Concrete Cylinder Competition

 

Rules and Guidelines

 

The concrete cylinder must be 8 in (height) and 4 in (diameter) with a tolerance of 0.1 inches.  If the cylinder does not abide by these rules it will be disqualified from the competition.  The maximum weight for the cylinder is 5 lbs.  If any cylinder goes over the weight an 80% penalty will be assessed for each pound over.  For example if the weight of the cylinder is 6lbs the ultimate strength will be reduced by 80%.  Any cylinder weighing over 6.25lbs it will be disqualified.

 

The competition is only open to undergraduate students that are active members in their universities chapter of ASCE.  Each university is allowed only one team consisting of no more than three people.  Each team is allowed 3 entries and the highest ultimate strength will be used for the official score.  A representative of the universities team must be present at the testing of each of the universities specimen.

 

Allowable materials:

  • Only Portland cements I, II, III, and IV are allowed.
  • Any natural aggregates may be used at any quantity.  The maximum size of the aggregate is 1 in.  No artificial aggregates are allowed.
  • Admixtures may be used in any quantity.  Chemical and pozzolanic materials such as fly ash, pozzolan, or slag may be used.
  • Impregnated materials such as polymers are not allowed.
  • No reinforcing materials such as mesh, wires, bars, etc…

 

Scoring will be based solely on ultimate strength of cylinders.  The diameter of the cylinders will be assumed to be 4 in.  Judges will measure and weigh the specimens prior to the competition.  Each team’s specimen must be clearly marked with the University’s name and specimen number.

 

All teams must present a sheet with the following information:

  • Name of school
  • Specimen number
  • Group members names
  • Mix design
  • Pouring date
  • Faculty advisor’s signature stating that the following specimen conforms to all the stated rules.

 

A standard testing machine with adjustable-tilt loading platens will be used for loading. All cylinders will be tested to failure in the axial direction.  Cylinders will be scored based on efficiency using the following formula:

The most efficient cylinder of the three will be counted.