How To Ensure Longevity In Maintaining Compression Testing Equipment

Compression testing isn’t just required by many state and federal safety regulations, it’s also a good idea. Knowing the true strength of a batch of grout only comes from accurately testing multiple samples. Maintaining the durability of testing machines is the only way to get the results you need without running afoul of American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. Yet it’s often challenging to keep ensuring accuracy in compression tests over time due to issues like rust and general wear and tear. 
Rust prevention in laboratory equipment is a constant struggle. Not only is ambient humidity a problem, but the dust released from broken or damaged grout samples can accelerate corrosion. Using the right equipment, such as an unbonded capping system for high strength grout samples, can protect your testing apparatus and prevent damage. Choosing an unbonded system can save a lot of time and energy over using a traditional bonded sulfur capping method as well. Extend the lifespan and reliability of your lab equipment and keep meeting all the current compression testing standards with the right grout capping accessories. 

Compression equipment care starts with handling the testing process as cleanly and carefully as possible. At the same time, you can’t expect the technicians handling the testing to add a lot of extra work to their routine and still maintain the same level of productivity. That’s where a time-saving tool like the grout sample unbonded capping system comes into play. 
The system consists of high-strength neoprene pads and steel retaining cups to hold them in place on the top and bottom of each sample cube. The steel is coated with a rust-preventive plating and provides a smooth and even surface. The compression machine will experience less wear and tear on the pressure plates, in addition to having a lower risk of developing rust over time. Despite being made of flexible neoprene, the pads will last through 100 or more testing cycles before needing replacement. That can save you both time and money over using molten sulfur that must be discarded after each use due to the permanent bonding to the grout sample. 

The lifetime of compression testers can reach 10 years or more, but only with proper care. Rust prevention in particular is a very important step of taking care of this kind of sensitive lab equipment. While the compression tester may produce a tremendous amount of force, it’s still at risk of damage from corrosion and wear from exposure to the grout dust. The iron oxide coating on the steel retaining cups minimizes any chance of rust development. Without rust formation on the cups, there’s much less of a chance of rust starting on the compression plates that contact them. Bonded molten sulfur caps are not corrosion resistant and the residues they leave behind on the compression tester can accelerate the development of rust. In addition to following these best cleaning practices for testing equipment, look for capping systems and other accessories that are treated to reduce the risk of corrosion. 

Clean all equipment promptly after completing a compression test. Dust quickly bonds with humidity in the air to form a crust that is hard to remove without damaging the equipment. Keeping a large sponge and a container of plain water next to the machine makes it easy to wipe down without risking rust or damage. At the end of a testing cycle, wipe the machine down with a lint-free rag to ensure there’s no leftover moisture to cause rust. Avoid using hydrochloric acid and other cement cleaning compounds because they accelerate corrosion. If it’s necessary to use an etching product to remove dried on crust, wipe away residues with plain water and then dry the machine with a rag. Check the compression equipment manuals to see if the manufacturer recommends the use of any protective oils or sprays that won’t interfere with testing performance. 

Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for testing equipment or you’ll find yourself dealing with inaccurate results and failed tests. Compression test accuracy is also a matter of storing the equipment in ideal conditions to prevent environmental damage. Aim for a minimal ambient humidity level in the storage area, which is the number one cause of rust. Corrosion can occur even inside the unit where it’s hard to spot and treat. Avoid wrapping or covering the testing equipment since this can trap more moisture close to the metal surfaces. 
Always check the compression plates are smooth and flush against the capping system surfaces when starting a test. Many cases of compression equipment repair are only necessary because the rush to get a test done leads to a mistake when loading a sample. While the unbonded capping system is easy to use and provides a smooth and perfectly level surface for accurate testing, it’s still important to take care when using them to avoid unnecessary wear. Preventative maintenance for lab equipment like regularly changing out the pressure plates and oiling the right components can go a long way in maintaining productivity. 

These cost-saving maintenance tips will go a long way in reducing your compression testing machine upkeep expenses. The longer you can extend the lifespan of the equipment, the less you’re spending on it over time. Equipment upkeep is also essential for accurate test results. Your clients will want to know you’re doing the most you can do to ensure they’re getting test results they can trust. When you’re working on projects that call for high-strength grout to secure bridges and other pre-cast concrete structures, mistakes can be dangerous and expensive. Follow the best practices for your equipment with routine check-ups and accessories like the unbonded grout capping system. 
Make a plan to handle your compression machine servicing in a proactive rather than reactive way. Don’t wait until you’re troubleshooting compression equipment in need of repair to consider things like rust prevention and capping procedures. Choose products meant to last thanks to iron oxide coatings, steel retaining cup construction, and durable neoprene pads. Your lab technicians will appreciate how this capping system also speeds up their work without compromising test results.