IS 2185 Part 2 (1983) delineates the specifications for hollow and solid lightweight concrete masonry units applicable in both load-bearing and non-load-bearing walls. It encompasses detailed guidelines on materials, dimensions, physical characteristics, testing protocols, and quality assurance for blocks made with lightweight aggregates. This code is vital for manufacturers, engineers, and construction experts working with lightweight concrete blocks in building projects.
Overview
IS 2185 Part 2 (1983) delineates the specifications for hollow and solid lightweight concrete masonry units applicable in both load-bearing and non-load-bearing walls. It encompasses detailed guidelines on materials, dimensions, physical characteristics, testing protocols, and quality assurance for blocks made with lightweight aggregates. This code is vital for manufacturers, engineers, and construction experts working with lightweight concrete blocks in building projects.
Audience
Contents
Structure
This section defines the scope related to lightweight concrete masonry units, clarifying terminology and the types of precast blocks covered. It details measurement methods for overall block dimensions using steel scales and caliper rules, specifying graduations and allowable tolerances to ensure uniformity in manufacturing.
Defines essential terms related to concrete masonry units including load-bearing and non-load-bearing classifications, hollow and solid types. It also outlines the minimum physical requirements such as compressive strength and water absorption limits, and prescribes dimensional tolerances for blocks.
Covers the various shapes of concrete masonry units including stretcher, corner, jamb, header, bull nose, and partition blocks. Lists nominal dimensions for length, height, and width, along with provisions for customized sizes by mutual agreement.
Specifies the physical and chemical requirements for materials used in lightweight concrete masonry units. Includes minimum compressive strength, maximum water absorption, testing methods, and limits on sulphur content for proprietary mixes.
Describes recommended practices for mixing concrete, emphasizing mechanical mixing for consistency. Details mixing durations, methods for hand mixing if allowed, and the typical sequence of dry mixing, water addition, and final blending to achieve uniformity.
Outlines procedures for placing concrete in layers and compacting each layer thoroughly to ensure dense, uniform blocks. Provides guidance on layer thickness, tamping methods, finishing, curing, and testing for compressive strength.
Focuses on dimensional accuracy and surface quality of blocks, specifying measurement methods for dimensions and thicknesses. Sets tolerances for size and requires surfaces to be free from defects such as cracks or honeycombing.
Summarizes critical physical criteria including water absorption limits, minimum compressive strengths for different block types and grades, and dimensional tolerances to ensure durability and structural performance.
Details the procedures for testing compressive strength and drying shrinkage, including specimen numbers, loading rates, and measurement intervals. Emphasizes standardized practices for reliable assessment of block properties.
Describes methods for selecting representative samples from batches or stacks, including random selection during block movement and from different stack locations. Specifies minimum sample sizes and distribution for various tests.
Defines criteria for acceptance of block lots based on dimensional accuracy, compressive strength results, and other tests. Explains the decision process for lot acceptance or rejection according to specified standards.
Specifies obligations of manufacturers to certify that concrete blocks meet IS 2185 Part 2 standards. Details the parameters that must be confirmed in certificates such as compressive strength, water absorption, and dimensional compliance.
Outlines the minimum requirements for independent laboratory tests on concrete blocks including specimen numbers and testing rates. Emphasizes adherence to standard procedures to verify product quality.
Specifies mandatory permanent marking elements on each concrete block, including manufacturer identification, block grade, and optionally the year of production and ISI certification mark. Describes measurement tools and graduation for verifying dimensions.
Frequently Asked
IS 2185 Part 2 addresses lightweight concrete masonry units used in both load-bearing and non-load-bearing applications, including:
Note that cellular or aerated concrete blocks are excluded and covered under a different standard (IS 5482-1969). This classification helps define specific physical and dimensional requirements for each block type.
As per IS 2185 Part 2 (1983):
This ensures the blocks achieve the necessary structural capacity and durability.
The standard permits the use of lightweight aggregates conforming to IS 9142-1979. These may include expanded clay, shale, slate, pumice, or manufactured aggregates, subject to purchaser approval. Aggregate bulk density limits are specified as follows:
These materials are employed to achieve the desired lightweight properties while ensuring strength and durability.
Sampling involves selecting 20 blocks from every batch of 5,000 units or fraction thereof, following these approaches:
The sample is then subdivided for testing:
This protocol ensures a representative sample is tested to validate quality.
Manufacturers are required to permanently mark each concrete masonry unit with their identification and the grade of the block. Upon purchaser request, the year of manufacture should also be included. Optionally, the ISI Certification Mark can be applied if the manufacturer holds the relevant license.
Additionally, manufacturers must provide a certificate affirming that the blocks conform to IS 2185 Part 2 requirements, including meeting compressive strength, water absorption limits, and dimensional tolerances. This ensures traceability and quality assurance for the purchaser.
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