ASTM C1800/C1800M-16
(Test Method)Standard Test Method for Determining Density of Roller-Compacted Concrete Specimens Using the Gyratory Compactor
Standard Test Method for Determining Density of Roller-Compacted Concrete Specimens Using the Gyratory Compactor
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This Test Method is used to prepare specimens containing a nominal maximum aggregate size of up to 37.5 mm [1-1/2 in.] and a Vebe consistency time, in accordance with Test Method C1170/C1170M, of greater than 30 s for determining the density of compacted RCC mixtures. This method is not intended to specify a standard compactive effort in RCC mixture design, but rather to provide a standardized method for comparing various aggregate combinations.
4.2 This test method may be used for making specimens and determining densities of laboratory-produced RCC mixtures.
Note 1: The agency and personnel performing this test method should meet the criteria of Practice C1077 or equivalent.
Note 2: The use of gyratory-compacted RCC specimens for strength determinations is not recommended due to specimen geometry and low L/D ratios. Research has shown a lack of correlation between compressive strengths of gyratory-compacted RCC specimens and specimens prepared in accordance with Practice C1435/C1435M.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the compaction of cylindrical specimens of roller-compacted concrete (RCC) using the gyratory compactor to determine density.
1.2 Units—The values stated in SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. (Warning—Fresh hydraulic cementitious mixtures are caustic and may cause chemical burns to skin and tissue upon prolonged exposure.)2
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 30-Jun-2016
- Technical Committee
- C09 - Concrete and Concrete Aggregates
- Drafting Committee
- C09.45 - Roller-Compacted Concrete
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Jan-2024
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2023
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2020
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2020
- Effective Date
- 15-Dec-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Jan-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Oct-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Jul-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Jan-2018
- Effective Date
- 15-Dec-2016
- Effective Date
- 15-Dec-2016
- Effective Date
- 15-Oct-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2016
- Effective Date
- 15-Dec-2015
Overview
ASTM C1800/C1800M-16: Standard Test Method for Determining Density of Roller-Compacted Concrete Specimens Using the Gyratory Compactor establishes standardized procedures for compacting cylindrical specimens of roller-compacted concrete (RCC) and measuring their density. This test method enables laboratories and projects utilizing RCC to produce repeatable, comparable, and reliable density results, supporting quality assurance and mix design optimization for large-scale RCC applications. The standard covers both SI units and inch-pound units, each to be used independently for conformance.
Key Topics
- Roller-Compacted Concrete (RCC) Specimens: Focuses on cylindrical specimens using aggregate with a nominal maximum size up to 37.5 mm (1-1/2 in), and Vebe consistency time greater than 30 seconds.
- Gyratory Compaction: Defines use of a gyratory compactor, adapted from asphalt testing, to uniformly compact RCC mixtures.
- Density Measurement: Details calculation of the mass and volume of RCC specimens to determine their density, a key parameter for mix evaluation.
- Laboratory Practices: Directions for material preparation per established ASTM concrete practices, ensuring consistency and minimizing segregation.
- Reporting Requirements: Specifies documentation such as project details, specimen identification, number of gyrations, component materials’ densities, mass, height, and calculated density.
- Precision and Bias: Describes the level of repeatability expected when using this test method and addresses the limitations regarding multilaboratory precision and bias.
Applications
This standard is widely used by:
- Construction Materials Laboratories: To develop, compare, and validate RCC mixtures under controlled conditions.
- Quality Control/Assurance Teams: For monitoring consistency of RCC density in mix design and evaluating aggregate blends for optimized compaction.
- Cement and Aggregate Producers: To standardize testing protocols for RCC products, supporting product certification and compliance with project specifications.
- Civil and Road Construction Projects: Applicability in highway, dam, and industrial pavement projects where RCC is increasingly used for its durability and cost-effectiveness.
- Academic and Industrial Research: For comparative studies of RCC mix properties, though not recommended for comparative compressive strength measurements due to specimen geometry.
Key advantages of standardizing RCC density determination include:
- Enhanced quality control and uniformity of RCC structures
- Improved basis for material selection and mixture adjustment
- Increased confidence in RCC performance during design and construction
Related Standards
For comprehensive RCC and concrete laboratory assessment, ASTM C1800/C1800M-16 refers to and aligns with these related ASTM standards:
- ASTM C1170/C1170M - Test Method for Determining Consistency and Density of Roller-Compacted Concrete Using a Vibrating Table
- ASTM C1435/C1435M - Practice for Molding Roller-Compacted Concrete in Cylinder Molds Using a Vibrating Hammer
- ASTM C192/C192M - Practice for Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the Laboratory
- ASTM C1077 - Practice for Agencies Testing Concrete and Concrete Aggregates for Use in Construction and Criteria for Testing Agency Evaluation
- ASTM C127 & C128 - Methods for Determining Density and Absorption of Coarse and Fine Aggregates
- ASTM C188 - Method for Density of Hydraulic Cement
- ASTM D6925 - Test Method for Preparation and Determination of the Relative Density of Asphalt Mix Specimens by Means of the Superpave Gyratory Compactor
Practical Value
Adopting ASTM C1800/C1800M-16 ensures reliable, accurate RCC density measurement using modern gyratory compaction technology. Standardized testing improves project outcomes by supporting better mix designs, streamlined quality assurance, and higher confidence in long-term RCC structure performance. By following this method, stakeholders align with best practices and international construction standards for roller-compacted concrete.
Keywords: ASTM C1800, roller-compacted concrete density, gyratory compactor, RCC laboratory testing, RCC specimen preparation, quality assurance, concrete testing standards.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM C1800/C1800M-16 is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Test Method for Determining Density of Roller-Compacted Concrete Specimens Using the Gyratory Compactor". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 This Test Method is used to prepare specimens containing a nominal maximum aggregate size of up to 37.5 mm [1-1/2 in.] and a Vebe consistency time, in accordance with Test Method C1170/C1170M, of greater than 30 s for determining the density of compacted RCC mixtures. This method is not intended to specify a standard compactive effort in RCC mixture design, but rather to provide a standardized method for comparing various aggregate combinations. 4.2 This test method may be used for making specimens and determining densities of laboratory-produced RCC mixtures. Note 1: The agency and personnel performing this test method should meet the criteria of Practice C1077 or equivalent. Note 2: The use of gyratory-compacted RCC specimens for strength determinations is not recommended due to specimen geometry and low L/D ratios. Research has shown a lack of correlation between compressive strengths of gyratory-compacted RCC specimens and specimens prepared in accordance with Practice C1435/C1435M. SCOPE 1.1 This test method covers the compaction of cylindrical specimens of roller-compacted concrete (RCC) using the gyratory compactor to determine density. 1.2 Units—The values stated in SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard. 1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. (Warning—Fresh hydraulic cementitious mixtures are caustic and may cause chemical burns to skin and tissue upon prolonged exposure.)2
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 This Test Method is used to prepare specimens containing a nominal maximum aggregate size of up to 37.5 mm [1-1/2 in.] and a Vebe consistency time, in accordance with Test Method C1170/C1170M, of greater than 30 s for determining the density of compacted RCC mixtures. This method is not intended to specify a standard compactive effort in RCC mixture design, but rather to provide a standardized method for comparing various aggregate combinations. 4.2 This test method may be used for making specimens and determining densities of laboratory-produced RCC mixtures. Note 1: The agency and personnel performing this test method should meet the criteria of Practice C1077 or equivalent. Note 2: The use of gyratory-compacted RCC specimens for strength determinations is not recommended due to specimen geometry and low L/D ratios. Research has shown a lack of correlation between compressive strengths of gyratory-compacted RCC specimens and specimens prepared in accordance with Practice C1435/C1435M. SCOPE 1.1 This test method covers the compaction of cylindrical specimens of roller-compacted concrete (RCC) using the gyratory compactor to determine density. 1.2 Units—The values stated in SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard. 1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. (Warning—Fresh hydraulic cementitious mixtures are caustic and may cause chemical burns to skin and tissue upon prolonged exposure.)2
ASTM C1800/C1800M-16 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 91.100.30 - Concrete and concrete products. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM C1800/C1800M-16 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM C1077-24, ASTM D6925-23, ASTM C1435/C1435M-20, ASTM C1170/C1170M-20, ASTM C125-19a, ASTM C125-19, ASTM C125-18b, ASTM C125-18a, ASTM C125-18, ASTM C125-16, ASTM C188-16, ASTM C1077-16a, ASTM C1077-16, ASTM C192/C192M-16, ASTM C125-15b. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM C1800/C1800M-16 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: C1800/C1800M − 16
Standard Test Method for
Determining Density of Roller-Compacted Concrete
Specimens Using the Gyratory Compactor
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1800/C1800M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the
year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last
reapproval. A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope Testing Agency Evaluation
C1170/C1170M Test Method for Determining Consistency
1.1 This test method covers the compaction of cylindrical
and Density of Roller-Compacted Concrete Using a Vi-
specimens of roller-compacted concrete (RCC) using the
brating Table
gyratory compactor to determine density.
C1435/C1435M Practice for Molding Roller-Compacted
1.2 Units—The values stated in SI units or inch-pound units
Concrete in Cylinder Molds Using a Vibrating Hammer
are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in
D6925 Test Method for Preparation and Determination of
each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each
the Relative Density ofAsphalt Mix Specimens by Means
system shall be used independently of the other. Combining
of the Superpave Gyratory Compactor
values from the two systems may result in non-conformance
with the standard.
3. Terminology
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of terms used in this Test
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
Method, refer to Terminology C125.
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
4. Significance and Use
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. (Warning—Fresh
4.1 This Test Method is used to prepare specimens contain-
hydraulic cementitious mixtures are caustic and may cause
ing a nominal maximum aggregate size of up to 37.5 mm [1- ⁄2
chemical burns to skin and tissue upon prolonged exposure.)
in.] and a Vebe consistency time, in accordance with Test
Method C1170/C1170M, of greater than 30 s for determining
2. Referenced Documents
the density of compacted RCC mixtures. This method is not
2.1 ASTM Standards:
intended to specify a standard compactive effort in RCC
C125 Terminology Relating to Concrete and Concrete Ag-
mixture design, but rather to provide a standardized method for
gregates
comparing various aggregate combinations.
C127 Test Method for Relative Density (Specific Gravity)
4.2 Thistestmethodmaybeusedformakingspecimensand
and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate
determining densities of laboratory-produced RCC mixtures.
C128 Test Method for Relative Density (Specific Gravity)
NOTE 1—The agency and personnel performing this test method should
and Absorption of Fine Aggregate
meet the criteria of Practice C1077 or equivalent.
C188 Test Method for Density of Hydraulic Cement
NOTE 2—The use of gyratory-compacted RCC specimens for strength
C192/C192M Practice for Making and Curing Concrete Test
determinations is not recommended due to specimen geometry and low
Specimens in the Laboratory
L/D ratios. Research has shown a lack of correlation between compressive
C1077 Practice forAgencies Testing Concrete and Concrete strengths of gyratory-compacted RCC specimens and specimens prepared
in accordance with Practice C1435/C1435M.
Aggregates for Use in Construction and Criteria for
5. Apparatus
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C09 on
5.1 Gyratory Compactor—An electromechanical, electro-
Concrete and ConcreteAggregates and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
hydraulic, or electro-pneumatic compactor meeting the re-
C09.45 on Roller-Compacted Concrete.
quirements of Test Method D6925.
Current edition approved July 1, 2016. Published July 2016. DOI: 10.1520/
C1800-16.
5.2 Specimen Molds—Specimen molds having an inside
Section on Safety Precautions, Manual of Aggregate and Concrete Testing,
diameter of approximately 150 mm [6 in.], meeting the
Annual Book ofASTM Standards,Vol. 04.02. (see C09.95 Coordination Document)
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or requirements of Test Method D6925.
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
5.3 Mold Plates and Ram Heads—Mold plates and ram
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. heads shall conform to Test Method D6925.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C1800/C1800M − 16
5.4 Balance—The balance shall have a capacity of at least resting period of 5 to 10 minutes before extruding the speci-
20 kg [44 lb] and be capable of reading to the nearest 5 g [0.01 men. Specimens that have bulged or otherwise deformed shall
lb]. not be used for any testing purposes.
5.5 Transfer Device—A container such as a bowl or device 7.9 Thoroughly clean the compactor and compaction mold
suitable for transferring the loose mixture into the compaction assembly.
mold in one lift.
7.10 Within 15 minutes of the completion of compaction,
5.6 Miscellaneous Tools—Miscellaneous equipment and determine the mass of the compacted specimen with paper
small tools as described in Practice C192/C192M. Also re- disks and record to the nearest 5 g [0.01 lb].
quired are 150 mm [6 in.] diameter paper disks, meeting the
7.11 Compute the net mass of the specimen by subtracting
requirements of Test Method D6925.
the mass of the paper disks from the mass determined in 7.10.
6. Verification of Apparatus
7.12 Calculate the volume of the specimen based on the
inside diameter of the mold and the gyratory-derived height of
6.1 The gyratory compactor and associated apparatus shall
the compacted specimen, according to Eq 1.
be verified and maintained in accordance with Test Method
D6925. πd h
V 5 (1)
4 310
7. Preparation and Compaction of Test Specimens
where:
7.1 Confirm the settings of the compactor. Unless otherwise
V = specimen volume, m ,
required by the specifier of tests, initialize the compactor to
d = specimen diameter, mm, and
provide specimen compaction using the desired number of
h = height of the compacted specimen at the final gyration,
gyratio
...
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