Concrete Contractor December 2020

The Known Errors in Cylinder Break Tests — What YOU Can Do About It

14

December 2020

THE LEADING TRADE MAGAZINE IN THE CONCRETE INDUSTRY

How To Meet ACI’s New POLISHED CONCRETE SPECS 34

PRO TIPS On Flooring Removal 36

Spotlight on World of Concrete

2021

Investing in a New GYPSUM MIXER/ PUMP? A few key points

6

How To Work With

GFRC

What You’ll Need for Your Next Project

30

8

MISSION: CARBON ZERO The players driving sustainability and reducing carbon emissions 18

WWW.FORCONSTRUCTIONPROS.COM/CONCRETE

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INTRODUCING:

SCREEDSAVER ELITE

The Game-Changer The SCREEDSAVER ELITE is Ligchine’s newest laser-guided concrete screed machine to join the SCREEDSAVER line of innovative, labor-saving machines.

New key features include: • ALL-WHEEL DRIVE for unmatched mobility and power.

• HEAVY-DUTY BOOM sections reaching out to 18 feet for greater stability and accuracy.

• The game-changing, SIDE-SHIFT SCREED HEAD makes it easier to screed around stick-ups in the slab with pinpoint accuracy.

• NARROWER CHASSIS for easy access through restricted entries.

• New, more ergonomically friendly REMOTE CONTROL. • EASE OF TRANSPORT with a ¾ ton pickup truck.

Start saving dollars on your labor today &

INcrease your profitability tomorrow.

See more at www.Ligchine.com sales@Ligchine.com | 812-903-4500

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WHAT’S INSIDE

G:

E

r

DECEMBER 2020 | Issue 6, Volume 20

COVER STORY

Photo Credit: HeidelbergCement

18 Mission: Carbon Zero The players driving sustainability and reducing carbon emissions

DEPARTMENTS 4

Editor’s Letter

16 New Products 26 Product Focus Cordless Power Tools

49 Advertiser Index 50 The Last Placement Cover Photo Credit: Exposé GmbH/AdobeStock

FEATURES 8

How to Select the Right Gypsum Mixer/Pump

38 Specification Guide: Dust Collection Technical information to help you choose your next dust collector or vacuum

Key factors to consider to maximize your productivity and profitability

14 Testing Concrete With the Maturity Method

43 Idea File A second look at the latest products and services in the concrete industry

Understanding the errors within the compressive strength test

28 A Thank You, A New Floor, & A Wish Fulfilled How three Bominite-licensed decorative concrete contractors made a difference in their communities

30 The Steps and Materials Needed for Your Next GFRC Project Decorative concrete pioneer Buddy Rhodes offers some expertise

32 Concrete Form Face Defects Take Shape Limiting the surface distresses in concrete pavements with high frequency vibration

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

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SPECIAL REPORT 6

Spotlight on World of Concrete 2021 4 products we would have seen at January’s event

34 Bringing Polished Concrete up to Spec The new ACI Polished Concrete Slab Finishes Specifications.

But first, why is a specification needed?

36 How Does It Come Off? Tips and tricks for hard goods flooring removal

WHAT’S ONLINE 2021 Planning Will Not Be Business as Usual

Finding Workers…

In Surprising Places

Financial planning procedures and policies are no longer the same

Broadening the places where you look for workers can yield big benefits

ForConstructionPros.com/21201835

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DECEMBER 2020

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EDITOR’S LETTER

What are Your Critical Issues?

D

ear Concrete Contractor readers, I’m pleased to finally be able to formally introduce myself to you. My name is Jonathan Kozlowski, your new editor for Concrete Contractor. Admittedly, my background includes over 14 years in B2B publishing—not in the trenches of placing concrete or pouring JONATHAN KOZLOWSKI, EDITOR cement. Of my years so far I worked on two JKOZLOWSKI@ ACBUSINESSMEDIA.COM magazines and a website focused on the law enforcement industry, for law enforcement officers.

I have seen new ideas, amazing innovations and ground-breaking technologies brought to market—even some that disappeared for whatever reason. I hope to bring this experience and my willingness to jump into the “mix” (pun intended) and learn as much as I can.

After being on the team for only a short while, I have noticed a few similarities: • The need to stay in-the-know of the latest announcements and happenings within the industry.

• Safety is vital.

• Staying up to date on the best ways to get the job done, and the right ways to get the job done right.

Rawpixel.com/AdobeStock That said, you are contractors. You are running a business and you need the right information to run it well. My goal is to provide you the articles necessary to do so, to celebrate your successes, to bring you the voices of subject matter experts on topics and advice, and to inform you of the new products and equipment. I hope to accomplish all this all while being fair, educational and—if all else fails—entertaining.

Long story short, my goal is to help you be successful. To do so, my inbox is open. You’re welcome to let me know of your critical issues. Send a not on a topic you want to know more about. Connect with the magazine or myself on social media. There may even be someone in the network that have dealt with the very same issue and might have a bit advice (isn’t that was social media was made for in the first place?). Thank you for having me.

Stay safe out there.

Published by AC Business Media

201 N. Main Street, 5th Fl., Fort Atkinson, WI 53538 (800) 538-5544 • www.ACBusinessMedia.com

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete PUBLICATION STAFF

Editor Contributing Writers Senior Production Manager Art Director Audience Development Manager

Jonathan Kozlowski jkozlowski@ACBusinessMedia.com Kim Basham, Jim Baty, Brad Humphrey, Sean O’Keefe, Chad White Cindy Rusch April Van Etten Angela Franks

ADVERTISING SALES (800) 538-5544

Jon Sison Dakota Thompon Eric Servais Nikki Lawson Sean Dunphy Denise Singsime Tadashi Soma National Automotive Sales

jsison@ACBusinessMedia.com dthompson@ACBusinessMedia.com eservais@ACBusinessMedia.com nlawson@ACBusinessMedia.com sdunphy@ACBusinessMedia.com dsingsime@ACBusinessMedia.com tsoma@ACBusinessMedia.com Tom Lutzke, tlutzke@ACBusinessMedia.com (630) 484-8040

FORCONSTRUCTIONPROS.COM

Larry Stewart lstewart@ACBusinessMedia.com Kimberly Hegeman khegeman@ACBusinessMedia.com

Editor Managing Editor CHANGE OF ADDRESS & SUBSCRIPTIONS

PO Box 3605, Northbrook, IL 60065-3605, Phone: (877) 201-3915 Fax: (847) 291-4816 • circ.ConcreteContractor@omeda.com REPRINTS Sean Dunphy, (800) 538-5544 , sdunphy@ACBusinessMedia.com LIST RENTAL Bart Piccirillo, Sr. Account Manager, Data Axle, Phone: (518) 339-4511 Email: bart.piccirillo@infogroup.com AC BUSINESS MEDIA

Chief Executive Officer Chief Financial Officer Chief Digital Officer Chief Revenue Officer VP Audience Development Director of Digital Operations & IT Director of Digital Strategy Group Content Director

Barry Lovette JoAnn Breuchel Kris Heineman Amy Schwandt Ronda Hughes Nick Raether Joel Franke Jon Minnick

Published and copyrighted 2020 by AC Business Media.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage or retrieval system, without written permission from the publisher.

CONCRETE CONTRACTOR (USPS 021-799, ISSN 1935-1887 (print); ISSN 2471-2302 (online) is published 6 times a year: January, February/March, May/June, August/September, October/ November and December by AC Business Media, 201 N. Main Street, 5th Fl., Fort Atkinson, WI 53538. Printed in the U.S.A. Periodicals postage paid at Fort Atkinson, WI, and additional entry offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Concrete Contractor, PO Box 3605 Northbrook, IL 60065-3605 DECEMBER 2020, Issue 6, Volume 20 One year subscription to non-qualified individuals: U.S. 1 year: $35, 2 years: $70. Canada & Mexico 1 year: $60, 2 years: $105. All other countries 1 year: $85, 2 years: $160 (payable in U.S. funds drawn on U.S. banks). Single copies available (prepaid only) $10.00 each (U.S., Canada & Mexico), $15.00 each (International).

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Printed in the U.S.A. Concrete Contractor is the Official Media Sponsor of the CFA Foundation Company Certification Program

®

4 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR

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DECEMBER 2020

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

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SPECIAL REPORT 4 products we would have seen at January’s event.

See you in June!

Spotlight on

World of Concrete 2021 Nitto Construction's Non-Destructive Concrete Tester and Surveyor

Nitto Construction Co. Ltd.’s CTS02v4 Concrete Tester and Surveyor accurately measures normal- to high-strength concrete (up to 150N/mm2), regardless of the concrete condition. This non-destructive testing tool measures and analyzes the concrete strength based on the waveform of impact force on the contact of a hammer and calculates the deterioration and delamination conditions. A built-in accelerometer measures blow force. The CTS-02v4 tests the concrete areas by dividing the testing blocks. After each contact, the result is displayed in 0.5 seconds.

Approximately 500,000 measurements with the waveform data can be internally stored.

• Contrasted with a rebound hammer, the CTS02v4 requires no polishing of the testing surface and causes no damage to the concrete surface, and more importantly, comes with much higher accuracy (version 4's accuracy is improved roughly 15% against compressive testing with an updated software driver) • The CTS-02v4 is equipped with USB connection to allow data to be directly exported to and stored in a PC. Further analysis can be done using Excelbased software which comes with the tester.

• With the high-strength concrete testing capability and automatic correction for measured data outside the mean value (+/-20%), it is ideal for the use with bridges, weight bearing columns, and tall buildings as well.

• The CTS-02v4 requires only seconds for a setup for its portability, virtually no calibration is needed; user simply turns it on and hits.

ForConstructionPros.com/20857888

6 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR

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DECEMBER 2020

MBW's Battery-Powered Wet Screed

MBW's ScreeDemon is one of the most innovative and ergonomically friendly wet screeds on the market—the development of MBW's very first electric version of the ScreeDemon Powered by M18 REDLITHIUM battery.

Along with it being the easiest screed to assemble, it it now one of the easiest to run wet screed on the market.

• Quieter than an engine version • Lights improve visibility in darker work areas • Zero emissions makes it perfect for indoor work • Clamp system makes assembly and disassembly fast and easy • Sealed exciter requires no maintenance • Hand / arm vibration is 50-90% less than the competition ForConstructionPros.com/21199561 World of Concrete 2021 Booth #W4209

Updates to the ACCUPOUR AP Office and AP Mobile Platform Components

The Hydra-Screed HS3000 has the weight and strength to move over 6 in. of concrete along the pour while allowing operators to remain in a standing position.

• Screeds up to 30 ft. in length • Rubber inserts can easily be removed to accommodate any desired length of pipe, custom V-flume, crowned roller screed and other desired profiles • Two-way variable speed control • Single pin allows for direction change • Handles pivot into the desired position • Requires 3 to 5 gpm at 2,250 psi

Cemen Tech's ACCU-POUR has a major update for platform components AP Office and AP Mobile. New functionalities include electronic signature to text and/ or email an electronic batch ticket to your customer and your office, credit card pre-authorization to place a hold on funds for a job to ensure customer’s credit card has sufficient funds, and ACCUPOUR generated invoices now display Mix Design and Purchase Order.

With AP Office and AP Mobile working jointly in real-time, information goes to the unit and then directly back to the office.

ACCU-POUR is now compatible with Cemen Tech M Series mixers, as well as other volumetric mixers developed by competitive OEMs.

ForConstructionPros.com/21062138 World of Concrete 2021 Booth #D956

ForConstructionPros.com/21203978 World of Concrete 2021 Booth #W2302

Stay Standing with a New Screed

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

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Finisher Specialty Commercial/Industrial Technician Strength Testing Technician Laboratory Testing Technician Aggregate Testing Technician Aggregate/Soils Base Technician Concrete Construction Construction Special Inspector Concrete Quality Technical Manager Concrete Transportation Special Inspector Tilt-Up Supervisor Tilt-Up Technician Shotcrete Nozzleman Shotcrete Nozzlemanin-Training Masonry Field Testing Technician Masonry Laboratory Testing Technician Adhesive Anchor Installer Field Testing Technician Flatwork Finisher Specialty Commercial/Industrial Finisher Specialty Commercial/Industrial Technician Strength Testing Technician Laboratory Testing Technician Aggregate Testing Technician Aggregate/Soils Base Technician Concrete Construction Special Inspector Field Testing Concrete Quality Technical Manager Concrete Transportation Special Inspector Tilt-Up Supervisor Tilt-Up Technician Shotcrete Nozzleman Shotcrete Nozzleman-in-Training Masonry ch tyFlatwork Finisher nician Masonry Laboratory Testing Technicia Adhesive Anchor Installer Field Testing Technician Flatwork Finisher Specialty Commercial/Industrial Finisher Specialty Commercial/Industrial Technician Strength Testing Technician Laboratory Testing Technician Aggregate Testing Technician Aggregate/Soils Base Technician Concrete Construction Special Inspector Base Technician Transportation Special Inspector Concrete Transportation Special Inspector Tilt-Up Supervisor Tilt-Up Technician Shotcrete Nozzleman Shotcrete Nozzleman-in-Training Masonry Field Testing Technician Masonry Laboratory Testing Technicia Adhesive Anchor Installer Field Testing Technician Flatwork isher Shotcrete her Commercial/Industrial Finisher Specialty Commercial/Industrial Technician Strength TesNozzlemanian Laboratory Testing Technician Aggregate Testing Technician Tilt-Up Soils Base Technician Concrete Construction Special Inspector Associate Concrete TransSupervisor ial Inspector Concrete Transportation Special Inspector Tilt-Up Supervisor Tilt-Up Technician Shotcrete Nozzleman Shotcrete Nozzleman-in-Training Masonry Field Testing Technician Masonry Laboratory Testing Technician FF vvv Adhesive Anchor Installer Field Testing Technician Flatwork ty Strength Specialty ialtyCommercial/IndustrialFinisherSpecialtyCommercial/IndustrialTechnicianStrengthTestingTechnician Concrete Testing Technician Aggregate Testing Technician Aggregate/Soils Base Technician ete Construction Special Inspector Concrete Quality Technical Manager Concrete nician Special Special Inspector Tilt-Up Supervisor Tilt-Up Technician Shotcrete Nozzleman Field Testing otcrete Inspector an-in-Training Masonry Field Testing Technician Masonry Laboratory TTesting Technician The American Concrete Institute offers nearlyCommercial/Industrial Adhesive Anchor Installer Field Testing Technician Flatwork Finisher Specialty 30 certification programs to satisfy any Finisher Specialty Commercial/Industrial Technician Strength Testing Technician Laboratory Testing l Tilt-Up Aggregate Testing Technician Aggregate/Soils Base Technician Concrete Construction number of concrete specialties.

Learn how to ecial Technicianssociate Concrete Transportation Inspector Concrete Transportation get your team ACISpecial certified at Special Inspector Tilt-Up Supervisor Tilt-Up Technician Shotcrete Nozzleman ShotAdhesive Anchor concrete.org/certification. in-Training Masonry Field Testing Technician Masonry Laboratory Testing Technicia Installer Anchor Technician Flatwork echnician Flatwork Finisher Specialty Commercial/Industrial Finisher Specialty Aggregate Testingtrial Technician Strength Testing Technician Laboratory Testing TechnicianTechni Testing Technician Aggregate/Soils Base Technician Concrete Construction Special Inspector Concrete Quality Technical Manager Concrete Transportation Special Inspector Tilt-Up Supervisor Tilt-Up Technician Shotcrete Nozzleman Shotcrete Nozzleman-in-Training Masonry Field Testing Technician Masonry Laboratory Testing Technician Adhesive Anchor Installer Field Testing Technician Flatwork Finisher Specialty Commercial/Industrial Adhesive Anchor Installer Industrial cian Strength Testing Technician Laboratory Testing Technician Aggregate Testing Technician Con Aggregate/Soils Base Technician Concrete Construction Special Inspector Concrete Quality T Inspector Tilt-Up SupervisorTransportation Special Inspector Shotcrete Nozzleman-in-TrainingShotcrete Nozzleman Tilt-Up Technician Shotcrete Nozzleman-in-Training Masonry Field Testing Technician Adhesive Anchor Installer Masonry Laboratory Testing Technician Field Testing Technician Flatwork

WIN MORE PROJECTS WITH ACI CERTIFICATION

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FLATWORK/SLAB

»

M

BY TRIPP FARRELL

How to Select the Right

Gypsum Mixer/Pump

T h o A

Key factors to consider to maximize your productivity and profitability

N

ew construction is on the rise across the country—especially for multi-family residential units, where completions are at record numbers and show little evidence of slowing down into 2020. Multi-family residential projects create an ideal environment for contractors looking to break into or grow their business in high-flow material markets with gypsum floor underlayment, grouting, cellular concrete, plaster and stucco applications.

However, success in this field requires an investment in specialized equipment—a limiting factor for many bottom-line-conscious contractors.

While there is no way to offset equipment costs altogether, recent innovations in gypsum mixer/pumps have made these units more affordable, user-friendly and versatile than previous options. With the right equipment, contractors can see quick ROI and increased efficiency.

PUMP TYPE The type of pump is perhaps the most important feature to consider when investing in a gypsum mixer/pump.

For contractors considering lower output gypsum applications such as radiant heat, smaller and more economical peristaltic/squeeze pumps can be used successfully. However, squeeze pumps will surge, which results in a light interruption in material flow.

Minimal surging can lead to splatter

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L B

Multi-family residential projects create an ideal environment for contractors looking to break into or grow their business in high-flow material markets with gypsum floor underlayment, grouting, cellular concrete, plaster and stucco applications. Photos provided by Blastcrete

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

12/8/20 10:30 AM

Exp

Minnich Manufacturing

LIGHT HAS NEVER BEEN TOUGHER

The Stinger electric flex shaft motor has been designed to hold it’s torque in concrete under load, runs cool, and saves on vibrator head wear and tear. Rugged, agile, and depenable.

A combination only found in a Minnich flex shaft vibrator.

Explore Our Entire Line of Vibrators WWW.MINNICH-MFG.COM

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FLATWORK/SLAB CONTINUED on drywall, resulting in unnecessary cleanup. The squeeze pump has a maximum 450 psi line pressure which limits pumping distance to around 300 ft. (91 m).

Rotor-stator pumps, on the other hand, provide continuous flow, eliminating surges and increasing productivity. These pumps can generate up to 600 psi of pumping pressure— about 30% more than squeeze pumps— for pumping distances in excess of 150 ft. (46 m) vertically and 500 ft. (152 m) horizontally.

Recent advancements in rotor-stator technology led to the introduction of an adjustable rotor-stator pump with inline pressure gauge to the gypsum mixer/ pump market. This innovation allows contractors to adjust flow to meet a project’s unique requirements. Tightening the rotor-stator results in maximum pumping distances, which is ideal for high-rise and long-distance jobs. When the job requires shorter pumping distances—between 200 and 300 ft. (61 to 91 m)—contractors simply loosen the rotor-stator. This flexibility results in optimum pumping pressure for the application.

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Adjusting the pump to fit the application specifications results in less wear and tear on the rotor-stator, since these are the primary wear parts on this style of pump. Monitoring and adjusting the line pressure helps contractor double or even triple the life of these components.

To further minimize lifetime maintenance costs and unnecessary downtime, some OEMs design their adjustable rotor-stator pumps with easy access to mechanical seals.

This user-friendly design allows operators to perform mechanical seal maintenance without dismantling the rotor and stator, drastically reducing labor expenses and saving hours of unnecessary downtime.

to invest in gypsum equipment might be stuck with a higher price tag and unnecessary features for their operation.

A lack of specialized gypsum equipment options also led some contractors to purchase units designed for more general cementitious applications—a situation that came with its own host of problems.

However, as the gypsum industry continues to develop, more economical mixer/pump options with simpler and more user-friendly designs are filling the gap, offering contractors the ability to select equipment based on their needs without overinvesting.

Prices for a new gypsum mixer/ pump can range from $45,000 to well over $125,000. Comparing apples to apples in terms of capacity and output,

PRICE POINT No product selection discussion would be complete without touching on price. Cost is an important factor in determining the value a piece of equipment brings to a business and whether it’s worth pursuing. In the past, a limited selection of gypsum mixer/ pump models meant contractors looking

While there is no way to offset equipment costs altogether, recent innovations in gypsum mixer/ pumps have made these units more affordable, user-friendly and versatile than previous options. With the right equipment, contractors can see quick ROI and increased efficiency.

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

12/8/20 10:30 AM

contractors will find minimal difference between most gypsum machines; the industry average is 12-cubic-ft. mixers and pumping speeds well over 100 bags of gypsum per hour. Differences arise with a closer inspection of the spec sheets. Contractors should contact manufacturers to walk through what features are necessary for their specific operation.

For example, engine size can play a huge part in price differentiation.

Gypsum mixer/pumps range in size from 3,350 lbs. (1,520 kg) with a 32-hp engine to nearly 10,000 lbs. (4,536 kgs) with a 100-hp engine. Exactly how much horsepower is necessary will depend on the target applications, so discussing options with OEM experts is important for making the most practical and economical decision. While gypsum mixer/pumps are not totally customizable, partnering with certain OEMs allows for a more personalized result, often with a significant cost savings over standard models.

SIMPLIFIED DESIGN The saying “less is more” often applies to gypsum mixer/pumps. In addition to reducing the initial cost, selecting a reliable gypsum mixer/pump that does the basics and does them well often results in a user-friendly unit that’s easy to operate, maintain, and keep clean.

To make the most of an equipment investment, the machine needs to have high utilization. For contractors looking to operate at multiple jobsites with multiple crews, selecting a gypsum mixer/ pump with the essential components and no frills equates to less training, less downtime and less stress. Machines with a simple, intuitive design are easy to operate with minimal training.

This opens up the door for maximum productivity since contractors can train several crew members and still deliver quality results.

Fewer moving parts also means less mess and less maintenance. A unit’s mixer is a good example of this. Most units feature either a paddle type mixer or a hydraulic spiral mixer. Both work

quickly, mixing a full load in about two minutes. However, hydraulic spiral mixers offer a benefit over paddle mixers since they can operate at higher speeds without splashing or throwing material out of the mixer. This leads to increased productivity since crews are not spending unnecessary time cleaning.

Additionally, the paddle style mixers used in gypsum equipment usually have two mixer shafts, which doubles the moving parts. Compare this to a single planetary gearbox driving the spiral mixer. With features like spiral mixers, new gypsum mixer/pumps limit possible maintenance issues and unnecessary downtime by minimizing moving parts.

These time-savings aren’t limited to

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

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As the gypsum industry continues to develop, more economical mixer/ pump options with simpler and more user-friendly designs are filling the gap, offering contractors the ability to select equipment based on their needs without overinvesting.

major maintenance. Proper cleaning is vital for any concrete pump, including gypsum equipment. The less there is to clean, the faster this process will be.

Look for a model with easily accessible wear parts to make daily cleaning as efficient as possible. Some manufactures have gone a step further to simplify

DECEMBER 2020

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FLATWORK/SLAB CONTINUED Units featuring robust trailers for long-distance travel and a lighter footprint provide a more practical solution for extended service areas.

The charging process for different machines is a good example of this.

Some models include a skip hoist to charge the mixer. The hoist is filled with sand and gypsum either by hand or with a skid-steer bucket. When full, it rises and dumps into the mixer.

This system requires sand and gypsum material to be stored near the pump and ample space for the hoist to maneuver, limiting where contractors can set it up. Gypsum pumps without the skip hoist eliminate the additional step and can be charged directly with a specially designed skid-steer bucket.

This not only saves time and energy, it allows contractors to set up sand and gypsum stockpiles in a separate location when space is at a premium.

maintenance by engineering a removable mixer and pump kit that simply detaches from the machine for the ease of cleaning and scheduled maintenance.

MANEUVERABILITY Transportability is another key consideration when selecting the right mixer/pump combination. The larger and more remote the contractor’s service area, the more vital this becomes.

Units featuring robust trailers for longdistance travel and a lighter footprint provide a more practical solution for extended service areas. For maximum maneuverability, look for a unit with a dual axle high-speed towing trailer and tubular steel frame to enable safe travel on highways.

Onsite maneuverability is another area to keep in mind. Once the equipment has arrived, its placement and use can be quite the logistical challenge—especially on crowded jobsites. A gypsum pump with a smaller footprint can increase overall productivity.

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CUSTOMER SERVICE As with many equipment decisions, brand is an important factor to consider when selecting a gypsum mixer/pump.

The right machine will ultimately be the one with the ideal combination of features and price, but the service and support behind that unit can’t be discounted. Partnering with a manufacturer that has a reputation for robust, high-quality machines means operators can expect fewer breakdowns over its lifetime. Plus, when parts and service are required, knowing the team

behind the brand is available 24/7 can be a huge relief. From fast delivery of parts to expert troubleshooting, dedicated OEMs help their customers increase efficiency.

The surest route to success in any business starts with investing in the best equipment to get the job done quickly and efficiently. Recent advances are making it easier and more economical for first-time and veteran gypsum contractors to take this step, but there are still many factors to consider. From design to durability, selecting a gypsum mixer/pump for maximum productivity and profitability must begin with the contractor’s unique needs.

Tripp Farrell joined Blastcrete Equipment LLC in 2000 and serves as president. In addition to his responsibilities in sales, he works in product design and conducts product demonstrations and training.

He is also involved in advertising and marketing of the Blastcrete product line, as well as research and development and, most importantly, customer service. He can be reached at tripp@blastcrete.com or 800-235-4867.

For more information on pumps, visit ForConstructionPros.com/ concrete/equipment-products/ concrete-pumps.

In addition to reducing the initial cost, selecting a reliable gypsum mixer/pump that does the basics and does them well often results in a userfriendly unit that’s easy to operate, maintain, and keep clean.

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

12/9/20 12:59 PM

QUIKRETE® 5000 Concrete Mix is a commercial grade blend of cement, sand and gravel, designed for applications requiring high early strength gain. QUIKRETE® 5000 Concrete Mix has a walk-on time of 10 – 12 hours, and it is ideal for cold weather applications.

For more product information, visit

quikrete.com

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FOUNDATION & WALLS

»

BY ETIENNE NOEL

Testing Concrete With the

MATURITY METHOD results. It is first necessary to understand the two types of cylinder break test methods, or rather the curing difference between standard-cured and field-cured.

Rodding on the top layer of a concrete cylinder.

Photos provided by Giatec

C

oncrete is the most used construction material in the whole world. More than that, behind water, it’s the most used material, all categories combined. Worldwide, about 10 billion tons of concrete are produced per year. Obviously, the strength of the concrete produced varies, but in most projects, it is crucial to have an idea of this measurement.

During the last few decades of significant progress for concrete, today’s most widely used compressive strength standard emerged: the cylinder concrete break tests. It is a method that has allowed construction to prosper for so long, building the modern world that we live in. For that reason, we must all

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tip our hats towards this compressive strength test method.

However, it is also a method that allows for errors, which on numerous occasions can have significant safety consequences. Moreover, this is proportionally a very slow method for such a fast-paced industry, generating unnecessary costs and project extensions to general contractors.

Many errors can originate from this testing method, either giving a result that is higher or lower than the real mix design properties. In both cases, we are mostly aware of the problems causing these errors in strength values. However, there are too many variables to control for break tests to always yield perfect

LABORATORY-CURED VS. FIELD-CURED The standard-cured method, or laboratory-cured method, is used for quality control of concrete. The concrete cylinders are cast onsite and brought to a third-party laboratory, where the curing temperature is set at 73° ± 4° F (23° ± 2° C) and the humidity at a minimum of 95%. On the other hand, the field curing method is used to resemble the conditions of the structure, as close as possible. To do so, the cylinders are kept close to the structure, hoping to mimic the temperature and humidity of the in-place concrete.

In both cases, the cylinders are cast onsite, with different layering and rodding methods depending on the country and the standard test methods used. By experience, I know that casting concrete cylinder samples is a repetitive task and it is hard to always prevent human errors. There could be mistakes made with the rodding depth, the size of the layers, the lack of tampering, and so on.

Once the cylinders are cast, they will remain onsite for one to three days for the initial curing to be over. The initial curing is a major factor in strength development. The cure must be done between 60° and 81° F (16° and 27° C) for concrete with specified strength less than 40 MPa (5,800 psi) and between 68° and 79° F (20° and 26° C) for those with greater strength according to ASTM C31/C31M – Standard Practice for Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the Field. Also, high humidity of the samples should be maintained at all times.

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Unfortunately, those measures can be often disregarded, and the initial curing is non-standard in many cases. The worst aspect is when those non-standard cures are not reported, thus making them impossible to track when low breaks happen. In the future, this may unnecessarily encourage using concrete with higher specified strength to make sure the 28-day results are within the acceptable range, often at a much higher cost. Finally, these curing errors increase the variation between strength results.

This sometimes leads to higher chances of having to drill concrete cores from the structure, creating massive delays on the jobsite as well as generating unnecessary costs.

ERRORS ASSOCIATED WITH FIELD-CURED CYLINDER TESTING Then, there is the whole aspect of handling, transportation, and storage of the cylinders, which can all create micro-fractures in the concrete, resulting in a low break. After that, the laboratory technician comes into play: firstly, taking care of some handling and some storage as well, but secondly having to prepare the sample in due time for the compressive strength test. The technician must grind or cap the extremities of the cylinder.

Any imperfection on the two end surfaces or any deviation of the perpendicularity of the cylinder’s axis are once again more causes of low breaks caused by a human factor.

Finally, the laboratory technician tests the cylinders in compression— hopefully with a calibrated machine.

The goal is to get well-formed cones and/or vertical cracking as they are the best type at reaching the highest potential concrete strength results.

Unfortunately, there is always a possibility that the concrete does not fail properly, meaning that there is only side fracture(s) present at the top or the bottom of the cylinder. This kind of fracture will not reach the strength potential of the concrete cylinder and will result in a low break. At this point, it would be very easy for the third-party

laboratory to falsify the numbers if certain errors occurred and there is no way to verify that the given results are accurate.

INACCURACIES OF THE FIELD-CURED METHOD In the eventuality that everything went perfectly on every step of the process, in many cases it remains rather challenging to prove the results are trustworthy and representative of in-situ concrete. Field cylinders are based on the concept that cylinders kept beside the slab will be kept at a temperature and humidity approximating those of the slab. This is rarely the case, as the exothermic nature of cement hydration in large structural elements typically leads to a heat rise that is much more significant compared to that for cylindrical elements with large surface area to volume ratio.

Obviously, the same mix, evolving at different temperatures, will gain strength at a very different pace. Overall, this method can’t always be trusted, as the cylinder and the slab will almost never gain strength at the same rate. Here is a quick summary of the many possible aspects where errors can be encountered:

• Casting the cylinders on site: layering, rodding, tampering • Non-compliance for the initial curing • Manipulation/handling • Transportation • Storage • Preparation of the samples: grinding and capping • Uncalibrated compression testing machine

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• Low breaks • Falsifying results • Field cylinders cure different from real cure Still not convinced that this method isn’t optimal? What about the long delays to get the results from the laboratory? What if you knew of a way to overlook all these issues, to get data on your concrete at any time and ignore all the hassle coming from cylinder testing? This is now becoming reality with concrete maturity testing.

With wireless maturity sensors in your concrete, all this becomes possible.

By using the often-overlooked concrete maturity principle, it is now possible to get real-time data, as well as records of temperature, maturity, and strength of your concrete. With this method, it is known precisely when a certain concrete mix reaches a desired strength.

This allows for several new possibilities.

• An early removal of formwork, saving you thousands of dollars.

• A possibility to correct your concrete’s temperature to avoid thermal cracking or early-age freezing.

• A peace of mind, knowing that your in-place strength is being accurately determined and therefore any safety consequences caused by concrete strength are properly mitigated.

All that is needed is the concrete mix information from your supplier and a device that has wireless connection.

After making the switch to wireless sensor technology, your concrete will only need the 28-day standardcure compression strength cylinders for acceptance purposes and mix validation. After making the switch, you might just forget about the hassle of field-cure cylinders and all the disadvantages they bring.

Written by Étienne Noël, co-op lab assistant at Giatec's research and development department.

For more information, visit ForConstructionPros. com/21196172.

DECEMBER 2020

CONCRETE CONTRACTOR 15

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NEW PRODUCTS

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Aquajet’s Aqua Cutter 410V Hydrodemolition Robot

Aquajet's Aqua Cutter 410V combines the compact size of the Aqua Cutter 410A and the mast system of the Aqua Cutter 710V, for the versatility to work in tight spaces, including boilers, tanks, pipes and other industrial containers and conduits. With a free-standing reach of up to 13.2 ft. (4 m), the 410V gives operators the ability to work horizontally, vertically or overhead, while remote operation keeps them out of harm’s way during hazardous cleaning applications. The 410V’s design makes it suitable for a wide variety of industrial cleaning tasks in oil, gas, petrochemical, refractory, nuclear and other industries where it can increase efficiency up to 80%. The 2,756-lb. (1,250kg) Aqua Cutter 410V uses 15,000-40,000-psi water jets and a range of attachments for efficient concrete removal or surface preparation.

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ATC Updates the CRACKBOND Repair and Restoration Product Line

The Ligchine SCREEDSAVER ELITE

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It is designed to assist tradespeople in physically demanding, repetitive installation tasks such as drilling numerous holes overhead for many mechanical, electrical or plumbing installations.

Adhesives Technology Corp. (ATC) updated its CRACKBOND concrete repair and restoration product line. Bonding agents for concrete repairs, coating and sealing interior and exterior slabs, and crack injection applications, CRACKBOND products were engineered with industry-leading formulations that provide fast and simple solutions to the end user.

“Concrete repair and resoration materials have been an area of increasing focus for ATC over the last 8-10 years, both in terms of launching innovative new formulations and adding new approvals and certifications to the existing product range,” said T. J. Bland, Professional Civil Engineer and President of ATC. “The product range marketed under the CRACKBOND name gives contractors, engineers and distributors the benefits of world-class products and approvals, coupled with personalized expert service levels that have long been the trademark of ATC.”

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The Dust Hog is ideal when mixing cement, mortar, joint compound, stucco and other powdered materials on commercial and residential jobsites. Simply insert the vacuum hose of most shop vacuums into the Dust Hog, hang the unit on the rim of the mixing container, turn on the vacuum and begin mixing.

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DECEMBER 2020

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12/8/20 10:45 AM

COVER STORY

C

»

BY GIGI WOOD

MISSION: CARBON ZERO

limate change, the Paris Agreement and talk of saving the planet have, for many years, been highly politicized topics. Viewpoints have differed greatly, and few have been willing to risk relationships with customers, vendors and others to take a stance on the issue. Major industries such as construction, building materials and heavy machinery were relatively quiet on the issue.

Until now.

Taking steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to lower the global temperature increase, as the Paris Agreement aims to do—to limit global warming well below 2° C and as close to 1.5° C as possible—have long been considered a political move. Few in the manufacturing and industrial world have been willing to rock the boat and publicly embrace the Paris Agreement.

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When it comes to the concrete and cement industry, some have questioned the need to change. Cement and concrete are so widely used because they are effective, affordable, accessible, highly durable, and long lasting. Concrete is also celebrated for its thermal mass, its ability to absorb and store heat energy, moderating temperature extremes in buildings, requiring less energy use.

IF IT AIN’T BROKE For how long it lasts, many have considered the carbon footprint of concrete to be relatively low. Cement, however, produced 2.2 billion tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) in 2016 (4% of total emissions), according to the Emissions Database for Global Atmospheric Research, making it one of the world’s greatest contributors to climate change. Improving the carbon footprint of cement and concrete

Photo Credit: Exposé GmbH/AdobeStock

is also important as cement production is expected to increase by 25% by 2030 while cities around the world become more urbanized.

Half of the emissions generated from the cement production process come from clinker, the building block that gives cement its strength and other important properties.

“Although the CO2 footprint of buildings is primarily from energy consumption while in use, we must also care about the CO2 emissions inherent in the production of concrete,” says Ian Riley, CEO of the World Cement Association (WCA). “These come primarily from cement, which is responsible for about 7% of CO2 emissions, the largest of any industrial

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sector. This is the reason that when we talk about sustainability, we place carbon footprint as the number one issue and why it is such a high priority issue for us. Cement is also a hard to abate sector, since most of the emissions come from the clinker process, namely calcination of limestone, so decarbonising the energy used would only reduce emissions, not eliminate them.”

Concrete has been used in construction for thousands of years. The process works and the end product is highly effective. To some, it seemed too difficult to change the process through which cement and concrete are produced, placed during the construction process, maintained, repaired and disposed of or recycled. And if any of those steps in the concrete lifecycle were altered, how can the industry be changed on a wide enough scale that the contractors who pour cement and place concrete on the jobsite will use new and different methods and materials?

Despite those challenges, the world’s largest cement and concrete producers have become increasingly vocal about the industry’s need to reduce emissions.

The pace of the conversation has quickened in 2020 as producers enter an arms race of sorts, to research and develop new products and to reduce emissions the fastest in the industry. The cement and concrete industry’s biggest names are posting to social media sites daily about their commitment to reducing emissions. Weekly and monthly, industry associations are making announcements about new goals set and benchmarks met.

A NEW ERA OF CORPORATE ACTION Sustainability can mean different things to those in the cement and concrete industries. Concrete is durable and long lasting and for some, that means it’s sustainable. That mindset is shifting, though. Companies are increasingly talking about cement and concrete sustainability in the context of reducing CO2 emissions.

“When we look at the carbon footprint of a product, we must look

at the total lifecycle footprint,” Riley says. “When we buy a car, we don’t just think about how much CO2 was emitted during manufacture, we consider fuel efficiency and how much will be emitted during use. So, with concrete, it is not only the generated CO2 during production but also the CO2 generated during the building lifetime. The thermal mass of concrete gives it some advantages over steel and wood in this respect.”

Several of the industry’s major producers and affiliates have taken those emissions head on and have recently made announcements of emissions reductions and new products. The green building materials market as a whole is expected to grow by $187.4 billion by 2027, according to a 2020 report by Research & Markets.

In November, HeidelbergCement, one of the world’s largest cement and concrete producers, announced plans to invest more than $500 million to modernize its factories in France and launched a pilot project for capturing CO2. The company is working on a carbon capture project in Norway and creating Europe’s largest 3D-printed residential building based on technology created at HeidelbergCement’s engineering and innovation department in Germany. Those are a few of many initiatives aimed at reducing the company’s CO2 emissions by 2025 to below 525 kg per ton, which will be 30% less than what the company produced in 1990.

“To us, sustainability means taking on our share of responsibility for our future; we aim to keep the global temperature rise well below 2° C,” says Christoph Beumelburg, HeidelbergCement’s director of group communications and investor relations. “To achieve this, we need to continually reduce our impacts on air, land and water. On a product level, this means offering lowcarbon cement and concrete products— but also R&D on new building materials with properties favorable for lower

Photo Credit: HeidelbergCement

material usage, which enable society to implement climate-friendly solutions.

We are committed to carbon neutrality on concrete level by 2050 at the latest.”

Beumelburg adds that as a company that uses raw materials in its products, HeidelbergCement has long been aware of the need for improved sustainability.

“In our business, responsible business management is vital to ensure the future viability of the company,” he says. “And while CO2 reduction is one important element on our path to be the most sustainable building materials company, to us, sustainability certainly means more than CO2 reduction. Our Sustainability Commitments 2030, the guiding principles of our sustainability strategy until 2030, covers a range of aspects from biodiversity, circular economy and water management to compliance and health and safety.”

In 2019, HeidelbergCement’s CO2 reduction target was approved by the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi), a partnership through the World Resources Institute that aims to increase corporate

LafargeHolcim conducts research on reduced carbon emissions products at its Lyon Research and Development Center in France.

Photo Credit: LafargeHolcim

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Cement and concrete are so widely used because they are effective; they are affordable, accessible, highly durable and long lasting. Concrete is also celebrated for its thermal mass, its ability to absorb and store heat energy, moderating temperature extremes in buildings, requiring less energy use.

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COVER STORY CONTINUED HeidelbergCement began construction of Europe’s largest 3D-printed residential building based on technology created at HeidelbergCement’s engineering and innovation department in Germany.

Photo Credit: HeidelbergCement

HeidelbergCement is employing many initiatives, such as the use of alternative materials, to reduce carbon emissions in cement and concrete.

Photo Credit: HeidelbergCement

participation in emissions reductions.

HeidelbergCement was the first cement company globally to have approved science-based CO2 reduction targets.

“As we have been making good progress toward those targets, we recently decided to further accelerate our efforts,” Beumelburg says. They are reporting good progress in technologies enabling the managment of and the use of remaining emissions, such as CCU/S (Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage). HeidelbergCement has also launched various products with innovative sustainability features in all group countries. HeidelbergCement is using alternative raw materials and fuels, such as biomass, as part of its low carbon portfolio.

“The construction industry is facing a new set of sustainability-related challenges: besides climate change, the way we do business will be affected by

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digitalization, resource scarcity and modular construction,” Beumelburg says.

“At HeidelbergCement, we will work closely with our stakeholders to tackle future challenges by offering new products, technologies and building solutions.

Our sustainability goals apply across the Group in more than 50 countries. In the coming years, we want to continue to be a good neighbor to those living in the vicinity of our more than 3,000 locations worldwide, and further decrease the ecological footprint of our business activity.”

LafargeHolcim, the world’s largest cement producer, reaffirmed its commitment to reach its emissions reduction goal by 2030 and launched a 3D printing hackathon in November.

“Concrete has an essential role to play in meeting the global challenges posed by population growth, increasing urbanization and resource scarcity,” says Patrick Cleary, senior vice president, sales - US Cement, LafargeHolcim. “Concrete is vital to meeting these challenges. It is durable, fire and flood resilient, low carbon across its lifecycle, recyclable, versatile, affordable and available almost everywhere. We believe that sustainability creates value for our business, our shareholders and society. As the global leader in building materials and solutions we are determined to maximize this value and are committed to living up to the responsibilities that come with it.”

LafargeHolcim was the first global building materials company to sign the UN Global Compact’s (UNGC) Business Ambition for 1.5° C initiative, with a 2030 SBTi-verified action plan.

LafargeHolcim is partnering with SBTi to define its roadmap to 2050, to make

a major reduction in emissions.

“In order to meet these ambitious targets, we’re taking a holistic approach and using a variety of levers,” Cleary says. In the U.S., the company is doing everything from investing in renewable energy and increasing the energy efficiency at plants, to developing low-carbon products that will help reduce carbon emissions of construction projects.

LafargeHolcim has also strategically built partnerships with NGOs (non-governmental organizations) to work side-by-side with the government as climate change policy evolves in the U.S. This year, LafargeHolcim’s cement business introduced several new highperformance cement products as part of its work to reduce emissions: Envirocore Cements, including OneCem Portland Limestone Cement, MaxCem Blended Cement and NewCem Slag Cement.

“Many of these products incorporate supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), byproducts from other industries that offer sustainability and performance advantages for those who construct buildings of all kinds,” he says. “Their use as a partial replacement for Portland cement not only results in more durable, high-performance concrete but also lowers energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. For every ton of clinker replaced by SCMs, CO2 emissions are reduced by approximately 0.8 tons.”

Aggregate Industries, a member of LafargeHolcim, also introduced ECOPact, a low-carbon concrete that is sold at a range of low-carbon levels, from 30-100% less carbon emissions compared to standard concrete. “As we progress, we’re going to continue to embrace innovation and offer low-carbon solutions for our customers,” Cleary says. “Our products will play a key role

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COVER STORY CONTINUED in helping the entire industry lower its carbon footprint and can provide significant opportunity for ready-mix producers and concrete contractors to create a competitive advantage in their local communities.”

GCP Applied Technologies Inc., which produces construction technologies and additives for the cement and concrete industries, recently received a European patent for sustainable cement grinding methods it developed. The company is working on improving sustainability on several fronts, by helping cement producers with the mixes and additives they use and how they reuse and recycle concrete.

According to Diego Granell, GCP global marketing director, the industry is shifting more toward sustainability because of increased customer pressure.

“The customers in the industry, the owners, the developers, are basically demanding we put more focus on lower carbon in the mix designs because that's the biggest source (of emissions) the industry

In September, GCCA unveiled its 2050 Climate Ambition Initiative, marking the first time the industry has come together globally to state a collective goal for a carbon neutral future.

Photo Credit: GCCA

has,” he says. “We want to make sure we offer them a solution to enable that to happen. We not only provide solutions, but we also provide networks and transparency so they can basically make a more informed decisions on what specific tools to use.”

GCP is investing in control management systems, such as VERIFI and other technologies to improve its carbon footprint. VERIFI, for example, monitors and adjusts slump in transit, reducing waste and the number of trips needed between the cement plant and jobsite. The company is also developing technology and mixtures to replace the clinker in cement and reduce the use of cement in mix designs.

“The big, key message that we basically are trying to convey to our customer is that we are really focused on reducing CO2 emmissions but doing that in a cost effective way, saving money, optimizing the operations, reducing the costs of LEED design, enabling other materials to be used to substitute the cement; it’s all these things,” Granell says.

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Another major player in the sustainability movement is CEMEX, which in November was awarded a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to research and develop carbon capture technology at the company’s cement plant in Texas. The company is also researching the use of nanotechnology to produce low emissions concrete. CEMEX is developing a net-zero CO2 concrete known as Vertua, based on a geopolymer binder solution from the Cemex Research and Development Center in Switzerland. The company is also partnering with Synhelion to create the first solardriven cement plant.

Many other companies are making strides in emissions reductions. Votorantim Cimentos, for example, recently announced its 2030 sustainability commitments. Smaller startups are creating new products, such as CarbonCure Technologies, which is creating carbon dioxide removal solutions for the concrete industry.

CHRYSO and Solidia Technologies are working together to create high-performance, ultra low CO2 concrete. Carbon Cast, a grid of carbon fiber reinforcement in insulated wall panels, reduces weight involved in shipping, erection and substructure costs. Dozens of similar product innovations are in the pipeline across the globe.

Academic institutions are playing a role as well. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Iowa State Concrete Paving Tech Center, Yale School of Architecture, Pudue SMART Lab and others are making significant progress researching and developing more sustainable concrete solutions.

The industry is in for another challenge, as well: keeping up with codes and requirements. In a November webinar hosted by the National Precast Concrete Association, Kevin A. MacDonald, a respected expert in the concrete industry, pointed out that cement and concrete have great potential to be more sustainable and more durable, but codes and specifications can’t keep up with the latest advancements in materials. Several variations of highperformance concrete have been made available in recent years, he says, but the codes don’t address changes in specifications to use those new products effectively.

“We know how to make high-performance concrete, but the codes and systems won’t allow it,” he says.

ASSOCIATIONS PLAY A MAJOR ROLE Industry associations are also playing a major role in the race to increased sustainability. Many are creating initiatives and establishing goals for industry partners to meet.

The National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA) published its NRMCA Sustainability Initiatives vision statement back in 2009. The statement called on the industry to “transform the built environment by improving the way concrete is manufactured” to balance environmental, social and economic conditions.

To achieve this goal, the NRMCA called on using the concrete lifecycle (acquisition, production, construction, operations and maintenance and recycling) to reduce its footprint. The group also established the MIT Concrete Sustainability Hub in 2010 to research and measure progress toward that goal. In 2012, it adopted the Architecture 2030 Challenge, which established

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CONCRETE CONTRACTOR 23

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COVER STORY CONTINUED carbon reduction goals for buildings and products. By 2019, the industry was able to report a 13% reduction in its carbon footprint in five years.

“As an industry, we must listen to what our customers are demanding,” says Lionel Lemay, NRMCA’s executive vice president/division head, structures and sustainability. “Most architects, engineers, owners, and contractors etc., who like the benefits of concrete like strength, durability, energy efficiency, the solid feel, low noise transmission, fire resistance and so forth. But they also want to lower the embodied carbon footprint of the buildings they design and build. So, it’s up to us as an industry to meet that challenge.”

Half of the emissions generated from the cement production process come from clinker, the building block that gives cement its strength and other important properties.

Photo Credit: HeidelbergCement

NRMCA has also developed its Build with Strength program to help educate engineers, architects and others about what keeping the carbon footprint low and hosts a podcast, “Concrete Credentials” led by Gregg Lewis, NRMCA’s executive vice president.

NRMCA put on its first-ever Global Concrete Summit Nov. 30-Dec. 10 to exchange ideas about improving the sustainability of concrete. More than 2,500 people were expected to attend the virtual event. Speakers included many industry and academic notables, such as WCA’s Riley, LeMay and Rick Bohan, the Portland Cement Association’s (PCA) vice president of

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sustainability. The summit is one of many cement and concrete industry events focused on decarbonization. In November, the American Concrete Institute hosted its virtual Conference on Sustainability & Durability touched on durability, alternative materials for cement and building codes, among other topics.

At the PCA, the realization that concrete can play an important part in improving sustainability has helped lead the charge toward reduced emissions in recent years, Bohan says.

“The focus on sustainability reflects PCA’s ongoing commitment to everything that sustainability represents,” he says. “This is nothing new. What’s new is the realization by everyone throughout the value chain that concrete is the optimal solution to sustainable construction.”

PCA has been measuring environmental standards in concrete for years. “We’re one of the brightest success stories in the EPA’s ENERGY STAR program including PCA’s Partner of the Year Award in 2020,” he says. The association has been providing resources that support sustainable construction for more than 100 years. For example, its landmark publication, Design and Control of Concrete Mixtures, soon to be in its 17th edition.

PCA created its Shaped by Concrete program to tell the positive story of cement and concrete. The group is working with the American Concrete Paving Association (ACPA), NRMCA, MIT, Iowa State Concrete Paving Tech Center and others on sustainability efforts. PCA recently announced a roadmap for reaching its sustainability goals.

Another organization, the WCA, helps its members with benchmarking, gap analysis and performance improvement when it comes to sustainability. “There are many developing technologies that will enable the cement industry to reduce its carbon footprint,” Riley says. “We are optimistic that by accelerating the development of these technologies and by applying best

practices in energy efficiency, alternative fuels and use of alternative cementitious materials, the cement industry will be able to fully decarbonise.” Recently, WCA launched a podcast series called Clinker Factor that talks with other industry leaders and experts about cement and decarbonization.

2050 CLIMATE AMBITION INITIATIVE The Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA) was formed two years ago to focus on reducing the industry’s carbon footprint.

“The cement producers saw that there was an increasing expectation from both the outside world and the general public stakeholder community, and also the people that they sell cement and concrete to, so developers, plus the people that are using it, engineers and architects, for a potentially more sustainable product,” says Paul Adeleke, GCCA’s communications and policy director.

In September, GCCA unveiled its 2050 Climate Ambition Initiative, marking the first time the industry has come together globally to state a collective goal for a carbon neutral future. It matches up with the requirements and deadlines of the Paris Agreement and names specific actions needed to create carbon neutral concrete, including reducing and eliminating energy-related emissions, reducing process emissions through new technologies and carbon capture, more efficient use of concrete, reuse and recycling of concrete and buildings and harnessing concrete’s ability to absorb and store carbon from the atmosphere.

GCCA members include companies such as Buzzi Unicem, CEMEX, CRH, HeidelbergCement, LafargeHolcim, Votorantim Cimentos and many more. Before the GCCA was formed, cement and concrete were discussed as part of smaller committees in large organizations. GCCA makes the cement and concrete industries major players in the movement toward reducing emissions.

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“There was nobody advocating for concrete at a global level and telling the positive side of concrete,” Adeleke says.

The first step in achieving 2050 initiative goals is by creating a roadmap, which will set the pathway and milestones needed to reduced emissions, he says. In North America, the GCCA is teaming up with the PCA, which just published its corresponding roadmap.

Andrew Minson, GCCA’s concrete and sustainable construction director, is creating the initiative roadmap. GCCA’s next step is to launch its third version of verified environmental product declarations, called EPDs. Minson likens EPDs to a nutrition label on food packaging; EPDs create a standardized way of measuring the carbon footprint of materials used in the manufacturing process of a product, like concrete, and are recognized in LEED. The EPDs measure the carbon footprint across 30 environmental indicators. Companies, such as LafargeHolcim, are issuing their own EPDs, as well.

“It enables us to get beyond greenwashing,” Minson says of conveying a false impression of a product’s sustainability. “It uses metrics and certifications that have received external verification that has been recognized by LEED. It enables them to not only be virtuous, but actually be seen to be virtuous and communicate their credentials.”

With that information in hand, architects and engineers are more likely to create more sustainable buildings.

“If there's an infinite number of mixes, you can tune your mix to be exactly what you need over and above the credentials of concrete as a product and the way it performs, the fact that it doesn't rot, the fact that it doesn't burn, it doesn't rust; it's got these fantastic attributes, including its thermal mass,” says Minson, who was also a speaker at the Global Concrete Summit.

“What you'll see next from us is at the end of 2021, a comprehensive roadmap to demonstrate how we will get to carbon neutral concrete by 2050, and it will explore the technologies that are required and the policy implications,”

Minson says. “That policy will enable us to get there, and it will consider and reflect on how people who use concrete can contribute, as well, to collectively reach a carbon neutral concrete scenario.”

GCCA’s roadmap is expected to be complete at the end of 2021.

The 2050 Climate Ambition Initiative is one of many efforts ongoing in the cement and concrete

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industries to reduce the carbon footprint of construction materials. There will likely be many advancements in coming months and years to further that mission.

For more information on sustainabilty in construction, visit ForConstructionPros.com/ sustainability.

DECEMBER 2020

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PRODUCT FOCUS

CORDLESS POWER

TOOLS Curb Roller Batt Screed 6000

The Curb Roller Batt Screed 6000 is powered by a removable, rechargeable 60V lithium ion DeWalt FLEXVOLT battery that is estimated to screed off 1,800 to 2,500 sq. ft. on a full charge, depending on slump and pipe length. The unit can accommodate jobs from 3 ft.-22 ft. with expandable tube inserts. It spins concrete into shape so more and larger aggregate remains near the surface of the slab for increased structural integrity. Features include adjustable right- or lefthand speed control, variable speed in both high and low ranges, a three-position foldable handle and heavy-duty kickstand. A single pin connection on both ends allows pipe to be removed from the handles in less than 60 seconds.

ForConstructionPros.com/21062140

Lavina 20G-X Cordless Dust Collection System

Lavina 20G-X is a propane vacuum designed for use with 20-in. or smaller grinders.

• FS481V 14.5-hp Kawasaki engine • Conical main filter • HEPA H13 • Manual filter cleaning • Longopac bagging system • Anti-static hose with metal camlock • Air flow: 212 cfm • Max vacuum: 4 psi • Weight: 441 lb.

• Dimensions: 51 in. (L) by 26 in. (W) by 56 in. (H)

The XEC01 cordless nine in.-power cutter features 18V X2 (36V) LXT technology that allows for lower noise, immediate starts and reduced overall maintenance.

• Zero emissions enables indoor use • Compact and light weight for reduced strain for wall or above-chest cuts • Integrated water delivery with flow adjustment knob continuously feeds water for OSHA Table 1 compliance

ForConstructionPros.com/21096845

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Makita XEC01 Cordless Concrete Cutter

Wacker Neuson ACBe Backpack Concrete Vibrator

Bosch GWS18V-45PSC EC Brushless 4-1/2 in.

Angle Grinder

Power, connectivity and one of the best-in-class user interfaces combine to make the Bosch GWS18V-45PSC 18V EC Brushless Connected 4-1/2 in. Angle Grinder a must-have product for tough grinding applications. The grinder features a Bosch EC brushless motor that offers maximum efficiency and low maintenance, plus connectivity that delivers next-generation control including mobile-device-based maintenance review and performance notifications. The Bosch GWS18V45PSC grinder delivers outstanding performance, including metal cutting. This Bosch-exclusive design provides greater runtime and more power than similar cordless grinders with brushed motors. That means professionals can rely on a cordless grinder that delivers 9,000 no-load rpm, but doesn’t forego power in favor of maneuverability.

• HMI interface provides a large screen that changes color based on grinder operating status • Advanced electronics provide features including drop control, which shuts the tool off if dropped, and KickBack Control that shuts down the motor should the tool become jammed.

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Husqvarna K 535i Battery-powered Cutter

The K 535i battery-powered cutter has a slim design and low weight (7.7 lbs.) that make it easy to lift, control and maneuver.

• Can be used for wet or dry cutting • Centered placement of blade provides increased stability and control • Electric blade brake can stop blade rotation from full throttle to zero in 3.1 seconds • Intuitive keypad designed for quick command and features a save function • Side-fed placement of the battery maximizes cooling

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DECEMBER 2020

T R b c a m a t o w U f T i t r o

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The ACBe cordless concrete vibration system consists of the backpack with integrated converter, removable/replaceable BP1000 lithium ion battery and internal vibrator. Backpack adjusts for varying heights, sizes with lightweight fabric, padded shoulders and even weight distribution Vibrator shaft connects to bottom center of backpack, allowing for easy left-hand or right-hand operation Modular vibration system allows use of 1.5 in., 1.8 in. and 2.3 in. internal head diameters and 5 ft. and 10 ft. shaft lengths. Integrated converter enables vibrator to provide high-cycle/highfrequency performance.

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SKILSAW TrueHVL Cordless Worm Drive Saw

SKILSAW claims that its TrueHVL Worm Drive Saw is the first and only cordless saw that is true worm drive, noting it is the only cordless saw you will find with Worm Drive gearing. Powered by the TrueHVL battery, the brushless motor responds to challenging applications by boosting power and torque, and all-magnesium construction makes it lightweight and tough. TrueHVL features a unique battery design that maximizes heat dissipation, patented Stay Cool technology that wraps each cell in a temperature controlling material, and intelligent power management that monitors and optimizes each cell.

• Built for high torque applications • High voltage lithium ion battery and charger design • STAY COOL battery technology to keep the cells cooler, which helps extend the runtime and lifetime of the battery for high-torque application.

• Battery can be fully charged in one hour ForConstructionPros.com/21104484

MAX USA Batterypowered TwinTier RB401T-E

The MAX USA Corp.

RB401T-E's primary benefit is its ergonomic construction. The tool’s automatic contact mechanism/switch automatically forms a tie when pushed down over a rebar intersection, without a trigger pull.

Users can adjust the handles to two positions, to find the most comfortable position for their height.

The long nose attachment allows the tool to glide into rebar intersections with minimal effort from the operator. All of these features work together to reduce instances of back strain and the development of musculoskeletal injuries for ironworkers.

• Weight: 10.2 lbs.

• Dimensions: 12-3/4 in. (H) x 16 in. (W) x 43-3/8 in. (L) • Minimum ties per coil: 155 • Maximum ties per coil: 260 • Applicable rebar size: #3 x #3 - #6 x #6 • Ties per charge: 4,000 • Tie speed: Approx. 1/2 second • Battery charge time: 65 minutes full charge

Milwaukee Tool MX FUEL Handheld Core Drill

Part of the MX FUEL Equipment System, the MX Fuel handheld core drill delivers a safer coring experience and the power to core up to 6 in.-holes in reinforced concrete.

• Available in handheld or stand-mounted versions • Powered by a lithium ion battery • Includes a clutch and AUTOSTOP technology to provide maximum control and reduce kick back during bind up situations • Performance gauge guides users on optimized drilling speed and LED level helps maintain accuracy throughout the application • ONE-KEY provides the ability to track and manage drill ForConstructionPros.com/21132661

ForConstructionPros.com/21139316

Visit ForConstructionPros. com/concrete for all your latest Concrete news and products!

Hilti TE 500-A36 Cordless Breaker

The 17.4-lb. TE 500-A36 cordless breaker provides the power of a corded breaker with the mobility and productivity of a cordless solution.

• Couples a 36-volt 9.0-ah lithium-ion battery with a high-efficiency brushless motor • Single impact energy of 5.8 ft.-lbs. and a full hammering frequency of 3,300 impacts per minute • Active Vibration Reduction technology reduces tool’s triaxial vibration by more than 30% • Can be coupled with the VC 75-A22 cordless backpack vacuum system for an OSHA-compliant virtually dustless cordless solution ForConstructionPros.com/21104124

Makita DML809 Work Light

Makita’s 10,000 Lumens 18V X2 LXT Cordless / Corded Work Light provides up to 8.5 hours of illumination on low setting and over 1.5 hours on high setting. Its three mode operation delivers 10,000 lumens on high, 4,000 lumens on medium, and 2,000 on low • The work light features an efficient LED light • Two batteries can be housed within the work light, but the work light operates using one battery at a time. The second is utilized when it is needed, providing extended run time.

• Adjustment knobs enable the user to direct the flood light to the desired angle • It is dust and water-resistant construction (IP65 rated) allows operation in harsh job site conditions.

• The work light can be mounted on an optional tripod light stand (GM00002703, sold separately) individually or with two work lights • Batteries have one of the fastest charge times in their categories, so they spend more time working and less time sitting on the charger • Provides direct flood light on the job site ForConstructionPros.com/21120255

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DECEMBER 2020

CONCRETE CONTRACTOR 27

12/8/20 10:59 AM

DECORATIVE CONCRETE

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BY SEAN O’KEEFE

A Thank You, A New Floor, & A Wish Fulfilled How three Bomanitelicensed decorative concrete contractors made a difference in their communities

H

Texas Bomanite

umanitarian, hero, and threetime heavyweight champion of the world, Mohammed Ali once said, “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.”

David Edwards also enjoys a challenge and relishes the chance to give back. As the co-owner of Edwards Concrete Bomanite in Winter Garden, Fla., Edwards has been in the concrete business for more than 40 years. His firm specializes in decorative concrete applications and between the heat and humidity and Florida’s frequently difficult soil conditions, every job his firm does seems to have a few challenges.

Edwards has been a Bomanitelicensed contractor since 1989. His team of approximately 25 has been devising decorative concrete solutions for four decades in service to theme parks, commercial contractors, and public institutions of all sorts and scales. “We don’t shy away from difficult jobs, and while I wear a lot of hats, I enjoy getting into the design side of the work quite a bit.”

He and his wife lived in the areas their entire lives, when the COVID-19 shattered the world’s sense of normality, Edwards was inspired to make a meaningful contribution to his community and quickly harnessed his team’s talents to put a little happiness in the lives of others. “We wanted to do something for the local

health care workers who were putting their lives on the line for people in this community,” he says.

Edwards first approached Mayor Rusty Johnson about a charitable giving project he had in mind for the Orlando Health – Central Hospital in Ocoee, Fla. Edwards and his team quickly conceived of a way to enliven the building’s entrance with a decorative token of esteem. In a group effort, Edwards secured material donations from his long-time local suppliers of ready-mix concrete, lumber, and metalwork to assemble the resources required.

The result is a beautiful patio garden next to the building’s staff entrance where health care workers can catch a moment of reprieve from the rigors within. A bold blue heart of Bomanite exposed aggregate concrete in a glass finish is surrounded by blocks of Portland cement seeded with mother of pearl flakes and white chip granite. Strips of artificial turf segment the concrete sections to make the whole patio a refreshing pop of vibrant color that offers a warm welcome and a calm, quiet respite to the hospital's healthcare workers.

“This resting area was meant to help [the health-care workers] replenish themselves amid the stress and challenges of their jobs,” says Edwards.

“We were fortunate to be considered an essential service in the early stages of the pandemic and wanted to show our support for the healthcare workers and our community.”

DALLAS Tyler Balch is a second-generation owner of Texas Bomanite in Dallas. “Since the firm was founded in 1987, one of

As a memorial to the frontline workers of COVID-19. The Ocoee Health-Center includes a plaque: "This courtyard is dedicated to the frontline healthcare workers who went above and beyond during the 2020 COVID19 pandemic. 'In appreciation for you extraordinary service, loyalty, and commitment to your profession and community.'" It lists the companies and suppliers involved in the project.

Images by Edwards Concrete Bomanite

our core beliefs has been giving back to the community we serve,” says Balch of the firm’s operational foundation. Texas Bomanite employs close to 100 people and completes commercial architectural concrete projects across most of Texas from offices in Dallas and Austin. When the firm was approached about a small but significant polished concrete project for The American Fallen Soldiers Project in Addison, Texas, Balch knew immediately that their cause was worthy of charitable consideration.

A 501c3 non-profit organization, The American Fallen Soldiers Project honors and memorializes American military service members who made the ultimate sacrifice with an original, hand-painted portrait of the fallen that is presented to their family. The brainchild of artist Phil Taylor, each portrait is undertaken to provide Gold Star Families with a small token of comfort and compassion in their time of loss. When the organization leased a new office and gallery space in a suburban office park and inquired about a polished concrete floor, Texas Bomanite decided to do it at a discount.

Colorado Hardscapes

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“They wanted a polished concrete floor with a black orchid dye to give the space a very high-end, museum-quality feel,” shares Balch of the scope of work.

“Because of the condition of the existing concrete slab, the work involved a lot of patching and grinding to prep the floor to be polished. We felt this was a cause we would be proud to get behind, so we donated time and materials equal to about 28% of the total cost. With Bomanite you are getting the best of the best, so making this an affordable option for a very worthy recipient made everyone involved feel fantastic.”

and did the vibrant, textured seat wall at cost,” says Bol. “We were also able to secure a donation from our concrete supplier, Aggregate Industries, for all of the concrete we installed.”

Beyond the giving back, Bol shares that the project called upon Colorado Hardscapes’ artistic capacities: “There was only a sketch to start with, so our team got to be creative in conceptualizing the parts and pieces of this one-of-a-kind

sensory wall. We feel like we have been blessed to be a part of this great community-enhancing project.

Charitable giving is a great way to give back and show our commitment to the people and places our projects serve in a long-lasting, meaningful way.”

For more on decorative concrete, visit ForConstructionPros.com/ concrete/decorative.

COLORADO In Aurora, Colo., Bomanite-licensed contractor, Colorado Hardscapes, supported a feel-good project of a different sort. Founded in 1947, Colorado Hardscapes has been Front Range Colorado’s premier decorative concrete contractors since the industry’s inception. When they learned of a local effort by the Make-A-Wish Foundation to build a sensory garden and playground for a local 7-year-old boy, Colorado Hardscapes jumped on board.

“The City of Aurora teamed up with the Make a Wish Foundation and a whole host of others to develop a fully-accessible playground with a sensory focus at RedTailed Hawk Park near the child’s home.

We knew right away this was something we wanted to be a part of,” says Project Manager, Christy Bol. The child’s wish of wishes was simply to go to the park to play and laugh with other children and making that dream come true was a joy and honor for all involved.

The 8,000 SF site features a sensory wall composed of a tactile composition of shapes, textures, and colors, a wavy walk that undulates like a roller coaster, and swings, spinners, and slides of several sorts. A Bomanite Micro-Top was used to make the sensory wall pop with color, while a Bomanite texture mat added a high-touch surface to the rising wall.

Bomanite Con-Color was also used to stain the concrete to add swooshes of whimsical flair to flatwork surfaces.

“We donated the materials and labor to do the wavy walk and stained concrete design throughout the park

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DECEMBER 2020

CONCRETE CONTRACTOR 29

12/8/20 11:05 AM

DECORATIVE CONCRETE

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BY BUDDY RHODES

The Steps and Materials Needed for Your Next

G

GFRC PROJECT

lass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) has a long history of use in building facades, and was originally developed for its superior performance in seismic zones.

The decorative concrete industry embraced it not only for its strength, but the versatility it provides for creating texture, color and form otherwise impossible with traditional precast.

The basic principles of GFRC are simple. Typical mix designs use a cement rich blend, combining one part cement to one part graded, dry sand. With the addition of water, curing polymer and glass fiber for reinforcement, GFRC is typically cast at 0.75 in. to 1 in. thick.

Mixes can be modified for sprayed applications or plasticized with water reducer to create self-consolidating concrete.

MATERIALS, SIMPLIFIED As one of the pioneers in the decorative concrete industry, Buddy Rhodes Concrete Products has developed easy-to-use

materials for the concrete professional.

Here’s what you’ll need for a typical GFRC project: • A GFRC blended mix of cement, sand, dry curing polymer and admixtures. For example, the Buddy Rhodes GFRC Blended Mix already contains the proper ingredients and high-performance admixtures for making thin, lightweight concrete or any GFRC project.

• 3/4-in. long, chopped Alkali Resistant (AR) Glass fibers are added separately to impart critical flexural and tensile strength.

• AR glass fiber scrim is a woven fabric that can also be added for additional, targeted reinforcement.

• Super plasticizer/water reducer can be added as a wetting agent to reduce water content, improving ultimate strength.

Glass fibers are added separtely for added reinforcement.

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DECEMBER 2020

A vanity counter made with GFRC. Images provided by Buddy Rhodes Concrete Products

FIRST, FORMWORK Formwork for GFRC should be nonporous, with watertight seams.

Melamine coated particle board or laminate is a common choice for large, flat surfaces. Flexible urethane or silicone rubber molds are also a nice option, ideal for complex pieces or production molds that can be cast into again and again.

CASTING: THE SPRAY TECHNIQUE WITH HAND LAID BACKER MIX The GFRC Spray Technique is accomplished in two stages: a surface layer (face/mist coat) without fiber, followed by a structural layer (backer mix) containing AR glass fibers. There are no fibers used in the face coat mix as you don’t want the finished surface to show fibers. Begin by adding one gallon

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of water and two ounces of water reducer to a 17.5-gallon bucket. Slowly add one 50-lb. bag of GFRC Blended Mix and blend thoroughly with a hand-held mortar mixer with a highviscosity paddle. Allow the mix to sit for 10 minutes to “false set,” then remix, adding water reducer as necessary to make the right consistency.

Pour the mixture into a drywall hopper gun for spraying. Your spray should Make sure come out of the gun like a wet splatto work ter. This first crucial layer creates the out any air surface detail of the casting and should pockets. be around 1/8-in. thick. With a bristle brush, brush the face coat in the mold to push out any air pockets, particularly in the corners and edges of the form to consolidate the mix.

Once the face coat is sprayed, begin mixing the backer coat. Timing is important—you do not want the face coat completely dry or the backer coat will not bond properly.

Ideally, you want the face coat mix to begin to stiffen so the backer coat does not push through while still getting a good bond between the face and backer coats. For the backer mix, blend more material exactly as was done for the face mix.

Toward the end of the mixing process, add 1.5 lbs. of AR glass fiber for every 50 lbs. of blended concrete. Slowly mix in the AR fibers while reducing the mixer rpm—mixing the fibers too vigorously will break down their structural integrity. Layer this behind your face coat. Total thickness depends on the size of the project, but one inch thickness is typical. You can make a fluid mix that pours over the face coat or you can make a thicker mix that is applied by hand. A thicker mix is especially useful for vertical walls.

After all concrete is placed, cover with plastic sheeting and allow to cure for a minimum of 16 hours at room temperature (73° F / 23 ° C).

Once the piece is demolded, fill any bug holes with a matching color paste, lightly polish with 200-grit diamond pads, and seal prior to installation. The same GFRC blended mix can be used when doing more traditional finishes like polished and hard troweled cast in place concrete. It’s also a great starter mix design for wet-cast mixes. Add up to 25 lbs. of 3/8-in. aggregate or similar to extend the yield and reduce shrinkage.

For more on decorative concrete, visit ForConstructionPros.com/concrete/decorative.

Buddy Rhodes has been manufacturing concrete countertops, furniture, tiles, fireplace surrounds and architectural elements for discriminating designers, architects and homeowners nationwide over 20 years.

Lythic Polished Concrete Products offer a complete flooring solution with unique colloidal silica technology.

100% reactive silica ensures the concrete is chemically hardened prior to mechanical polishing. Use Lythic Densifiers, Protectors, and Cleaners for long lasting performance.

It is recommended to trowel the back of the piece, particularly if it needs to rest on or butt up against a flat surface. There is no need for perfection on the back side of the piece since the back will not be seen, but it is important to have a flat, smooth surface for installation.

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If blended correctly, your GFRC should spray out like wet splatter.

For more information, visit www.lythic.com

www.solomoncolors.com • www.lythic.com 800.624.0261

DECEMBER 2020

CONCRETE CONTRACTOR 31

12/8/20 11:19 AM

CONCRETE PAVEMENT

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BY PAUL JAWORSKI

Concrete Form Face Defects Take

SHAPE

The development of on-site, nondestructive tests for concrete pavement mixes is being increasingly adopted by state departments of transportation (DOTs) as a viable prediction of the compatibility between vibration variability and concrete mixture variabilities. The normal confusion in quantifying vibration’s effects has been identified and controlled by applying paving vibrator behavior constants, coupled with data collected from CFV systems, to apply to vibrator frequencies in commercial vibrator applications.

One thing is certain in the research that has come from preconstruction trials: an operator can’t use the same vibrator frequencies for 8-in. slump that he can on 4-in. slump concrete. More importantly, he certainly can’t solve surface face defect issues with a tool that behaves differently every time the concrete mix changes.

Photos provided by Minnich

O

ngoing research into limiting concrete form face surface defects with controlled frequency vibrators (CFVs) has shown great promise. Field investigations into limiting high frequency vibration to control the amount of concrete material separation in commercial concrete applications are using the same approach to limit the surface distresses in concrete pavements. Researchers have applied some common sense and solid clinical analysis to make pavement surfaces more durable.

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DESTRUCTIVE NATURE OF VIBRATOR FREQUENCY On a paving machine, vibrators are mounted on centers no greater than 16 in. to ensure enough gravitational forces (G-forces) for proper consolidation away from the vibrator head. The amplitude of the vibrator remains close to a constant value, regardless of vibrator speed and the off-center weights produced by different vibrator manufacturers are closely comparable. Vibrator frequency is isolated as a variable and its effects are studied both clinically and empirically.

The results of studies from state DOTs, federal highway reports and Portland Cement technical bulletins identify elevated vibrator frequencies as the culprit in reducing necessary air entrainment and causing aggregate

separation. Researchers at the National Concrete Pavement Technology Center at Iowa State University and the Bert Cooper Engineering Laboratory at Oklahoma State University have developed testing methods that use CFVs in the evaluation of mix/vibrator compatibility.

For the past 10 years, specifiers and agencies have adopted reduced vibrator frequency ranges of 5,000 vibrations per minute (vpm) to 8,000 vpm for concrete pavements as a standard practice.

COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS If it makes sense to limit vibrator frequencies to control issues with 0- to 1-in. slump pavement mixes, then applying lower frequencies to 8-in. slump in commercial applications is an elementary approach. The original vibrator frequency investigation that was used to write the ACI 309 Consolidation standards in 1970 suggested a 10,000 vpm frequency limit

Researchers have applied some common sense and solid clinical analysis to make pavement surfaces more durable.

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before the vibration separated 3.5-in. structural mixes.

It is not totally clear how the ACI guidance standards strayed from vibrator frequency control as the use of water reducers for pumpable mixes took slump values to 6-in. slump and beyond. The laborer of a concrete vibrator doesn’t realize that the same vibrator motor horsepower motor and head diameter that is about to be used will vary greatly from one manufacturer to another. The same vibrator model can vary from 11,000-17,000 vpm and will change frequencies, dependent on the concrete consistency. The frustration of vibrator operators is trying to vibrate variable concrete mixes with a variable vibrating tool. After stripping the forms, concrete structures that were pumped may end up needing to be patched, chipped and patched or torn out.

Most of the time a vibrator operator is blamed for poor consolidation results, when he has no control over the tool.

Researchers can look at load curves through the Bluetooth feature of one manufacturer’s CFV flex shaft model and evaluate the concrete mix.

Much like in concrete paving, because the dynamics of the CFV are controlled, there are inconsistencies in batching behaviors. In early trials, a significant distinction between batch uniformity and vibration has been observed, and the amount of water in re-tempered concrete, or in concrete with added water and chemical reducers, alters the vibrator/mix compatibility target.

In pavements, concrete mixes, batching practices and vibration are regulated. Although perfection is not guaranteed 100% of the time, when a CFV operator knows what a vibrator

PRE-CONSTRUCTION TRIALS What look like air pockets from undervibrated concrete to a contractor upon the stripping of forms is usually pockets of separated available water from overvibration of pumpable concrete mixes.

The effects of water movement from high frequency vibration (above 10,000 vpm) is in the initial stages but shows that available water is moved by vibrator frequency. The question is, what effect does frequency have on the concrete structure’s surfaces both in strength and in permeability.

There are several CFVs in the commercial space that are being used both in-house and in field trials. At pre-construction trial for constructability, vibrators that are controlled and range from 10,000 down to 6,000 vpm are being used to find better vibrator compatibility.

CFVs that can be manually set at a controlled frequency or operated by a cell phone/tablet are setting compatible speeds for construction.

Researchers can look at load curves through the Bluetooth feature of one manufacturer’s CFV flex shaft model and evaluate the concrete mix.

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CONC1220_32-33_ConcretePavement.indd 33

delivers every time, he can begin to look elsewhere in limiting the effects of vibration on concrete form surfaces.

One thing is certain in the research that has come from preconstruction trials: an operator can’t use the same vibrator frequencies for 8-in. slump that he can on 4-in. slump concrete. More importantly, he certainly can’t solve surface face defect issues with a tool that behaves differently every time the concrete mix changes.

There are smarter and smoother ways to address form face defects.

Paul Jaworski is the products manager at Minnich.

For more on the benefits of controlled frequency vibrators, visit ForConstructionPros. com/21198292.

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DECEMBER 2020

CONCRETE CONTRACTOR 33

12/8/20 11:22 AM

BY PATRICK HARRISON

BRINGING POLISHED CONCRETE UP TO SPEC Image provided by Patrick Harrison

The new ACI Polished Concrete Slab Finishes Specifications.

But first, why is a specification needed?

P

olished concrete slabs continue to grow in popularity, necessitating that the contractor has the methods to produce them in the highest consistent quality. Early polished concrete floors began in the 1990s but by 2019, polished concrete floors accounted for approximately 53.5% of the U.S. market share of the concrete floor coatings market in terms of revenue, according to Grand View Research. The increased use is fueled by the features polished concrete floors provide, such as high durability, long lifespan, easy maintenance, costeffectiveness, high light reflectivity and aesthetic appeal. As expected, this sector is projected to increase in the coming years.

Meeting this demand, the now available Specification for Polished Concrete Slab Finishes (ACI 310.1) identifies the minimum standards a polished concrete slab should meet.

The expectations of the architect/ engineer can be more easily met as there is a path for defining

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anticipated methods and results.

Sometimes, basic procedures such as cleaning the slab, can mean different methods to the architect/ engineer vs. the contractor. Using the new ACI 310.1 specification, there can be a consensus and the contractor can now prove what is outlined in a contract has been met.

Both sides now have a guideline for normal industry practice. As with all ACI standards, in future years the specification will be reviewed and updated as needed to reflect the requirements needed in the industry.

WHAT’S IN THE SPEC? Information is easy to find because it follows the standard three-part format: general, products, and execution.

Requirements are detailed for testing and inspection, quality control, quality assurance, evaluation, and both acceptance and protection of polished concrete slab finishes. The execution section covers, surface finish requirements, coloring, grinding and polishing, as well as repair.

The new specification recognizes that there are many variables for each project that must be identified. The architect/engineer’s document needs

NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE The American Concrete Institute’s (ACI) first specification for polished concrete slabs is now available on the ACI website. Produced by the joint ACI-ASCC Committee 310, the new Specification for Polished Concrete Slab Finishes (ACI 310.1) is a reference specification designed to provide minimum standards that an architect or engineer can apply to any polished concrete slab. The ACI 310.1 specification is applicable to both slabs-on-ground and suspended slabs.

When cited in the contract documents, it provides agreed upon standards between the contractor and the architect or engineer for the finished slab.

The architect/engineer can now reference the new ACI 310.1 specification in the contract documents and indicate that the polished concrete floors must be in compliance with this specification or can indicate more stringent requirements. This is why the document is termed a reference specification, as it provides a minimum starting point for polished concrete slabs. When referenced, this new specification is considered part of the contract documents between the owner and contractor, and it is important that every polishing contractor read through the specification to understand it.

Printed and digital formats of ACI 310.1 are available at concrete.org.

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

12/8/20 11:25 AM

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

CONC1220_34-35_PCUptoSpec.indd 35

Pat Harrison is a Vice President and Principal with Structural Services Inc.

For more information on polished concrete equipment, visit ForConstructionPros. com/concrete/decorative/ polishing-materials-equipment.

New Colors - New Bag Same Great Results H i g h q u ali ty , n on - fad i n g pi g men t 1 9 n ew colors - E as y color d os i n g C on v en i en t 1 0 # repu lpab le b ag s

Powdered Integral Color 1 BAG PER 2 YARDS

D i fferen t ty pes of fi n i s h i n g tech n i q u es an d cu ri n g meth od s w i ll alter th e fi n i s h ed appearan ce. A j ob - s i te s ample or tes t s lab s h ou ld b e d on e, u s i n g th e s peci fi ed materi als , as w ell as th e fi n i s h i n g an d cu ri n g tech n i q u es th at w i ll b e u s ed on th e proj ect. B atch - to- b atch u n i formi ty mu s t b e mai n tai n ed to prod u ce con s i s ten t color.

The new specification recommends requiring measurements of the aesthetics and defines how the data should be collected. This includes distinctiveness of image (DOI), which encompasses clarity and how well a slab surface was properly refined during the sequence of polishing steps, so there is a means to measure its quality. Gloss (reflectance) measurements show how much shine there is in the surface.

Measurements provide a more objective definition of the surface aesthetics. Haze is also defined in the document, which is often an indication of the inclusion of topical products to produce the aesthetic.

Currently, testing of polished concrete slabs is not consistent. Many contractors have not been collecting enough readings and are assuming that they’re achieving a certain measurable level of performance in the aesthetic. Contractors often are only testing a small mock-up area and then assuming they are reproducing the polished results with the same materials and techniques, without actually testing on the final slab. The newly released ACI 310.1 specification provides the framework for consistently testing throughout the day and how to report the results. The consistent testing on jobs also provides contractors with a measurable history of results to use in future bids.

The new ACI 310.1 specification also identifies the tests that must be conducted and the locations for each test.

Also outlined is when to perform the various types of testing. For

contractor has measurable numbers to prove success.

ACI 310.1 was designed through the joint efforts of ACI and the American Society of Concrete Contractors (ASCC). ASCC is currently working on a guide that reflects the standards in this specification. Following the format of the new ACI 310.1 specification, it will provide commentary and explanation in any areas that where a contractor may need additional guidance. The ASCC guide to ACI 310.1 is expected to be published in mid-2021.

T h e colors on th i s color ch art are approx i mate, u s i n g lab oratory s amples of trow eled con crete mad e from a 6 - s ack mi x , u s i n g T y pe I I g ray portlan d cemen t, s i li ca s an d , an d w ater to ach i ev e a 4 i n ch s lu mp. D i fferen t colors i n cemen t, as w ell as s ome s an d s an d w ater con ten t w i ll res u lt i n d i fferen t colors .

TESTING

example, at least two weeks before owner’s possession, testing must include specular gloss in accordance with ASTM D523, DOI in accordance with ASTM 5767, and haze in accordance with ASTM D4039. The new ACI 310.1 specification also indicates the testing locations for each type of test, but the designer of record will need to identify minimum requirements for DOI, gloss and haze. By providing guidance on which tests to perform and when, the document delivers a roadmap to ensure the slab is meeting the requirements outlined in the contract.

Both testing and reporting communication is important to ensure all parties—the owner, architect/engineer and contractor— are aware that the slab is meeting the quality agreed upon. It’s a winwin situation: the owner is ensured a high-quality product and the

*Caution: C arb on B lack can n eg ate th e amou n t of en trai n ed ai r i n th e con crete mi x . D u e to th e parti cle s i z e of C arb on , i t h as th e ten d en cy to d i s s i pate ou t of con crete ov er ti me. S eal th e con crete w i th a premi u m s ealer to protect th e s u rface color.

n

to spell out project specific requirements, such as aggregate exposure and the expectations of the aesthetic.

The included mandatory requirements checklist and optional requirements checklist guides the architect/engineer in customizing the specification to individual project requirements, whether it may be defining the specular gloss of polished slab finish, adding color or requiring additional testing.

1 BAG PER 1 YARD

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S R I 7 1

www.brickform.com • (800) 624-0261 • www.solomoncolors.com

DECEMBER 2020

CONCRETE CONTRACTOR 35

12/8/20 11:25 AM

BY NICK WHITE

How Does It Come Off?

H

TIPS & TRICKS FOR HARD GOODS FLOORING REMOVAL

ard goods such as wood, laminate flooring, ceramic tiles and quarry tiles are usually applied directly to a concrete floor using adhesives.

When removing this type of flooring, it is particularly important to have the right tools for the job. No two floor preparation applications are the same. Each facility will have a different combination of floor covering, adhesive and substrate condition. Taking the time to make the right choices will be integral to the success of the job.

HARD GOODS REMOVAL ACCESSORIES While machine choice is important in hard goods removal, carefully consider what tools and blades are required to effectively remove the covering and the adhesive underneath. Typically, contractors use shanks to remove hard goods.

The angle of the tool allows them to slide it underneath the floor and lift larger pieces, rather than chipping off small areas, reducing removal times without compromising on accuracy.

Adapt methods for each floor covering. For example, when removing wooden floors, use a scarifier equipped with a cutting blade to make cuts across the surface. This allows you to lift the wooden floor in sections and avoid splitting the material. Consider where to start

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When removing wooden floors, use a scarifier equipped with a cutting blade to make cuts across the surface.

removing material. For example, there may be expansion joints in a concrete floor so approaching a floor diagonally could avoid the tools catching the lip of a joint and causing damage.

Photo Credit: National Flooring Equipment

REMOVING TRICKY, STICKY ADHESIVES Some adhesive can be particularly tricky to remove. So, once the hard good has been lifted, switch to a sharper blade and increase the angle between the machine and the floor.

Depending on the machine, changing the pitch can either be done manually or with a lever.

Changing the blade and its angle enables you to peel the adhesive off the concrete floor more effectively.

Select the right blade by assessing the material on the surface; a normal blade can be used to cut hard deposits off the floor, but a razor blade is needed for sticky substances.

USING THE RIGHT BLADE It’s vital that all remaining adhesive is removed before the new floor is laid, or it can ruin the aesthetic of the new flooring. However, it’s very easy to damage the concrete underneath if the correct blade isn’t used. To make sure you get it right, use a blade at a shallow angle and making small adjustments until the correct pitch is found for optimum efficiency.

Bear in mind that there are also different recommendations

for different types of flooring. For example, if a wooden covering is present, use a bevel-up bevel-down blade, which has a rounded edge at the bottom as this causes less damage to the floor.

Using the wrong blade or angling it incorrectly to remove a covering or an adhesive will not only damage the floor, it could also affect the machine and its tools. If the blade is digging into the floor because the pitch is incorrect, the blade will wear more quickly. If the operator hits something, it can cause the blade to snap, damaging the machine. If you don’t use enough pitch, the machine will jump over the flooring without removing it, as it lacks the downward pressure on the blade.

Hard goods are an extremely popular choice of floor covering, but contractors can easily become stuck when removing it. Remember, it’s not all about machine choice— the tools and how you use them are equally as important.

Written by Nick White, UK and Ireland country manager, National Flooring Equipment.

For more on removal, visit ForConstructionPros.com/rental/ general-tool/floor-strippers.

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

12/8/20 11:29 AM

by

L

www.superabrasive.com

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SPECIFICATION GUIDE: DUST COLLECTION

18 TOOLS TO CLEAR THE AIR Technical information to help you choose your next dust collector or vacuum 1, 2, 3. MINNICH’S DUST COLLECTION SYSTEM The Minnich dust collection system features Venturi-style suction to collect dust where the drill steel impacts the concrete, preventing the dust from entering the air. The dust collector meets the requirements for dowel pin drills of the OSHA Table 1 final respirable crystalline silica standard when used with an appropriate filter. The unit can be retrofitted to any Minnich on-grade, on-slab, machine-mounted or utility drill model and competitor dowel drilling units.

ForConstructionPros.com/10892273 Model

Dimensions (LxWxH)

Weight

Power Output

Voltage

Phases

Air Flow (cfm)

Max Vacuum

Dust Collection System - Single Canister

18” x 18” x 48”

198 lbs.

n/a

n/a

n/a

50 cfm

60 psi

Model

Dimensions (LxWxH)

Weight

Power Output

Voltage

Phases

Air Flow (cfm)

Max Vacuum

Dust Collection System - Double Canister

18” x 40” x 48”

390 lbs.

n/a

n/a

n/a

100 cfm

60 psi

Model

Dimensions (LxWxH)

Weight

Power Output

Voltage

Phases

Air Flow (cfm)

Max Vacuum

Dust Collection System - Triple Canister

18” x 58” x 48”

598 lbs.

n/a

n/a

n/a

150 cfm

60 psi

4. RUWAC’S PATRIOT PRO BAGGER VACUUM, PART OF THE REDLINE PRO SERIES The Patriot Pro Bagger has everything you need for large platform surface preparation applications.

As part of Redline Pro series, this vacuum features a direct bagging system and is equipped with Ruwac’s MicroClean primary filtration with a three-year filter guarantee, secondary HEPA filtration and an external mechanical filter cleaning mechanism. Made in the USA. ForConstructionPros.com/21200725 Model

Dimensions (LxWxH)

Weight

Power Output

Voltage

Phases

Air Flow

Max Vacuum

Patriot Pro

38” x 27” x 69”

290 lbs.

6.4 hp

220

Single and/or 3-phase

470 cfm

97” of static water lift

5. THE RUWAC SLURRY PRO The Slurry Pro is one of the industry’s most powerful engineered slurry management solution with 32 gallons of capacity, an on-board 40 GPM Tsurumi discharge pump and optional 32-in. or 42-in. wide squeegees. The goal was to design a slurry vacuum that simplifies slurry recovery for increased production and to minimize labor.

ForConstructionPros.com/21200747

Model

Dimensions (LxWxH)

Weight

Power Output

Voltage

Phases

Air Flow

Max Vacuum

SlurryPro

50” x 31.5” x 59”

270 lbs.

3.2 hp

110

Single

200 cfm

98” of static water lift

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6. THE RUWAC WORKHORSE WB307 VACUUM The WB307 is a 13-hp Honda propane-powered vacuum proudly made in the USA. Built with Ruwac’s Max Flo multistage turbine system, exclusive “bulletproof” oval housing design, oversized MicroClean primary filtration and includes a continuous pull direct bagging system. Designed to be paired with mid-size propane powered surface prep equipment when electrical power is not available.

ForConstructionPros.com/21200752 Model

Dimensions (LxWxH)

Weight

Power Output

Voltage

Phases

Air Flow

Max Vacuum

Workhorse WB307

38” x 27” x 67”

315 lbs.

13 hp

Propane

n/a

300 cfm

84” of static water lift

7. EDCO’S VAC-200 VACUUM EDCO’s Vortex 200 meets and exceeds OSHA’s silica dust regulations while solving many indoor/outdoor applications involving construction equipment, woodshops, drywall installs, and other industrial cleaning jobs. The unique outer shell will not break. The shell’s cast-composite material has a lifetime no-crack guarantee. The exclusive “MicroClean” filter supplies 12 ft. of filtration and is guaranteed for three years. Built-in HEPA 2.0 filters clean airborne contaminates to maximum filtration level of 99.97%.

ForConstructionPros.com/21022969

Model

Dimensions (LxWxH)

Weight (lbs)

Power Output

Voltage

Phases

Air Flow

Max Vacuum

Vortex 200 Vacuum System

32” x 21” x 35”

99 lbs.

3.2 hp

115

Single

200 cfm

n/a

8. MILWAUKEE TOOL’S SECOND GENERATION M12 HAMMERVAC UNIVERSAL DUST EXTRACTOR The Milwaukee M12 HAMMERVAC Universal Dust Extractor Kit is an onboard universal dust extractor solution for eliminating dust when drilling with any SDS Plus rotary hammer. The universal side handle allows users to operate it with any SDS Plus hammer in the industry: corded, cordless, Milwaukee Brand, or other. The AUTOPULSE filter cleaning mechanism meets OSHA Table 1 compliance by cleaning the filter automatically after use.

ForConstructionPros.com/21173697

Model

Dimensions (LxWxH)

Weight

Power Output

Voltage

Phases

Air Flow

Max Vacuum

M12 HAMMERVAC Universal Dust Extractor, Model #2509-22

19” x 8.47” x 3.15”

4.7 lbs.

n/a

12

n/a

n/a

n/a

9. MILWAUKEE’S 8-GALLON DUST EXTRACTOR The Milwaukee 8-Gallon Dust Extractor provides OSHA compliance for the regulation on respirable crystalline silica dust (29 CFR 1926.1153). An automatic filter cleaning mechanism helps maintain consistent airflow and suction at 148 cfm in tough dust-producing applications. The extractor’s two step filtration system includes a HEPA filter, which captures 99.97% of all particles greater than 0.3 microns.

ForConstructionPros.com/20868165 Model

Dimensions (LxWxH)

Weight

Power Output

Voltage

Phases

Air Flow

Max Vacuum

Milwaukee 8-Gallon Dust Extractor, Model #8960-20

22.2 x 22.2 x 15.2

32 lbs.

120 AC, 12 amps

120

Single stage motor

148 cfm

92” of static water lift

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SPECIFICATION GUIDE: DUST COLLECTION 10. VS220 DUST-COLLECT-R™ DUST COLLECTION SYSTEM General Equipment Company’s VS220 DUST-COLLECT-R™ dust collection system offers an effective dust control system balancing power, performance and utility. Featuring a 99% efficient 0.5 micron pre-filter and a 99.97% efficient 0.3 micro HEPA secondary filter, the VS220 captures fine dust particles, allowing users to comply with OSHA respirable crystalline silica exposure regulations (OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1153). The unit includes separate 2- and 3-in. diameter dust port connections for either simultaneous or independent operation.

ForConstructionPros.com/20974042 Model

Dimensions (LxWxH)

Weight

Power Output

Voltage

Phases

Air Flow

Max Vacuum

VS220 Dust-Collect-R

34.5” x 19” x 35.3”

100 lbs.

2.6 hp

115

Single

220 cfm

110” of static water lift

11. PULSE-BAC VACUUM SYSTEMS’ PRO-SERIES LINE OF VACUUMS The PRO Series is the newest addition to the Pulse-Bac line-up. The successor to the legendary 1000 Series, it has new features designed to improve usability and durability.

Pulse-Bac solves the problem of filter clogging with the company’s Automatic Pulse-Clean Technology that automatically cleans the filter while you work. The PRO311 Bagger features the Longopac Endless Bagging System and the Easy Empty Valve.

ForConstructionPros.com/21047209 Model

Dimensions (LxWxH)

Weight

Power Output

Voltage

Phases

Air Flow

Max Vacuum

PRO 311 Baggeer

26.5” x 26.5” x 60”

136 lbs.

n/a

110

Single

311 cfm

70” of static water lift

ALL

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12. SUPERABRASIVE’S ELITE SERIES: THE LAVINA V25E DUST EXTRACTOR Powerful dust extractor from the new Lavina Elite Series, equipped with threestage dust collection, with a new conical filter made of the best filter material, HEPA H13 filter, and manual filter cleaning. The three bypass motors work independently to provide optimal performance with no downtime. Ideal for use with 20/25/30–inch grinders. Offered in 230V and 115V. ForConstructionPros.com/21135226 Model

Dimensions (LxWxH)

Weight

Power Output

Voltage

Phases

Air Flow

Max Vacuum

Lavina V25E

37” x 23” x 63”

209 lbs.

4.9 hp

230

Single

386 cfm

100.4” of static water lift

13. SUPERABRASIVE’S ELITE SERIES: THE LAVINA V20E DUST EXTRACTOR A compact Lavina Elite dust extractor equipped with two bypass motors, a new conical filter made of the best filter material, HEPA H13 filter, and manual filter cleaning. Offered in 115V and 230V. Ideal for use with small 14/16/20-inch grinders.

ForConstructionPros.com/21135226

Model

Dimensions (LxWxH)

Weight

Power Output

Voltage

Phases

Air Flow

Max Vacuum

Lavina V20E

22 x 23 x 55

176 lbs.

2.6 hp

115

Single

194 cfm

86.7” of static water lift

S I GNE

ND

BU I LT

IN

EQUIPPED WITH

SILICA STANDARD TABLE 1 OSHA Silica Dust Standard 29 CFR 1926.1153

E R I CA

DE

A

AM

D

Durable Steel Construction and American Made Dependability make Pulse-Bac Vacuums the choice of professionals.

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SPECIFICATION GUIDE: DUST COLLECTION 14. SUPERABRASIVE’S ELITE SERIES: LAVINA V25GE DUST EXTRACTOR

1

This propane-powered dust extractor requires no cords, no generators, no hassle. Ideal for use with 25-in. and 30-in. grinders. Features all metal construction with large dust chamber, upgraded conical filter made of the best filter material, a HEPA H13 filter, and manual filter cleaning. Easy to use and transport.

ForConstructionPros.com/21135226 Model

Dimensions (LxWxH)

Weight

Power Output

Voltage

Phases

Air Flow

Max Vacuum

Lavina V25GE

37” x 23” x 63”

440 lbs.

14.5 hp

Propane

n/a

293 cfm

120” of static water lift

15. THE HUSQVARNA T 10000 INDUSTRIAL DUST EXTRACTOR The T 10000 is capable of handling grinding dust and demolition materials in a wide variety of applications. Equipped with three tested and certified HEPA-class H13 filters ensuring clean air exhaust. The primary sock-style pre-filters provide long, uninterrupted service and can be cleaned efficiently from outside the tank via Jet Pulse air pressure. The Longopac bag system ensures simple, dust-free bag changes.

ForConstructionPros.com/21203716 Model

Dimensions (LxWxH)

Weight

Power Output

Voltage

Phases

Air Flow

Max Vacuum

T 10000

55” x 29” x 68”

740 lbs.

16.9 hp

480

Three

480 cfm

120” of static water lift / 28 kPa

16. THE HUSQVARNA S 26 The S 26 is suitable for building, grinding, plaster and concrete dust. Equipped with two tested and certified HEPA H13 filters. Features include Jet Pulse pre-filter cleaning, hour counter, vacuum meter for filter control. The non-marking wheels are puncture free and lock in the front. Longopac bag system ensures simple, dust-free bag changes.

ForConstructionPros.com/20983546

Model

Dimensions (LxWxH)

Weight

Power Output

Voltage

Phases

Air Flow

Max Vacuum

S 26

26” x 21.5” x 50.2”

105 lbs.

3.2 hp

120

Single

258 cfm

100” of static water lift / 24 kPa

17. HUSQVARNA’S A 2000 PORTABLE AIR CLEANER The A 2000 is one of the most advanced portable air cleaners available on the market. It is tested and certified for use as both an air cleaner and a negative air machine. The reliable filter system and design is perfectly matched to operate with HEPA class H13 filters. The air cleaner puts out superior air quality—whether handling concrete dust, fine sanding dust, or gypsum dust.

ForConstructionPros.com/21203790 Model

Dimensions (LxWxH)

Weight

Power Output

Voltage

Phases

Air Flow

Max Vacuum

A 2000

28.5” x 16.7” x 31.9”

150 lbs.

0.8 hp

120

Single

600/1,200 cfm

n/a

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18. BOSCH’S GDE18V-26D SDS-PLUS BULLDOG MOBILE DUST EXTRACTOR KIT This 18V mobile dust extractor combined with a CORE18V compact battery allows users of the Bosch 18V D-handle Bulldog to control dust during drilling applications at the jobsite to achieve maximum mobility plus runtime. The GDE18V-26D Mobile Dust extractor provides a true cordless solution when used with the 18V 1-in. GBH18V-26D Bulldog rotary hammer. It features a HEPA filter, helping users move toward compliance with OSHA silica dust regulations. It is also compatible with the corded 11255VSR, GBH2-28L and RH228VC Bulldog rotary hammers. The attachment comes with two Dust-Eye options (one small, one large) and a four-inch extension.

The dust canister capacity can accommodate up to 20 holes using a 1/2-in. diameter bit, drilling two inch deep into concrete. The kit features a CORE18V 4.0 Ah compact battery, which have next-gen Li-ion 21700 cell technology for optimal performance in a lightweight, high-power battery. Each GBA18V40 single-layer battery matches the power from the original two-layer 4.0 Ah battery with improved performance per cell.

ForConstructionPros.com/21203989 Model

Dimensions (LxWxH)

Weight

Power Output

Voltage

Phases

Air Flow

Max Vacuum

Bulldog Mobile Dust Extractor Kit

13.6” long

3.64 lbs.

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

Idea File NEW OZTEC BP-45 Oztec is proud to introduce the newest edition to its industry leading backpack vibrators.

The New BP-45 adds a powerful 2HP option, capable of running vibrator heads up to 2” in diameter, in a lightweight configuration. This backpack maintains Oztec’s Job-Proven Rugged design. Built to withstand the demands of concrete construction sites with a sturdy steel frame, dependable Honda engines, fully adjustable padding system and the highest quality components, all designed for easy maintenance and long life.

The BP-45 is an option between Oztec’s lightest weight model, the BP-35, and Oztec’s most powerful option, the BP-50a. As with all of Oztec’s power units, the BP-45 includes our patented Quick Disconnect for easy interchangeability with Oztec flexible shafts and vibrator heads.

New RubberHeads® with Optional Extension Piece In December of 2019 Oztec Industries, Inc. reintroduced its 1-1/8” & 1-1/2” RubberHeads®. Both of these heads are available with an optional rubber coated extension piece. With Oztec extension pieces, you can greatly reduce the chance of the vibrator head becoming entangled in the rebar. These heads were originally designed to meet the needs of the construction of the Hood Canal Floating Bridge in Washington State, where over 30,000 cubic yards of concrete were poured in heavily congested rebar without a single head getting entangled in the rebar.

Oztec RubberHeads®, ranging in size from 1-1/8” to 2-3/4”, not only protect epoxy coated rebar and delicate form faces, but also produce better consolidated concrete and are job proven to be more efficient and effective than any other vibrator head on the market!

Oztec Industries, Inc. 65 Channel Drive · Port Washington, NY 11050 1-800-533-9055 - 516-883-8857 - Fax 516-883-7857

www.oztec.com

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

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CONCRETE CONTRACTOR 43

12/8/20 11:34 AM

Idea File

by

NEW POLISHING RINGS Superabrasive’s new line of ring tools feature a thick foam layer for unmatched flexibility and superior polish. The rings can be ordered with your favorite Lavina Hybrids and Resins, including V-Harr, Waffel, Nato, and HD. Offered in 9” and 13” size, with the standard Lavina Quick Change attachment. www.superabrasive.com

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www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

12/9/20 1:13 PM

Idea File

REVOLUTIONARY SAFETY CAP FOR STEEL BRACKETS NOW AVAILABLE Construction worksite safety is a top priority for anyone who works in the construction industry. With nearly 6.5 million people working at approximately 250,000 construction sites across the nation on any given day, the possibility of injury or even death is higher for our industry than any other industry.

OSHA statistics show that 61% of construction accidents were due to impalement from rebar or other protruding metal hazards.

With such a high rate of injury, and the amount of years that these type of injuries have occurred on worksites, you would think that there would be bullet proof solutions available. Everyone has seen the infamous orange rebar caps strewn everywhere on every construction site. It’s almost so common you don’t even see them anymore. Well, what about safety caps for “other than rebar” protruding metal hazards? There are many types of steel hazards like column base post brackets, knife plates, steel connectors, and other type of protruding custom steel brackets.

OSHA’s construction standard, 29 CFR 1926.701(b), states: “all protruding reinforcing steel, onto and into which employees could fall, shall be guarded to eliminate the hazard of impalement.” The key words are “to eliminate the hazard of impalement.” Exposure to impalement is always a consideration when employees are working above rebar or construction protrusions.

The critical element when evaluating any job activity is the recognition or identification of impalement hazards and the exposure to employees. As you know, construction activities constantly change and contractors must provide protection from impalement hazards.

There is now a first of its kind OSHA approved safety cap for steel brackets, knife plates, forming stakes and other steel blades. The J-CAP® safety cover is now available for purchase for construction projects where these metal hazards are prevalent. It is currently only available directly through the manufacturer, J-CAT Safety Products through their website, jcatsafetyproducts.com.

To learn more about this new innovation in safety caps for concrete construction professionals download their white paper here.

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

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S A F E T Y P R O D U C T S , INC.

DECEMBER 2020

CONCRETE CONTRACTOR 45

12/9/20 1:14 PM

Idea File TRAFFIC COATING MEMBRANE

PECORA-DECK HB1000 FAST CURING, LOW-ODOR, INDUSTRIAL GRADE POLYURETHANE COATING

PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT SUN

WATER

SNOW/ICE

CHEMICALS

n FAST CURE ALLOWING FOR FASTER RETURN TO SERVICE n HIGH IMPACT AND ABRASION RESISTANCE FOR USE IN HEAVY DUTY VEHICULAR AND PEDESTRIAN AREAS n HIGH-MIL APPLICATION WITHOUT OFF-GASSING, BUBBLING OR SWELLING OF THE COATING UPON CURE n LOW-ODOR MEANS IT IS SAFE FOR INTERIOR APPLICATIONS WITH ADJACENT OCCUPIED SPACE n FIELD TINTABLE AND INTEGRAL AGGREGATE OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE n COMPLIMENTS THE EXISTING PECORA-DECK LINE OF PRODUCTS

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT YOUR PECORA SALES REPRESENTATIVE

PECORA.COM

Simpson Strong-Tie Company Inc. SET3G17-C

The best adhesive performs in the worst conditions.

Learn more at www.maxusacorp.com/rebar_tying_tools

WWW.MAXUSACORP.COM | 800.223.4293 |

The next generation of Simpson Strong-Tie epoxy adhesive is more reliable and versatile. The high-strength SET-3G™ anchoring adhesive can be installed in extreme concrete temperatures (from 40°F to 100°F) as well as in dry or water-filled holes in concrete to provide the strength and performance needed for adhesive anchor installations on your projects. ®

Rely on the code-listed SET-3G epoxy for your next project.

Visit go.strongtie.com/set3g or call us at (800) 999-5099.

© 2020

Code Listed: ICC-ES ESR-4057

The TwinTier RB401T-E is the world's only cordless rebar tying tool designed exclusively for slab work. No more bending to tie RB401T-E miles and miles of slab. This tool allows users to simply stand-up and tie, with no strain on their back. The tool’s triggerless technology allows end users to tie rebar by simply placing the contact SCAN TO LEARN MORE arm into rebar cross sections and pushing down.

The RB401T-E forms strong and secure ties on #3 x #3 up to At 3-1/2 ft. tall, and 11 #6 x #6 rebar lbs., this lightweight combinations. cordless rebar tying tool can form a tie in half a second. To accommodate the height of various end users, the tool’s handles can be adjusted to two positions.

46 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR

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www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

12/9/20 1:16 PM

Idea File

s

Let Tekla Structures Help You Avoid Hidden Dangers Sometimes the scariest hazards for a concrete contractor are the unseen dangers to your bottom line like inaccurate estimates. A lack of confidence in your estimates can lead to non-competitive bids or worst, a winning bid that doesn’t result in achieving your target margin.

Visit www.tek.la/ hiddendangers to learn how Tekla Structures can help.

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

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DECEMBER 2020

CONCRETE CONTRACTOR 47

12/9/20 1:17 PM

Idea File A Perfect FUSION of Protection for Concrete

Manufactured at our state-ofthe-art facility in Springfield, Illinois, Brickform sealers use the highest quality materials.

Trust Brickform solventand water-based sealers to enhance color, resist staining, and protect your hard work.

Quality sealers, coatings, and cure and seals.

www.brickform.com 800-624-0261

NEED TO GET A CONCRETE REPAIR PROJECT DONE FAST? A Hydrodemolition robot can complete the job 25x faster than jackhammers.

The Temporary Surface Protection Specialists at Skudo understand demanding project requirements where meeting owner's expectations and timeline is paramount. That is why they have recently introduced the Skudo FUSION Protection Solution for the harshest construction environments.

The result of consultation with leading general contractors across North America, the FUSION Solution isn't actually a new Skudo product, but rather the powerful combination of two of Skudo's best-selling products for tough construction environments: The Skudo Heavy Traffic (HT) Commercial System and SkudoBoard.

Using both of these durable products together creates an unyielding layer of extremely high-impact protection for concrete surfaces against machinery, heavy equipment, general construction traffic, and more.

Visit Skudo Online www.skudousa.com for more details

Distributed by:

Brokk Inc. | 1-360-794-1277 info@brokkinc.com | www.brokk.com

QUIKRETE® 5000 CONCRETE MIX DOES THE JOB IN COLD WEATHER When cold weather hits, projects don’t stop.

QUIKRETE® 5000 is the proven concrete mix for fall and winter conditions. A 5000 PSI, commercial-grade blend of stone or gravel, sand and cement specially designed for high early strength and rapid strength gains, QUIKRETE® 5000 is the ideal concrete mix for cold weather applications. With a walk-on time of 10 to 12 hours, contractors can count on QUIKRETE® 5000 for getting concrete projects like slabs, sidewalks, driveways, footings, steps, columns, walls and patios done in any weather.

www.quikrete.com 48 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR

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d

Idea File INDEX ADVERTISER ..................... PAGE American Concrete Institute ...................................7, 49 Brokk Inc. ................................................................22, 48 Caterpillar Dealer Network* .......................................17 Curb Roller Mfg. LLC .............................................25, 49 Freud America Diablo .............................................5, 44 J-CAT Safety Products, Inc. ...................................40, 45

Visit ForConstructionPros.com/ concrete for all your latest Concrete news and products!

Ligchine International Corp. ...................................2, 47 Max USA Corp .......................................................23, 46 Minnich Manufacturing .................................................9 Oztec Industries Inc. ..............................................43, 52 Pecora Corporation ...............................................33, 46 Pulse-Bac Vacuum Systems LLC ...........................41, 46 Quikrete..................................................................13, 48 SafeBasements Inc. .....................................................40 Simpson Strong-Tie Co., Inc. ................................46, 51

The Contractor’s Guide to Quality Concrete Construction

Skudo USA Inc. ......................................................29, 48 Solomon Colors ...............................................31, 35, 48 Superabrasive Inc ..................................................37, 44 Trimble Solutions USA...........................................21, 47 * Denotes Regional ad

The fourth edition of the best-selling Contractor’s Guide to Quality Concrete Construction is now available in printed and digital formats.

Published jointly by ACI and ASCC, this guide is now

pages o er

00 pages longer than the pre ious edition and includes full color photos and illustrations, a new, easier-to-read layout, and substantial content updates. A summary review questions, and an additional recommended reading list accompany each of the

chapters. To learn more

about the new Contractor’s Guide

CURB ROLLER MANUFACTURING Take your curb & gutter game to the next level! The Curb Roller lets you shape 2X faster than traditional methods.

• Easy to use • Interchangeable custom drum sizes • 50% speed and production increase

to Quality Concrete Construction, contact ACI at concrete.org, or ASCC at ascconline.org.

ritten by and for contractors and referenced by many licensing authorities this guide details pro en practices to produce uality concrete construction.

concrete.org

ascconline.org

www.curbroller.com www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

CONC1220_44-49_IdeaFile.indd 49

DECEMBER 2020

CONCRETE CONTRACTOR 49

12/9/20 1:18 PM

THE LAST PLACEMENT

»

BY BRAD HUMPHREY

A Winning Pre-Presentation

T

he Super Bowl, a one-day, billion-dollar juggernaut is a perfect example of how teamwork, preparation and execution can all come together. The preparation of a disciplined champion in sports provides an apt comparison for contractors competing to win work. Likewise, the contractor must commit to a flawless “pre-presentation” regimen of studying schematics, drawings, specifications, personalities, needs, expectations, tendencies, etc. The turnaround time involved with bidding a job, much less planning for a presentation, is often very brief. The urgency projected by the customer for our “best shot” today can move contractors to use template-based costs, resulting in a fast-assembled bid that overlooks critical details—details that might have made the difference in winning the project. Let’s explore some of the more human aspects of preparing a winning presentation.

The general scope. This first aspect is for the contractor and estimators to gain an overall picture of the project: how the project is laid out, where important boundaries are noted, where the site is located, what sort of visibility the project affords, etc. Getting a visual of the overall scope of the project provides greater clarity of what is at stake, what is at risk, and what the final successful project will look like.

Another brief, but important aspect of this first consideration is the possibility that the contractor might choose not to prepare a bid and/or presentation.

Too many examples exist of contractors who prepared their bids and presentations for work that realistically they should have never attempted to win.

Needs and wants. This aspect recognizes the drawings or jobsite limitations and allowances for the project but it also recognizes that customers might need something that isn’t always spelled out on a drawing or captured in the RFQ. Understanding the owner

1

2

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requires having some relationship with the owner.

• What do you really want to see on this project?

• How would you like to see the work completed by a contractor?

• Are there any unique traits or characteristics about this project that you would like to see in place?

• Is there anything currently on the site that you would like to see maintained or removed?

• Do you have some overall look that you want to establish or maintain?

A construction contractor must commit to a flawless “prepresentation” regimen of studying schematics, drawings, specifications, personalities, needs, expectations, tendencies, etc., during phase one of preparing a winning presentation.

3

Review the known facts.

“Facts” represents every detail on a drawing, number on a specification sheet or requirement provided by the owner. Don’t be surprised if gathering all of the these is harder than you think and it’s here where the “devil in the details” pays off. A quick skim (as opposed to a detailed analysis) for such facts can result in a contractor losing a job—or worse, winning the job but still losing in the end when they perform the project at a financial loss. Cost codes, accuracy of square footage, linear takeoffs, crew productivity rates, material needs and costs, etc., are all facts contractors regularly draw on to pull together the perfect bid, leading to the winning presentation.

4

Develop the “game plan.”

While the third aspect of preparation might represent the “Xs & Os” of the facts, this fourth aspect requires the human element. While an actual and formal presentation might not be required, successful contractors still prepare to verbally walk their customers through their bid, ensuring greater understanding and taking advantage of every opportunity to promote their company’s unique selling proposition.

The dress rehearsal. As crazy as this might sound, every successful contractor I know who is serious about landing work conducts a dress rehearsal. It is here that the “bugs” of inconsistency are worked out. This is the opportunity to hear how the presenters actually sound when they try to voice important building terms and phrases. Don’t be afraid to capture it on video for review. Taping your rehearsal gives you the advantage of reviewing the effort, seeing for yourself “the good, the bad and the ugly.”

Final touches and edits.

Be honest about the adjustments or edits you can make to strengthen the presentation. Adjust small things such as adding a timeline to your discussion of the building phases. Larger adjustments might include determining the actual order of who is presenting, add another employee, or perhaps switch out a presenter. Recognize where the actual presentation will take place. Will the presentation require a Power Point and screen? Will you be using handouts? How many people will be in your audience?

Making the “winning presentation” requires much preparation. While not every presentation will result in victory, it is critical that a contractor prepare to win every project.

5

6

Adapted from the original work. Read the full article at ForConstructionPros. com/11326876.

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

12/8/20 11:45 AM

Titen Turbo You’ve got to drive it to believe it. ™

Reliable installation. Less torque. Superior holding power. Meet the Titen Turbo, Turbo™, the next-generation concrete and masonry screw anchor from Simpson Strong-Tie. Its revolutionary Torque Reduction Channel traps dust where it can’t obstruct the thread action, drastically reducing binding, stripping or snapping.

For a fast, easy and high-strength fastening solution, try our new Titen Turbo screw anchor. Visit go.strongtie.com/titenturbo or call us at (800) 999-5099 to learn more. ©2020

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Simpson Strong-Tie Company Inc. TNT20

12/8/20 11:45 AM

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12/8/20 11:45 AM