Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

SECTION 4 - CONCRETE WORKS

Concrete work shall consist of furnishing all materials and constructing structures of the
forms, shapes and dimensions shown on the Drawings or as directed in accordance with
the details shown on the Drawings and these Specifications.
4/1

CEMENT
SULPHATE RESISTING CEMENT

4/1.1

Sulphate Resisting Cement shall comply with BS EN 197-1:2011, Class 42.5N

or ASTM C150/C150M-2012 Type V. In addition the cement shall comply with
the following:-

The acid soluble alkali level measured as (Na 2 O+0.658 K 2 O) shall not
exceed 0.6% by weight determined in accordance with BS EN 196-2 :
2005
The heat of hydration shall not exceed 290 KJ/Kg at 7 days when tested in
accordance with BS 4550: Part 3 Section 3.8.
The specific surface shall be not greater than 375 m/Kg and not less than
280 m/Kg when tested as described in BS EN 196: Part 6: 1992.
The chloride content shall not exceed 0.1% when tested in accordance
with Clause 4 of BS EN 196-2 : 2005
The tricalcium aluminate content shall be 3.5% max when tested according
to the method BS EN 196-2 : 2005
ORDINARY PORTLAND CEMENT
4/1.2

Ordinary Portland Cement shall conform to the requirements of BS EN

197-1:2011, Class 42.5N or ASTM C150 Type I and with the following
amendments: The acid soluble alkali level measured as (Na 2 O+0.658 K 2 O) shall not
exceed 0.6% by weight determined in accordance with in BS EN 196-2
2013.
The heat of hydration shall not exceed 290 KJ/Kg at 7 days when tested in
accordance with BS 4550: Part 3 Section 3.8.
Contain not less than 4% and not more than 8% proportion of tricalcium
aluminate by weight when tested according to the method BS EN 196-2 :
2013.
Contain less than 2.7% proportion of Sulphur Trioxide by weight according
to the method ASTM C563-13 or ASTM C114-2013.
The specific surface (fineness) shall be not greater than 375 m/Kg and not
less than 280 m/Kg when tested as described in BS EN196 : Part 6: 2010.

March 2015

Tender Documents

Page 4/3

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

The chloride content shall not exceed 0.1% when tested in accordance
with Clause 4 of BS EN 196-2: 2013.
For any type of cement, the following physical & mechanical test shall also
to be included:
o
o
o
o

Consistency in accordance with BS EN 196-3:2008.

Setting time in accordance with BS EN 196-3:2008
Soundness in accordance with BS EN 196-3:2008.
Compressive strength in accordance with BS EN 196-1:2005

Requirements of Cementatious Supplementary Materials (CSM)

If fly ash is recommended for concrete works, it shall conform to the requirements
of ASTM C618-12 or BS EN 450-1:2012.
If Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBS) and blended cement is
recommended for concrete works, it shall conform to the requirements of following
standard specifications:
ASTM C595/C595M-07
ASTM C989/C989M-14
MODERATE SULPHATE RESISTING PORTLAND CEMENT
4/1.3

Moderate sulphate resisting Portland Cement shall comply with ASTM C150
Type II. It shall also comply with Clause 4/1.2. In addition the cement shall
comply with the following:-

The acid soluble alkali level measured as (Na 2 0+0.658 K 2 0) shall not
exceed 0.6% by weight determined in accordance with BS EN196 2
2005
The specific surface (fineness) shall not be greater than 375 sq.m/Kg and
not less than 280 sq.m/Kg when tested as described in BS EN 196: Part 6:
1992.
The chloride content shall not exceed 0.1% when tested in accordance
with Clause 4 of BS EN 196-2 : 2005
Contain not less than 4% and not more than 8% proportion of tricalcium
aluminate by weight when tested according to the method BS EN 196-2 :
2005
Contain less than 2.7% proportion of Sulphur trioxide by weight
For any type of cement, the following physical & mechanical test shall also be
included:
Consistency in accordance with BS EN 196-3: 2008
Setting time in accordance with BS EN 196-3: 2008
Soundness in accordance with BS EN 196-3: 2008

March 2015

Tender Documents

Page 4/4

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

Compressive Strength BS EN 196-1: 2005

Mechanical and physical requirements given as characteristic values
Compressive Strength MPa
Strength
Class

Early Strength
2 days

7 days

32.5 N

16.0

32.5 R

10.0

42.5 N

10.0

42.5 R

20.0

52.5 N

20.0

52.5 R

30.0

Standard Strength
28 days
32.5
42.5
52.5

52.5

62.5

Initial
Setting
Time
min.

Soundness
(expansion)
mm

75
60

10

45

GENERAL
4/1.4

Each cement batch shall bear manufacturer's name and batch number. Type
of cement shall be the same as mentioned in the approved analysis report.
Each separate consignment of cement shall be tested by the manufacturer
before delivery and certified copies of such tests shall be supplied to the
Engineer before any part of the consignment is used in the works. The
Engineer reserves the right to order a re-test of cement at any time. Approval
of cement does not relieve the Contractor of the responsibility to produce
concrete of the specified strength.

4/1.5

Cement shall be delivered to site in bulk, or with the Engineer's approval, may
be supplied in sealed bags which shall bear the manufacturer's name and the
date of manufacture. Each consignment shall be accompanied by a copy of
the manufacturer's batch test certificate and certificate of guarantee.

4/1.6

Each consignment of cement shall be kept separate, identified and used in

order of delivery.

4/1.7

Any consignment not used within 2 months from the date of manufacture will
not be allowed to be used in the works.

4/1.8

One brand only of cement as approved by the Engineer shall be used

throughout the works unless otherwise authorized by the Engineer in writing.

4/1.9

Each cement batch shall bear manufacturers name and batch number

March 2015

Type of cement shall be the same as mentioned in the approved

analysis report.

Each separate consignment shall be tested by manufacture before

delivery.

Certified copies of batch test certificate and certificate of guarantee

shall be supplied to the Engineer before any part of the consignment is
used in the works.

Tender Documents

Page 4/5

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

The Engineer reserves the right to order a re-test of cement at any time

Approval of cement does not relieve the Contractor of the responsibility

to produce concrete of the specified strength.

Cement shall be delivered to site in bulk, or with the Engineers

approval, may be supplied in sealed bags bearing manufacturers
name and date of manufacture.

Each consignment shall be kept separate, identified and used in order

of delivery.

Any consignment not used within 2 months from the date of

manufacture will not be allowed to be used in the works.

4/2

AGGREGATES GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

4/2.1

Except as may be modified hereunder the aggregate (fine and coarse) for all
types of concrete shall comply in all respects with BS 882 "Concrete
aggregates from natural sources" and the fine aggregate shall also comply
with Dubai Municipality Administrative Order No. 143/91.

4/2.2

The aggregates used in the permanent works shall be naturally occurring or

crushed materials obtained only from approved sources.

4/2.3

Before any material from a particular source is used, the Contractor shall
obtain representative samples of fine and coarse aggregates and carry out the
necessary tests and analyses to show that the samples comply with the
Specification. During the progress of the works, the grading and chemical
characteristics may be checked at frequent intervals.

4/2.4

The results of these tests, etc. shall be submitted to the Engineer and his
approval shall be obtained before any of the material is used in the works.
Part of each sample will be required for concrete trial mixes and part shall be
retained for comparison with subsequent deliveries.

4/2.5

Sampling for testing and analysis shall be carried out, where applicable, in
accordance with BS 812 Part 102:1989.

4/2.6

The maximum size of the aggregate shall not be larger than 1/5 of the
narrowest dimension between sides of the member for which the concrete is to
be used and not larger than 3/4 of the maximum clear distance between
reinforcing bars.

4/2.7

Fine aggregate shall be natural or crushed sand and beach sand shall not be
permitted for use in concrete mixes.

4/2.8

Coarse aggregate shall be crushed aggregate obtained from a quarry

approved by the Engineer.

4/2.9

Unless otherwise authorized by the Engineer coarse aggregate shall be

delivered to site in separate sizes according to the maximum specified
aggregate size for each grade of concrete.

4/2.10

Aggregates shall meet the requirements of Table 4.1.

4/2.11

The frequency of testing of aggregates shall be in accordance with Table 4.2

or as directed by the Engineer.

March 2015

Tender Documents

Page 4/6

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

TABLE 4.1: LIMITS FOR PHYSICAL, CHEMICAL AND MECHANICAL

PROPERTIES OF AGGREGATES FOR CONCRETE

SR.
NO.

KIND OF REQUIREMENT

1.

Grading

2.

Material finer
Than 0.075 mm

TEST METHODS
---------------------BS 812 / ASTM

BS EN 933-1: Standard
2012 (Dry)

Standard

BS EN 9331:2012 or
ASTM
C117:2004
(Wet)

Natural, uncrushed/
crushed
Crushed rock
3.

PERMISSIBLE LIMITS
----------------------------------FINES
COARSE

Clay lumps and

friable particles

max.3%
max.7%

max.1%
max.1%

C142/C142M:
2010

max.1%

max.1%

C123

max.0.5%

max.0.5%

The color of
the
Supernatant
liquid is
lighter than
standard
color solution
max.2.3%

max.2.0%

min.2.60

min.2.60

4.

Light weight pieces

5.

Organic impurities for C40 : 2004

fine aggregate

6.

Water absorption

C128 : 2012a
C128 : 2012

7.

Specific Gravity

C128 : 2012a
C128 : 2012

(apparent)
8.

9.

Shell content in
aggregates
Coarser than 10 mm
Between 5mm-10mm

BS EN
7:1998

Particle shape
Flakiness index

BS 812:90
Part
105
:
Section 105.1
Part
105
:
Section 105.2

Elongation index

933max.5%
Max.15%

max.25
max.25

The index shall be max.

March 2015

Tender Documents

Page 4/7

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

TABLE 4.1: LIMITS FOR PHYSICAL, CHEMICAL AND MECHANICAL

PROPERTIES OF AGGREGATES FOR CONCRETE

SR.
NO.

KIND OF REQUIREMENT

TEST METHODS
---------------------BS 812 / ASTM

PERMISSIBLE LIMITS
----------------------------------FINES
COARSE

25
for
combined
aggregates but should
not exceed more than
30 for individual sizes.
9a.

Partially crushed faces DMS 8 : 2001

of coarse aggregate
with at least one
crushed face.

10.

Acid soluble
Part 117,
Chlorides, CL
Appendix C
For reinforced
concrete made with
SRPC cements
OPC
&
MSRPC
cements

max.0.03%
max.0.03%

max.0.01%
max.0.02%

max.0.03%
max.0.03%

max.0.02%
max.0.04%

max.0.03%

max.0.01%

BS EN 17441:1998

max.0.3%

max.0.3%

Soundness, MgS04
(5 cycles)

C88 : 2013

max.12%

max.12%

Mechanical strength
10% fines value
or Impact value

Part 111
Part 112

min100KN
max.30%

C131 : 2014
C535 : 2014

max.30%

Part 120

max.0.05%

For mass concrete

Made with
SRPC cements
OPC
&
MSRPC
cements
For prestressed
concrete & steam
Cured structural
concrete
11.

12.

13.

Acid soluble
sulphates, S03

Los Angeles
Abrasion

March 2015

100%.

14.

Drying Shrinkage

15.

Potential reactivity,

Tender Documents

Page 4/8

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

TABLE 4.1: LIMITS FOR PHYSICAL, CHEMICAL AND MECHANICAL

PROPERTIES OF AGGREGATES FOR CONCRETE

SR.
NO.

KIND OF REQUIREMENT

TEST METHODS
---------------------BS 812 / ASTM

PERMISSIBLE LIMITS
----------------------------------FINES
COARSE

Note 2
Of Aggregates,
Chemical Method
Of Cement-Aggregate
Combination

C289

Innocuous

C227

6 month
expansion
0.10% max.

Innocuous

Note 1 :

There is no requirement of shell content in sands passing 4 mm

sieve size.

Note 2 :

Aggregates may initially be assessed for its reactivity in accordance

with ASTM C289 and if potential reactivity is indicated, then mortar
bar tests in accordance with ASTM C227 shall be carried out.

TABLE 4.2: FREQUENCY OF ROUTINE TESTS ON AGGREGATES

March 2015

SR.
NO.

KIND OF REQUIREMENT TEST METHOD

TEST FREQUENCY RATE

1.

Grading - BS EN 933-1:1997

Per 1,000m3

2.

Material finer than 0.075 mm BS EN 933-1 or ASTM C117:2004

- do -

3.

Clay lumps and Friable Particles

- ASTM C 142

Per 4,000m3

4.

Organic impurities ASTM C 40

Per 2,000m3

5.

Water absorption
2007/C127 : 2007

- do -

6.

Specific Gravity - ASTM C128 : 2007/C127

: 2007

- do -

7.

Shell content - BS EN 933-7:1998

- do -

8.

Particle shape BS 812 :1990 Section 105

- do -

ASTM

Tender Documents

C128

Page 4/9

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

TABLE 4.2: FREQUENCY OF ROUTINE TESTS ON AGGREGATES

SR.
NO.

KIND OF REQUIREMENT TEST METHOD

TEST FREQUENCY RATE

Part 105.1.& Section 105 Part 105.2

9.

Acid soluble chlorides, CL

Qualitative-BS 812 : 1988 Part 117
Appendices A/B

Per 1,000m3

Quantitative-BS 812 : 1988 Part 117

Appendix C

Each 12 concrete
days if result is
more than 75% of
the limit and each
month if result is
less than 75% of
the limit.

10.

Acid soluble sulphates,

S03 - BS EN 1744-1:1998

Per 1000 M3 or Each 24

concrete days if
result is more than 75%
of the limit & each 2
months if result is less
than 75% of the limit
which ever is less

11.

Soundness, Mg S04 (5 cycles)

ASTM C88 : 2005

Each 48 concrete
Days or 2,000 m3

12.

Mechanical Strength
10% Fines or impact value
- BS 812 Parts 111, 112

Each 72 concrete
Days or 4,000 m3

Los Angeles abrasion ASTM C 131/C 535

- do -

13.

Moisture variation in sand - by

Moisture Meters

Twice daily

14.

Drying Shrinkage
BS 812 Part 120

At the start of the project

and whenever there is a
change in the source of
supply.

15.

Potential Reactivity:
of aggregates
(ASTM C 295, C 289)

At the start of the project

and wherever there is a
change in the source of
Supply

of Carbonate (ASTM C 586)

March 2015

Tender Documents

Page 4/10

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

TABLE 4.2: FREQUENCY OF ROUTINE TESTS ON AGGREGATES

SR.
NO.

KIND OF REQUIREMENT TEST METHOD

TEST FREQUENCY RATE

of Cement aggregate
combination
(ASTM P214 and C 227)
16

Note :

Light weight pieces test (ASTM C 123)

Per 2,000 m3

Drying Shrinkage and potential reactivity of aggregates shall be

determined initially at the start of the project or whenever there is a
change in the source of supply.

4/3

FINE AGGREGATES

4/3.1

The gradation of fine aggregate shall be in accordance with BS 882 latest

edition.

4/3.2

Each batch of aggregate delivered to site shall be kept separate from previous
batches and shall be stored for at least 3 (three) working days before use to
allow inspection and tests to be carried out.

4/3.3

Fine Aggregate shall be clean sharp natural and/or crushed sand.

4/3.4

The Contractor shall mechanically wash aggregate to remove salts and other
impurities in order to meet the requirement specified.

4/4

COARSE AGGREGATE FOR CONCRETE

4/4.1

Coarse aggregate shall be prepared as single sized aggregate and blended to

produce normal size grading. The combined grading shall be within the
appropriate grading limits given in BS EN 12620: 2000.

4/4.2

Aggregates that are deleteriously reactive with the alkalis in the cement in an
amount sufficient to cause excessive expansion of concrete shall not be used.

4/4.3

The Contractor shall mechanically wash aggregate to remove salts and other
impurities in order to meet the requirement specified.

March 2015

Tender Documents

Page 4/11

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

4/5

COMBINED AGGREGATE

4/5.1

Approved coarse aggregate and fine aggregate in each batch shall be

combined in proportions as specified in BS EN 12620:2000 and as approved
by the Engineer. However, in no case shall materials passing the 0.075mm,
sieve exceed three (3) percent by weight of the combined aggregate.

4/5.2

The combined aggregate gradation used in the work shall be as specified,

except when otherwise approved or directed by the Engineer. Changes from
gradation to another shall not be made during progress of the work unless
approved by the Engineer.

4/6

WATER FOR CONCRETE

4/6.1

The Contractor shall make his own arrangement and obtain approval for the
supply of water.

4/6.2

The mixing water should be clear, apparently clean and free from matter
harmful to concrete in its fresh or hardened state. Potable water can be used.
Water of questionable quality should comply with the physical tests of Table
4.3 and chemical limitation listed in Table 4.4. Water shall also meet the
requirement of BS EN 1008:2002.

4/6.3

The temperature of water for concrete should not be less than 5 degree
Celsius nor more 25 degree Celsius. Water may be cooled to not less than 5
degree Celsius by the gradual addition of chilled water or ice but on mixing, no
ice particles should be present in the mix. Alternatively, flaked ice may be
used. The ice to be used should be crushed and should be the product of
frozen water which complies with acceptance criteria of Tables 4.3 and 4.4.

4/6.4

Water for curing concrete shall not contain impurities in sufficient amounts to
cause discoloration of the concrete. Sources of Water shall be maintained at
such depth and the water shall be withdrawn in such a manner as to exclude
silt, mud, grass and other foreign matter.
TABLE 4.3
ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA AND PHYSICAL
TESTS FOR MIXING WATER

March 2015

Limits

ASTM Test

Compressive strength,min.%
control at 7 days

90

C 109 : 2002

Setting time, deviation

from control,h:min.

from 1:00 early

to 1:30 later

C 191 :2004

Tender Documents

Page 4/12

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

TABLE 4.4: CHEMICAL LIMITATIONS FOR MIXING WATER

Max. Concentration,

Limit, ppm

Test Method

1.

Chloride as C1

250

ASTM D 512:
(2004)

2.

Sulphates as SO4

350

ASTM D 516:2002

3.

Alkali carbonates
and bicarbonates

500

ASTM D 513:2006

4.

Total dissolved
solids, including
1, 2 & 3 above

2000

BS 1377 : Part 3 :
1990:
Test 8

PH

min.7/max. 9

ASTM
1999

5.

D1293

4/7

APPLICABLE TESTS AND CODES

4/7.1

All concrete, aggregate, cement, steel and water shall be tested during the
construction as per frequency in Tables 4.2 and 4.6 or as directed by the
Engineer. All test samples shall be supplied by the Contractor at his expense.
Samples shall be obtained in accordance with BS 812, BS EN 1008, BS 1881
and BS EN 196. Testing shall be at the frequencies stated above or relevant
standards. All sampling shall be carried out by the Engineer.
Table 4.6 Frequency of Routine Testing:
Sampling
Method

Test
Method

Test Frequency Rate

BS EN
196-7

BS EN-196

Each 500m3 of concrete

poured.

1. Deformed S. Bar as
BS
4449:2005
per BS 4449:2005

ASTM E415

Each size 100 ton

2. Strand
as
per
BS
5896:1980
if
needed

BS 5896

BS 5896 APPENDIX
A

As per Clause 23.3 of

BS 5896

BSEN
12350-1

BSEN
123507:2009

Once at the time of mix

design of concrete or as
directed by the Engineer.

ITEM
a.

Cement - as per BS EN
196

b.

Steel

c.

Concrete
1. Air content, as per BS
EN 12350-7:2009

March 2015

Tender Documents

Page 4/13

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

Sampling
Method

Test
Method

2. Flexural strength of
Prism as per BS EN
12390-5

BSEN
12350-1

BSEN
12390-5

Once at the time of mix

design of concrete or as
directed by the Engineer.

3. Bleeding
as
per
ASTM C232/C232M14

BS EN
123501:2000

ASTM C
232/C32M14

One at the time of mix

design of concrete or as
directed by the Engineer.

4. Splitting Tensile of
Conc. Cylinder as per
ASTM C-496:1996 &
others

BS EN
123501:2000

C-496

One at the time of mix

design of concrete or as
directed by the Engineer.

5. Depth
of
Water
Penetration (BS EN
12390 P-8:2000)

BSEN
123501:2000

BS EN
12390-8

Each
2000m3
of
a
particular
grade
of
structural concrete or as
directed by the Engineer.

6. ISAT as per BS 1881p-208:1996

BS EN
123501:2000

BS 1881 208:1996

Each
2000m3
of
a
particular
grade
of
structural concrete or as
directed by the Engineer.

7. Water absorption of
Hardened Conc. As
per BS 1881 P122

BS EN
123501:2000

BS 1881122:1983

Each
2000m3
of
a
particular
grade
of
structural concrete or as
directed by the Engineer.

8. Rapid
permeability

chloride

BS EN
12350-1
:2000

ASTM C
1202

Each
2000m3
of
a
particular
grade
of
structural concrete or as
directed by the Engineer.

9. Slump test - as per

BS EN 12350-2:2009

BS EN
12350-1

BS EN
123502:2009

From each transit mixture

load arrived at site

ITEM

10. Concrete Mix Design

(Mixing and Sampling
in the lab) as per BS
1881 P125 & In Site
(Sampling) as per BS
EN 12350-1:2000

d.

Test Frequency Rate

All mixes are to be

designed
once
for
verification and approval.

11. Kerbs-as per BS 7263

BS EN
1339:2003

BS EN
1339:2003

Sample to be taken from

each batch of upto 1000
kerb in whole consignment

Water

BS EN
1008:2002

BS EN
1008-:2002

For DEWA WD no test is

required or other than
DEWA twice a week or as
directed by the Engineer.

March 2015

Tender Documents

Page 4/14

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

4/7.2

Volume 2 Part I

WORKABILITY
Workability shall be assessed by the following tests the requirements for which
shall be as specified elsewhere in the documents.
Slump test shall be performed according to BS EN 12350-2:2009
Compaction factor shall be performed according to BS EN 12350-4:2000
Vebe time shall be performed according to BS EN 12350-3:2000
Flow test shall be performed according to BS EN 12350-5:2000

4/7.3

COMPRESSION TEST
The Compression tests shall be performed on cubes 150 x 150 x 150 mm as
described in BS EN 12390-3:2002. Sampling, making test cubes and curing of
cubes shall be in accordance with BS EN (12350-1:2000 and 12390-1:2000)
respectively.

4/8

REINFORCEMENT BARS

4/8.1

All reinforcement bars shall be of a deformed type in accordance with

BS 4449:2005, except that plain bars may be used where specifically indicated
on the Drawings. Plain bars shall be in accordance with BS 4449:2005.

4/8.2

All steel reinforcement shall conform to the requirements of the Specifications

for Deformed High Yield Steel Bars grade 500 N/mm2 Type 2, unless
otherwise shown on the Drawings or specified by the Engineer. The Bond
Strength and Surface Geometry requirements as per Clause No. 7.4 of BS EN
4449:2005

4/8.3

Certification. Three (3) copies of a mill test report shall be furnished to the
Engineer for each lot of steel reinforcement bars proposed for use on the
project.

4/8.4

Identification. The bars in each lot shall be legibly tagged by the manufacturer
and/or fabricator before being offered for inspection. The tag shall show the
manufacturer's test number and lot number and other applicable data that will
identify the material with the certificate issued for that lot of steel.

4/8.5

The fabricator shall furnish three (3) copies of a certification which shows the
heat number or numbers from which each size of bar in the shipment was
fabricated.

4/8.6

The Engineer reserves the right to sample and inspect all reinforcement steel
upon its arrival at the work site. The Contractor shall provide a certificate
confirming that samples taken from the bars delivered to the works pass all the
required tests. The frequency of sampling and the method of quality control
shall be in accordance with BS 4449 2005.

4/8.7

All reinforcement bars shall be free from detrimental dirt, mill scale, loose rust,
paint, grease, oil or other foreign substance, fins, or tears. There shall be no

March 2015

Tender Documents

Page 4/15

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

evidence of visual flaws in the bars, test specimens or on the sheared ends of
the bars.
4/8.8

Uncoated reinforcement shall be grit-blasted before use to remove rust, oil,

grease, salt and other deleterious materials and where pitting has occurred the
causes and products thereof. Repeated blasting may be required when the
reinforcement is in position, or partially cast in. Partially set concrete adhering
to exposed bars during concreting operations shall be removed.

4/8.9

The minimum thickness of concrete cover to reinforcement shall be as shown

on the drawings. Only approved concrete spacers shall be used. The
concrete shall be of similar grade to the main concrete and shall have non
metallic ties.

4/9

BAR SCHEDULES AND SHOP DRAWINGS

4/9.1

Before ordering reinforcing steel, the Contractor shall check the bar schedules
and adjust them if necessary to the approval of the Engineer. Bar schedules
shall show the weight of each bar, the total weight of each bar size and the
total weight of bars, and bending diagrams for bars in accordance with BS
4466.

4/9.2

The Contractor shall provide and submit to the Engineer for approval any
working drawings additional to the Contract Drawings which may be found
necessary for the production of revised bar schedules or for the completion of
the works.

4/9.3

The approval of working drawings, or revised bar schedules by the Engineer

shall in no way relieve the Contractor of responsibility for the correctness of
such drawings or schedules.

4/10

BAR CUTTING AND BENDING

4/10.1

Reinforcement shall be cut and bent in accordance with BS 8666:2005.

Cutting or bending by the application of heat is not permitted. Welding of
reinforcement shall only be permitted when approved in writing by the
Engineer. If such approval is given then the workmanship shall be in
accordance with BS EN 1011. The Contractor shall submit full technical
details of his proposed procedures prior to seeking approval.

4/10.2

Hot rolled high yield bars shall not be straightened or bent again, having once
been bent. If the Engineer gives approval to bend mild steel reinforcement
projecting from the concrete, the internal radius of bend shall not be less than
four times the nominal size of the bar.

4/11

PLACING AND FIXING REINFORCEMENT

4/11.1

Reinforcement shall be placed and maintained in the position shown in the

Contract Drawings. Unless otherwise permitted by the Engineer, all bar
intersections shall be tied together using 1.2mm diameter steel wire or No. 18
gauge stainless steel wire as indicated on the drawings and the ends of the
tying wire shall be turned into the main body of the concrete.

March 2015

Tender Documents

Page 4/16

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

4/11.2

Metal supports, approved by the Engineer, shall be provided and used to

retain the reinforcement at proper distances from the forms. Supports under
horizontal bars at the bottom of base slabs shall be spaced at not more than
eighty (80) diameters of the bar. All reinforcement shall be so rigidly
supported and fastened that displacement will not occur during construction.
Reinforcing steel shall be inspected in place and must be approved by the
Engineer before any concrete is deposited.

4/11.3

No splices shall be made in the reinforcement except where described in the

Contract Drawings or where approved by the Engineer.

4/11.4

Reinforcement temporarily left projecting from the concrete at construction or

other joints shall not be bent out of position during the periods in which
concreting is suspended, except with the approval of the Engineer.

4/12

WELDED WIRE FABRIC

4/12.1

Welded wire fabric to be used for the reinforcement of concrete shall conform
to the following requirements:
-

Dimensions. Welded steel wire fabric shall conform to the size and
dimensions shown on the Drawings.

Properties. Wire fabric furnished under this specification shall conform to

the requirements for "Welded Steel Wire Fabric for Concrete
Reinforcement" BS 4483 or equivalent.

4/13

SPACER BLOCKS

4/13.1

Spacers as approved by the Engineer shall be of such material and design as

will be durable, not lead to corrosion of the reinforcement and not cause
spalling of the concrete cover.

4/13.2

Spacer blocks made from cement, sand and small aggregate shall match the
mix proportions of the surrounding concrete so far as is practicable with a view
to being comparable in strength, durability and appearance.

4/14

ADMIXTURES

4/14.1

Unless agreed by the Engineer neither admixtures nor cements containing

additives shall be used.

4/14.2

Where the use of admixture had been agreed by the Engineer, they shall
conform to the requirements of Type A, Type D, Type F or Type G as specified
in ASTM C494 and shall be used in strict accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions.
Preliminary tests of cube strength and other tests shall be carried out using the
combination of aggregates cements and admixtures proposed for use.

4/14.3

March 2015

The Contractor shall be entirely responsible for the use of any approved
admixtures.

Tender Documents

Page 4/17

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

4/14.4

Approved methods and equipment shall be used for dispensing and

incorporating the admixture into the concrete. The dispensing unit shall be
designed so that the discharge of the admixture is visible.

4/15

CONCRETE MIX SPECIFICATION

4/15.1

Concrete shall be as shown in the Table of 4.5. The number of mixes may
require to be increased.
The criteria given in the Table are designed to produce concrete of the
required strength and durability.
If the maximum aggregate size is 10 mm then the cement content stipulated
for the class of concrete given in table 4.5 shall be increased by 40 Kg per m3.
All concrete mixes shall be verified by DM - DCL
TABLE 4.5
TABLE OF MIXES WITHOUT ANY ADMIXTURE OR ADDITIVE
Concrete
Class

45/20
40/20
37/20
35/20
30/20
25/20
15/20

Max.
Size
Agg

Min.
Qty of
Cement

mm.

kg.per m3

20
20
20
20
20
20
20

400
370
350
330
310
275
250

Max.
Free
Water/
Cement
Ratio

0.425
0.475
0.50
0.525
0.55
0.60
0.65

Characteristic Cube
Strength
CCS

7-day
N/mm2

28-day
N/mm2

33
30
26
25
20
16
10

45
40
37
35
30
25
15

The CCSs are for concrete which has been cured at a temperature of 23
degrees C + 2 degree C, and are the values below which no more than 5% of
the test results fall. The 7-day strengths shall be used only as a guide.
4/15.2

Concrete shall comply with BS 8110 except where BS 8007 or this

specification differs. Sampling for test purposes shall comply with BS EN
12350-1:2000 (on site) & BS 1881 Part 125:1986 (in laboratory).
If air-entertainment is specified the average air content at the time of placing
measured in accordance with BS EN 12350-7:2009 shall be:
Concrete containing 20mm
Maximum size aggregate 5% + 1%

March 2015

Tender Documents

Page 4/18

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

Concrete for water-retaining shall be watertight and shall comply with the
recommendations of BS 8007.
Concrete for paving or precast units shall be tested to BS EN 12390: Part 5:
2000 and shall have minimum flexural beam strength of 3.5N/mm2 at 28 days.
If the concrete has a specified CCS of 40N/mm2 or greater, then the minimum
flexural strength shall be 4N/mm2.
If concrete specimens are cured at higher temperatures or for longer periods
than BS EN 12390-1:2000 requires, the adjusted CCS shall be calculated as
follows:
100f'/f

f
f
T
D
A&B

A + B log {24D (T+12)/1000}

=
=
=
=
=

adjusted CCS
specified CCS
curing temperature
age at testing in days
are coefficients given in the
following table.

The above equation applies only to OPC, MSRPC and SRPC.

Recorded Cube Strength N/mm2
Less than 15
15 to 35
Greater than 35

10.0
20.0
30.0

67.5
60.0
52.5

This calculation may be applied for curing at temperatures up to 27 degrees C.

Before placing concrete the Contractor shall obtain approval of the mixes
proposed for each class of concrete and the average target strengths. The
mixes shall be designed to achieve the minimum workability for the Contractor
to place and compact the concrete with the equipment proposed for use.
The mean strength shall exceed the CCS by a margin of 1.64 times the
standard deviation expected from the concreting plant, except that no standard
deviation less than 3.5 N/mm2 shall be used as a basis for designing a mix.
Unless otherwise approved a standard deviation of 7 N/mm2 shall be used for
initial mixes.
4/15.3

The ultimate compressive strength of the concrete shall be determined on test

specimens obtained and prepared in accordance with BS EN 12390-1:2000.

4/15.4

Mixes for structural concrete shall be designed by the Contractor. The class of
concrete (shown on the drawings) is denoted by the 28 day characteristic cube
strength and the maximum size of aggregate.

March 2015

Tender Documents

Page 4/19

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

4/15.5

Volume 2 Part I

The chloride and sulphate levels in the concrete mix shall comply with the
following requirements:Maximum Limits of acid soluble Chloride and Sulphate content as a
percentage by Weight of Cement in the Mix.
TYPE OF CONCRETE

CHLORIDES
SULPHATES
AS Cl
AS SO3
ACCORDING TO BS-1881 : 1988
PART 124
Amd 01:1998

a.

For reinforced concrete

if made with OPC/MSRPC
if made with SRPC

b.

Prestressed concrete &

Heat-cured reinforced
concrete

c.

For mass concrete

if made with OPC/MSRPC
if made with SRPC

Amd 06:2002

0.30
0.06

3.70
3.70

0.10

3.70

0.60
0.12

3.70
3.70

Note: BSEN 196-21: 1992 Clause 8, Method of Testing Cement Part 21 will be
used to determine the percentage chloride by weight of cement. The
OPC and MSRPC cements can also contain chlorides, the relevant
standard BS EN 197-1 allows up to 0.1% Cl. Therefore any chloride
content present in the cement has to be taken into account while
computing total Cl in the mix. In case the cement contains the
maximum limit of 0.1% Cl, then the aggregates, water and admixtures
used for prestressed concrete or heat cured reinforced concrete should
be absolutely free of chlorides.
4/16

CONCRETE MIX DESIGN

TRIAL MIXES

4/16.1

Preliminary laboratory tests shall be carried out to determine the mixes to

satisfy the specification with the approved materials.
Trial mixes shall be tested to determine the following properties of mixes
proposed for initial field tests:

March 2015

a)

Bleeding in accordance with ASTM C232/C232M-14 (non-vibrating) shall

not exceed 0.5%.

b)

Drying shrinkage in accordance with BS 1881 Part 5.

c)

Air content if applicable BS EN 12350: P7: 2009.

Tender Documents

Page 4/20

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

d)

Free water/cement ratio.

e)

Workability BS EN 12350-2:2000

f)

Chloride permeability shall be maximum 2,000 coulombs, when tested in

accordance with ASTM C-1202: 2007.
Fresh and hardened concrete densities BS EN (12350-6:2000 and
12390-7:2000) respectively.

g)
h)

Compressive strength BS EN 12390-3:2000.

i)

Depth of Water Penetration Test BS EN 12390 Part 8 : 2000

(maximum 10 mm at 28 days)
(maximum 15 mm at 7 days).

j)

The Initial Surface Water Absorption Test as per BS 1881: P-208: 1996.
Maximum permissible limit for ISAT is 0.2 ml/m2/sec

k)

Water absorption of Hardened concrete as per BS 1881: P122: 1983 and

the maximum permissible limit shall be 2.0%.

If the values obtained are unacceptable, the mixes shall be re-designed.

4/16.2

The concrete mixes shall be prepared as per BS 1881-125-2013 and tests

shall be carried out as per BS EN 12504 and BS EN 12390.
At least 35 days before commencement of concreting trial mixes shall be
prepared under full-scale site conditions and tested in accordance with BS
1881: 1983.
Samples of concrete incorporating the reinforcing details to be used shall be
cast and examined, before hardening using hand tools, and after hardening by
coring to assess the mixes. Cores shall be taken in accordance with BS EN
12504-1:2009.
Trial mixes shall be made on each of three days; the workability shall equate
to the designed target value. Six cubes from each mix shall be taken, three for
test at 28 days.
Further trial mixes shall be made if the range (the maximum minus the
minimum of the three cube results in any batch) exceeds 15% of the average
of that batch, or if the range of the three batch averages exceeds 20% of the
overall average of the batches.
The mixes shall be tested to determine the following properties:
a)
Bleeding in accordance with ASTM C232/C232M-14
b)

Air content if applicable BS 12350: P7: 2009.

c)

Free water/cement ratio

d)

Flexural strength of concrete specimen as per BS EN 12390-5:2009.

Splitting tensile strength of concrete cylinder shall be in accordance with
ASTM C496-11.

The average 28-day CCS of the three trial mixes shall not be less than the
designed mean strength, and the results of the above tests shall be
acceptable before the mix is approved.
Otherwise the mix shall be
re-designed.

March 2015

Tender Documents

Page 4/21

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

4/16.3

The Engineer will review the Contractor's trial-mixes and test the test cubes at
seven (7) and twenty-eight (28) days. The Engineer will then determine which
of the trial mixes shall be used. If none of the trial mixes for a class of
concrete meets the Specifications, the Engineer will direct the Contractor to
prepare additional trial-mixes. No class of concrete shall be prepared or
placed until its job-mix proportions have been approved by the Engineer.

4/16.4

The approval of the job-mix proportions by the Engineer or his assistance to

the Contractor in establishing those proportions, in no way relieves the
Contractor of the responsibility of producing concrete which meets the
requirements of these Specifications.

4/16.5

The Engineer may also require practical tests to be made on the Site by filling
trial moulds to confirm the suitability of the mix for the works, the type of plant
used for mixing, the method of compaction used and the formwork face
intended for use in the works.

4/16.6

All costs connected with the preparations of trial-mixes and the design of the
job-mixes shall be borne by the Contractor.

4/16.7

In the event, any Concrete mix that is currently being used in another running
RTA projects, is proposed by the contractor for approval of using that mix in
this contract, then
1. Prior to according the approval or otherwise, the Engineer must ensure
that all copies of test results pertaining to another running RTA project
submitted by that contractor comply with all specifications as stated in this
contract and shall also ensure that the proposed mix complies with clause
4/16 by verifying that proposed mix at DCL.
2.

The Engineer has to make sure that all constituents of concrete are tested
and meeting the standard specified requirements. In case there are
changes in the materials or constituents, which may affect the properties of
the concrete. Then the mix design shall be re-verified. All the mix designs
verification shall be done at DCL.

NOTE: Any mix that is obsolete & currently not in use shall not be
accepted at all for re-approval.

4/17

QUALITY CONTROL

4/17.1

TEST CUBES
Cubes shall be manufactured in an on-site laboratory, specially equipped for
the purpose, in controlled conditions. They shall be made, cured, stored,
transported and tested to BS EN (12390-1 and 12390-3:2000). The method of
compacting cubes shall be as approved and shall be means of vibrating table
in the laboratory or 25mm vibrating poker on site.

4/17.2

March 2015

SAMPLING CUBES

Tender Documents

Page 4/22

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

A sample of concrete shall be taken at random on eight separate occasions

during the first five days of using a mix at least one sample being taken each
day. The standard deviation shall be calculated from at least 40 individual
cube results each representing separate batches of similar concrete produced
by the same plant under the same supervision. The current margin for the
plant shall be thus established as 1.64 times the standard deviation.
Thereafter one sample shall be taken at random for each class of concrete in
accordance with Clause 4/31 of the Specification.
In addition to the above requirements, at least one sample shall be taken from
each individual structural unit, or part of a unit, when the latter is the product of
a single pour.
From each sample three cubes shall be made for testing at 28 days and three
for testing at 7 days for control purposes.
Six cylinder samples shall also be taken to determine the split tensile strength
of the concrete 3 at 7 days and 3 at 28 days, as specified in ASTM C496:
1996. These samples shall be taken from every 100 batches, but at least
once a week during concreting operations, and shall coincide with samples
taken for test cubes.
The frequency of sampling may be required to be varied if directed by the
Engineer.
The procedures shall be repeated when materials or design mixes are
changed.
4/17.3

CUBE STRENGTH RESULTS

The results will be acceptable if:
i)

The average strength determined at the age of 28 days from a sample of

three or more cube test results exceed the Characteristic Cube Strength
(CCS) which is the 28 days cube strength obtained in the approved trial
mix by 0.5 times the current margin.

ii)

No individual result of the sample is less than that (CCS which is the 28
days cube strength obtained in the approved trial mix minus 3 N/mm2),

iii)

Number of individual results in the sample below CCS which is the 28

days cube strength obtained in the approved trial mix is not more than
one.

If the above criteria is not satisfied, the unit represented by the sample is
questionable and the following actions may be instructed as appropriate:
i)
Cutting and testing cores from placed concrete.
ii)
Non-destructive testing of placed concrete.
iii) Load-testing relevant structural units.
iv) Cutting out and replacing defective concrete.
If the range of individual cube strengths made from the same sample
exceeds 15% of the mean, then the method of making, curing and
testing cubes shall be checked. In the event of a sample having a range

March 2015

Tender Documents

Page 4/23

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

exceeding 20%, then the result shall be unacceptable and the Engineer
may order any of the following actions:
a)
b)
c)
d)

Changing the mix.

Improving quality control.
Cutting and testing cores from placed concrete.
Non-destructive testing of placed concrete.

In the event of cutting and testing of cores are required, the Contractor
shall cut cores from approved locations and test them to BS EN 125041:2009.
4/17.4

DURABILITY TESTS
Concrete shall be tested for durability properties by undertaking absorption
and permeability tests where appropriate, or directed by the Engineer, as
directed below:
Water absorption tests shall be carried out in the laboratory on 75mm diameter
cores cut at an age of 24 to 28 days to enable the tests to be carried out
between 28 and 32 days in accordance with BS 1881-122: 2011. The upper
acceptable limit for absorption after 30 minutes shall be 2%.
Effective permeability tests in accordance with the method described in BS EN
12390-8: 2009 shall be carried out. The maximum acceptable penetration at
seven days shall be 15 mm and the maximum acceptable penetration at 28
days shall be 10mm.
Initial surface absorption test as per BS 1881: P-208: 1996 shall be carried
out.
Maximum permissible limit for ISAT is 0.2 ml/m2/sec.
Rapid chloride penetration test as per ASTM C1202-12 shall be carried out.

4/17.5

OTHER TESTS
When instructed by the Engineer concrete shall be tested for drying shrinkage
and wetting expansion, for which 75x75mm prisms shall be prepared and
tested in accordance with BS ISO 1920-8:2009 or BS EN 772:98 and BS EN
771-2:2011. The maximum acceptable limits shall be:
Drying Shrinkage
Wetting Expansion

:
:

0.05%
0.03%

Cubes may be required and trials carried out to determine stripping times for
formwork, the duration of curing and to check testing and sampling errors.
The air content of air-entrained concrete shall be determined 12350-7:2009 for
each batch produced until consistency has been achieved, when batches may
be tested. The maximum value shall not exceed 2%.
Compaction factor, slump, veb or other workability tests shall be carried out as
required during concreting of permanent works to control workability at the

March 2015

Tender Documents

Page 4/24

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

batching plant at the site of the pour. The degree of workability shall be as for
the trial mixes; permitted tolerances shall be in accordance with BS 5328.
4/18

CONCRETE DESIGN LIMITS

4/18.1

The following will be designated by the Engineer within the limits of the
Specifications.

4/19

a)

The minimum Cement content in kg. per cubic metre of concrete.

b)

The maximum allowable water/cement ratio including surface moisture,

but excluding water absorbed by the aggregates.

c)
d)

Slump or Slumps designated at the point of delivery.

Changes requested by the Contractor in mix proportioning previously
approved shall be made only with the agreement of the Engineer.

e)

When, in the opinion of the Engineer, cement is being lost due to windy
conditions, the Contractor shall add additional amounts of cement as
directed by the Engineer. No additional payment shall be made for the
added cement.

f)

Failure of the mixed concrete to meet specifications as determined by

the Engineer will be grounds for the Engineer to reject the concrete.

g)

Bleeding limitations
C232/C232M-14.

when

tested

in

accordance

with

ASTM

CONSISTENCY OF CONCRETE

4/19.1

The consistency of concrete shall be determined in the field by the Slump

Test. The consistency of concrete at the time of delivery will be designated by
the Engineer and shall not vary by more than 25mm from the designated
consistency.

4/20

TOLERANCES IN PROPORTIONING THE MATERIALS

4/20.1

CEMENT
In the case of bagged cement it shall be measured as packed by the
manufacturer: a sack of cement shall weigh fifty (50) kilograms. Measurement
for proportioning all cement shall be accurate to within two (2) percent
throughout the range of use. Only full bags, undamaged or unbroken will be
permitted.

4/20.2

WATER
The mixing water shall be measured by weight or by volume. In either case
the measurement shall be accurate to within one (1) percent throughout the
range of use.

March 2015

Tender Documents

Page 4/25

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

4/20.3

Volume 2 Part I

AGGREGATE
The aggregates shall be measured by weight to an accuracy within two (2)
percent through-out the range of use.

4/21

ASSEMBLY AND HANDLING MATERIALS

ASSEMBLY

4/21.1

Aggregates shall be assembled in such quantities that sufficient material

approved by the Engineer is available to complete any continuous pour
necessary for any element. The batching site shall be of adequate size to
permit the stockpiling of sufficient, unsegregated materials, having proper and
uniform moisture content, to ensure continuous and uniform operation.
Aggregates shall enter the mixer in a manner approved by the Engineer and in
such a manner to ensure that no matter foreign to the concrete or matter
capable of changing the desired proportions is included. In the event two (2)
or more sizes or types of coarse or fine aggregates are used on the same
project, only one (1) size or type of each aggregate may be used on one
continuous concrete pour.
STOCKPILING Of AGGREGATES

4/21.2

All aggregates shall be stockpiled before use in order to prevent segregation

of material, to ensure uniform moisture content and to provide uniform
conditions for proportioning plant control.

4/21.3

The use of equipment or methods of handling aggregates which result in the

degradation and contamination of the aggregates is strictly prohibited.
Bulldozers with metal tracks shall not be used on coarse aggregate stockpiles.
All equipment used for handling aggregates shall be approved by the
Engineer.

4/21.4

Stockpiling of aggregates shall be in the manner approved by the Engineer,

and in addition, every precaution shall be taken to prevent segregation.
Segregation shall be prevented by making no layer higher than one and
one-half (1.5) metres and if two (2) or more layers are required, each
successive layer shall not be allowed to "cone" down over the next lower layer.

4/21.5

Aggregates shall not be stockpiled against the supports of proportioning

hoppers and weighing devices.
SEGREGATION

4/21.6

Segregated aggregates shall not be used until they have been thoroughly
remixed and the resultant pile is of uniform and acceptable gradation at any
point from which a representative sample is taken. The Contractor shall
re-mix aggregate piles when ordered by the Engineer.
TRANSPORTING Of AGGREGATES

4/21.7

March 2015

If aggregates are to be transported from a central proportioning plant to the

mixer in batch-boxes or dump trucks, such equipment shall be of sufficient

Tender Documents

Page 4/26

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

capacity to carry the full volume of materials for each batch of concrete.
Partitions separating batches shall be approved by the Engineer and shall be
adequate and effective to prevent spilling from one compartment to another
whilst in transit or being dumped.
CEMENT
4/21.8

Cement shall be stored in a dry weather-proof shed with a raised wooden floor
or in a silo and shall be delivered in quantities sufficient to ensure that there is
no suspension or interruption of the work of concreting at any time. If stored in
sheds, each consignment shall be kept separate and distinct.

4/22

MIXING CONCRETE

4/22.1

The weighing and water-dispensing mechanisms shall be maintained in good

order. Their accuracy shall be maintained within the tolerances described in
BS 1305 and checked against accurate weights and volumes when required
by the Engineer.

4/22.2

The mass of cement and of aggregate indicated by the mechanism employed

shall be within a tolerance of 2% of the respective mass per batch agreed by
the Engineer. The mass of the fine and coarse aggregates shall be adjusted
to allow for the free water contained in them. The water to be added to the
mix shall be reduced by the quantity of free water contained in the fine and
coarse aggregates, which shall be determined by the Contractor by a method
approved by the Engineer immediately before mixing begins and further as the
Engineer requires.

4/22.3

Unless otherwise agreed by the Engineer, concrete shall be mixed in a batch

type mixer manufactured in accordance with BS 1305. Where appropriate the
batch capacity, method of loading, mixing time and drum speed shall conform
to the details furnished in accordance with the requirements of BS 3963 for the
mix which corresponds most closely to the mix proportions being used. The
mixing blades of pan mixers shall be maintained within the tolerances
specified by the manufacturer of the mixer and the blades shall be replaced
when it is no longer possible to maintain the tolerance by adjustment. The
period of mixing, judged from the time that all the ingredients including water
are in the mixing drum shall be as ordered by the Engineer's representative
but shall not be less than 2 minutes or 20 revolutions of the drum whichever is
the longer.
All plants shall be equipped with an approved automatic cycling and
monitoring system installed as part of the batching equipment. The system
shall include equipment for accurately proportioning the various components
of the mixture by mass. Admixtures may be measured volumetrically. The
automatic proportioning system shall be capable of consistently delivering
each constituent within the tolerances specified. All records of batches shall
show the batch weights, the batch number, the day, the month, the year and
the time of day to the nearest minute for each batch. This information shall be
imprinted on the record so that each batch may be permanently identified.
The Engineer will be provided with a clear and legible copy of all batch records
for concrete supplied for the project.

March 2015

Tender Documents

Page 4/27

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

4/22.4

Mixers which have been out of use for more than 30 minutes shall be
thoroughly cleaned before any fresh concrete is mixed.

4/22.5

The method of discharge from the mixer shall be such as to cause no

segregation whether partial or otherwise of the concrete materials.

4/22.6

The Contractor shall ensure that the constituent materials of the concrete are
sufficiently cool to prevent the concrete from stiffening in the interval between
its discharge from the mixer and compaction in its final position. Precautions
shall include the shading of aggregate stockpiles and the use of chilled water.

4/23

READY MIXED CONCRETE

4/23.1

Ready mixed concrete as defined in BS 5328, batched off the site, may be
used only with the agreement of the engineer and shall comply with all
requirements of the Contract.

4/23.2

The Concrete shall be carried in purpose-made agitators, operating

continuously, or truck mixers. The concrete shall be compacted and in its final
position within 1 hour of the introduction of cement to the aggregates, unless a
longer time is agreed by the Engineer. The time of such introduction shall be
recorded on the delivery note together with the weight of the constituents of
each mix.

4/23.3

When truck mixed concrete is used, water shall be added under the
supervision, either at the Site or at the central batching plant as agreed by the
Engineer but in no circumstances shall water be added in transit.

4/23.4

Unless otherwise agreed by the Engineer, truck mixer units and their mixing
and discharge performance shall comply with the requirements of BS 4251.
Mixing shall continue for the number and rate of revolutions recommended in
accordance with Item 9 in Appendix B of BS 4251 or, in the absence of the
manufacturer's instructions, mixing shall continue for not less than 100
revolutions at a rate of not less than 7 revolutions per minute.

4/23.5

Pumping concrete through delivery pipes may be permitted but only with the
prior approval of the Engineer.

4/23.6

Re-mixing of concrete which has commenced to set shall not be allowed and
in no case shall such concrete be used in the Works.
Coarse aggregate shall be kept in identified stockpiles from which samples
can be collected and tested as specified.

4/23.7

4/23.8

The concrete supplier is required to certify that the Cl content in the mix being
delivered is within the limits specified in Clause 4/15.5. The Cl and SO3
content shall be checked at frequent intervals.

4/24

TRANSPORT AND PLACING

4/24.1

The method of transport and placing concrete shall be to the approval of the
Engineer. Concrete shall be so transported and placed that contamination,
segregation or loss of the constituent materials does not occur.

March 2015

Tender Documents

Page 4/28

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

4/24.2

Volume 2 Part I

All formwork and reinforcement shall be clean and free from standing water
immediately before placing concrete.
No concrete work shall be stopped or temporarily discontinued within forty-five
(45) centimeters of the top of any finished surface, unless such work is
finished with a coping having a thickness less than forty-five (45) centimeters
in which case the joint shall be made at the under edge of the coping.
Concrete in simple slab spans shall be placed in one (1) continuous operation
for each span, unless otherwise indicated on the drawings or approved by the
Engineer.

4/24.3

Prior to placing any concrete on natural surfaces a blinding layer of Class 15

concrete shall be laid to a minimum of 75 mm thickness unless otherwise
specified on the drawings. This blinding shall be suitably cured prior to
subsequent concrete placement. The blinding shall be clean and free from
any dust or impurities prior to subsequent concrete placement.

4/24.4

No concrete shall be placed in a foundation until the extent of excavation and

the character of bearing material have been approved and no concrete shall
be placed in any structure until the placement of reinforcing steel and the
adequacy of the forms and falsework have been approved.

4/24.5

Concrete shall not be placed in any part of the Works until the Engineer's
approval has been given. If concrete has not started within 24 hours of such
approval being given, approval shall again be requested. Concreting shall
then proceed continuously over the area between construction joints. Fresh
concrete shall not be placed against in-situ concrete which has been in
position for more than 30 minutes unless a construction joint is formed in
accordance with the Specification. When the concrete has been in place for 4
hours, or less as directed by the Engineer, further concrete shall not be placed
against it for a further 20 hours.

4/24.6

Concrete when deposited shall have a temperature of not more than 32 deg. C
unless otherwise specified. Concrete shall be compacted in its final position
within 30 minutes of discharge from the mixer unless carried in purpose made
agitators operating continuously, when the time shall be within 1 hour of the
introduction of cement to the mix and within 30 minutes of discharge from the
agitator.
Except where otherwise agreed by the Engineer, concrete shall be deposited
in horizontal layers to a compacted depth not exceeding 400mm where
internal vibrators are used or 300mm in all other cases.

4/24.7

4/24.8

March 2015

Unless otherwise agreed by the Engineer, concrete shall not be dropped into
place from a height exceeding 2m. When trunking or chutes are used they
shall be kept clean and used in such a way as to avoid segregation. Where
steep slopes are required for placing concrete with chutes, the chutes shall be
equipped with baffle boards or be in short lengths that reverse the direction of
the movement. Chutes and the use of chutes must be approved by the
Engineer. All chutes shall be kept clean and free from coating of hardened
concrete by thoroughly flushing with water after each run. The water used for
flushing shall be discharged clear of the concrete already in place.

Tender Documents

Page 4/29

Project R1041: Dubai Parks Access from Sheikh Zayed Road

General Specifications

Volume 2 Part I

4/24.9

No concrete shall be placed in flowing water. Underwater concrete shall be

placed in position by tremies, or by pipeline from the mixer.

4/24.10

Full details of the method proposed shall be submitted in advance to the

Engineer and his approval obtained before placing begins. Where the
concrete is placed by the tremie, its size and method of operation shall be in
accordance with BS 8004. During and after concreting under water, pumping
or dewatering operations in the immediate vicinity shall be suspended until the
Engineer permits them to be continued.

4/24.11

Approved measures shall be taken to avoid premature stiffening of concrete

placed in contact with hot, dry surfaces. Surfaces including reinforcement
against which concrete is to be placed shall be shielded against the direct rays
of the sun and shall be sprayed with water to prevent excessive absorption by
the surfaces of water from the fresh concrete.

4/24.12

A complete record shall be kept of the date, time, temperature and conditions
of placing the concrete in each portion of the work and shall be available for
inspection by the Engineer at any time.

4/24.13

Unless otherwise shown on the drawings all concrete placed below ground
level shall have a minimum protection to its outside faces as follows:
Underside - Protected by the laying of a grade 1000 approved polyethylene
sheeting on the blinding concrete. The sheeting shall be returned up the
outside faces of the concrete and suitably sealed.
Sides - Coated with 3 coats of an approved bitumen rubber latex emulsion
flexible damp and vapour-proof liquid membrane conforming to BRE Digest
No. 54.

4/25

COMPACTION OF CONCRETE

4/25.1

All concrete shall be compacted to produce a dense homogeneous mass.

Unless otherwise agreed by the Engineer, it shall be compacted with the
assistance of vibrators. Sufficient vibrators in serviceable condition shall be on
site so that spare equipment is available in the event of breakdown. A 50mm
diameter internal vibrator shall be deemed capable of compacting 20 Cu.
m./hr. Internal vibrators shall be capable of producing not less than 10,000
cycles per minute.

4/25.2

Vibration shall not be applied by way of the reinforcement. Where immersion

vibrators are used, contact with reinforcement and all inserts shall be avoided.

4/25.3

Concrete shall not be subject to vibration between 4 and 24 hours after

placing.

4/25.4

Vibrators shall be so manipulated as to work the concrete thoroughly around

the reinforcement and embedded fixtures and into corners and angles of the
forms. Vibrators shall not be used as a means to cause concrete to flow or its
position in lieu of placing. The vibration at any point shall be of sufficient
duration to accomplish compaction. After initial set of the concrete, the forms

March 2015

Tender Documents

Page 4/30