ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician - Grade I Practice Exam

When should temperature testing be conducted on concrete?

1. After mixing

2. Before pouring

3. Before and after mixing

4. During pouring

The correct answer is: After mixing

Temperature testing is an essential part of quality control in concrete production. Conducting temperature testing after mixing is critical because it provides an understanding of the concrete's temperature at a point where the mix components have combined, allowing for better assessment and management of its expected behavior during placement. Testing after mixing allows for immediate adjustments, such as implementing cooling or heating measures if the temperature is outside of the desired range, which can affect the concrete's setting time and overall performance. It ensures that the concrete will cure correctly and achieve its intended strength. While testing before pouring is also important and can provide insights on the conditions prior to placement, the most critical period for temperature checking is indeed after mixing, to ensure that all factors related to components and their interactions are accounted for just before the concrete is placed. This practice helps prevent issues that can arise from temperature variations that impact hydration and setting time.