Lab Report: Sieve Analysis of Coarse Aggregate
Course: Engineering Materials Laboratory
Instructor: [Instructor’s Name]
Date: [Date of Lab]
Group Members: [Names of Students in Group]
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Objective: To determine the particle size distribution of a coarse aggregate
sample by conducting a sieve analysis. This test provides valuable
information about the gradation of the aggregate, which is essential for
evaluating its suitability for use in various construction applications, such as
concrete, road base, and other structural projects.
Theory: Sieve analysis is a standard method to determine the gradation or
particle size distribution of aggregate materials. Gradation is crucial because
it affects the aggregate's workability, strength, and durability in concrete and
asphalt mixtures. The process involves passing a sample through a series of
sieves with progressively smaller openings to separate the aggregate into
size fractions.
Apparatus:
1. Weighing balance (accurate to at least 0.1 g)
2. Standard set of sieves (specified for coarse aggregate)
Common sizes: 37.5 mm, 25 mm, 19 mm, 12.5 mm, 9.5 mm, 4.75 mm, and a
pan for particles smaller than the smallest sieve.
3. Sieve shaker
4. Drying oven (to ensure aggregate is dry)
5. Brush (for cleaning sieves)
Materials: Coarse aggregate sample (typically dried beforehand to remove
moisture)
Standards: The procedure follows ASTM C136 / AASHTO T27 (Standard Test
Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates) or equivalent
standards.
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Procedure:
1. Preparation of the Sample:
A representative sample of coarse aggregate (minimum 2 kg) was collected.
The sample was dried in an oven at 110°C for 24 hours to ensure no
moisture content remained, which could affect weight measurements.
2. Weighing the Sample:
The dried sample was weighed and recorded as the total initial mass (W) of
the aggregate before sieving.
3. Sieve Setup:
A series of sieves was arranged in descending order of size (largest to
smallest) with the pan at the bottom. This allows particles to separate
according to their size.
4. Sieve Analysis:
The aggregate sample was poured into the top sieve, and the entire stack
was placed on the sieve shaker.
The sieve shaker was operated for 10 minutes to ensure thorough sieving.
5. Weighing Sieved Fractions:
After sieving, each sieve was carefully removed, starting from the top.
The material retained on each sieve was weighed and recorded.
Any material remaining in the pan (passing through the smallest sieve) was
also weighed and recorded.
6. Cleaning and Precautions:
After weighing, each sieve was brushed to remove any particles trapped in
the mesh.
Care was taken to prevent sample loss during transfer and weighing.
Observations and Calculations:
1. Initial Total Weight of Aggregate Sample = kg
2. Weight Retained on Each Sieve = kg for each sieve
3. Cumulative Weight Retained: Calculated by adding the weights retained
from the top sieve to the current sieve.
4. Percentage Weight Retained on Each Sieve =
5. Cumulative Percentage Passing: Calculated by subtracting the cumulative
percentage retained from 100%.
The data table might look like this:
Sample Calculation:
Assume the total mass of aggregate sample g, and weight retained on the
25 mm sieve is 500 g.
Percentage Weight Retained on 25 mm Sieve =
Cumulative Percentage Passing (25 mm sieve) =
Note: Continue similar calculations for each sieve.
Graph:
The particle size distribution can be plotted on a semi-logarithmic graph,
with sieve size (mm) on the x-axis (log scale) and cumulative percent
passing on the y-axis (linear scale).
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Results:
The distribution of particle sizes was determined, and the percentage
passing for each sieve size was calculated. The results indicate the gradation
of the coarse aggregate sample.
1. Fineness Modulus (FM) (optional): If needed, FM can be calculated as the
sum of cumulative percentages retained on standard sieves (except the pan)
divided by 100.
2. Gradation Curve: Based on the particle size distribution graph, the
sample’s gradation can be classified as well-graded, poorly graded, or gap-
graded.
Conclusion:
The sieve analysis of the coarse aggregate provided the particle size
distribution, which is essential for evaluating the aggregate's suitability for
concrete mix design. A well-graded aggregate would indicate a uniform
distribution of particle sizes, which helps reduce voids and improve concrete
density and strength. The gradation curve and Fineness Modulus can help
determine the aggregate’s compatibility with specific mix designs.
Interpretation of Results:
1. Well-graded aggregate indicates a range of sizes that minimizes void
content and requires less cement paste, enhancing strength and durability.
2. Gap-graded aggregate has specific size ranges missing, which may impact
workability.
3. Poorly graded (uniform) aggregate has a limited range of sizes, resulting in
a mix with more voids and potentially lower strength.
Precautions:
1. Ensure that the aggregate sample is fully dry before weighing.
2. Avoid sample spillage or loss during transfer to prevent inaccurate
measurements.
3. Calibrate and clean the weighing balance and sieves before use.
Sources of Error:
1. Loss of fine particles during sieving or transfer may lead to inaccurate
results.
2. Variability in sample size and moisture content may affect gradation.
3. Inconsistent shaking time can impact separation of particles.
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This lab report provides a comprehensive approach to the sieve analysis of
coarse aggregate, covering all aspects from objective and procedure to
results and conclusion, with an emphasis on engineering applications.
