Laboratory #1: Sieve Analysis of Fine Aggregates

Significance and Use
This test is used to determine the grading of materials that are to be used as aggregates. It ensures that particle size distribution complies with applicable requirements and provides the data necessary to control aggregates. The data may also be useful in developing relationships concerning porosity and packing.

Apparatus
ï‚· Balances or scales with minimum accuracy of 0.1 g for fine aggregates
ï‚· Sieves
ï‚· Mechanical sieve shaker
ï‚· Oven capable of maintaining a uniform temperature of 110 Â± 5ÂºC (230 Â± 9ÂºF)

Test Specimens
Thoroughly mix the aggregate sample and reduce it to an amount suitable for testing (500 g). The minimum sample size should be 0.5 kg for fine aggregates.

Test Procedure
1. Dry the aggregate test sample to a constant weight at a temperature of 110 Â± 5ÂºC, then cool to room temperature.
2. Select a set of standard sieves (#4, #8, #16, #30, #50, #100).
3. Weight every sieve empty.
4. Nest the sieves in order of decreasing size of opening, and place the aggregate sample on the top sieve.
5. Agitate the sieves by hand or mechanical apparatus for a sufficient period. The criterion for sieving time is that, after completion, not more than 1% of the residue on any individual sieve will pass that sieve during 1 minute of continuous hand sieving.
6. Determine the weight the sample between each size increment.
7. The total weight of the material should be compared.

Analysis and Results
ï‚· Calculate the percentages passing, total percentages retained, or percentages of various sizes of fractions to the nearest 0.1%, on the basis of the total weight of the initial dry sample.
ï‚· Plot the particle size distribution.
ï‚· Calculate fineness modulus

Report
ï‚· Percentage of material retained between consecutive sieves, cumulative percentages of material retained on each sieve.
ï‚· Particle size distribution plots.
ï‚· Fineness modulus to the nearest 0.01. (2.2 to 2.6 fine sand, 2.6 to 2.9 medium sand, 2.9 to 3.2 coarse sand)

Laboratory #1: Sieve Analysis of Fine Aggregates Significance an...