ASTM C109 Compression Testing 2-Inch Concrete Cubes

ASTM C109 specifies the testing of hydraulic cement mortars, which involves compressing 2-inch (50 mm) cube specimens to failure.

For compression testing of concrete cubes we used an Industrial Series 150LX Model universal testing machine with Partner™ Software and a spherically seated compression platen assembly that met the alignment requirements of the standard.

We used the 150LX (150 kN / 33,750 lbf capacity) system because it features a single, large, easy access test space. The convenient working height made it simple to load/unload the specimens and allows for plenty of space to permit the use of verifying apparatus. Additionally, it provided a load accuracy of ± 0.5% of reading down to 1/500^th of load cell capacity – well within the range required by the standard. The software features a compression test wizard to guide you through the set up of the test, and it allows for storing and exporting of test results compatible with Microsoft® Office.

We recommend reading and reviewing ASTM C109 in order to fully understand the test setup, procedure, and result requirements.