IS 94591980AI Search Enabled✦ AI Generated

Specification for apparatus for use in measurement of length change of hardened cement paste, mortar and concrete
1980 Edition

This standard delineates the specifications for instruments, referred to as length comparators, utilized to quantify dimensional changes in hardened cement paste, mortar, and concrete. It encompasses the apparatus design, constituent materials, construction details, and calibration protocols involving micrometers or dial gauges to measure shrinkage, moisture-induced movements, and other length variations in cement-based substances. It is indispensable for professionals and laboratories aiming to obtain precise length change data ensuring the reliability and longevity of cementitious products.

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Cement Concrete Aggregates and RCCCategory
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What This Standard Covers

This standard delineates the specifications for instruments, referred to as length comparators, utilized to quantify dimensional changes in hardened cement paste, mortar, and concrete. It encompasses the apparatus design, constituent materials, construction details, and calibration protocols involving micrometers or dial gauges to measure shrinkage, moisture-induced movements, and other length variations in cement-based substances. It is indispensable for professionals and laboratories aiming to obtain precise length change data ensuring the reliability and longevity of cementitious products.

Who Uses This Standard

  • Civil Engineering Professionals
  • Materials Testing Laboratory Personnel
  • Concrete Science Specialists
  • Quality Assurance Engineers
  • Cement Industry Research and Development Experts
  • Structural Design Engineers
  • Construction Materials Inspectors

Key Topics Covered

Design criteria for length comparator devices
Measurement techniques for hardened cement paste length changes
Evaluation of dimensional variations in mortar and concrete
Application of micrometer screw gauges and dial indicators
Specifications and calibration of reference bars
Material selection for apparatus components
Considerations for thermal expansion effects
Permissible dimensional deviations for apparatus parts
Identification and marking protocols
Setup procedures for drying shrinkage and moisture migration tests
Precision and accuracy standards
Standardized calibration methods

Table of Contents

1Scope and Fundamental Specifications

Overview of Scope and Essential Requirements for Length Change Measurement Devices

Scope:

  • Defines apparatus for assessing dimensional changes in hardened cement paste, mortar, and concrete.
  • Applicable for tests involving drying shrinkage, moisture movement, alkali reactivity, and drying shrinkage in Portland pozzolana cement.
  • Ensures consistent and reproducible outcomes through standardized equipment.

Principal Specifications & Materials (Clause 4.1, Table 1)

ComponentMaterialSpecial Criteria
BaseChannel mild steel (IS:226-1975)-
Yoke (formerly Pillars)Mild steel (IS:226-1975)Threaded for precise adjustment
BracketMild steel (IS:226-1975)-
Reference BarStainless steelEnds heat-treated, hardened, and polished
Rubber TubeRubber-
  • All mild steel parts not in direct contact must receive anti-corrosive treatment including painting, nitriding, or phosphating.
  • Dimensional values conform to nominal sizes with tolerances per IS 2102 (Part 1):1980.

Additional Important Points:

  • Used in testing methods specified by IS 1199, IS 2386 (Part VII), and IS 4031.
  • Final readings rounded according to IS 2:1960.
  • The yoke end opposite the micrometer features an anvil with a cylindrical or conical recess.

Diagrammatic Representation of Apparatus Components

graph LR
Base[Base: Channel Mild Steel] --> Yoke[Yoke: Threaded Mild Steel]
Yoke --> ReferenceBar[Reference Bar: Hardened Stainless Steel]
Yoke --> Micrometer[Micrometer Screw Gauge]
Base --> Bracket[Bracket: Mild Steel]
ReferenceBar -.-> RubberTube[Rubber Tube]

This standard guarantees precision and uniformity in apparatus for measuring length changes in cement and concrete.

2Apparatus Description and Specifications

Overview of IS 9459 Apparatus - Core Specifications

Materials Used in Length Comparator (Clause 4.1, Table 1)

ComponentMaterialSpecial Requirements
BaseChannel mild steel (IS:226-1975)-
Yoke (Pillars)Mild steel (IS:226-1975)Threaded for adjustment
BracketMild steel (IS:226-1975)-
Reference BarStainless steelEnds heat-treated, hardened, polished
Rubber TubeRubber-
  • All mild steel parts not directly involved in measurement must undergo anti-corrosion processes such as painting, nitriding, or phosphating.

Dimensional Tolerances (Clause 3.3)

  • Unless stated otherwise, general tolerances adhere to IS 2102 (Part 1):1980 for nominal dimensions.

Notes:

  • Term "yoke" replaces former "pillars" terminology.
  • Reference bar ends are critical for measurement accuracy, being heat-treated, hardened, and polished.
  • The apparatus is intended for monitoring length changes in hardened cement paste, mortar, and concrete during drying shrinkage and moisture movement tests.

Apparatus Component Diagram

graph LR
Base --> Yoke
Yoke --> Bracket
Bracket --> ReferenceBar
ReferenceBar --> Micrometer
RubberTube -.-> Base

This configuration ensures accurate length change measurement in compliance with IS 9459.

3Construction Details and Dimensional Data

Key Construction and Dimension Elements in IS 9459

  • Clause 3.3: Dimensions stated are nominal except where specific tolerances are indicated, following standard engineering tolerance practices.

  • Clause 4.1 & Table 1: Material Details

ComponentMaterialSpecial Conditions
BaseChannel mild steel (IS:226-1975)ISLC 150 or ISMC 150 channel sections
PillarsMild steel (IS:226-1975)Threaded for adjustment
BracketMild steel (IS:226-1975)-
Reference BarStainless steelEnds heat-treated, hardened, and polished
Rubber TubeRubber-
  • Additional notes:

    • Mild steel parts not involved in measurement must be protected against corrosion (painting, nitriding, phosphating).
    • Ends of the reference bar are hardened and polished to guarantee measurement precision.
  • Typical dimensional notes:

    • The adjustable length comparator incorporates a screw/dial micrometer and a reference bar.
    • The yoke end opposite the micrometer features an anvil with cylindrical or conical recess for specimen contact.

Diagram of Construction Components

graph LR
Base[Channel Mild Steel] --> Pillars[Threaded Mild Steel]
Pillars --> Bracket[Mild Steel]
Bracket --> ReferenceBar[Hardened Stainless Steel]
ReferenceBar --> MicrometerScrewGauge
MicrometerScrewGauge --> Anvil[Cylindrical/Conical Recess]
RubberTube -.-> ReferenceBar

This summary aids in the selection of materials, design, and fabrication of length comparators according to IS 9459.

4Materials Specification

Material Requirements for Length Comparator per IS 9459 (Clause 4.1, Table 1)

ComponentMaterialSpecial Characteristics
BaseChannel mild steel (IS:226-1975)ISLC 150 or ISMC 150 channel types
Pillars (Yoke)Mild steel (IS:226-1975)Threaded for adjustment
BracketMild steel (IS:226-1975)-
Reference BarStainless steelEnds heat-treated, hardened, polished; thermal expansion coefficient ≤ 2×10⁻⁶ /°C; diameter 20 mm; length 150 or 300 mm ± tolerance; ends machined to 6 mm spherical or fitted with balls
Rubber TubeRubberUsed for insulating the reference bar

Additional Information:

  • All mild steel parts not in direct working contact require anti-corrosion treatment such as painting, nitriding, or phosphating.
  • Reference bar must be calibrated at a defined temperature and supplied with calibration charts.
  • The central 100 mm portion of the reference bar is covered with a 6 mm thick rubber tube for thermal insulation.

Component Material Diagram

graph TD
LengthComparator --> Base[Base: Channel Mild Steel]
LengthComparator --> Pillars[Yoke: Threaded Mild Steel]
LengthComparator --> Bracket[Mild Steel]
LengthComparator --> ReferenceBar[Reference Bar: Stainless Steel, Heat-treated Ends]
ReferenceBar --> RubberTube[Rubber Tube for Insulation]

This ensures robustness, dimensional stability, and measurement accuracy for cement and concrete specimens.

5Marking and Identification

Marking Requirements for Apparatus per IS 9459

Clause 5.1: Mandatory Markings

  • Manufacturer’s name or trademark
  • Date of manufacture

Clause 5.1.1: Optional Markings

  • The apparatus may optionally carry the Standard Mark (BIS certification symbol).

Clause 5.2: Use of Standard Mark

  • Controlled under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 1986.
  • Licensing for use of the Standard Mark can be obtained from BIS.

Summary Table of Marking Elements

Marking AttributeDescription
Manufacturer IdentificationName or trademark of manufacturer
Manufacture DateClearly indicated date of production
Standard MarkOptional, subject to BIS license regulations

Contact Information for Licensing

  • BIS regional offices located in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, among others.
  • Refer to Clause 5.2 for detailed addresses and contact numbers.

Marking Flowchart

flowchart TD
Apparatus --> ManufacturerName[Mark Manufacturer Name/Trademark]
Apparatus --> ManufactureDate[Mark Date of Manufacture]
Apparatus --> OptionalMark{Optional}
OptionalMark --> StandardMark[Standard Mark (BIS)]
StandardMark --> License[License from BIS]

This marking system ensures traceability and conformity with IS 9459 requirements.

6Calibration Procedures and Accuracy

Calibration and Accuracy Requirements per IS 9459

Reference Bar Specifications (Clause 3.2)

  • Made of stainless steel with thermal expansion coefficient ≤ 2×10⁻⁶ /°C.
  • Dimensions: Diameter 12 mm; Length either 300 ± 1.3 mm or 150 ± 1.5 mm.
  • Ends: Machined to 6 mm spherical or fitted with 6 mm balls; ends are hardened, polished, and heat-treated.
  • The central 100 mm section is covered with a 6 mm thick rubber tube for thermal insulation.
  • Provided with calibration charts for temperature-related length corrections.
  • Includes a position mark near one end for consistent placement.

Materials for Length Comparator (Clause 4.1, Table 1)

ComponentMaterialSpecial Requirements
BaseChannel mild steel (IS:226-1975)-
Yoke (Pillars)Mild steel (IS:226-1975)Threaded for adjustment
BracketMild steel (IS:226-1975)-
Reference BarStainless steelEnds heat-treated, hardened, polished
Rubber TubeRubber-

Accuracy and Rounding (Clause 0.5)

  • Final measurement values must be rounded off according to IS 2:1960.
  • Maintain significant figures consistent with the specified precision.

Thermal Expansion Correction Formula

[ L_{T} = L_{0} \times [1 + \alpha (T - T_{0})] ]

Where:

  • (L_{T}) = length at temperature (T)
  • (L_{0}) = length at standard temperature (T_{0})
  • (\alpha) = coefficient of thermal expansion (≤ 2×10⁻⁶ /°C)

Reference Bar Setup Diagram

graph LR
ReferenceBar[Reference Bar] --> StainlessSteel[Stainless Steel, Ø12 mm]
ReferenceBar --> LengthSpec[Length 150 or 300 mm ± tolerance]
ReferenceBar --> Ends[6 mm spherical, hardened & polished ends]
ReferenceBar --> Insulation[Central 100 mm insulated with 6 mm rubber tube]
ReferenceBar --> Calibration[Calibration charts for temperature correction]

Ensures precise and repeatable length measurements with thermal compensation.

7Installation and Setup Instructions

Installation and Setup Guidelines for Length Change Measurement Apparatus per IS 9459

1. Materials (Clause 4.1, Table 1):

ComponentMaterialSpecial Requirements
BaseChannel mild steel (IS:226)-
Yoke (Pillars)Mild steel (IS:226)Threaded for adjustment
BracketMild steel (IS:226)-
Reference BarStainless steelEnds heat-treated, hardened, polished
Rubber TubeRubberFor insulation and handling

2. Reference Bar Details (Clause 3.2):

  • Stainless steel with coefficient of thermal expansion ≤ 2×10⁻⁶ /°C.
  • Diameter: 20 mm; Length: 150 ± 1.5 mm or 300 ± 1.3 mm.
  • Ends: 6 mm spherical diameter, heat-treated and polished.
  • Middle 100 mm covered with 6 mm thick rubber tube for thermal insulation.
  • Supplied with calibration charts for temperature correction.

3. Dimensional Tolerances (Clause 3.3):

  • General tolerances conform to IS 2102 (Part 1): 1980 for linear and angular dimensions.

4. Setup Summary:

  • Use a length comparator equipped with a micrometer screw gauge.
  • The yoke end opposite the micrometer contains an anvil with cylindrical or conical recess.
  • The entire assembly is mounted on a stable base with the yoke threaded for fine positional adjustments.

Simplified Setup Diagram

graph LR
Base[Base (Channel Mild Steel)] --> Yoke[Yoke (Threaded Mild Steel)]
Yoke --> ReferenceBar[Reference Bar (Stainless Steel)]
ReferenceBar --> Micrometer[Micrometer Screw Gauge]
ReferenceBar --> RubberTube[Rubber Tube Insulation]

Thermal Correction Formula

[ L_{T} = L_{0} \times [1 + \alpha (T - T_{0})] ]

  • (L_{T}): Length at temperature (T)
  • (L_{0}): Length at standard temperature (T_{0})
  • (\alpha): Coefficient of thermal expansion (≤ 2×10⁻⁶ /°C)

Note: Anti-corrosion treatment is mandatory for all mild steel parts.

8Operation and Usage Guidelines

Operational Specifications and Materials for Length Change Measurement Apparatus per IS 9459

Materials Breakdown (Clause 4.1, Table 1):

ComponentMaterialSpecial Characteristics
BaseChannel mild steel (IS:226-1975)-
Pillars (Yoke)Mild steel (IS:226-1975)Threaded for fine adjustment
BracketMild steel (IS:226-1975)-
Reference BarStainless steelEnds heat-treated, hardened, and polished
Rubber TubeRubber-

Additional Notes:

  • Non-measuring mild steel components must be treated against corrosion by painting, nitriding, or phosphating.
  • Dimensional tolerances adhere to IS 2102 (Part 1): 1980 unless otherwise specified.
  • The apparatus is intended for measuring length changes such as drying shrinkage and moisture movement in hardened cement paste, mortar, and concrete.

Operational Highlights:

  • The yoke end opposite the micrometer is fitted with an anvil featuring a cylindrical or conical recess to ensure proper specimen contact.
  • Micrometer screw gauge specifications and setup are in accordance with detailed standard figures.
  • Assembly must maintain specified tolerances and adjustments to guarantee measurement accuracy.

Component Diagram

graph LR
Base[Channel Mild Steel] --> Pillars[Yoke: Mild Steel, Threaded]
Pillars --> Bracket[Mild Steel]
Bracket --> ReferenceBar[Stainless Steel, Hardened Ends]
ReferenceBar --> MicrometerScrewGauge
Pillars --> RubberTube

For detailed tolerances and setup, consult IS 9459 and IS 2102 (Part 1).

9Maintenance Procedures and Care

Maintenance and Care Instructions per IS 9459:1980 for Length Change Measurement Apparatus

Material Protection:

  • All mild steel parts not directly involved in measurement must be treated with anti-corrosive finishes such as painting, nitriding, or phosphating, as prescribed by relevant IS standards.
  • Reference bar ends are constructed from heat-treated, hardened, and polished stainless steel to ensure durability.

Dimensional Tolerances:

  • Nominal dimensions must adhere to tolerances specified in IS 2102 (Part 1):1980 for linear and angular measurements unless otherwise noted.

Maintenance Guidelines:

  • Cleaning: Regularly remove dust and moisture to prevent corrosion and maintain measurement accuracy.
  • Lubrication: Light lubrication of micrometer screws and moving parts is recommended to facilitate smooth functioning.
  • Calibration: Periodically verify the reference bar length and micrometer accuracy against certified standards.
  • Storage: Keep the apparatus in a dry, dust-free environment to avoid rust and damage.

Materials Table (Clause 4.1)

ComponentMaterialSpecial Requirements
BaseChannel mild steel (IS:226-1975)-
Yoke (Pillars)Mild steel (IS:226-1975)Threaded for adjustment
BracketMild steel (IS:226-1975)-
Reference BarStainless steelEnds heat-treated, hardened, polished
Rubber TubeRubber-

Maintenance Cycle Diagram

graph LR
Inspection --> Cleaning --> Lubrication --> Calibration --> Storage --> Inspection

Following these maintenance practices ensures the apparatus maintains precision and longevity per IS 9459 standards.

10Safety Measures and Handling Instructions

Safety and Handling Recommendations for IS 9459:1980 Apparatus

Materials and Corrosion Protection (Clause 4.1 and Notes):

  • Base: Channel mild steel (IS: 226-1975)
  • Pillars/Yoke: Mild steel (IS: 226-1975), threaded for adjustment
  • Bracket: Mild steel (IS: 226-1975)
  • Reference Bar: Stainless steel, ends heat-treated, hardened, polished
  • Rubber Tube: Rubber
  • All mild steel components not directly involved in measurement require anti-corrosive treatment (painting, nitriding, phosphating) per applicable IS standards.

Dimensional Tolerances (Clause 3.3):

  • Use nominal dimensions with tolerances as per IS 2102 (Part 1):1980 for linear and angular measurements unless otherwise specified.

Handling Best Practices:

  • Handle reference bars cautiously to avoid damaging the critical polished surfaces.
  • Adjust threaded components such as pillars/yoke gently to prevent mechanical damage.
  • Store the apparatus in a clean, dry location to minimize corrosion risks.
  • Apply protective coatings on mild steel parts to extend the service life of the instrument.

Materials and Special Requirements Summary

ComponentMaterialSpecial Requirements
BaseChannel mild steelISLC 150 or ISMC 150 (IS: 226-1975)
Pillars/YokeMild steelThreaded for adjustment
BracketMild steel-
Reference BarStainless steelEnds heat-treated, hardened, polished
Rubber TubeRubber-

flowchart TD
Apparatus --> Base[Base: Mild Steel]
Apparatus --> Yoke[Pillars/Yoke: Mild Steel, Threaded]
Apparatus --> Bracket[Bracket: Mild Steel]
Apparatus --> ReferenceBar[Reference Bar: Stainless Steel, Heat-treated]
Apparatus --> RubberTube[Rubber Tube]
Base & Yoke & Bracket --> AntiCorrosion[Anti-corrosive Treatment]
ReferenceBar --> HandleCare[Handle with Care]

Refer to IS 2102 (Part 1):1980 for detailed tolerance requirements. Proper handling and corrosion protection are crucial for maintaining measurement accuracy.

11References and Applicable Standards

References and Related Standards for IS 9459

  • Clause 3.3: Dimensions must comply with tolerances defined in IS 2102 (Part 1): 1980 — General tolerances for linear and angular dimensions.

  • Referenced Standards:

IS CodeTitle/Description
IS 2102 (Part 1): 1980General tolerances for linear/angular dimensions
IS 1199:1959Sampling and analysis methods for concrete
IS 2386 (Part VII):1963Test methods for aggregates: Alkali aggregate reactivity
IS 4031:1968Physical testing methods for hydraulic cement
IS 2:1960Rules for rounding off numerical values
IS 226:1975Specification for structural steel
  • Material Specifications (Table 1):
ComponentMaterialSpecial Requirements
BaseChannel mild steel (IS:226-1975)-
Yoke (Pillars)Mild steel (IS:226-1975)Threaded for adjustment
BracketMild steel (IS:226-1975)-
Reference BarStainless steelEnds heat-treated, hardened, polished
Rubber TubeRubber-
  • Mild steel parts not involved in direct measurement require anti-corrosive treatment.
  • Reference bar: Stainless steel, length 150 or 300 mm ± tolerances, with 6 mm diameter spherical ends, heat-treated and polished.
  • Thermal expansion coefficient of reference bar ≤ 2 × 10⁻⁶ /°C.

Thermal Expansion Formula

[ \Delta L = L_0 \times \alpha \times \Delta T ]

Where:

  • (\Delta L): Change in length
  • (L_0): Original length (150 or 300 mm)
  • (\alpha): Thermal expansion coefficient (≤ 2 × 10⁻⁶ /°C)
  • (\Delta T): Temperature difference

This formula is essential for temperature compensation in length measurements.

12Revisions and Updates

Amendments and Updates to IS 9459

Amendment No. 1 (November 1984):

  • Clause 3.1: The yoke end opposite the micrometer must include an anvil with a cylindrical or conical recess.
  • Clause 3.1.1: Terminology changed from "frame" to "yoke".
  • Clause 3.2: Reference bar dimension changed from 20 mm to 12 mm diameter.
  • Figure 1: The term "Pillar" replaced by "Yoke".
  • Table 1, Sl. No. (i): Channel steel sections must be ISLC 150 or ISMC 150 conforming to IS:226-1975.

Amendment No. 2 (April 1993):

  • Clause 3.3: Unspecified tolerances are to follow IS 2102 (Part 1): 1980.
  • Table 1: "Pillars" terminology replaced by "Yoke" in item (ii).
  • Removal of phrase "conforming to relevant Indian Standards" from notes.

Material Specifications (Table 1):

ComponentMaterialSpecial Requirements
BaseChannel mild steel (IS:226-1975)-
Yoke (Pillars)Mild steel (IS:226-1975)Threaded for adjustment
BracketMild steel (IS:226-1975)-
Reference BarStainless steelEnds heat-treated, hardened, polished
Rubber TubeRubber-
  • Non-measuring mild steel parts must have anti-corrosive treatment (painting, nitriding, phosphating).

Tolerances:

  • General linear/angular tolerances follow IS 2102 (Part 1): 1980 unless otherwise stated.

Apparatus Components Diagram

graph LR
Base[Channel Mild Steel] --> Yoke[Threaded Mild Steel Yoke]
Yoke --> Bracket[Mild Steel Bracket]
Bracket --> ReferenceBar[Hardened Stainless Steel Reference Bar]
ReferenceBar --> MicrometerAnvil[Micrometer End with Anvil]
Yoke --> RubberTube

Ensure the latest amendments are integrated for compliant fabrication and usage.

Popular Questions About IS 9459

?What materials are specified for constructing the length comparator apparatus?

Per IS 9459 Clause 4.1 and Table 1, the length comparator apparatus must be constructed using the following materials:

ComponentMaterialSpecial Requirements
BaseChannel mild steel (IS: 226-1975)-
PillarsMild steel (IS: 226-1975)Threaded to enable adjustment
BracketMild steel (IS: 226-1975)-
Reference BarStainless steelEnds must be heat-treated, hardened, and polished
Rubber TubeRubber-

Additional points include:

  • All mild steel parts not involved in direct measurement must receive anti-corrosion treatments such as painting, nitriding, or phosphating.
  • The reference bar should have a thermal expansion coefficient of ≤ 2×10⁻⁶ /°C, with 6 mm diameter spherical ends that are heat-treated and polished.
  • Typical reference bar dimensions are 20 mm diameter, with lengths of either 300 ± 1.3 mm or 150 ± 1.5 mm, insulated with a 6 mm thick rubber tube for the central 100 mm section.

These specifications ensure the apparatus is durable, precise, and minimally affected by temperature variations.

?How is the reference bar calibrated and what are its specifications?

The reference bar, according to IS 9459, is calibrated and specified as follows:

  • Constructed from stainless steel with a thermal expansion coefficient not exceeding 2×10⁻⁶ /°C.
  • Diameter of 20 mm and length options of either 300 ± 1.3 mm or 150 ± 1.5 mm.
  • Ends machined to 6 mm diameter spherical shapes or fitted with 6 mm balls; these ends are heat-treated, hardened, and polished to ensure measurement accuracy.
  • The central 100 mm length is covered with a 6 mm thick rubber tube to provide thermal insulation during handling.
  • Calibration involves measuring the bar length precisely at a standard temperature and providing calibration charts to correct for length variations caused by temperature changes.
  • A positioning mark is placed near one end to ensure consistent placement during measurements.

This calibration process, combined with high-precision micrometers, ensures accurate and repeatable length measurements accounting for thermal effects.

?What is the accuracy and measurement range of the micrometer used?

As per IS 9459 Clause 3.1.1, the micrometer employed in the length comparator must meet these criteria:

  • Measurement range of at least 10 mm.
  • Graduation increments of 0.002 mm.
  • Accuracy within ±0.002 mm over any 0.020 mm measurement interval.

Additional features include:

  • A conical spindle designed to engage with a 6 mm diameter ball fixed on the specimen.
  • Rigid mounting within the measuring frame to ensure stability and precision.

These specifications guarantee highly accurate length change measurements in cementitious materials.

?How does the apparatus accommodate thermal expansion during measurements?

Thermal expansion is managed in the apparatus primarily through the carefully designed reference bar:

  • Manufactured from stainless steel with a low thermal expansion coefficient (≤ 2 × 10⁻⁶ /°C).
  • The reference bar has a calibrated standard length (150 mm or 300 mm) measured at a specific reference temperature.
  • Calibration charts are provided to correct length measurements for temperature fluctuations.
  • Ends are fitted with 6 mm diameter hardened and polished spherical ends or balls to ensure precise contact.
  • The central 100 mm of the bar is insulated with a 6 mm thick rubber tube to reduce thermal influence during handling.

Together, these features allow accurate length measurements that account for any dimensional changes due to temperature variations.

?What are the marking requirements for the apparatus to comply with IS 9459?

According to IS 9459:1980 Clause 5.1, the apparatus must be marked with:

  • The manufacturer’s name or trademark.
  • The date of manufacture.

This ensures traceability and facilitates quality control of the instruments used for measuring length changes in hardened cement paste, mortar, and concrete.

Optional marking includes the Standard Mark (BIS certification mark) subject to licensing under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 1986.

These marking requirements are essential for equipment identification and compliance with the standard.

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