Different types of Concrete Grades and their uses
Understanding Grades of Concrete
Based on the strength and composition of the concrete, the grades of concrete are set. After completion of 28 days of preliminary construction, the concrete attains it’s least strength. The grade of concrete is calculated with measuring unit MPa, where M signifies for mix and the MPa for the complete strength.
Concrete mixes are provided in ascending numbers of 5, starting at 10, and illustrate the compressive strength of the concrete as soon as 28 days are completed. As for example, C10 contains the strength of 10 newtons, C15 contains the strength of 15 newtons, C20 contains 20 newtons strength and so on.
Different mixes (M) are available in different mix proportions of the several elements of cement, sand and coarse aggregates. As for example, M20 is found in the corresponding proportion of 1:1:5:3. In the following table, other instances are given.
| Concrete Grade | Mix Ratio (cement : sand : aggregates) | Compressive Strength | |
| MPa (N/mm2) | psi | ||
| Grades of Concrete | |||
| M5 | 1 : 5 : 10 | 5 MPa | 725 psi |
| M7.5 | 1 : 4 : 8 | 7.5 MPa | 1087 psi |
| M10 | 1 : 3 : 6 | 10 MPa | 1450 psi |
| M15 | 1 : 2 : 4 | 15 MPa | 2175 psi |
| M20 | 1 : 1.5 : 3 | 20 MPa | 2900 psi |
| Standard Grade of Concrete | |||
| M25 | 1 : 1 : 2 | 25 MPa | 3625 psi |
| M30 | Design Mix | 30 MPa | 4350 psi |
| M35 | Design Mix | 35 MPa | 5075 psi |
| M40 | Design Mix | 40 MPa | 5800 psi |
| M45 | Design Mix | 45 MPa | 6525 psi |
| High Strength Concrete Grades | |||
| M50 | Design Mix | 50 MPa | 7250 psi |
| M55 | Design Mix | 55 MPa | 7975 psi |
| M60 | Design Mix | 60 MPa | 8700 psi |
| M65 | Design Mix | 65 MPa | 9425 psi |
| M70 | Design Mix | 70 MPa | 10150 psi |
Selection of the proper concrete grade for the construction job:
Given below, the details of the preliminary concrete grades and their proper applications.
C10
Suitable for patio slabs, pathways and non-structural work
Type: Domestic & commercial application
C15
Effective for pavement kerbs and floor blinding
Type: Domestic & Commercial application
C20
Ideal for domestic floors and foundations (where the structure bears light weight). Besides, it is perfect for workshop bases, garages, driveways and internal floor slabs.
Type: Domestic application
C25
Suitable for being constructed in all areas. Multi-purpose concrete mix generally applied for foundations.
Type: Domestic & commercial application
C30
Suitable for pathways and roadways (it belongs to the lowest grade concrete mix utilized for this purpose). It has good longevity as compared to the grades which are available earlier. It has strong resistance capacity against weather and can bear heavy road traffic.
Type: Commercial application
C35
Ideal for commercial structures. This heavy concrete mix is normally applied for developing exterior walls and slabs, in addition to structural piling.
Type: Commercial application
C40
Suitable for commercial construction sites as well as constructing foundations and beams for structural support and roads. C40 is the most long-lasting in this list and it can resist chemical corrosion. It is extensively utilized on farms where slurry could rust structures, or in septic tanks.
Type: Commercial application
Article Source: www.baseconcrete.co.uk
