Aggregates are one of the most important construction materials, used as a composite material in concrete and asphalt, and as a base material in foundations, roads, and railways. The high hydraulic conductivity of aggregates also makes them ideal for drainage applications and as filter media. With so many different applications, ELE’s range of aggregate testing equipment performs a vital role in checking performance characteristics against specifications, quality control, new source assessment and the prediction of in-service behaviour.
ELE’s aggregate testing range includes the sampling equipment specified in international standards and sample preparation equipment such as ovens and balances. Moisture content can also be measured in the field with the Speedy Moisture Tester.
Mechanical testing is undertaken with ELE’s Los Angeles Abrasion Machine for the measurement of abrasion characteristics which are important because most aggregates should resist crushing, degradation and disintegration. Laboratory test equipment for the Aggregate Impact Value (AIV) and the Aggregate Crushing Value (ACV) and Ten Percent Fines Value (TFV) are also available. The Pendulum Skid Resistance Tester provides highway engineers with a method of checking the resistance of wet and dry surfaces to slipping and skidding, both in the lab and in-situ.
Particle size, shape and texture can have significant effects on the performance characteristics of aggregates, and a wide range of ELE sieves and shakers are available in addition to the sand equivalent apparatus, gauges and kits for the determination of flakiness and elongation. Bulk density, particle density (specific gravity), voids and water absorption characteristics can all be determined with ELE equipment, and the soundness and durability of aggregates can be measured with the sodium sulphate or magnesium sulphate immersion methods. Organic matter and certain chemicals can detrimentally affect aggregate performance and test kits are available for chloride, sulphate and organic impurities.