Concrete can be found in many different forms depending on the application, with the right concrete reliant on the desired strength, structure and density of a finished product. Concrete can be used in roads, buildings, bridges and pavements among others and each application will require a slight variation on the traditional concrete solution of cement, sand and aggregates. Let’s take a closer look at five common types of concrete mix solutions, their properties and specific applications.
Normal Strength Concrete
Combining all the basic ingredients of concrete, such as aggregates, crushed rock and sand, normal strength concrete is for the traditionalist, used across a vast spectrum of applications as one of the most commonly used construction materials in the world. Normal strength concrete makes use of the 1:2:4 ratio, producing concrete with high durability and strong tactile strength.
In similar terms, plain or ordinary concrete will make use of the 1:2:4 ratio, this time combining cement, sand and aggregates to create the traditional concrete mix we are used to.
Reinforced Concrete
Typically used across the construction industry in industrial and commercial settings, such as large skyscrapers or public buildings, reinforced concrete is strengthened internally by placing wires, steel rods or cables within the concrete before it sets. Buildings, bridges and roadways all benefit from reinforced concrete solutions, relying on the additional strength and durability provided by the internal reinforcement.
Lightweight Concrete
Created by using much lighter aggregates in your concrete mix solution, removing additional density in the process, lightweight concrete is a form of concrete with a density of less than 1920kg/㎥. Lightweight aggregates are typically found in artificial materials such as clay, or natural materials like scoria or pumice. Lightweight concrete is commonly used in long spanning bridge decks and building blocks, but can also be implemented in the protection of steel structures.
High-Density Concrete
Unlike most concrete solutions, high-density concrete has one very specific purpose; primarily used in the construction of nuclear or atomic power plants. High-density concrete earns its name due to its heavier aggregates in the concrete mix, thus creating a much heavier, denser concrete that proves resistant to radiation. Crushed rock aggregates, such as barytes, are typically used as the primary crushed rock in your high-density concrete solution.
Ready-Mix Concrete
Ready-mix concrete is prepared, washed and mixed in a centrally located plant in advance of transportation. Then, large cement trucks that mix the concrete solution as it’s transported from the plant to the location of your worksite will continue to mix your concrete in transport so that it can be used immediately as it arrives on site. It’s important that the process of transportation is efficient, so your cement won’t have the opportunity to set, so ensure your local plant is a relatively short distance from your current worksite.
Looking for ready mix concrete? Whether it’s for a DIY project or a large commercial project, here at Forth Valley Concrete, we make it our priority to provide you with the most adequate ready mix concrete solutions. Contact us today.