Concrete Penetrometer

This test is used to determine the elapsed time between batching of a concrete sample and when it is deemed by standard methods to have set. The method involves measuring the penetration resistance of a test sample, which has had coarse particles removed at periodic intervals. It is particularly useful, in determining the effect on setting time of admixtures in the concrete, where these may have been introduced specifically to increase the setting time. It consists of cylindrical spring housing with a plunger attached to the top of the spring. Penetration needle is attached to the other end of the spring housing. The plunger is graduated in 1 kg divisions, to a maximum capacity of 60kg, which can be read with respect to the top end of the spring housing. A set of six needle points with areas of 645, 323, 161, 65, 32 and 16mm2 are provided.