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IS 14858:2000 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for requirements for compression testing machine used for testing of concrete and mortar. This standard specifies the requirements for compression testing machines (CTMs) used for determining the compressive strength of concrete and mortar specimens. It covers the machine's load frame, load indication system, accuracy, platen characteristics, and calibration procedures to ensure reliable and consistent test results.
Requirements for compression testing machine used for testing of concrete and mortar
Overview
Status
Current
Usage level
Frequently Used
Domain
Materials Science — Cement, Concrete, Aggregates and RCC
! Ensure the machine is calibrated at least annually, or after relocation, using a proving device traceable to national standards as per Clause 8.
! The rate of loading is critical for accurate results. The machine must have a pacing system, and the operator must adhere to the rate specified in the relevant test standard (e.g., IS 516).
! Regularly check the condition of the machine platens for flatness and any damage, as this directly affects the stress distribution on the specimen and the final strength value.
EN 12390-4:2019CEN (European Committee for Standardization), Europe
HighCurrent
Testing hardened concrete - Part 4: Compressive strength - Specification for testing machines
Directly specifies the performance requirements for compression testing machines for concrete.
ASTM C39 / C39M-21ASTM International, USA
HighCurrent
Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens
While a test method, it contains a detailed section specifying the requirements for the testing apparatus.
BS EN 12390-4:2019BSI (British Standards Institution), UK
HighCurrent
Testing hardened concrete. Compressive strength. Specification for testing machines
The UK's national adoption of the European standard EN 12390-4, making it functionally identical.
ISO 7500-1:2018ISO (International Organization for Standardization), International
MediumCurrent
Metallic materials — Calibration and verification of static uniaxial testing machines — Part 1: Tension/compression testing machines — Calibration and verification of the force-measuring system
Specifies the general method for calibration of force-measuring systems, which is referenced by concrete-specific standards.
Key Differences
≠IS 14858 specifies a platen flatness tolerance of 0.03 mm, whereas EN 12390-4 allows 0.05 mm and ASTM C39 is stricter at 0.02 mm.
≠EN 12390-4 specifies a maximum surface roughness (Ra) for platens of 3.2 µm, a requirement not explicitly mentioned in IS 14858.
≠The requirements for automatic load pacing control are more detailed in modern international standards. EN 12390-4 requires the pacer to maintain the chosen rate within ±10%, a level of precision not explicitly quantified in IS 14858.
≠IS 14858 is from the year 2000 and has not been updated, while standards like ASTM C39 and EN 12390-4 are revised more frequently to incorporate modern technology and research, especially concerning digital controls and data acquisition.
Key Similarities
≈All standards mandate the use of a spherically-seated upper platen to ensure uniform load application on specimens with slightly non-parallel ends.
≈The primary accuracy requirement is consistent, with IS 14858 requiring Class 1 (±1.0%) as per IS 1828, and EN 12390-4 also specifying Class 1 (±1.0%) as the highest grade for concrete testing.
≈There is a common requirement for the testing platens to be made of very hard steel, with specified hardness values around 550 HV or 55 HRC to prevent deformation under load.
≈All standards require periodic verification of the machine's force-measuring system against traceable calibration devices to ensure ongoing accuracy.
Parameter Comparison
Parameter
IS Value
International
Source
Machine Accuracy Class
Class 1 (±1.0%) as per IS 1828 (Part 1)
Class 1 (±1.0% of indicated force)
EN 12390-4:2019
Platen Hardness
Not less than 550 HV
Not less than 550 HV or 53 HRC
EN 12390-4:2019
Platen Flatness Tolerance
0.03 mm over the platen surface
0.02 mm for bearing blocks
ASTM C39 / C39M-21
Platen Surface Roughness (Ra)
Not specified
≤ 3.2 µm
EN 12390-4:2019
Spherical Seat Tilting Capability
About 4 degrees in any direction
Freely tilt by at least 4 degrees
ASTM C39 / C39M-21
Auxiliary Platen Dimensions (for cubes)
Nominal size must be equal to or greater than the specimen size (e.g., 150mm)
Dimensions shall be the nominal size of the specimens ± 1 mm (e.g., 150 mm ± 1 mm)
EN 12390-4:2019
⚠ Verify details from original standards before use
Key Values6
Quick Reference Values
Permissible error for Class 1 machine± 1.0 % of indicated load
Platen hardness (Rockwell)Not less than 55 HRC
Platen flatness tolerance0.03 mm
Minimum vertical clearance between platens340 mm
Loading rate (pacing) accuracy± 10 %
Repeatability of force indication (Class 1)1.0 % of indicated load
Tables & Referenced Sections
Key Tables
Table 1: Permissible Error for the Force Verified for Class 1, 2 and 3 Machines
Table 2: Permissible Self-Alignment of the Upper Platen at 400 kN
Key Clauses
Clause 4: General Requirements
Clause 5: Load Frame
Clause 6: Load Indication
Clause 7: Pacing of Loading
Clause 8: Verification and Calibration of the Machine