Experiment No.
01: Determination of Normal Consistency of
Cement using Vicat’s Apparatus
Abstract:
This experiment determines the normal consistency of hydraulic cement using Vicat’s apparatus. The
test establishes the precise water content required to achieve a standard cement paste consistency, a
critical parameter for hydration and performance in construction. The experiment involves mixing
cement with varying water percentages and using the Vicat apparatus to measure the penetration depth
of a plunger.
The standard consistency is achieved when the plunger penetrates 10 ± 1 mm within 30 seconds. In this
study, a water content of 25% was found to satisfy these criteria for a 300 g cement sample. The
procedure follows ASTM Specification C187, ensuring consistency and accuracy.
Key results show that normal consistency depends on factors such as cement composition, fineness, and
environmental conditions. Understanding this parameter is vital for ensuring the quality and reliability of
cement in construction applications and for standardizing subsequent tests like setting time and
soundness.
Introduction:
Normal consistency refers to the specific water content needed to achieve a standard level of stiffness in
cement paste. This property significantly impacts the setting time and hydration process. At normal
consistency, the paste is optimally prepared for further tests. The water content required typically
ranges between 22% and 30% of the cement’s weight.
Referenced Standard:
The procedure follows ASTM Specification C187 for determining the normal consistency of cement.
Objectives:
1. Establish a standardized method for determining normal consistency.
2. Verify cement quality and ensure it meets hydration requirements.
3. Evaluate performance characteristics of hydraulic cement.
4. Support research on factors affecting cement consistency.
5. Ensure compliance with industry regulations.
6. Provide accurate data for material selection and mix designs.
7. Facilitate continuous improvement in cement production.
8. Serve as a learning tool for professionals and students.
Apparatus Required:
- Electronic Balance: Precision up to 0.1 mg.
- Graduated Cylinders: Capacity of 200-250 mL.
- Mixing Machine: Ensures uniform mixing.
- Small Trowel: For shaping and smoothing paste.
- Glass Plates: Three plates, 4 inches each.
- Vicat Apparatus: Includes a frame, movable rod, plunger, and needles. Key specifications:
- Movable rod weight: 300 ± 5 g.
- Plunger diameter: 10 ± 0.05 mm, length: 50 mm.
- Needle diameter: 1 ± 0.05 mm, length: 50 mm.
- Ring dimensions: Top diameter: 60 ± 3 mm, bottom diameter: 70 ± 3 mm, height: 40 ± 1 mm.
- Scale accuracy: 0.1 mm.
Fig: vicat apparatus.
Materials:
- Cement (300 g).
- Potable water: 27%
Environmental Conditions:
-Temperature: Maintain between 20°C and 27.5°C.
- Mixing Water Temperature: 23°C ± 1.7°C.
- Humidity: Minimum relative humidity of 50%.
Procedure:
1. Preparation: Clean the tray thoroughly before starting the test.
2. Mixing: Weigh 300 g of cement and place it in the mixing bowl. Create a crater in the center and
gradually add water (22%-30% by weight). Mix thoroughly to form a uniform paste.
Fig : mixing the cement and water.
3. Molding: Shape the paste into a ball and toss it gently between hands six times for uniformity. Place
the paste into the larger end of the conical mold, press lightly, and level off the excess with a trowel.
Fig: leveling off the excess cement with a trowel.
4. Testing Consistency: Place the mold on the base plate of the Vicat apparatus. Center the plunger over
the paste and lower it gently to touch the surface. Release the rod and measure the penetration depth.
The paste achieves normal consistency when the plunger penetrates 10 ± 1 mm in 30 seconds.
Fig: consistency test.
Calculations:
Group Water weight. Water percentage. Penetration
Group 1 69 23 3
Group 2 75 25 3.5
Group 3 78 26 4.5
Group 4 81 27 5
Group 5 87 29 10
Group 6 90 30 11
12
10
8
Penetration (mm)
0
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35
Water (%)
Result:
The normal consistency of the cement (300 g) is achieved at 29% water content, with a penetration
depth of 10 mm.
Precautions:
1. Ensure the Vicat apparatus is properly calibrated.
2. Maintain consistent environmental conditions.
3. Use clean and homogeneous cement samples.
4. Mix thoroughly to avoid lumps or air pockets.
5. Handle the paste carefully during molding.
6. Measure penetration depth accurately.
7. Repeat the test for reliability.
8. Record all observations and anomalies.
Conclusion
The experiment successfully determined the normal consistency of hydraulic cement using the
Vicat apparatus, adhering to ASTM Specification C187. The findings established that a water
content of 29% is required to achieve a penetration depth of 10 mm, meeting the criteria for
normal consistency.
This result highlights the importance of accurately determining normal consistency, as it directly
influences the hydration process and subsequent tests like setting time and soundness. Factors
such as cement composition, fineness, and environmental conditions were observed to play a
significant role in achieving the desired consistency.
By following the prescribed procedure and taking necessary precautions, the experiment
demonstrated a reliable and standardized method for evaluating cement quality, thereby
contributing to its efficient application in construction.
