Moulds

Concrete Cube Production

Concrete cube production is an important process to ensure that the concrete is well compacted and free of air pockets. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Preparing the Form: Place the concrete form on a stable surface. Make sure the form is clean and has been applied with a release agent to make it easier to remove the concrete later.
• Filling the Form: Pour the concrete into the form in several layers. For every 50 mm of concrete, use a dowel to pierce the concrete 25 times evenly across the surface. This helps to remove air bubbles and compact the concrete.
• Vibrating (Optional): If available, you can use a vibratory table to level the concrete and remove air bubbles.
• Smoothing the Surface: After the form is filled and compacted, use a trowel or other tool to smooth the surface of the concrete.
• Curing: Allow the concrete to cure in the form according to the recommended curing times. Keep the mold covered and moist to prevent the concrete from drying out too quickly.
• Removing the Mold: Once the concrete has hardened sufficiently, carefully remove the mold. Use tools to loosen the mold if necessary.

Cleaning the molds immediately after use is important. 
This process ensures that the concrete cubes are well compacted and of high quality.

Norwegian Standard:  

• NO EN 12390-1 Testing of hardened concrete
• Part 1 - Shape, dimensions and other requirements for test specimens for moulds
• Part 2 - Casting and hardening of test specimens for strength testing

Additional equipment:  

• Plastic plugs for hard plastic molds
• Checking equipment for molds according to NS EN 12390-1 
  Bolts/nuts