SSC JE 2023: BMC-What is Steam Curing of Concrete?

What is steam curing of concrete?

Steam curing of concrete involves curing concrete components using water vapor. This curing process takes place either under regular atmospheric pressure or under high-pressure steam conditions. The utilization of steam curing is favored when there’s a requirement for quicker development of strength in the concrete and when extra heat is necessary for the hydration process. This technique is particularly employed in colder regions to counteract low temperatures.

Steam Curing Procedure:

Concrete is subjected to steam curing within a confined chamber to prevent heat loss and moisture escape. Typically, this enclosed space is constructed using tarpaulins.

1. Following a delay of 3 hours after concrete has adequately hardened, it is introduced into the steam enclosure. Direct exposure to steam immediately after the hardening phase is avoided.

2. Once inside the steam enclosure, the concrete remains there for a duration of 3 to 5 hours. Generally, this time frame allows the concrete to achieve its highest initial strength.

Regulation of Steam Curing:

Precise management is essential throughout the entire span of the steam curing procedure. To achieve comprehensive oversight of the curing process, essential restrictions must be applied to the subsequent factors:

1. The duration of steam curing

2. The temperature during steam curing

3. The interval between concrete mixing and the initiation of steam curing, known as the delay time

4. The maximum rate of temperature increase

5. The maximum rate of temperature decrease

Benefits of Steam Curing

The primary benefits of steam curing encompass:

• Best method of curing for cold weather conditions that provide rapid hardening of cement
• Gain of high early strength
• Enhance the construction speed
• This method is quick compared to other curing methods

Drawbacks of Steam Curing

The key drawbacks of steam curing comprise:

• Inefficiency when applied to large surfaces.
• Mandatory requirement for skilled labor to execute the procedure.
• Higher initial cost associated with the steam curing process.

Take a Free SSC JE 2023 Mock Test to check your knowledge of Fluid Mechanics and other similar topics.

SSC JE 2023 Mock Test for Ultimate Practice

FREE SSC JE Civil Engineering 2023 Mock Test: Are You Ready for the Challenge? Find Out Now!

Takeaway

To ace BMC and related topics, you need to practice, practice, practice. Why not take a Free Mock Test right now and see how much you’ve improved? This is your chance to master fluid mechanics and related topics and shine in the SSC JE 2023 exam.

• Sign Up on Practicemock for Updated Current Affairs, Free Topic Tests and Free Mini Mocks
• Sign Up Here to Download Free Study Material