What is BS EN 12390‑1 about?
BS EN 12390‑1 is the first part of the multi-series standard BS EN 12390. BS EN 12390‑1 specifies the shapes, dimensions and tolerances of cast concrete test specimens in the form of cubes, cylinders and prisms, and of the moulds required to produce them.
NOTE: The tolerances specified in this document are based on the needs of strength testing, but they can be applied to tests for other properties. The joints of moulds can be coated with wax, oil or grease to achieve water tightness.
Who is BS EN 12390‑1 for?
BS EN 12390‑1 on concrete testing is useful for:
- Cement manufacturing companies
- Suppliers of raw materials for concrete
- Civil engineers
- Construction companies
- Contractors
- Concrete specialists
Why should you use BS EN 12390‑1?
The shape and surface texture of concrete is important for proper compaction, deformation resistance, and workability. Hardened concrete is one of the strongest and durable construction materials that have the capacity to bear the structural as well as service loads that are applied to it. Though hardened concrete is strong and durable, quality check is a must before you put it into use.
BS EN 12390‑1 recognizes alternative approaches towards obtaining test specimens of the correct sizes and shapes. The first is to use moulds whose lives are limited and to measure the specimens to ensure conformity. The second is to cast specimens in calibrated metal moulds which meet tighter tolerances than for specimens. The use of calibrated moulds allows relaxation on the requirement for measuring the specimens. As a result, calibrated moulds made of steel or cast iron, as suggested metal references, will help you prevent distortion on assembly and in use.
Overall BS EN 12390‑1 provides quality control for concrete specialists and engineers, allowing them to determine if the concrete will be able to efficiently service their structure. As a buyer of BS EN 12390-1, testing of hardened concrete with the requirement of specimens and moulds, will enable you to establish a credible quality programme for concrete used in projects. Higher efficiency and performance of the material used would further be an assurance of both strength and durability to the product end-user.
What’s changed since the last update?
BS EN 12390‑1:2021 supersedes EN 123901:2012. BS EN 12390‑1:2021 includes some technical changes with respect to EN 123901:2012. These include:
- Editorial revision
- Increases in the allowable tolerances for flatness of moulds and the dimensions of the specimens which reflect current industry practice