Bs En 12390-2:2019 !!link!!

BS EN 12390-2:2019 Testing Hardened Concrete: Making and Curing Specimens for Strength Tests

The BS EN 12390-2:2019 standard is a critical document for civil engineers, laboratory technicians, and construction professionals involved in concrete quality control. This European Standard specifies the methods for making and curing test specimens for strength tests on hardened concrete. Compliance with this standard ensures that concrete strength results are accurate, repeatable, and representative of the material's true potential. Understanding the Significance of the Standard

Concrete is a heterogeneous material, and its measured strength is highly sensitive to how it is handled in its plastic state and how it is treated during the early stages of hardening. BS EN 12390-2:2019 provides a rigorous framework to minimize variables during the sampling and preparation process. By standardizing the size of the molds, the compaction methods, and the temperature and humidity of the curing environment, the industry can compare results across different projects and regions with confidence. Scope and Application

This part of the EN 12390 series applies to specimens made from concrete with a maximum aggregate size of 40 mm or less. It covers the preparation of cubes, cylinders, and prisms. The standard is used both for specimens made in a laboratory setting and those made on-site to verify the quality of concrete being delivered to a structure. Essential Equipment Requirements

To adhere to the standard, specific equipment must be used. Molds must be made of a non-absorbent, rigid material that does not react with cement paste. They must be watertight and capable of maintaining their shape under the pressure of compaction. Common materials include steel, cast iron, and certain high-density plastics.

The standard also specifies the tools for compaction. Depending on the consistency of the concrete, this may include internal vibrators (poker vibrators), vibrating tables, or manual tamping rods. For manual compaction, the rod must be circular in cross-section, straight, and made of steel with a smooth finish. The Making of Test Specimens

The process begins with obtaining a representative sample of fresh concrete according to EN 12309-1. Once the sample is ready, the molds are prepared by applying a thin film of non-reactive release agent to the internal surfaces.

The concrete is placed in the molds in layers. The number of layers and the duration of vibration or number of tamps depend on the dimensions of the specimen and the workability of the mix. Over-vibration must be avoided as it can cause segregation, while under-compaction leads to voids that artificially lower the recorded strength. After compaction, the top surface is leveled using a trowel or float to create a smooth, flat finish. The Curing Process: A Critical Phase

Curing is perhaps the most vital step in the preparation of concrete specimens. BS EN 12390-2:2019 outlines strict parameters for both initial and long-term curing. Initial Curing

Specimens must remain in the molds for at least 16 hours but no longer than 3 days. During this time, they must be protected from shock, vibration, and dehydration. The temperature during this initial phase must be maintained between 20°C and 25°C in temperate climates, or higher in hot climates if specified. Covering the molds with plastic sheeting or wet burlap is a common practice to prevent moisture loss. Standard Curing

After removal from the molds (demolding), the specimens must be cured in water or in a mist room. If water curing is used, the specimens must be fully submerged in a tank. The water temperature must be maintained at a constant 20°C (± 2°C). If a mist room is used, the relative humidity must be kept above 95%. This controlled environment ensures that the hydration of the cement continues optimally, allowing the concrete to gain strength at a predictable rate. Marking and Documentation

Every specimen must be clearly and indelibly marked so that it can be traced back to its specific batch, location in the structure, and date of manufacture. Accurate record-keeping is a requirement of the standard, including details of the sampling procedure, the compaction method used, and the duration and conditions of the curing period. Differences Between Laboratory and Site Curing

While the standard primary focus is on "standard curing" to verify the potential strength of a mix design, it also acknowledges "site curing." Site-cured specimens are treated as closely as possible to the actual structure they represent. These are often used to determine when formwork can be safely removed or when post-tensioning can occur. However, site-cured results cannot be used for official compliance with the 28-day characteristic strength requirements unless specifically permitted. Conclusion

The BS EN 12390-2:2019 standard is a cornerstone of modern concrete technology. By following its detailed procedures for making and curing specimens, the construction industry ensures that the data used to make safety and structural decisions is robust and reliable. Whether you are a technician in a commercial lab or a site manager overseeing a major pour, a deep understanding of this standard is essential for maintaining the integrity of the built environment.

7. Relationship with Other Standards

BS EN 12390-2:2019 does not work in isolation. It is part of a family:

| Standard | Title | Role | |----------|-------|------| | BS EN 12390-1 | Shape, dimensions, and tolerances of moulds | Specifies the moulds used in Part 2. | | BS EN 12390-3 | Compressive strength of test specimens | The test method after curing per Part 2. | | BS EN 12390-4 | Determination of compressive strength – non-destructive (rebound hammer) | Optional supplementary. | | BS EN 12350-4 | Fresh concrete – Degree of compactability | Helps determine compaction method for Part 2. | | BS 1881-108 | (Partly superseded) | Old UK standard – still referenced but not current. |

For anyone working in concrete testing, keeping the entire BS EN 12390 series on hand is essential.

Where to obtain the standard

The official full text is available for purchase from national standards bodies or authorized distributors (BSI / CEN / authorized e‑libraries).

Related search suggestions for further reading (helpful search terms)

EN 12390-3 compressive strength test
EN 12350-1 sampling fresh concrete
EN 206 concrete specification

BS EN 12390-2:2019 is the British Standard that specifies methods for making and curing test specimens for concrete strength tests. It provides a standardized framework to ensure that concrete cubes, cylinders, and prisms are prepared consistently, which is critical for accurate compressive strength assessments. 🏗️ Key Procedural Steps bs en 12390-2:2019

The standard outlines the lifecycle of a test specimen from the moment it is cast until it is ready for testing:

Mould Preparation: Moulds must conform to BS EN 12390-1 and be coated with a non-reactive release agent to prevent sticking.

Filling and Compaction: Concrete is filled in layers and compacted using methods like: Mechanical: Internal poker vibrators or vibrating tables.

Manual: Compacting rods or bars (typically at least 25 tamps per layer).

Surface Leveling: After compaction, the top surface is leveled using a steel trowel or float to ensure a smooth, flat finish.

Initial Curing: Specimens remain in their moulds for 16 hours to 3 days at a temperature of in hot climates), protected from shock and dehydration.

Final Curing: After demoulding, specimens are typically stored in water at or in a humidity chamber with relative humidity until the test date. 📋 Reporting Requirements A formal test report must be generated, including: Unique identification of the test sample. The exact date and time the specimens were made. The specific method of compaction used. Details of the curing conditions and duration. Any deviations from the standard procedures. 🛡️ Why This Standard Matters

Consistency: Standardizing preparation ensures that variations in test results are due to the concrete mix itself, not how the specimen was handled.

Safety: Accurate strength data is fundamental to verifying the structural integrity of buildings and infrastructure.

Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to this standard—which supersedes the 2009 version—is often a contractual or legal requirement for European construction projects. SLOVENSKI STANDARD SIST EN 12390-2:2019

Technical Overview: BS EN 12390-2:2019 BS EN 12390-2:2019 is a European standard adopted by the British Standards Institution (BSI) that specifies the methods for making and curing specimens for strength tests

of hardened concrete. It is a critical component of the EN 12390 series, which governs the testing of hardened concrete to ensure structural integrity and compliance with design specifications. 1. Scope and Application

The standard provides a rigorous framework for preparing concrete test specimens, such as cubes, cylinders, and prisms, from fresh concrete. These specimens are later used to determine mechanical properties like compressive and flexural strength. Primary Focus

: Standardizing the laboratory and site conditions for specimen preparation to minimize variability in test results. Relationship to Other Standards : It is often used in conjunction with BS EN 12350-1 (sampling fresh concrete) and BS EN 12390-3 (compressive strength testing). 2. Key Procedures for Making Specimens

The preparation process is strictly defined to ensure homogeneity and representativeness of the concrete mix. Mould Preparation

: Specimens are typically cast in steel or rigid moulds that meet specific dimensional tolerances. Filling and Compaction

: Concrete is placed into moulds in layers and compacted using methods such as a vibrating table

, internal vibrator, or tamping rod to remove entrapped air. Surface Finishing

: After compaction, the top surface is leveled using a float or trowel to ensure a flat, smooth surface for testing. 3. Standard Curing Requirements BS EN 12390-2:2019 Testing Hardened Concrete: Making and

Curing is arguably the most critical phase, as it directly impacts the hydration process and ultimate strength development. BS EN 12390.2 - 2000 (Testing Hardened Concrete - Scribd

Uploaded by. ... Scope: Defines the scope of the standard, covering test specimen molding and curing for strength tests. Foreword:

BS EN 12390-2:2019 is the British and European standard that dictates the procedures for making and curing concrete specimens for strength testing. It is a critical document for ensuring that concrete samples (typically cubes or cylinders) are prepared consistently so that strength results are accurate and comparable. What This Standard Covers

The document outlines specific laboratory and field procedures to maintain the integrity of concrete samples from the moment they are cast until they are tested for hardened strength:

Preparation & Filling: Instructions for preparing moulds and the systematic filling process to avoid segregation.

Compaction: Standardized methods for compacting the concrete within the moulds using mechanical or manual tools to remove air pockets.

Surface Leveling & Marking: Procedures for finishing the top surface and clearly identifying each specimen for tracking.

Curing: Strict requirements for temperature and humidity—often involving water tanks or humidity chambers—to allow the concrete to gain strength properly before testing.

Transport: Guidelines for safely moving specimens from the site to the laboratory without causing internal damage. Why It’s Important

Standardization: It ensures that a 28-day strength test in one lab is directly comparable to a test in another.

Reliability: Improper curing (e.g., letting a specimen dry out too quickly) can lead to artificially low strength readings, potentially causing a project to fail inspection unnecessarily.

Safety: Adhering to these methods ensures that the concrete used in buildings and infrastructure truly meets the design's structural requirements. Key Resources BS EN 12390-2:2019 Concrete Testing | PDF - Scribd

BS EN 12390-2:2019 is the British and European standard that defines the methods for making and curing test specimens (such as cubes, cylinders, and prisms) used specifically for strength testing of hardened concrete. This standard is a critical component of quality assurance in construction, replacing the previous 2009 version to incorporate updated procedures for compaction, transport, and initial storage. 1. Scope and Fundamentals

The primary objective of BS EN 12390-2:2019 is to standardize the preparation of concrete samples so that strength results are reliable and comparable across different laboratories and projects. It covers: Preparation and filling of molds. Compaction techniques (mechanical and manual). Surface leveling and marking. Curing protocols to ensure optimal hydration. Transportation requirements for specimens. 2. Standardized Apparatus and Materials

To ensure consistency, the standard specifies the use of equipment conforming to BS EN 12390-1. Key tools include:

Molds: Must be clean and coated with a non-reactive release agent to prevent sticking.

Compacting Tools: These can include internal (poker) vibrators, vibrating tables, or manual compacting rods/bars. Trowels/Floats: Used for mandatory surface leveling. 3. Procedural Methodology Specimen Preparation and Filling

Concrete samples must be obtained following EN 12350-1 and thoroughly remixed before use. Molds are typically filled in multiple layers depending on the concrete's consistency; however, self-compacting concrete is filled in a single layer without additional vibration. Compaction

Each layer must be fully compacted immediately after placement: Where to obtain the standard The official full

Mechanical Vibration: Using a vibrating table or poker vibrator until air bubbles cease to emerge.

Hand Compaction: Using a rod or bar, typically tamping at least 25 times uniformly per layer for a 100mm cube.

Mallet Tapping: After each layer, the outside of the mold is tapped with a mallet to close voids and release trapped air. Surface Finishing and Identification

After the final layer is compacted, excess concrete is removed and the surface is leveled flush with the mold rim. Specimens must be clearly marked for traceability without damaging the fresh surface. 4. Curing and Storage Requirements

Curing is the most critical phase for strength development, providing necessary moisture and temperature for cement hydration. BS EN 12390-2:2019 Concrete Testing | PDF - Scribd

BS EN 12390-2:2019 defines strict, standardized procedures for making and curing hardened concrete specimens to ensure accurate, consistent strength test results. It mandates specific guidelines for mould preparation, compaction methods, and environmental controls for specimens during initial and final curing stages. For more details, visit BSI Knowledge

BS EN 12390-2:2019!

That's a British Standard (BS) and European Norm (EN) that outlines the testing methods for hardened concrete. Specifically, Part 2 of the standard focuses on the "Determination of compressive strength of test specimens".

Here's a brief overview:

Title: BS EN 12390-2:2019 - Testing hardened concrete - Part 2: Determination of compressive strength of test specimens

Summary: This standard specifies the method for determining the compressive strength of hardened concrete test specimens, including cubes, cylinders, and other shapes. The test is used to evaluate the strength of concrete in structures, and it's an essential aspect of quality control and assurance in construction.

Key aspects:

Test specimens: The standard covers the preparation and testing of concrete test specimens, including their storage, handling, and curing conditions.
Compressive strength testing: The standard outlines the procedures for testing the compressive strength of concrete specimens using a testing machine.
Calibration and verification: The standard requires the testing machine to be calibrated and verified before use to ensure accurate results.
Calculation of compressive strength: The standard provides the methods for calculating the compressive strength of the test specimens.

Why is it interesting?

Well, concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials in the world, and its compressive strength is a critical parameter in ensuring the safety and durability of structures. The BS EN 12390-2:2019 standard provides a widely accepted and reliable method for determining the compressive strength of concrete, which helps engineers, contractors, and researchers to:

Evaluate concrete quality: Assess the quality of concrete in structures and ensure it meets design specifications.
Design structures: Use compressive strength data to design safe and efficient structures.
Monitor and maintain structures: Identify potential issues and plan maintenance activities based on the concrete's compressive strength.

The standard is an essential tool for anyone involved in the construction industry, from engineers and architects to contractors and materials scientists.

What specific aspects of BS EN 12390-2:2019 would you like to discuss or explore further?

Normative references

Key referenced standards:

EN 12350-1 (Testing fresh concrete — Part 1: Sampling / apparatus)
EN 12390-1 (Shape, dimensions and other requirements for specimens and moulds)
EN 206 (Concrete — Specification, performance, production and conformity)

4. Step-by-Step Procedure: Making Test Specimens

The standard details a clear, sequential process. The goal is to produce a homogeneous specimen with no segregation, air pockets, or surface defects.