Sieve analysis is a commonly used
method for determining the particle size distribution of a granular material
such as fine or coarse aggregate. The process involves passing a sample of the
material through a series of sieves of progressively smaller mesh size and
measuring the amount of material retained on each sieve.
Here are the general steps for
performing a sieve analysis of fine or coarse aggregate:
- Obtain a representative sample of the aggregate material. The sample should be large enough to provide at least 500 grams of material for testing.
- Dry the sample in an oven at a temperature of 110 ± 5°C
until it reaches a constant weight. This ensures that the sample is
completely dry and free of moisture.
- Weigh the dry sample and record the weight as the
initial weight.
- Set up a series of sieves with mesh sizes ranging from
coarse to fine, with the finest sieve at the bottom. The sieves should be
stacked in ascending order of mesh size, with a pan placed at the bottom
to collect any material that passes through the finest sieve.
- Pour the dry sample onto the top sieve and cover it
with a lid.
- Place the stack of sieves in a mechanical shaker and
shake it for a sufficient amount of time to ensure that all the material
has passed through the sieves. The duration of shaking may vary depending
on the type of material being tested.
- After shaking, remove each sieve from the stack and
weigh the material retained on it. Record the weight of each sieve as the
cumulative weight.
- Calculate the percentage of material retained on each
sieve and the cumulative percentage passing through each sieve and
multiplying by 100.
- Plot the percentage of material retained against the
sieve size to obtain the particle size distribution curve.
- Interpret the results and report the particle size distribution of the aggregate material.
Aggregate sieve analysis is a test
used to determine the particle size distribution of aggregates. It involves
passing a sample of the aggregate through a series of sieves of decreasing mesh
size and measuring the weight retained on each sieve. The results are then
plotted on a graph to determine the percentage of material retained on each
sieve and the cumulative percentage passing through each sieve.
It is important to follow proper safety procedures when performing a sieve analysis, such as wearing appropriate personal protective equipment and avoiding inhaling any dust or particles.
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