Precast formed concrete surface problems and how to identify and correct them
An excerpt from of the article found in the July/August 2019 issue of Precast Inc., by Eric Carleton, P.E., NPCA's director of codes and standards.
Less is better when spraying concrete form release agents on concrete forms.
Green Bay Packers Coach Vince Lombardi said, “Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection, we can catch excellence.” Precast manufacturers try to make perfect products, but like most things, attaining complete perfection is elusive if not impossible. While the goal is to attain perfection, precasters recognize the economic and production realities that some product irregularities will occur. The goal is to mitigate imperfections while still maintaining tolerances and meeting owners’ expectations.
For (precast) formed concrete surfaces, many problems can be narrowed down to three practices: consolidation or vibration, form set up and maintenance, and form oil/release agent application.
Common issues:
- Bugholes
- Poor or improper concrete consolidation
- Excessive application of form release oil or agent
- Honeycombing
- Cracking
- Fins
- Form Bleed
- Poor Form Fit
- Sand Streaking
- Layering Marks
- Cold Joint
- Staining
- Color Continuity
Regardless of the end use, a well-cast product, free of formed surface irregularities, provides an excellent representation of a quality operation.
For the full article, please visit the Precast.org site.
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