AASHTO T97
Full Name
AASHTO T97 – Standard Method of Test for Flexural Strength of Concrete (Using Simple Beam with Third-Point Loading)
Scope
AASHTO T97 is a standard test method used to determine the flexural strength of concrete by subjecting a simply supported beam to a third-point loading configuration. This test is widely employed in the construction industry to evaluate the concrete’s ability to resist bending stresses, which is crucial for the design and assessment of various concrete structures, such as pavements, slabs, and beams.
Key aspects of AASHTO T97:
- Test setup: the test involves placing a rectangular concrete beam on two supports and applying two equal loads at the third points of the span. This loading configuration induces a uniform bending moment in the central portion of the beam, leading to failure in flexure, typically by cracking or breaking.
- Specimen dimensions: the standard specifies the dimensions of the concrete beam specimens, which are typically 6 x 6 inches (150 x 150 mm) in cross-section and 18 inches (450 mm) or 24 inches (600 mm) in length.
- Measurement: the load at failure and the dimensions of the specimen are used to calculate the modulus of rupture (MOR), which is the flexural strength of the concrete. The MOR is expressed in terms of stress (force per unit area) and is a critical parameter in the design of concrete structures.
- Significance: AASHTO T97 is a fundamental test for assessing the quality and performance of concrete. The flexural strength is a key indicator of the concrete’s ability to withstand bending stresses, which are common in many structural applications.
Applications of AASHTO T97:
- Quality control: the test is used in quality control programs to ensure that the concrete meets the specified flexural strength requirements.
- Acceptance testing: the results of the test are often used as acceptance criteria for concrete deliveries, verifying that the concrete supplied to the project site meets the design specifications.
- Performance evaluation: the flexural strength test is used to assess the performance of concrete under bending stresses, which is crucial for the design of various concrete structures.
- Research and development: the test method is also used in research and development to investigate the factors that affect the flexural strength of concrete, such as aggregate type, cement content, and curing conditions.
AASHTO T97 Accredited Laboratory
Applied Testing & Geosciences, LLC is accredited for performing tests using the AASHTO T97 standard.
Our laboratory offers comprehensive concrete testing services, including the determination of flexural strength according to AASHTO T97. Our experienced technicians utilize calibrated equipment and adhere to strict quality control procedures to ensure accurate and reliable test results.
Contact us for more information.
Resources
Keywords
flexural strength; modulus of rupture; concrete; third-point loading; simple beam; beam specimen; load; deflection; testing machine