TEST SETUP
In order to demonstrate the quality and technical characteristics of our expansion joints, they were subjected to representative and scientific testing. The test setup was developed and carried out by the Magnel Laboratory for Concrete Research at Ghent University.
The results of these tests provide us with valuable and indispensable understanding of the technical performance of our joints, allowing us to select the most suitable and functional profile for the intended loading of the future industrial floor.
To guarantee the objectivity and representativeness of these tests, we subjected our profiles to very critical conditions and allowed them to break down. The test setup shown alongside exerts force-loading on the unsupported concrete element by means of focussed hydraulic pressure. With this test setup we endeavour to eliminate influences from non representative variables. We considered the following strict test criteria.
- Testing without any substrate
Substrates strongly influence a test setup due to their very nature and firmness. A test conducted on a sand bed vs. on an extremely firm substrate would indeed yield different results. It would be possible to draw almost any conclusions if the substrate was to remain a variable, even that a blade of straw could transfer 50 ton of force. In the case of extremely firm substrate, the very substrate would absorb all the applied force, meaning the joint would not even be subjected to the least amount of force. Therefore ……
It is clear from the test setup shown alongside that the tests are being carried out independently from the substrate for the following reasons:- A test that includes substrate reveals more about the strength and firmness of the substrate than about the joint.
- Since the nature of substrate varies, it is never consistent.
- Preperation of the substrate is not always ideal.
- After some time substrate can be expected to settle or subside.
- Other factors such as seeping water, corrosion, etc. must be considered.
- Testing under comparable concrete quality conditions
Testing with inferior quality concrete could be employed to indicate an expansion joint is not the weakest element. This approach is not realistic and that is why our testing is carried out using regular strength concrete. We use the same concrete that is used daily in the construction of industrial floors.
In order to perform testing on 150 mm floor thicknesses, we prefer to use non reinforced concrete such as the type used on a daily basis to lay industrial floors of that stature. When concrete elements from 200 mm and upwards are being tested, steel fibre cement reinforcing is used to represent the material of heavily loaded industrial floors or load bearing posts.
After being poured, the concrete is left to dry for at least 28 days before any testing is performed. While the concrete has not yet reached its optimal strength at that time, it would normally be carrying 100% loading after this period in practice.
- Test length of 1 metre
We opt for a test length of 1 m. Since our continuous profiles also distribute their load over the length of the profiles due to their rigidity, this relatively short length is in favour of discontinued profiles. However we accept these challenges nonetheless.
- The test setup
The test setup shown alongside was developed in collaboration with the Magnel Laboratory for Concrete Research at Ghent University. We attempted to create an objective base for comparison as far as possible to strongly simulate external conditions in a realistic way. The attained results are therefore scientifically substantiable and very reliable and representative.
THE RESULTS
The test results not only served as valuable information about our expansion joints’ mutual force and load relationships, but also about other profiles and systems on the market. All profiles were tested in equivalent circumstances.
Thanks to these tests and the attained results, we are able to prove the quality of our joints in comparison with the other products being offered on the market.
If you would like more information about our test results, don’t hesitate to contact us. We would gladly help you reach a clear understanding of the strengths of the various profiles. That will aid you in selecting the most suitable profile for your own industrial floor.
