AZA 1105 CHASE AIR INDICATOR

Description

Chase Air Indicator is a compact, portable testing device used to estimate the air content in fresh concrete mixtures. Used widely in field applications, this tool is especially suitable for construction sites where quick decisions regarding workability and mix quality are necessary. At Azalab, we supply industry-compliant, rugged chase air indicators that offer an affordable and reliable alternative to laboratory-based air content testing systems like the pressure meter (ASTM C231) or volumetric method (ASTM C173).

Air entrainment in concrete is critical for enhancing durability, especially in freeze-thaw environments, and for improving workability in pumpable mixes. The Chase Air Indicator helps field engineers and technicians verify whether the air content in the fresh concrete mix falls within the acceptable range, typically between 4% and 7% depending on environmental conditions and design requirements.

The testing principle is based on fluid displacement and vacuum pressure balance, where a known volume of concrete mortar is extracted using a sampling tube. The unit draws a vacuum and compares the pressure differential against a pre-calibrated dial that corresponds to percentage air content.

Key Features:

• Immediate on-site results (within minutes)

• No electricity required

• No moving mechanical parts, reducing failure risks

• Fully manual operation with minimal training

• Pre-calibrated dial gauge for quick readability

• Constructed from chemical-resistant plastic or metal

• Maintenance-free with a long operational life

Azalab’s Chase Air Indicator is especially useful in field scenarios such as:

• Road and pavement construction

• Ready-mix concrete delivery checks

• Precast concrete yard quality control

• Remote or rural projects without access to lab equipment

• Rapid jobsite adjustments to air entrainment dosage

Operating Procedure:

1. A representative mortar sample is obtained from the concrete mix.

2. The sample is inserted into the chamber and sealed.

3. A fluid (usually water or alcohol-based solution) is added to balance the internal volume.

4. A vacuum is drawn using the manual pump or valve system.

5. The dial indicates the % air content directly.

This method, while not identical to ASTM C231 or C173, provides quick field guidance that can reduce wasted concrete, prevent under- or over-airing, and improve structural consistency.

Users are encouraged to verify readings periodically using known control samples. It’s also advisable to calibrate the device against pressure or volumetric meters occasionally if used frequently on critical projects.

To learn more about air content testing in concrete, refer to ASTM C173 – Standard Test Method for Air Content of Freshly Mixed Concrete by Volumetric Method.

At Azalab, we ensure our Chase Air Indicators are factory-calibrated, leak-tested, and ready for immediate deployment. Each unit includes a sampling tube, fluid container, detailed instructions, and a protective storage case.

By offering fast, affordable, and reliable air content results on-site, the Chase Air Indicator is a valuable addition to any construction team’s quality control toolkit.

 Specifications:

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ):

Q1: What does the Chase Air Indicator measure?
A1: It measures the approximate air content in fresh concrete mortar samples.

Q2: Is it accurate compared to ASTM C231?
A2: It provides a reliable field estimate but is not a substitute for ASTM C231 pressure meters in official testing.

Q3: Is calibration required?
A3: It comes pre-calibrated but can be verified using known standard samples.

Q4: Can it be used on coarse aggregates?
A4: No, it is suitable only for mortar portion of concrete (fine aggregates).

Q5: What is the benefit of using this in the field?
A5: It gives fast, low-cost guidance to adjust admixtures and air-entraining agents on the go.