FLOW TABLE AZA0791

Description

Flow Table is a standardized laboratory device used to measure the workability and consistency of fresh cement mortar or concrete. It assesses the material’s flow by observing how it spreads upon repeated drops of a metal table. This simple but critical test helps evaluate how easily a concrete or mortar mix can be placed and compacted — which is essential for both structural performance and ease of application.

The Flow Table test is widely used in construction sites, cement testing labs, and civil engineering quality control departments. It is especially relevant for mixes where high flowability is required, such as flooring, grouting, or self-leveling concrete.

The apparatus complies with IS 1199:1959 – Methods of Sampling and Analysis of Concrete and ASTM C230/C230M – Standard Specification for Flow Table for Use in Tests of Hydraulic Cement, ensuring it meets all major industry requirements for standardized testing.

Key Components:

• Flow Table Surface: Usually 762 mm (30 inches) in diameter, made of rigid brass or stainless steel, polished for minimal friction.

• Drop Mechanism: Allows vertical drops of 12.5 mm to 25 mm using a cam-action or lever system.

• Mould: A conical frustum, generally 100 mm high, used to shape the fresh mix.

• Handle or Lever: Manual operation handle to lift and drop the table at defined intervals.

Testing Procedure:

1. A fresh mortar or concrete sample is placed in the flow mould positioned at the center of the table.

2. The mould is filled in layers and then lifted vertically.

3. The table is dropped 15–25 times using the handle, and the spread diameter is measured.

4. The difference in initial and final spread gives a quantitative measure of flowability.

This test is crucial for determining whether a mix can properly fill formwork, embed reinforcement, and compact under its own weight. It’s particularly useful for self-compacting concrete, micro-concrete, and highly fluid mortars.

Advantages of Using Flow Table:

• Rapid assessment of consistency and workability

• Non-destructive and easy to repeat

• No power source required — fully manual

• Provides visual and dimensional verification of flow characteristics

• Portable and durable for lab and field use

Applications:

• Concrete product manufacturing

• On-site inspection during concrete placement

• Admixture effectiveness testing

• Precast concrete quality assurance

• Civil engineering educational demonstrations

The Flow Table plays a vital role in identifying performance differences between mortar mixes and adjusting water-cement ratios or admixture dosages. Its simplicity makes it a favorite even in field conditions, especially where precision in mortar placement is required for repair and overlay works.

Specifications:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q1: What does the Flow Table measure?
It measures the spread (in mm) of fresh mortar or concrete, giving an indicator of its flowability and workability.

Q2: Is this test applicable to both concrete and mortar?
Yes. While primarily used for cement mortar, the table can be used with lightweight or self-compacting concrete mixes as well.

Q3: Which standards govern this equipment?
The equipment complies with IS 1199:1959 and ASTM C230, both of which define dimensions and testing procedures.

Q4: How many drops are used in a standard test?
The standard procedure usually involves 25 drops, unless specified otherwise by a testing method or standard.

Q5: Can the table be used without the flow mould?
The flow mould is essential to standardize the initial shape and volume of the sample — using the table without it will invalidate the test.