Concrete Mix Proportioning by Nominal Mix Method

Abstract

The nominal mix method or fixed ratio concrete method is a long-used method. Nowadays, this method is still using for on-site mixed concrete or small project. Concrete mixtures are defined in a simple ratio format for ease of operation and measuring by using the equipment available in the project. In the article, the proportioning procedures by this method are described: determine the ratio from the utilized characteristics, select the range of slump using ratio of total aggregate per cement and determine water content from the range of slump. The cement content affects concrete workability but may not improving the compressive strength. Concrete group having medium cement has the highest efficiency. Mixing ratio of 1: 2: 3 is suitable for general applications and mixing ratio of 1: 1. 5: 3 is suitable for applications that required more strength. For Lean concrete, the mixing ratio of 1: 3: 5 should be used. The reduction of the course aggregate ratio results in increment of concrete workability and higher compressive strength.The nominal mix method or fixed ratio concrete method is a long-used method. Nowadays, this method is still using for on-site mixed concrete or small project. Concrete mixtures are defined in a simple ratio format for ease of operation and measuring by using the equipment available in the project. In the article, the proportioning procedures by this method are described: determine the ratio from the utilized characteristics, select the range of slump using ratio of total aggregate per cement and determine water content from the range of slump. The cement content affects concrete workability but may not improving the compressive strength. Concrete group having medium cement has the highest efficiency. Mixing ratio of 1: 2: 3 is suitable for general applications and mixing ratio of 1: 1. 5: 3 is suitable for applications that required more strength. For Lean concrete, the mixing ratio of 1: 3: 5 should be used. The reduction of the course aggregate ratio results in increment of concrete workability and higher compressive strength.