ASTM C580
Theory:
ASTM C580 covers a 3 pt. bend test on concrete used as surfacing material. Other names for surfacing material include grout and mortar. It is used between bricks and other building block materials to stick them together.
The beam is placed in the fixture and is subjected to 3 point loading until it cracks and breaks.
The Romans and other ancient civilizations were said to use a type of perfect concrete to erect their massive structures. Cement today is based off of Portland cement which is primarily limestone. While the strength of modern cement has increased significantly in the last several decades, some say it is still not comparable to the cements of ancient peoples.
Geometry:
Most samples are 1 x 1 x 10 in. square beams.
Solution:
The C580 3 point bend fixture from Universal Grip satisfies all requirements of this ASTM. The bend fixture includes interchangeable fixed rollers of 10mm, 20mm, and 30mm which satisfies the specific requirements of over 1/8", 1/4" and 1/2". The fixture has an adjustable span and satisfies all 3 methods of this test.
Deflectometers are commonly used for advanced testing, especially when calculating the modulus of elasticity.
Universal Grip carries this fixture in stock and it is available with same day or next day shipping ARO.
Analysis:
The flexural strength is a measure of the stress seen at the maximum load just before failure. A simple calculation is used in the ASTM to account for the size of the sample and the span of the fixture.
The Modulus of Elasticity uses a special algebraic formula which can be programmed into most universal testing machines including the Galdabini.
