cover with automatic cut-off of power to
the drive system when the guard is opened. Model EL42-5205/01
is supplied less safety cover. As standard both units are supplied
with a revolution counter and on/off switches. Each model is
supplied with
4 stainless steel drums each 200 mm diameter x 154 mm long and
20.0 kg charge (5 kg required for test) of steel balls.

A waterproof sealing gasket is fitted to the drum enclosure. Drums

locate positively on the roller bearers that are driven at a speed of
100 ±5 rpm.

Ordering Information
EL42-5205/01
Micro-Deval Apparatus complete with 4 stainless steel drums,
20.0 kg of 10 mm diameter steel ball charges (5 kg required for
test). EL42-5210/01 Micro-Deval Apparatus
Dimensions 450 x 1000 x 950 mm (l x w x h).
Weight 150 kg.
For 220 – 240 V, 50 Hz, 1 ph.

EL42-5210/01
Micro-Deval Apparatus complete with safety cover, 4 stainless
steel drums, 20.0kg of 10 mm diameter steel ball charges (5 kg
required for test).
Dimensions 650 x 1150 x 1150 mm (l x w x h).
Weight 180 kg.
For 220 – 240 V, 50 Hz, 1 ph.

Accessories
EL42-5200/11 Steel Charges 10 mm diameter for
Micro-Deval Apparatus (20.2 kg pack)
EL42-5200/10 Stainless Steel Drum
200 mm diameter x 154 mm long for
Micro-Deval Apparatus. Supplied without
steel charges.
Weight 25 kg

EL42-5205/01 Micro-Deval Apparatus

ELE International has a policy of continuous product review to

ensure compliance to the relevant testing standards.

The latest product information can be found on the ELE

e-commerce system at www.ele.com

We recommend that you take a few minutes to register for access

to this fully integrated and advanced facility for:

■ Placing and tracking orders anytime 24/7

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 Aggregates
Mechanical properties 42
Polished Stone Value (PSV)
BS 812-114; EN 1097-8

The Polished Stone Value provides a measure of the

resistance to polishing under the action of vehicle tyres and
is a fundamental test which is often used when selecting
aggregate for road surfacing material.

Accelerated Polishing Machine

BS 812

■ Satisfies European method

■ High safety standards
■ Sealed long-life bearings
■ Sealed control panel

Specimens are manufactured in accurately machined and matched

moulds; they are then removed from the moulds and located on
the ‘Road Wheel’. Abrasives are continuously fed to the road
wheel. Water is introduced at a controlled rate via a variable flow
meter and self-contained water supply. Used water and abrasives
are collected in a large removable tray.

Electrical supply is protected by thermal cutouts and an emergency

stop button.

Ordering Information
EL42-5505/01
Accelerated Polishing Machine complete with 4 moulds and
4 mould plates. Weight 220 kg
For 220 – 240 V, 50 Hz, 1 ph

Specification
Dimensions (l x w x h) 550 x 630 x 1600 mm (bottle fitted)
Rated power 400 W
Road wheel 315 to 325 rpm
EL42-5505 Accelerated Polishing Machine
Applied load on specimens 715 to 735 N
Feed rates Corn emery: 20 to 34 g/min Road Wheel and samples
Water: 20 to 34 ml/min
Flour emery: 2 to 4 g/min
Water: 5 to 8 ml/min

Accessories
EL42-5520 Corn Emery ungraded, 3 kg pack.
EL42-5525 Flour Emery ungraded, 3 kg pack.

Spares
Model number Description
EL42-5505/12 Tyred Wheel Assembly, dark
EL42-5505/20 Tyred Wheel Assembly, light
EL42-5505/21 Mould Plate
EL42-5505/22 Specimen Mould

127
 42 Aggregates
Mechanical properties

Friction Tester
BS 812-114, 8204, 6677-1, 6717, 7263-1, 3, 7932, 7976; EN
1097-8, 1341, 1342, 1338, 1344, 13036-4, 14231; DD ENV
12633, ASTM E303

This apparatus consists of a spring-loaded rubber slider mounted

on a pendulum arm.The arm can be adjusted vertically from a rigid
support column when in operation.The base has three adjustable
feet so that the swing of the pendulum during test moves through
a truly circular path while operating directly on a road surface. All
bearings and working parts are enclosed where possible to protect
them against wear and contamination. As standard, the Tester
incorporates the 'F scale' that is necessary for laboratory testing.
The optional accessory Baseplate is required for laboratory tests.

Ordering Information
EL42-6000
Friction Tester. Weight 31 kg

Accessories
EL42-6200 Baseplate with specimen mounting block
for use with machine in a laboratory. Weight
8 kg
Spares
EL42-6221 Replacement Mounted Rubber
Slider for laboratory use. Weight 20 g
EL42-6222 Replacement Mounted Rubber
Slider for road version of machine.
Weight 35 g
Friction Tester in carrying case

EL42-6000 Friction Tester

128