Share:

As an important building material, concrete is used in a variety of construction projects, from bridges and highways to houses. However, it’s crucial to note that this material is man-made and requires heavy machinery to make. Here’s a guide to how it’s produced. 

What Are the Key Ingredients?

Concrete consists of several ingredients, including a paste, aggregates, and stones. The paste is made up of Portland cement that is combined with water, as well as stone and  sand. Smaller aggregates are used to prevent voids in the material that could reduce its integrity. 

concreteWhen combining these raw materials together, they must be proportioned properly. You can usually expect a mixture to include roughly 15% cement, 15% water, and 70% aggregate. The goal is to have as little water as possible while still allowing the mixture to be malleable. 

How Does the Production Process Work?

The first step is mixing the elements together. Once they’re combined, the substance will immediately begin to harden thanks to the presence of the water. Through a process known as hydration, a node develops on each particle of cement that seeks out other nodes, creating the tight bonds that make concrete so tough and durable. 

Once the substance is mixed to a high consistency (and air voids are eliminated), a technician will begin pouring the mixture into the desired forms. At this point, it will begin slightly hardening. After the surface is smoothed out, the curing process will begin. In some cases, a light mist will be applied to the concrete, and in others, it will be draped in burlap to prevent the evaporation of water. By allowing the substance to retain the water, the bonds become even stronger, resulting in a durable building material.

 

When you need concrete for a project, contact Miller's Ready Mix Concrete & Block in Fulton County, NY. Offering everything from precast concrete to solid blocks, these professionals have developed a reputation for providing speedy, quality service. Call Pam at (518) 661-5601 Ext. 113 or visit the company’s website to learn more about their services. 

tracking