What is BS 1881-206 – Determination of strain in concrete about?
BS 1881 is a British Standard series that discusses methods for testing of concrete. The main aim of the BS 1881 series is to provide best industry guidance on tests and devices to be used to determine whether your concrete and concrete products are fit for purpose.
BS 1881-206 is the 206th part of the series that gives recommendations on methods and devices which can be used to determine strain in concrete. Some devices measure a property directly related to strain in the gauge(e.g. electrical resistance gauges) whereas others actually measure displacement, which can be used to determine strain using a known base length(e.g. displacement transducers). References to strain gauges in BS 1881-206 include both types of device. The use of the following devices is described:
- Mechanical (including mechanical/optical)
- Electrical resistance (metal and alloy elements)
- Vibrating wire (acoustic)
- Electrical displacement transducers
Who is BS 1881-206 – Determination of strain in concrete for?
BS 1881-206 on the determination of strain in concrete in relevant to:
- Manufacturers of concrete and concrete products
- Construction industry
- Civil engineers
- Technical experts dealing with cement and concrete technology
- Cement manufacturing companies
- Quality control and testing personnel
Why should you use BS 1881-206 – Determination of strain in concrete?
A strain gauge measures the strain in the gauge length only. Characteristics and limitations of various devices and systems must be carefully examined before choosing the most appropriate, owing to the different methods of application of the devices. In this regard, BS 1881-206 describes several well-tried and accepted methods of measuring strain in concrete.
BS 1881-206 walks you through the common types of strain gauge and their use, along with guidance on making the right choice of device based on the type of test to be undertaken.
Thus, by accurately determining the strain with BS 1881-206-compliant methods and devices, you can evaluate whether or not your products and materials are fit for purpose.
Adopting BS 1881-206, is particularly beneficial when it comes to material testing for quality control, to determine whether the materials can contribute to the overall concrete strength, durability and performance when exposed to stress and loads.
