FLOW TABLE AZA0791B

Description

Flow Table is a standardized lab instrument used to determine the workability, consistency, and flow of fresh cement mortar or concrete. This simple yet precise testing tool helps identify how easily a mix spreads under its own weight after a controlled mechanical impact. It is a critical part of material quality control in construction projects and cement laboratories.

The Flow Table consists of a rigid circular metallic surface mounted on a sturdy base. At the center of the table is placed a conical mould, which is filled with fresh mortar or concrete. The mould is then lifted, and the table is dropped a fixed number of times using a handle-operated cam mechanism. The extent to which the material spreads across the table indicates its flowability and consistency.

The test conforms with both IS 1199:1959 – Methods of Sampling and Analysis of Concrete and ASTM C230/C230M – Standard Specification for Flow Table. These standards define the equipment dimensions, drop height, and number of drops to ensure consistent and comparable results across labs and test sites.

Components:

• Flow Table Plate: Made of brass or stainless steel; typically 762 mm in diameter
• Drop Mechanism: A hinged or cam-action system that raises and drops the table uniformly
• Flow Mould: Frustum-shaped cone (100 mm height, 100 mm top, 200 mm base diameter)
• Handle: Manually operated lever for dropping the table
• Base Frame: Heavy base to absorb impact and provide stability

How the Flow Table Test Works:

1. The flow mould is centered on the table and filled with a fresh mortar or concrete mix.
2. The mix is tamped (as per standard) and the mould is lifted vertically.
3. The table is then dropped 25 times from a height of approximately 12.5 mm.
4. The final diameter of the spread sample is measured in two perpendicular directions, and the average is recorded as the flow value.

This value helps determine if the mix is suitable for applications like grouting, overlay work, or precast manufacturing, where flowability is critical. A higher flow value indicates greater ease of placement and compaction, while a lower value may signal stiff or under-mixed material.

Applications:

• Cement and mortar quality control in laboratories
• Field testing on construction sites
• Evaluation of admixture effectiveness
• Comparison of water-cement ratio effects
• Teaching aid in civil engineering laboratories

Benefits:

• Simple and repeatable testing method
• Portable and manually operated – ideal for field use
• Provides quick feedback on mix behavior
• Helps reduce trial-and-error during mix design
• Compliant with both national and international standards

Additional Usage Notes:
The test is particularly valuable when working with self-leveling mortars, grouts, or repair materials, where even minor changes in consistency can affect performance. It also helps optimize admixture dosage, such as plasticizers and superplasticizers, by showing direct impact on flow characteristics.

Specifications:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q1: What does the Flow Table test measure?
It measures the flow or spread of mortar/concrete, indicating its consistency and workability.

Q2: Is this test suitable for concrete as well as mortar?
Yes. It’s widely used for both, especially in highly workable mixes like grouts, overlays, and micro-concrete.

Q3: Which standards does the Flow Table comply with?
It complies with IS 1199:1959 and ASTM C230.

Q4: How many drops are required for a standard test?
Typically 25 drops are made, as specified by both IS and ASTM procedures.

Q5: Can this equipment be used on-site?
Yes. Its manual design and durable construction make it suitable for both lab and field conditions.