This standard outlines the specifications for lime-based masonry blocks utilized in construction, encompassing both solid and hollow variants. It details the requirements for dimensions, constituent materials, strength, density, and limits on shrinkage and moisture movement to guarantee consistent quality and performance. The code is vital for manufacturers, engineers, and builders engaged in fabricating or using these blocks for walls, partitions, and infill, promoting cost-effective and swift construction with options for plastered or smooth finishes.
Overview
This standard outlines the specifications for lime-based masonry blocks utilized in construction, encompassing both solid and hollow variants. It details the requirements for dimensions, constituent materials, strength, density, and limits on shrinkage and moisture movement to guarantee consistent quality and performance. The code is vital for manufacturers, engineers, and builders engaged in fabricating or using these blocks for walls, partitions, and infill, promoting cost-effective and swift construction with options for plastered or smooth finishes.
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Frequently Asked
According to the standard, lime-based blocks include both solid and hollow varieties with recommended joint types such as tongue and groove or double groove. Typical dimensions are expressed in millimeters, with standard block sizes usually around 230 mm in length, 115 mm in width, and 75 mm in height. The tolerance limits generally allow ±2 mm for length and width and ±1.5 mm for height to maintain dimensional accuracy and ensure proper fitting. Additional requirements include using lime conforming to IS 712:1984 and aggregates complying with IS 383:1970 or equivalent standards.
The standard permits the use of lime as the primary binder, either alone or combined with 33 grade Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), Portland Slag Cement, Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC), pozzolanic materials, and lime-pozzolana blends. Aggregates must meet quality standards such as natural stone aggregate per IS 383:1970, broken brick aggregate as per IS 3068:1986, or cinder aggregate following IS 2686:1977. Additionally, pulverized fuel ash conforming to IS 15648:2006 may be incorporated as a supplementary material to enhance properties.
The blocks must achieve an average compressive strength of at least 3.5 MPa, measured on specimens saturated by 24-hour water immersion. No individual block should have strength less than 80% of this average, meaning a minimum of 2.8 MPa. Density requirements specify a minimum of 1000 kilograms per cubic meter, with hollow blocks having a minimum wall thickness of 40 mm to ensure structural integrity and durability.
Testing involves sampling 20 blocks per lot, with specific subsets allocated for density, compressive strength, and dimensional stability tests including drying shrinkage and moisture movement. Drying shrinkage must not exceed 0.1% of the original length, assessed as per IS 2185 (Part 1), Appendix E, while moisture movement is limited to 0.05%, tested according to Appendix F of the same standard. If any specimen fails, three additional blocks are tested, and all must comply for the lot to be accepted, ensuring dimensional stability and durability.
The code recommends several joint types to facilitate block placement and improve mechanical interlocking. These include plain flat joints for simple vertical connections, tongue and groove joints which enhance alignment and bonding, and double grooved joints that provide superior interlocking and stability. The bedding surface of the blocks should be perpendicular to the face to ensure uniform load distribution and effective assembly.
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