When you work with ready mix concrete, the right design means everything.
The American Concrete Institute (ACI) notes that concrete proportion selection involves a “balance between economy and requirements for placeability, strength, durability, density, and appearance.” ACI 211.1 is the standard used when designing a concrete mix.
Placeability, for example, refers to the traits that wet concrete has so it can be placed and finished. To achieve this placeability, the mix must be adjusted so it doesn’t segregate but instead can be consolidated. Most people measure placeability by slump.
Ready Mix Concrete Elements
Aggregates – Gravel or crushed stone can form the coarse aggregate includes crushed stone or gravel. Sand is a common example of fine aggregate.
Water – Concrete strength depends on how much water is used in relation to cement (also known as the w/c ratio).
Cement – Used with water, cement helps produce a paste that connects various aggregates.
Key considerations include the strength and slump. You also need to determine the use of air bubbles, the size of aggregate and whether fly ash should be used. And, of course, you must decide how you’ll adapt if the day is especially cold or hot.
It’s important to know that the process of mixing concrete involves more than just figuring out the proportions of each element.
When working with ready mix concrete, various factors such as potential shrinkage and permeability must be evaluated in addition to considering the mix design. At Mack Concrete, we understand these elements’ critical role in delivering high-quality, durable concrete solutions tailored to your project’s specific needs.
When developing the mix design, it is crucial to acknowledge that the demands on concrete evolve throughout its lifespan.
As a ready-mix supplier, Mack Concrete collects the right project information to help ensure that concrete As a leading ready-mix supplier, Mack Concrete gathers comprehensive project information to ensure that our concrete maintains its integrity and performance over the years. By understanding how the concrete will be utilized, we can expertly design the appropriate mix to match your specific project requirements.
For instance, we carefully assess the desired consistency of the fresh concrete before it sets. Additionally, we select the appropriate maximum aggregate size, understanding that using larger aggregates can significantly reduce shrinkage and curling, thereby enhancing the concrete’s overall performance and durability.
Ready-Mix Options
Ready mix concrete is an incredibly versatile and cost-effective material, making it suitable for a wide range of construction applications
If you’re pouring a driveway or making stairs, you will need a higher strength mix design, which is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI).
Outdoor concrete projects often face significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. These variations, particularly exposure to freezing and thawing cycles, necessitate proper mix design to enhance the durability and longevity of the concrete surface.
Concrete mix choices also must factor in any local building codes and the type of weather conditions that could exist over many years.
With proper planning, contractors can confidently utilize our ready-mix concrete products, designed to endure and perform under diverse conditions. Mack Concrete operates strategically located plants in Akron, Valley City, and Lorain, Ohio. These locations ensure prompt and efficient service to meet your project needs. For more information about our exceptional products, please contact Mack Concrete today or call (800) 482-3111.
