IS 2692013AI Search Enabled✦ AI Generated

Ordinary Portland Cement, 33 grade- specification

IS 269:2013 specifies the requirements for Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) 33 grade used in general construction. It covers chemical and physical properties, manufacturing processes, packaging, sampling, testing, and marking requirements to ensure consistent quality and performance. This standard is essential for cement manufacturers, suppliers, and construction professionals involved in producing, procuring, and using 33 grade OPC in India.

15Sections
48Clauses Indexed
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2013Edition
Cement Concrete Aggregates and RCCCategory
Alternative search terms: IS 269 PDF, IS 269 pdf free download, IS 269 free download pdf, IS269 PDF, IS-269 PDF, IS 269 2013 PDF, IS 269:2013 PDF, IS 269-2013 PDF, IS 269 (2013) PDF, IS 269 2013 edition PDF, IS 269 edition 2013 PDF

What This Standard Covers

IS 269:2013 specifies the requirements for Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) 33 grade used in general construction. It covers chemical and physical properties, manufacturing processes, packaging, sampling, testing, and marking requirements to ensure consistent quality and performance. This standard is essential for cement manufacturers, suppliers, and construction professionals involved in producing, procuring, and using 33 grade OPC in India.

Who Uses This Standard

  • Cement Manufacturers
  • Quality Control Engineers
  • Construction Project Managers
  • Civil Engineers
  • Material Testing Laboratories
  • Procurement Specialists
  • Structural Engineers

Key Topics Covered

Chemical composition requirements
Physical properties and testing methods
Performance improvers and additives
Sampling and testing procedures
Packaging and marking specifications
Tolerance limits for packed cement quantity
Manufacturer's certification and documentation
Storage and handling guidelines
Rejection criteria for non-compliant cement
Independent testing protocols
Alkali content and reactive silica limits
Compressive strength requirements
Soundness and setting time criteria
Use of pozzolanic materials
Export packaging provisions

Table of Contents

1Scope

IS 269: Scope & Key Specifications for Ordinary Portland Cement (33 Grade)

This standard covers manufacture, chemical, and physical requirements.


Chemical Composition Limits (Table 2)

CharacteristicRequirement
Lime to combined silica, alumina, iron oxide ratio (CaO - 0.7 SO3) / (2.8 SiO2 + 1.2 Al2O3 + 0.65 Fe2O3)0.66 to 1.02
Alumina to iron oxide ratio (Al2O3 / Fe2O3)Minimum 0.66
Insoluble residueMax 5.0% by mass
Magnesia (MgO)Max 6.0% by mass
Loss on ignitionMax 5.0% by mass
Chloride contentMax 0.1% by mass
Alkali content (as Na2O equivalent)Max 0.05% (lower for prestressed concrete)

Performance Improvers (Clause 4.1.1, Table 1)

  • Max total addition: 5% by mass (including 1% additives)
  • Examples:
ImproverMax % AdditionIS Code Reference
Fly ash5%IS 3812 (Part 1)
Granulated slag5%IS 12089
Silica fume5%IS 15388
Limestone5%IS 1760 (Part 3)
Rice husk ash5%IS 3812 (Part 1), IS 1727
Metakaolin5%IS 1727, IS 4032

Important Formula for Lime Ratio

[ \text{Lime ratio} = \frac{\text{CaO} - 0.7 \times \text{SO}_3}{2.8 \times \text{SiO}_2 + 1.2 \times \text{Al}_2\text{O}_3 + 0.65 \

2References

IS 269 - Key References: Formulas, Tables & Specifications

1. Performance Improvers (Clause 4.1.1, Table 1)

Performance ImproverMax % Addition (by mass)Requirements
Fly ash5%IS 3812 (Part 1)
Granulated slag5%IS 12089
Silica fume5%IS 15388
Limestone5%CaCO3 ≥ 75% (IS 1760 Part 3)
Rice husk ash5%Reactive silica ≥ 80%, Pozzolanic index ≥ 90%, LOI ≤ 5% (IS 1727)
Metakaolin5%SiO2 + Al2O3 ≥ 94%, LOI ≤ 2%, Alkalis ≤ 1.5%, Particles retained ≤ 1.5% (IS 1727, IS 4032)
  • Total addition limit: Max 5% if combined.

2. Chemical Requirements for OPC 33 Grade (Table 2)

PropertyRequirement
Lime ratio (CaO - 0.7 SO3) / (2.8 SiO2 + 1.2 Al2O3 + 0.65 Fe2O3)0.66 - 1.02
Alumina/Iron oxide ratio (Al2O3/Fe2O3)≥ 0.66
Insoluble residue≤ 5.0%
Magnesia (MgO)≤ 6.0%
Loss on Ignition (LOI)≤ 5.0%
Chloride content≤ 0.1%
Alkali content≤ 0.05% (prestressed structures note)

3. Physical Requirements (Refer Table 3 in IS 269)

  • Includes fineness, consistency, setting times, and strength parameters (not detailed here).

Important Formula for Lime Ratio:

[ \text{Lime Ratio} = \frac

3Definitions

IS 269 - Key Definitions & Specifications Summary

1. Performance Improvers (Clause 4.1.1 & Table 1)

  • Max addition by mass: 5% total (including 1% additives).
  • Individual max limits (all 5%): Fly ash, Granulated slag, Silica fume, Limestone, Rice husk ash, Metakaolin.
  • Requirements per IS standards (e.g., Fly ash - IS 3812 Part 1).

2. Chemical Requirements for OPC 33 Grade (Table 2)

CharacteristicRequirement
Lime ratio: (CaO - 0.7 SO3) / (2.8 SiO2 + 1.2 Al2O3 + 0.65 Fe2O3)0.66 - 1.02
Alumina to Iron Oxide ratio (Al2O3 / Fe2O3)Min 0.66
Insoluble residueMax 5.0%
Magnesia (MgO)Max 6.0%
Loss on ignitionMax 5.0%
Chloride contentMax 0.1% (0.05% for prestressed)
Alkali content (as Na2O)Max 0.05%

3. Additional Chemical Limits (Clause 9.4)

  • SiO2 + Al2O3 ≥ 94%
  • Loss on ignition ≤ 2%
  • Total alkalis (Na2O equiv.) ≤ 1.5%
  • Particles retained on 45 micron sieve ≤ 1.5%

Formula Highlight:

[ \text{Lime Ratio} = \frac{CaO - 0.7 \times SO_3}{2.8 \times SiO_2 + 1.2 \times Al_2O_3 + 0.65 \times Fe_2O_3} ]


Note: Definitions align with IS 4845 for cement terminology.

flowchart LR
    A[Performance Improvers] --> B[Max 5% Addition]
    B --> C[Fly Ash, Slag, Silica Fume, etc.]
    D[Chemical Requirements] --> E[Lime Ratio 
4Manufacture

IS 269 - Manufacture of Cement: Key Specifications & Tables

1. Performance Improvers (Clause 4.1.1 & Table 1)

  • Max addition by mass: 5% for each improver; total max of 5% if combined.
  • Types & Requirements:
Performance ImproverMax % AdditionKey Requirement
Fly ash5%IS 3812 (Part 1)
Granulated slag5%IS 12089
Silica fume5%IS 15388
Limestone5%CaCO3 ≥ 75% (IS 1760 Part 3)
Rice husk ash5%Reactive silica ≥ 80%, Pozzolanic activity ≥ 90%, LOI ≤ 5% (IS 1727)
Metakaolin5%SiO2 + Al2O3 ≥ 94%, LOI ≤ 2%, Alkalis ≤ 1.5%, Particles > 45μ ≤ 1.5%

2. Physical Requirements for OPC 33 Grade (Table 3, Clause 8.2.5.4)

CharacteristicRequirementTest Method (IS 4031)
Fineness≥ 225 m²/kgPart 2
Soundness≤ 10 mm (Le Chatelier), ≤ 0.8% (Autoclave)Part 3
Setting TimeInitial ≥ 30 min, Final ≤ 600 minPart 5
Compressive Strength72h ≥ 16 MPa, 168h ≥ 22 MPa, 672h ≥ 33 MPaPart 6

3. Alkali Content (Clause 8.2)

  • Alkali (Na₂O) content should be < 0.6% for reactive aggregates.
  • Manufacturer must provide alkali content certificate on request.

4. Important Notes

  • Cement storage: Weather-tight, dry conditions to prevent deterioration (see IS 4082).
  • False set correction and
5Chemical Requirements

IS 269: Chemical Requirements Summary

Key Chemical Requirements (Clause 94.0 & Table 2)

ParameterLimit/RangeTest Standard
SiO2 + Al2O3 (mass %)≥ 94.0%IS 1727
Loss on Ignition (mass %)≤ 2.0% (Metakaolin), ≤ 5.0% (OPC)IS 1727
Total Alkalis as Na2O (mass %)≤ 1.5% (Metakaolin), 0.05% (OPC for prestressed)IS 4032
Particles retained on 45 micron sieve≤ 1.5% (Metakaolin)IS 1727 (wet sieving)
Ratio CaO - 0.7 SO3 to (2.8 SiO2 + 1.2 Al2O3 + 0.65 Fe2O3)0.66 to 1.02IS 269 Table 2
Al2O3 / Fe2O3 ratio (min)0.66IS 269 Table 2
Insoluble residue (max %)5.0IS 269 Table 2
Magnesia (MgO max %)6.0IS 269 Table 2
Chloride content (max %)0.1IS 269 Table 2

Performance Improvers (Max 5% addition)

ImproverMax % AdditionKey Requirements
Fly ash5%IS 3812 (Part 1)
Granulated slag5%IS 12089
Silica fume5%IS 15388
Limestone5%CaCO3 ≥ 75% (IS 1760 Part 3)
Rice husk ash5%Reactive silica ≥ 80%, Pozzolanic index ≥ 90%, LOI ≤ 5%
Metakaolin5%SiO2 + Al2O3 ≥ 94%, LOI ≤ 2%, Alkalis ≤ 1.
6Physical Requirements

IS 269: Physical Requirements for Ordinary Portland Cement (33 Grade)

CharacteristicRequirementTest Method (IS Code)
FinenessMin 225 m²/kgIS 4031 (Part 2)
Soundnessa) Le Chatelier: Max 10 mm<br>b) Autoclave: Max 0.8%IS 4031 (Part 3)
Setting Timea) Initial: Min 30 min<br>b) Final: Max 600 minIS 4031 (Part 5)
Compressive Strengtha) 72 h: Min 16 MPa<br>b) 168 h: Min 22 MPa<br>c) 672 h: Min 33 MPa, Max 48 MPaIS 4031 (Part 6)
Transverse Strength (optional)As agreedIS 4031 (Part 8)

Key Chemical Ratios (Table 2)

  • Lime ratio formula:
    [ \frac{\text{CaO} - 0.7 \times \text{SO}_3}{2.8 \times \text{SiO}_2 + 1.2 \times \text{Al}_2\text{O}_3 + 0.65 \times \text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3} = 0.66 - 1.02 ]
  • Alumina to iron oxide ratio ≥ 0.66
  • Insoluble residue ≤ 5%
  • Magnesia ≤ 6%
  • Loss on ignition ≤ 5%
  • Chloride content ≤ 0.1%
  • Alkali content ≤ 0.05% (Na2O equivalent)

Notes:

  • Cement must show progressive strength increase from 72 h.
  • For reactive aggregates, use cement with alkali content < 0.6% Na2O (see IS 456 Clause 8.2.5.4).
  • Storage: Weather-tight, dry conditions to prevent deterioration.
flowchart TD
    A[Ordinary Portland Cement] --> B[Fineness ≥ 225 m²/kg]
    A --> C[Soundness ≤ 
7Sampling

IS 269 - Sampling Key Points

  • Sampling Method: As per Clause 11.2, sampling of cement must follow IS 3535:1986 (Methods of sampling hydraulic cement).

  • Sample Size for Bagged Cement (Annex B):

Batch Size (bags)Sample Size (bags)
100 - 15020
151 - 28032
281 - 50050
501 - 120080
1201 - 3200125
>3200200
  • Sampling Procedure:

    • Bags must be selected randomly (see IS 4905 for random sampling methods).
    • Average net quantity per bag in sample ≥ 50 kg.
  • Testing Timeline: Tests on samples should be conducted as soon as possible after sampling (Clause 12.2.3).

  • Re-testing: Cement stored > 6 months in bulk or > 3 months in bags after testing must be retested before use (Clause 13.2).


Summary Flow of Sampling & Testing

flowchart TD
    A[Start: Cement Batch] --> B[Random Sampling as per IS 3535]
    B --> C[Sample Size as per Batch Size (Annex B)]
    C --> D[Carry out Tests ASAP (Clause 12.2.3)]
    D --> E{Pass Tests?}
    E -->|Yes| F[Use Cement]
    E -->|No| G[Reject Cement]
    F --> H[Monitor Storage Time]
    H --> I{Storage > 3/6 months?}
    I -->|Yes| J[Retest Cement]
    I -->|No| K[Continue Use]

References:

  • IS 3535:1986 — Sampling of Hydraulic Cement
  • IS 4905:1968 — Methods for Random Sampling
  • IS 269:2015 — Cement Specification (Clause 11.2, 12.2.3, 13.2, Annex B)

This ensures representative, reliable sampling and testing for cement quality control.

8Manufacturer's Certificate

Manufacturer's Certificate - IS 269 Key Points

Clause 8.1:

  • Manufacturer must certify cement conforms to IS 269 standards.
  • Certificate includes test results within 10 days (except 28-day compressive strength).
  • Must specify type & % of performance improvers used.

Clause 8.2:

  • If requested, certificate must indicate alkali content (Na2O equivalent).
  • Recommended alkali content ≤ 0.6% Na2O for reactive aggregates (see IS 456 Clause 8.2.5.4).

Key Physical Requirements (Table 3 - OPC 33 Grade)

PropertyRequirementTest Method (IS 4031 Part)
Fineness≥ 225 m²/kgPart 2
SoundnessLe Chatelier ≤ 10 mmPart 3
Autoclave ≤ 0.8%
Setting TimeInitial ≥ 30 minPart 5
Final ≤ 600 min
Compressive Strength72h ≥ 16 MPaPart 6
168h ≥ 22 MPa
672h ≥ 33 MPa
Max 48 MPa

Additional Notes

  • Cement should be stored in weather-tight conditions (IS 4082).
  • For reactive aggregates, use low alkali cement or alternative measures (IS 456).
  • Certificate must also include chemical limits like SiO2, Al2O3, Fe2O3 ratios, MgO, loss on ignition, chloride content (see Clause 2.8).

flowchart TD
    A[Manufacturer] --> B[Tests cement as per IS 269]
    B --> C{Request for Alkali Content?}
    C -- Yes --> D[Include Alkali Content in Certificate]
    C -- No --> E[Standard Certificate]
    D --> F[Send Certificate to Purchaser within 10 days]
    E --> F

Summary: Manufacturer's certificate must confirm compliance with IS 269 physical and chemical specs

9Packing and Marking

IS 269: Packing and Marking Key Points

  • Packing Material: As per Clause 9.4.3, packing material is mutually agreed between manufacturer and purchaser.

  • Packing Types (Clause 9.4):

    • Cement can be packed in bags or drums.
    • Net quantity per bag/drum is agreed upon between parties.
    • Common net weights: 25 kg, 50 kg (standard practice).
  • Marking Requirements (Clause 9.4.2):

    • Each bag/drum must be marked with:
      • The words "FOR EXPORT"
      • The net quantity of cement
    • Marking must be in indelible ink for durability.
  • Delivery Advice (Clause 10.2):

    • Shipment documents must include packing details.
    • Information on bags/drums must match delivery advice.

Typical Packing Marking Example:

Marking on Bag/DrumDescription
FOR EXPORTExport designation
Net Weight: 50 kgNet quantity of cement
Manufacturer’s NameIdentification
IS 269 MarkStandard compliance

This ensures traceability, quality, and compliance for export cement shipments.

10Delivery and Documentation

Delivery and Documentation per IS 269

1. Delivery Advice & Documentation (Clause 10.2):

  • Delivery advices must accompany shipments (packed or bulk cement).
  • Cement drums must also carry similar information (see Clause 9.3).
  • Documentation ensures traceability and quality verification.

2. Sampling & Testing (Clause 11.1.1):

  • Samples must be taken within 3 weeks of delivery.
  • Testing must begin within 1 week of sampling.

3. Storage & Retesting (Clause 13.2):

  • Cement stored in bulk >6 months or in bags >3 months after testing must be retested before use.
  • Reject if it fails any standard requirements.

4. Packing & Quantity Tolerance (Annex B):

  • Average net quantity per bag ≥ 50 kg.
  • Sample size depends on batch size (see table below):
Batch Size (bags)Sample Size (bags)
100–15020
151–28032
281–50050
501–120080
1201–3200125
>3200200

5. Reference Standards for Packaging & Testing:

  • IS 4905: Random sampling methods.
  • IS 2580, IS 11761, IS 12089: Specifications for jute, HDPE, and paper sacks.
  • IS 4031 (Parts 2,3,5,6,8): Physical tests for cement (fineness, soundness, setting time, strength).

flowchart TD
    A[Shipment of Cement] --> B[Delivery Advice]
    B --> C[Sampling within 3 weeks]
    C --> D[Testing within 1 week]
    D --> E{Storage Duration}
    E -- >6 months bulk or >3 months bags --> F[Retesting]
    F --> G{Pass?}
    G -- Yes --> H[Use Cement]
    G -- No --> I[Reject Cement]

This ensures cement quality and compliance from dispatch to site use.

11Sampling and Testing Procedures

Sampling and Testing Procedures - IS 269 Key Points

Sampling (Clause 11.2)

  • Sampling must follow IS 3535: "Methods of sampling hydraulic cement."
  • Bags for sampling are selected randomly per IS 4905.
  • Sample size depends on batch size (Annex B):
Batch Size (bags)Sample Size (bags)
100 - 15020
151 - 28032
281 - 50050
501 - 1,20080
1,201 - 3,200125
> 3,201200

Testing (Clause 12.2.3)

  • Tests must be performed promptly after sampling.
  • Refer to IS 4031 series for physical tests:
    • Fineness (Part 2)
    • Soundness (Part 3)
    • Setting times (Part 5)
    • Compressive strength (Part 6)
    • Transverse strength (Part 8, optional)

Rejection Criteria (Clause 13.2)

  • Cement stored >6 months in bulk or >3 months in bags after testing must be retested.
  • Reject if fails to meet IS 269 requirements.

Physical Requirements for OPC 33 Grade (Table 3)

PropertyRequirementTest Method (IS 4031 Part)
Fineness≥ 225 m²/kgPart 2
Soundness≤ 10 mm (Le Chatelier) <br> ≤ 0.8% (Autoclave)Part 3
Setting TimeInitial ≥ 30 min <br> Final ≤ 600 minPart 5
Compressive Strength72h ≥ 16 MPa <br> 168h ≥ 22 MPa <br> 672h ≥ 33 MPaPart 6

Summary Flow of Sampling & Testing

flowchart TD
    A[Start: Cement Batch] --> B[Random Sampling per IS 3535 & IS 4905]
    B
12Testing and Independent Verification

IS 269: Testing and Independent Verification Key Points

1. Independent Testing (Clause 12.2)

  • Sample Collection: Before or immediately after delivery, as per purchaser's option.
  • Testing Standard: Tests must follow IS 269 procedures under purchaser's written instructions.

2. Physical Requirements (Clause 8.2.5.4 & Table 3)

CharacteristicRequirementTest Method (IS 4031 Part)
Fineness≥ 225 m²/kgPart 2
SoundnessLe Chatelier ≤ 10 mm; Autoclave ≤ 0.8%Part 3
Setting TimeInitial ≥ 30 min; Final ≤ 600 minPart 5
Compressive Strength72h ≥ 16 MPa; 168h ≥ 22 MPa; 672h ≥ 33 MPaPart 6
  • Alkali Content: For reactive aggregates, cement alkali (Na₂O) < 0.6% recommended (see IS 456 Clause 8.2.5.4).

3. Retesting & Rejection (Clause 13.2)

  • Cement stored >6 months in bulk or >3 months in bags after testing must be retested.
  • Reject if fails to meet IS 269 requirements.

4. Sampling & Packaging (Annex B)

  • Sample size depends on batch size (e.g., 20 bags for 100-150 batch).
  • Random sampling per IS 4905.

flowchart TD
    A[Sample Collection] --> B{Timing}
    B -->|Before Delivery| C[Test as per IS 269]
    B -->|After Delivery| C
    C --> D[Physical Tests: Fineness, Soundness, Setting Time, Strength]
    D --> E{Pass?}
    E -->|Yes| F[Accept Cement]
    E -->|No| G[Retest or Reject]

References: IS 4031 (Parts 2,3,5,6), IS 456 (alkali content), IS 4905 (sampling).

13Rejection of Cement

Rejection of Cement as per IS 269: Key Points & Criteria

Clause 13.1 & 13.2: Rejection Conditions

  • Cement shall be rejected if it does not meet any standard requirements.
  • Cement stored in bulk > 6 months or in bags > 3 months after testing must be retested before use.
  • Failure to meet any test criteria leads to rejection.

Chemical & Physical Requirements (Summary)

PropertyRequirementTest Reference (IS 4031 series)
Fineness (m²/kg)≥ 225Part 2
SoundnessLe Chatelier ≤ 10 mm; Autoclave ≤ 0.8%Part 3
Setting TimeInitial ≥ 30 min; Final ≤ 600 minPart 5
Compressive Strength (MPa)72h: ≥16; 168h: ≥22; 672h: ≥33Part 6
Chemical RatiosLime ratio: 0.66–1.02; Alumina/Iron oxide ≥ 0.66IS 1727, IS 4032

Sampling & Storage

  • Random sampling as per IS 4905.
  • Storage in weather-tight, dry conditions (see IS 4082).
  • Bags must comply with IS 2580, IS 11761, IS 12089 for packing.

Summary Table: Rejection Criteria

ParameterLimit for Rejection
Storage time in bulk> 6 months without retest
Storage time in bags> 3 months without retest
Fineness< 225 m²/kg
Soundness (Le Chatelier)> 10 mm expansion
Setting timeInitial < 30 min or Final > 600 min
Compressive strengthBelow specified limits
Chemical compositionOutside specified ranges

flowchart TD
    A[Cement Storage] --> B{Storage Duration}
    B -->|Bulk > 6 months| C[Retest Required]
    B -->|Bags > 3 months| C
    B -->|Within limits| D[Use Without Retest]
    C --> E{Test Results}
Annex AList of Referenced Indian Standards

IS 269: List of Referenced Indian Standards (Annex A)

This standard references multiple IS codes essential for cement specification, testing, and packaging:

IS No.Title
IS 456:2000Code of Practice for Plain and Reinforced Concrete
IS 650:1991Specification for Standard Sand for Testing Cement
IS 1727:1967Methods of Test for Pozzolanic Materials
IS 3535:1986Methods of Sampling Hydraulic Cement
IS 3812 (Part 1):2013Specification for Pulverized Fuel Ash (Pozzolana)
IS 1760 (Part 3):1992Chemical Analysis of Limestone, Dolomite - Determination of Oxides
IS 4031 (Parts 2,3,5,6,8): VariousMethods of Physical Tests for Hydraulic Cement
IS 4032:1985Methods of Chemical Analysis of Hydraulic Cement
IS 4845:1968Definitions and Terminology Relating to Hydraulic Cement
IS 4905:1968Methods for Random Sampling
IS 11652:1986Specification for HDPE/PP Woven Sacks for Packing Cement
IS 11761:1986Specification for Multi-wall Paper Sacks for Cement
IS 12089:1987Specification for Granulated Slag for Portland Slag Cement
IS 12154:1987Specification for Lightweight Jute Bags for Packing Cement
IS 15388:2003Recommendations on Stacking and Storage of Construction Materials

Key Notes:

  • Sampling and testing methods are standardized (see IS 3535, IS 4031 series).
  • Packaging specifications ensure cement quality during storage and transport (IS 11652, IS 11761, IS 12154).
  • Pozzolanic materials and supplementary cementitious materials have dedicated standards (IS 1727, IS 3812).
  • Definitions and terminology are standardized in IS 4845.
  • Random sampling methods per IS 4905 ensure representative testing.

Sampling Size Table (Annex B):

| Batch Size (bags) | Sample Size (bags) | |-------------------

Annex BTolerance Requirements for Quantity of Cement Packed in Bags

Tolerance Requirements for Quantity of Cement Packed in Bags (IS 269)

  • Net Quantity per Bag:

    • Standard: 50 kg (Clause 9.1.1)
    • Alternatives: 25, 10, 5, 2, or 1 kg as agreed (Clause 9.2)
  • Tolerance on Quantity:

    • As per Standards of Weights and Measures (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 1977 and Annex B of IS 269 (Clause 1.2 & 9.4.4)
    • The net quantity must be equal to or more than the specified quantity (Clause 9.4.4)

Typical Tolerance Limits (from Annex B & Packaged Commodities Rules)

Net Weight (kg)Maximum Negative Tolerance (kg)Maximum Positive Tolerance (kg)
50-1.0+0.5
25-0.5+0.25
10-0.2+0.1
5-0.1+0.05
2-0.04+0.02
1-0.02+0.01

Summary:

  • Minimum cement quantity per bag must not be less than the nominal weight.
  • Positive tolerance allows slight overfilling; negative tolerance is strictly limited.
  • Exact tolerances are governed by national packaging rules and IS 269 Annex B.

flowchart LR
    A[Specified Net Weight] --> B{Tolerance Check}
    B -->|Within Tolerance| C[Acceptable]
    B -->|Below Minimum| D[Reject: Underweight]
    B -->|Above Max| E[Acceptable: Overfilled]

This ensures bags meet quality and legal packaging standards.

Popular Questions About IS 269

?What are the chemical composition limits for 33 grade Ordinary Portland Cement under IS 269?

Chemical Composition Limits for 33 Grade Ordinary Portland Cement (IS 269):

ComponentLimit / RangeTest Reference
Ratio of CaO - 0.7 SO3 to (2.8 SiO2 + 1.2 Al2O3 + 0.65 Fe2O3)0.66 to 1.02IS 4032
Ratio of Alumina (Al2O3) to Iron Oxide (Fe2O3)Minimum 0.66IS 4032
Insoluble ResidueMax 5.0% by massIS 1727
Magnesia (MgO)Max 6.0% by massIS 1727
Loss on IgnitionMax 5.0% by massIS 1727
Chloride ContentMax 0.1% by massIS 4032
Alkali Content (as Na2O equivalent)Max 0.05% (0.6% for non-prestressed)IS 4032

Additional Notes:

  • Loss on ignition for general chemical requirements is max 5.0%, but IS 1727 also states max 2.0% for some tests.
  • Alkali content is critical for durability, especially in prestressed concrete.
  • The lime to silica, alumina, and iron oxide ratio ensures proper clinker chemistry for strength.

Formula for Lime Saturation Factor (LSF):

[ LSF = \frac{\text{CaO} - 0.7 \times \text{SO}_3}{2.8 \times \text{SiO}_2 + 1.2 \times \text{Al}_2\text{O}_3 + 0.65 \times \text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3} ]

This ratio should be between 0.66 and 1.02 for 33 grade OPC.


If you need a diagram illustrating the chemical composition balance, let me know!

?Which physical tests are mandatory to ensure compliance with IS 269 for OPC 33 grade?

To ensure compliance with IS 269 for OPC 33 grade, the following physical tests are mandatory as per Table 3, Clause 6:

CharacteristicRequirementTest Method (IS 4031 Part)
FinenessMin 225 m²/kgPart 2 (Air Permeability)
SoundnessLe Chatelier ≤ 10 mmPart 3 (Le Chatelier & Autoclave)
Autoclave ≤ 0.8%
Setting TimeInitial ≥ 30 minPart 5 (Vicat Apparatus)
Final ≤ 600 min
Compressive Strength72 h ≥ 16 MPaPart 6 (Compression Test)
168 h ≥ 22 MPa
672 h ≥ 33 MPa

Notes:

  • If false set occurs, corrected setting time tests are required.
  • Transverse strength test is optional and by agreement.

These tests verify cement's fineness, stability, setting behavior, and strength development, ensuring quality and performance in concrete applications.

?What types of performance improvers are permitted and in what quantities?

IS 269 - Performance Improvers: Types and Limits

According to Clause 4.1.1 and Table 1 of IS 269:

  • Permitted Performance Improvers (max % by mass):
Performance ImproverMax Addition (%)Relevant IS Standard
Fly ash5IS 3812 (Part 1)
Granulated slag5IS 12089
Silica fume5IS 15388
Limestone5IS 1760 (Part 3)
Rice husk ash5IS 3812 (Part 1), IS 1727
Metakaolin5IS 1727, IS 4032
  • Total combined addition limit: Maximum 5% by mass if multiple improvers are used together (inclusive of 1% additives).

  • Additional notes:

    • Additives must meet specific chemical and physical requirements (e.g., reactive silica, CaCO3 content).
    • Cement bags must mark type and amount of performance improvers.
    • SO3 content limited to 3.5% max.
    • Insoluble residue max 5%.

This ensures cement quality and performance consistency.

Loading diagram...

Summary: Use only IS-approved improvers, max 5% total addition, conforming to specified chemical standards.

?How should cement be sampled and tested according to this standard?

According to IS 269:

Sampling of Cement (Clauses 11.1 & Annex B)

  • Sampling can be done by the purchaser, their representative, or the work superintendent.
  • Samples must be randomly selected from the batch.
  • Sample size depends on batch size (see table below):
Batch Size (bags)Sample Size (bags)
100 - 15020
151 - 28032
281 - 50050
501 - 1,20080
1,201 - 3,200125
> 3,201200
  • Refer IS 4905 for random sampling procedures.

Testing of Cement (Clause 12.1)

  • Samples must be tested as per relevant IS methods (e.g., IS 4031 for physical tests).
  • Tests include:
    • Fineness (Blaine method)
    • Soundness
    • Setting times
    • Compressive strength
    • Chemical analysis

Retesting (Clause 13.2)

  • Cement stored > 6 months in bulk or > 3 months in bags after testing must be retested.
  • Reject if it fails any requirements.

Summary:

  • Take random samples based on batch size.
  • Test following IS 4031 and related standards.
  • Retest if storage exceeds prescribed durations.
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This ensures quality compliance per IS 269

?What are the packaging and marking requirements for cement bags under IS 269?

Packaging Requirements (IS 269 - Clause 9.1):
Cement shall be packed in one of the following bags, all in good condition at inspection:

  • Jute sacking bags (IS 2580)
  • Multi-wall paper sacks (IS 11761)
  • Lightweight jute bags (IS 12154)
  • HDPE/PP woven sacks (IS 11652)
  • Other approved composite bags

Marking Requirements (IS 269 - Clause 10.1):
Each cement bag must be legibly and indelibly marked with:

  • Manufacturer's name and registered trademark
  • The words "Ordinary Portland Cement, 33 Grade"
  • Net quantity in kilograms
  • The words "Use no hooks"
  • Batch/control unit number (week, month, year of packing)
  • Manufacturer's address
  • Type and percentage of any performance improvers added

Additional Notes:

  • Quantity tolerance and sampling per Annex B and Packaged Commodities Rules, 1977.
  • Cement stored over 6 months in bulk or 3 months in bags must be retested before use (Clause 13.2).

This ensures traceability, quality, and safe handling of cement bags.

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