The Air Entrainment Meter measures the air content in fresh concrete using the pressure method — essential quality control for freeze-thaw resistant concrete in cold climates and durable pavement construction. Properly entrained air creates microscopic voids that accommodate ice expansion during freezing, preventing concrete from cracking and spalling during winter freeze-thaw cycles that destroy non-air-entrained concrete within a few years.
Air-entrained concrete requires careful quality control because air content directly affects both durability and strength. Too little air (below 4%) leaves concrete vulnerable to freeze-thaw damage, while excessive air (above 8%) reduces compressive strength unacceptably. This meter provides accurate air content measurement at the batching plant or construction site, ensuring each concrete batch contains the optimal air content specified by the mix design.
The apparatus consists of a pressure-tight flanged cylindrical measuring bowl fitted with a removable flanged conical cover assembly. Fresh concrete fills the bowl, then the cover is clamped in place with a seal. Air pressure is introduced into the sealed chamber, compressing the entrained air in the concrete. The resulting pressure reduction, read on a calibrated gauge, directly indicates the percentage of air in the concrete.
Concrete Quality Control Testing:
- Air content verification for freeze-thaw resistant concrete in cold climate construction
- Quality assurance of air-entrained concrete for highway and airport pavement
- Batch-to-batch air content monitoring at ready-mix concrete plants
- Troubleshooting air entrainment issues with admixtures and mix proportions
- Acceptance testing per IS 1199 and ASTM C231 standards
The meter includes the measuring bowl, conical cover with clamps, pressure pump, calibrated pressure gauge, and carrying case. Precision-machined sealing surfaces ensure leak-free operation for accurate readings. Available in Type A (for aggregates up to 40mm) and Type B (for aggregates up to 20mm) configurations.
