Flow table test
This test will be of interest to those involved with concrete having a high workability. The test determines the fl ow index as an arithmetic mean of the diameter of the specimen after working on a flow table.
Concrete flow table
Concrete flow table consists of a double wooden table measuring 700x700 mm and hinged at one side. The top table is covered with a flat metal plate 2 mm thick, inscribed, and protected against corrosion. The galvanised steel cone has a top 130 mm dia., base 200 mm dia., and is 200 mm high. Supplied complete with wooden tamping rod.
When fresh concrete is delivered to a site by a truck mixer it is sometimes necessary to check its
consistence before pouring it into formwork.If the consistence is not correct, the concrete will not
have the desired qualities once it has set, particularly the desired strength. If the concrete is too pasty, it may result in cavities within the concrete which leads to corrosion of the rebar, eventually leading to the formation of cracks which will accelerate the whole process, rather like insufficient concrete cover. Cavities will also lower the stress the concrete is able to support.
Conducting the test
▲The flow table is wetted.
▲The upside down funnel is placed on the flow table and filled with fresh concrete.
▲The funnel is lifted up, allowing the concrete to flow.
▲The flowtable is then lifted up several centimeters and then dropped, causing the concrete flow a little bit further.
▲After this the diameter of the concrete is measured. The result is called "Ausbreitmaß" in German.
