Introduction to 10mm Coarse Aggregate Sieve Analysis
Sieve analysis is a fundamental test method used in civil engineering to determine the particle size distribution of coarse aggregates. For 10mm coarse aggregates, this analysis is particularly important as it helps ensure the material meets the required specifications for various construction applications, such as concrete production, road base materials, and drainage systems.
This procedure measures how particles are distributed across various size fractions, providing critical data about the aggregate's gradation. A well-graded 10mm aggregate will typically have particles distributed across multiple size fractions, enhancing workability, strength, and durability in concrete mixes.
10mm coarse aggregate refers to a material where the nominal maximum size of particles is 10mm. According to IS:383-2016, this is classified as "single-sized aggregate" and has specific gradation requirements.
IS:383-2016 Specifications
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) provides specifications for 10mm single-sized aggregates through IS:383-2016. These specifications ensure the aggregate has the proper gradation for optimal performance in construction applications.
| IS Sieve Size (mm) | Percentage Passing by Weight | Specification Limits |
|---|---|---|
| 12.5 | 100 | 100 |
| 10.0 | 85-100 | 85-100 |
| 4.75 | 0-20 | 0-20 |
| 2.36 | 0-5 | 0-5 |
Aggregates not meeting these specifications may lead to poor workability, reduced strength, and potential durability issues in concrete. Always verify your aggregate meets these standards before use in structural applications.
Required Equipment
Before beginning the sieve analysis procedure, ensure you have the following equipment ready:
Balance
A precision balance with accuracy of at least 0.1g for weighing samples.
IS Test Sieves
Standard test sieves of sizes 12.5mm, 10.0mm, 4.75mm, 2.36mm, and pan.
Mechanical Sieve Shaker
For consistent agitation of sieves (hand sieving is acceptable for smaller samples).
Oven
For drying samples at 110±5°C to constant weight.
Containers & Tools
Trays, brushes, and containers for handling aggregates.
Measuring Tools
Scoop, spatula, and measuring tools for sample preparation.
Step-by-Step Procedure
Follow these steps to conduct a proper sieve analysis for 10mm coarse aggregates:
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Sample Preparation
Collect a representative sample of the 10mm aggregate. For accurate results, use at least 2kg of material. If the aggregate has excessive dust or moisture, wash the sample and dry it in an oven at 110±5°C until it reaches a constant weight.
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Weighing the Sample
Accurately weigh the prepared dry sample and record this as the total sample weight (W). This weight is crucial as it serves as the basis for all percentage calculations.
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Sieve Selection & Arrangement
Select the appropriate sieves for 10mm aggregate analysis: 12.5mm, 10.0mm, 4.75mm, 2.36mm, and a pan at the bottom. Arrange the sieves in descending order of aperture size (largest at the top).
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Sieving Procedure
Pour the weighed sample onto the top sieve. Place the stack of sieves in the mechanical shaker and secure properly. Run the shaker for 10-15 minutes. If using manual sieving, shake with horizontal and vertical motions for at least 2 minutes per sieve.
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Material Collection & Weighing
Carefully remove each sieve from the stack. Weigh the material retained on each sieve to the nearest 0.1g. Ensure no particles are lost during the transfer process. Record these weights in a tabular format.
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Calculations
Calculate the following for each sieve:
- Weight retained
- Percentage retained = (Weight retained / Total weight) × 100
- Cumulative percentage retained
- Percentage passing = 100 - Cumulative percentage retained -
Fineness Modulus Calculation
Calculate the fineness modulus by adding the cumulative percentage retained on standard sieves (80mm, 40mm, 20mm, 10mm, 4.75mm, 2.36mm, 1.18mm, 0.6mm, 0.3mm, 0.15mm) and dividing the sum by 100. For 10mm aggregate, this typically ranges from 5.5 to 7.0.
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Gradation Curve
Plot a gradation curve (semi-log graph) with sieve size on the x-axis (logarithmic scale) and percentage passing on the y-axis. Compare this curve with standard specifications to evaluate the aggregate's compliance.
Sample Calculation
Let's walk through a complete sample calculation for 10mm aggregate sieve analysis:
Sample Data
Total sample weight = 1000g
| Sieve Size (mm) | Weight Retained (g) | % Retained | Cumulative % Retained | % Passing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12.5 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 100.00 |
| 10.0 | 150 | 15.00 | 15.00 | 85.00 |
| 4.75 | 650 | 65.00 | 80.00 | 20.00 |
| 2.36 | 150 | 15.00 | 95.00 | 5.00 |
| Pan | 50 | 5.00 | 100.00 | 0.00 |
| Total | 1000 | 100.00 | - | - |
Calculation Steps:
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Calculate % Retained for each sieve
% Retained = (Weight retained / Total weight) × 100
Example for 10mm sieve: % Retained = (150g / 1000g) × 100 = 15.00% -
Calculate Cumulative % Retained
Cumulative % Retained = Sum of % retained up to that sieve
Example for 4.75mm sieve: Cumulative % Retained = 0 + 15.00 + 65.00 = 80.00% -
Calculate % Passing
% Passing = 100 - Cumulative % Retained
Example for 4.75mm sieve: % Passing = 100 - 80.00 = 20.00% -
Calculate Fineness Modulus
Fineness Modulus = (Sum of cumulative % retained on standard sieves) / 100
For this example, considering standard sieves:
FM = (0 + 0 + 0 + 15.00 + 80.00 + 95.00 + 100 + 100 + 100 + 100) / 100 = 5.90
Compliance Check
| Sieve Size (mm) | Sample % Passing | IS:383-2016 Requirement | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12.5 | 100.00 | 100 | ✓ PASS |
| 10.0 | 85.00 | 85-100 | ✓ PASS |
| 4.75 | 20.00 | 0-20 | ✓ PASS |
| 2.36 | 5.00 | 0-5 | ✓ PASS |
The 10mm aggregate sample meets all IS:383-2016 specifications. The fineness modulus is 5.90, which falls within the typical range for 10mm coarse aggregates (5.5-7.0).
Using the 10mm Sieve Analysis Calculator
Our 10mm Sieve Analysis Calculator simplifies the entire process by automating all calculations and providing instant compliance checks. Here's how to use it:
Sieve Analysis Calculator
The calculator features an intuitive interface that allows you to:
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Enter Total Sample Weight
Input the total weight of your 10mm aggregate sample in grams.
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Input Sieve Analysis Data
Enter the sieve sizes and the weight retained on each sieve. The calculator comes pre-loaded with the standard sieve sizes for 10mm aggregate (12.5mm, 10.0mm, 4.75mm, 2.36mm).
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Calculate Results
Click the "Calculate" button to instantly process your data. The calculator will:
- Compute percentages retained, cumulative percentages, and passing percentages
- Generate a particle size distribution graph
- Calculate the fineness modulus
- Check compliance with IS:383-2016 standards -
Download or Save Results
Generate a comprehensive PDF report of your analysis or save the results for future reference.
Interpreting Results & Common Issues
Understanding your sieve analysis results is crucial for proper material selection and quality control. Here are key aspects to consider:
Gradation Types
Well-Graded
Particles are distributed across multiple size fractions. Produces concrete with good workability and strength.
Gap-Graded
Missing certain particle sizes. May result in reduced density and increased permeability.
Uniformly-Graded
Particles of similar size. May lead to higher voids content and reduced strength.
Common Issues & Solutions
| Issue | Potential Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Excessive material on 12.5mm sieve | Improper crushing or screening at quarry | Request proper screening or re-crushing |
| Too much material passing 4.75mm sieve | Excessive fines or contamination | Wash aggregate to remove excess fines |
| Not meeting IS:383 specifications | Poor quality control at source | Blend with other materials or reject batch |
| High fineness modulus (>7.0) | Too many coarse particles | Add finer material to improve gradation |
| Low fineness modulus (<5.5) | Too many fine particles | Add coarser particles or screen out fines |
For structural concrete applications, always ensure your 10mm aggregate meets all IS:383-2016 specifications. Non-compliant materials can significantly impact concrete performance and durability.
Practical Applications of 10mm Aggregate
10mm coarse aggregate is widely used in various construction applications due to its versatility and performance characteristics:
High-Strength Concrete
Used in structural elements where higher strength and better finishing are required.
Road Construction
Ideal for the wearing course in pavements and surface treatments.
Drainage Systems
Provides effective filtration in drainage layers and leach fields.
Repairs & Patching
Perfect for thin concrete sections and repair works requiring smooth finishes.
The sieve analysis ensures that the 10mm aggregate used in these applications has the right gradation for optimal performance. Properly graded 10mm aggregate contributes to:
- Improved workability of concrete mixtures
- Enhanced compressive strength
- Better packing density and reduced voids
- Improved surface finish and appearance
- Reduced cement consumption in concrete mixes
References & Resources
For further information on sieve analysis of 10mm coarse aggregates, refer to the following standards and resources:
- IS:383-2016 - Specification for Coarse and Fine Aggregates from Natural Sources for Concrete
- IS:2386 (Part I)-1963 - Methods of Test for Aggregates for Concrete - Particle Size and Shape
- ASTM C136 - Standard Test Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates
- BS 812: Testing Aggregates - Part 103: Methods for Determination of Particle Size Distribution