Designation: C 231 – 97 e1

AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR TESTING AND MATERIALS

100 Barr Harbor Dr., West Conshohocken, PA 19428
Reprinted from the Annual Book of ASTM Standards. Copyright ASTM

Standard Test Method for

Air Content of Freshly Mixed Concrete
by the Pressure Method1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C 231; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (e) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the Department of Defense.

e1 NOTE—Section 1.4 was updated editorially in April 1999.

1. Scope mens in the Laboratory2

1.1 This test method covers determination of the air content C 670 Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements
of freshly mixed concrete from observation of the change in for Test Methods of Construction Materials2
volume of concrete with a change in pressure. E 177 Practice for Use of the Terms Precision and Bias in
1.2 This test method is intended for use with concretes and ASTM Test Methods3
mortars made with relatively dense aggregates for which the 3. Significance and Use
aggregate correction factor can be satisfactorily determined by
the technique described in Section 6. It is not applicable to 3.1 This test method covers the determination of the air
concretes made with lightweight aggregates, air-cooled blast- content of freshly mixed concrete. The test determines the air
furnace slag, or aggregates of high porosity. In these cases, Test content of freshly mixed concrete exclusive of any air that may
Method C 173 should be used. This test method is also not be inside voids within aggregate particles. For this reason, it is
applicable to nonplastic concrete such as is commonly used in applicable to concrete made with relatively dense aggregate
the manufacture of pipe and concrete masonry units. particles and requires determination of the aggregate correction
1.3 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes factor (see 6.1 and 9.1).
that provide explanatory information. These notes and foot- 3.2 This test method and Test Method C 138 and C 173
notes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be provide pressure, gravimetric, and volumetric procedures,
considered as requirements of this standard. respectively, for determining the air content of freshly mixed
1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded concrete. The pressure procedure of this test method gives
as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for substantially the same air contents as the other two test
information only. methods for concretes made with dense aggregates.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the 3.3 The air content of hardened concrete may be either
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the higher or lower than that determined by this test method. This
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- depends upon the methods and amount of consolidation effort
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica- applied to the concrete from which the hardened concrete
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. See Note A1.7 for specimen is taken; uniformity and stability of the air bubbles in
a specific caution statement. the fresh and hardened concrete; accuracy of the microscopic
examination, if used; time of comparison; environmental
2. Referenced Documents exposure; stage in the delivery, placement and consolidation
2.1 ASTM Standards: processes at which the air content of the unhardened concrete
C 138 Test Method for Unit Weight, Yield, and Air Content is determined, that is, before or after the concrete goes through
(Gravimetric) of Concrete2 a pump; and other factors.
C 172 Practice for Sampling Freshly Mixed Concrete2
4. Apparatus
C 173 Test Method for Air Content of Freshly Mixed
Concrete by the Volumetric Method2 4.1 Air Meters—There are available satisfactory apparatus
C 192 Practice for Making and Curing Concrete Test Speci- of two basic operational designs employing the principle of
Boyle’s law. For purposes of reference herein these are
1
designated Meter Type A and Meter Type B.
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C-9 on Concrete
and Concrete Aggregates, and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C09.60
4.1.1 Meter Type A—An air meter consisting of a measuring
on Fresh Concrete Testing. bowl and cover assembly (see Fig. 1) conforming to the
Current edition approved Jan. 10, 1997. Published March 1997. Originally
published as C 231 – 49 T. Last previous edition C 231 – 97.
2 3
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 04.02. Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 14.02.

1
 C 231

FIG. 1 Illustration of the Pressure Method for Air Content—Type-A Meter

requirements of 4.2 and 4.3. The operational principle of this otherwise constructed to provide for a pressure tight fit
meter consists of introducing water to a predetermined height between bowl and cover assembly. The interior surfaces of the
above a sample of concrete of known volume, and the bowl and surfaces of rims, flanges, and other component fitted
application of a predetermined air pressure over the water. The parts shall be machined smooth. The measuring bowl and
determination consists of the reduction in volume of the air in cover assembly shall be sufficiently rigid to limit the expansion
the concrete sample by observing the amount the water level is factor, D, of the apparatus assembly (Annex A1.5) to not more
lowered under the applied pressure, the latter amount being than 0.1 % of air content on the indicator scale when under
calibrated in terms of percent of air in the concrete sample. normal operating pressure.
4.1.2 Meter Type B—An air meter consisting of a measuring 4.3 Cover Assembly:
bowl and cover assembly (see Fig. 2) conforming to the
requirements of 4.2 and 4.3. The operational principle of this 4.3.1 The cover assembly shall be made of steel, hard metal,
meter consists of equalizing a known volume of air at a known or other hard material not readily attacked by the cement paste.
pressure in a sealed air chamber with the unknown volume of It shall be flanged or otherwise constructed to provide for a
air in the concrete sample, the dial on the pressure gage being pressure-tight fit between bowl and cover assembly and shall
calibrated in terms of percent air for the observed pressure at have machined smooth interior surfaces contoured to provide
which equalization takes place. Working pressures of 7.5 to an air space above the level of the top of the measuring bowl.
30.0 psi (51 to 207 kPa) have been used satisfactorily. The cover shall be sufficiently rigid to limit the expansion
4.2 Measuring Bowl—The measuring bowl shall be essen- factor of the apparatus assembly as prescribed in 4.2.
tially cylindrical in shape, made of steel, hard metal, or other 4.3.2 The cover assembly shall be fitted with a means of
hard material not readily attacked by the cement paste, having direct reading of the air content. The cover for the Type A
a minimum diameter equal to 0.75 to 1.25 times the height, and meter shall be fitted with a standpipe, made of a transparent
a capacity of at least 0.20 ft3 (0.006 m3). It shall be flanged or graduated tube or a metal tube of uniform bore with a glass
water gage attached. In the Type B meter, the dial of the
pressure gage shall be calibrated to indicate the percent of air.
Graduations shall be provided for a range in air content of at
least 8 % readable to 0.1 % as determined by the proper air
pressure calibration test.
4.3.3 The cover assembly shall be fitted with air valves, air
bleeder valves, and petcocks for bleeding off or through which
water may be introduced as necessary for the particular meter
design. Suitable means for clamping the cover to the bowl shall
be provided to make a pressure-tight seal without entrapping
air at the joint between the flanges of the cover and bowl. A
suitable hand pump shall be provided with the cover either as
FIG. 2 Schematic Diagram—Type-B Meter an attachment or as an accessory.

2
 C 231
4.4 Calibration Vessel—A measure having an internal vol- 5. Calibration of Apparatus
ume equal to a percent of the volume of the measuring bowl 5.1 Make calibration tests in accordance with procedures
corresponding to the approximate percent of air in the concrete prescribed in the annex. Rough handling will affect the
to be tested; or, if smaller, it shall be possible to check calibration of both Types A and B meters. Changes in baro-
calibration of the meter indicator at the approximate percent of metric pressure will affect the calibration of Type A meter but
air in the concrete to be tested by repeated filling of the not Type B meter. The steps described A1.2 to A1.6, as
measure. When the design of the meter requires placing the applicable to the meter type under consideration, are prerequi-
calibration vessel within the measuring bowl to check calibra- sites for the final calibration test to determine the operating
tion, the measure shall be cylindrical in shape and of an inside pressure, P, on the pressure gage of the Type A meter as
depth 1⁄2 in. (13 mm) less than that of the bowl. described in A1.7, or to determine the accuracy of the
NOTE 1—A satisfactory calibration vessel to place within the measure graduations indicating air content on the dial face of the
bowl may be machined from No. 16 gage brass tubing, of a diameter to pressure gage of the Type B meter. The steps in A1.2 to A1.6
provide the volume desired, to which a brass disk 1⁄2in. in thickness is need be made only once (at the time of initial calibration), or
soldered to form an end. When design of the meter requires withdrawing only occasionally to check volume constancy of the calibration
of water from the water-filled bowl and cover assembly to check cylinder and measuring bowl. The calibration test described in
calibration, the measure may be an integral part of the cover assembly or
may be a separate cylindrical measure similar to the above described
A1.7 and A1.9, as applicable to the meter type being checked,
cylinder. must be made as frequently as necessary to ensure that the
proper gage pressure, P, is being used for the Type A meter or
4.5 The designs of various available types of airmeters are that the correct air contents are being indicated on the pressure
such that they differ in operating techniques and therefore, all gage air content scale for the Type B meter. A change in
of the items described in 4.6-4.16 may not be required. The elevation of more than 600 ft (183 m) from the location at
items required shall be those necessary for use with the which a Type-A meter was last calibrated will require recali-
particular design of apparatus used to satisfactorily determine bration in accordance with A1.7.
air content in accordance with the procedures prescribed
herein. 6. Determination of Aggregate Correction Factor
4.6 Coil Spring or Other Device for Holding Calibration 6.1 Procedure—Determine the aggregate correction factor
Cylinder in Place. on a combined sample of fine and coarse aggregate as directed
4.7 Spray Tube—A brass tube of appropriate diameter, in 6.2 to 6.4. It is determined independently by applying the
which may be an integral part of the cover assembly or which calibrated pressure to a sample of inundated fine and coarse
may be provided separately. It shall be so constructed that aggregate in approximately the same moisture condition,
when water is added to the container, it is sprayed to the walls amount, and proportions occurring in the concrete sample
of the cover in such a manner as to flow down the sides causing under test.
a minimum of disturbance to the concrete. 6.2 Aggregate Sample Size—Calculate the weights of fine
4.8 Trowel—A standard brick mason’s trowel. and coarse aggregate present in the sample of fresh concrete
4.9 Tamping Rod—The tamping rod shall be a round whose air content is to be determined, as follows:
straight steel rod 5⁄8in. (16 mm) in diameter and not less than 16 Fs 5 ~S/B! 3 Fb (1)
in. (400 mm) in length, having the tamping end rounded to a
Cs 5 ~S/B! 3 Cb (2)
hemispherical tip the diameter of which is 5⁄8 in. (16 mm).
4.10 Mallet—A mallet (with a rubber or rawhide head) where:
weighing approximately 1.25 6 0.50 lb (0.57 6 0.23 kg) for Fs 5 weight of fine aggregate in concrete sample under
use with measures of 0.5ft3 (14 dm3) or smaller, and a mallet test, lb (kg),
weighing approximately 2.25 6 0.50 lb (1.026 0.23 kg) for S 5 volume of concrete sample (same as volume of
use with measures larger than 0.5 ft3. measuring bowl), ft3 (m3),
4.11 Strike-Off Bar—A flat straight bar of steel or other B 5 volume of concrete produced per batch (Note 1), ft3
suitable metal at least 1⁄8 in. (3 mm) thick and 3⁄4in. (20 mm) (m3),
wide by 12 in. (300 mm) long. Fb 5 total weight of fine aggregate in the moisture condi-
4.12 Strike-Off Plate—A flat rectangular metal plate at least tion used in batch, lb (kg),
1⁄4 in. (6 mm) thick or a glass or acrylic plate at least 1⁄2 in. (12 Cs 5 weight of coarse aggregate in concrete sample under
mm) thick with a length and width at least 2 in. (50 mm) test, lb (kg), and
greater than the diameter of the measure with which it is to be Cb 5 total weight of coarse aggregate in the moisture
used. The edges of the plate shall be straight and smooth within condition used in batch, lb (kg).
a tolerance of 1⁄16 in. (1.5 mm). NOTE 2—The volume of concrete produced per batch can be deter-
4.13 Funnel, with the spout fitting into spray tube. mined in accordance with applicable provisions of Test Method C 138.
4.14 Measure for Water, having the necessary capacity to NOTE 3—The term “weight” is temporarily used in this standard
fill the indicator with water from the top of the concrete to the because of established trade usage. The word is used to mean both “force”
zero mark. and “mass,” and care must be taken to determine which is meant in each
4.15 Vibrator, as described in Practice C 192. case (SI unit for force 5 newton and for mass 5 kilogram).
4.16 Sieves, 11⁄2-in. (37.5-mm) with not less than 2 ft2 (0.19 6.3 Placement of Aggregate in Measuring Bowl—Mix rep-
2
m ) of sieving area. resentative samples of fine aggregate Fs and coarse aggregate

3
 C 231
Cs, and place in the measuring bowl filled one-third full with slump of 1 to 3 in. (25 to 75 mm). Consolidate concretes with
water. Place the mixed aggregate, a small amount at a time, a slump less than 1 in. (25 mm) by vibration.
into the measuring bowl; if necessary, add additional water so 8.1.2 Rodding—Place the concrete in the measuring bowl in
as to inundate all of the aggregate. Add each scoopful in a three layers of approximately equal volume. Consolidate each
manner that will entrap as little air as possible and remove layer of concrete by 25 strokes of the tamping rod evenly
accumulations of foam promptly. Tap the sides of the bowl and distributed over the cross section. After each layer is rodded,
lightly rod the upper 1 in. (25 mm) of the aggregate eight to tap the sides of the measure smartly 10 to 15 times with the
twelve times. Stir after each addition of aggregate to eliminate mallet to close any voids left by the tamping rod and to release
entrapped air. any large bubbles of air that may have been trapped. Rod the
6.4 Aggregate Correction Factor Determination: bottom layer throughout its depth, but the rod shall not forcibly
6.4.1 Initial Procedure for Types A and B Meters—When all strike the bottom of the measure. In rodding the second and
of the aggregate has been placed in the measuring bowl, final layers, use only enough force to cause the rod to penetrate
remove excess foam and keep the aggregate inundated for a the surface of the previous layer about 1 in. ( 25 mm). Add the
period of time approximately equal to the time between final layer of concrete in a manner to avoid excessive overfill-
introduction of the water into the mixer and the time of ing (8.1.4).
performing the test for air content before proceeding with the 8.1.3 Vibration—Place the concrete in the measuring bowl
determination as directed in 6.4.2 or 6.4.3. in two layers of approximately equal volume. Place all of the
6.4.2 Type A Meter—Complete the test as described in 8.2.1 concrete for each layer before starting vibration of that layer.
and 8.2.2. The aggregate correction factor, G, is equal to Consolidate each layer by three insertions of the vibrator
h1 − h2 (see Fig. 1) (Note 4). evenly distributed over the cross section. Add the final layer in
6.4.3 Type B Meter—Perform the procedures as described in a manner to avoid excessive overfilling (8.1.4). In consolidat-
8.3.1. Remove a volume of water from the assembled and filled ing the bottom layer, do not allow the vibrator to rest on or
apparatus approximately equivalent to the volume of air that touch the bottom or sides of the measuring bowl. Take care in
would be contained in a typical concrete sample of a size equal withdrawing the vibrator to ensure that no air pockets are left
to the volume of the bowl. Remove the water in the manner in the specimen. Observe a standard duration of vibration for
described in A1.9 for the calibration tests. Complete the test as the particular kind of concrete, vibrator, and measuring bowl
described in 8.3.2. The aggregate correction factor, G, is equal involved. The duration of vibration required will depend upon
to the reading on the air-content scale minus the volume of the workability of the concrete and the effectiveness of the
water removed from the bowl expressed as a percent of the vibrator. Continue vibration until the concrete is properly
volume of the bowl (see Fig. 1). consolidated. Never continue vibration long enough to cause
NOTE 4—The aggregate correction factor will vary with different
escape of froth from the sample.
aggregates. It can be determined only by test, since apparently it is not NOTE 5—Overvibration may cause segregation and loss of intentionally
directly related to absorption of the particles. The test can be easily made entrained air. Usually, sufficient vibration has been applied as soon as the
and must not be ignored. Ordinarily the factor will remain reasonably surface of the concrete becomes relatively smooth and has a glazed
constant for given aggregates, but an occasional check test is recom- appearance.
mended.
8.1.4 Strike Off—After consolidation of the concrete, strike
7. Preparation of Concrete Test Sample off the top surface by sliding the strike-off bar across the top
7.1 Obtain the sample of freshly mixed concrete in accor- flange or rim of the measuring bowl with a sawing motion until
dance with applicable procedures of Practice C 172. If the the bowl is just level full. On completion of consolidation, the
concrete contains coarse aggregate particles that would be bowl must not contain an excess or deficiency of concrete.
retained on a 2-in. (50-mm) sieve, wet-sieve a sufficient Removal of 1⁄8 in. (3 mm) during strike off is optimum. When
amount of the representative sample over a 11⁄2-in. (37.5-mm) a strike-off plate is used, strike off concrete as prescribed in
sieve, as described in Practice C 172, to yield sufficient Test Method C 138.
material to completely fill the measuring bowl of the size NOTE 6—A small quantity of representative concrete may be added to
selected for use. Carry out the wet-sieving operation with the correct a deficiency. If the measure contains a great excess, remove a
minimum practicable disturbance of the mortar. Make no representative portion of concrete with a trowel or scoop before the
attempt to wipe adhering mortar from coarse aggregate par- measure is struck off.
ticles retained on the sieve. NOTE 7—The use of the strike-off plate on cast aluminum or other
relatively soft metal air meter bases may cause rapid wear of the rim and
8. Procedure for Determining Air Content of Concrete require frequent maintenance, calibration, and ultimately, replacement.

8.1 Placement and Consolidation of Sample: 8.1.5 Application of Test Method—Any portion of the test
8.1.1 Dampen the interior of the measuring bowl and place method not specifically designated as pertaining to Type A or
it on a flat, level, firm surface. Place a representative sample of Type B meter shall apply to both types.
the concrete, prepared as described in Section 7, in the 8.2 Procedure—Type A Meter:
measuring bowl in equal layers. Consolidate each layer by the 8.2.1 Preparation for Test—Thoroughly clean the flanges or
rodding procedure (8.1.2) or by vibration (8.1.3). Strike-off the rims of the bowl and of the cover assembly so that when the
finally consolidated layer (8.1.4). Rod concretes with a slump cover is clamped in place a pressure-tight seal will be obtained.
greater than 3 in. (75 mm). Rod or vibrate concrete with a Assemble the apparatus and add water over the concrete by

4
 C 231
means of the tube until it rises to about the halfway mark in the where:
standpipe. Incline the apparatus assembly about 30° from P1 5 alternative test pressure, psi (or kPa),
vertical and, using the bottom of the bowl as a pivot, describe Pa 5 atmospheric pressure, psi (approximately 14.7 psi (101 kPa) but
will vary with altitude and weather conditions) (or kPa), and
several complete circles with the upper end of the column,
P 5 normal test or operating gage pressure, psi (or kPa).
simultaneously tapping the cover lightly to remove any en-
trapped air bubbles above the concrete sample. Return the 8.3 Procedure—Type B Meter
apparatus assembly to a vertical position and fill the water 8.3.1 Preparation for Test—Thoroughly clean the flanges or
column slightly above the zero mark, while lightly tapping the rims of the bowl and the cover assembly so that when the cover
sides of the bowl. Bring the water level to the zero mark of the is clamped in place a pressure-tight seal will be obtained.
graduated tube before closing the vent at the top of the water Assemble the apparatus. Close the air valve between the air
column (see Fig. 1 A). chamber and the measuring bowl and open both petcocks on
the holes through the cover. Using a rubber syringe, inject
NOTE 8—Some Type A meters have a calibrated starting fill mark above
the zero mark. Generally, this starting mark should not be used since, as
water through one petcock until water emerges from the
noted in 8.2.3, the apparent air content is the difference between the water opposite petcock. Jar the meter gently until all air is expelled
level reading H, at pressure P and the water level h2 at zero pressure after from this same petcock.
release of pressure P. 8.3.2 Test Procedure—Close the airbleeder valve on the air
8.2.2 The internal surface of the cover assembly shall be chamber and pump air into the air chamber until the gage hand
kept clean and free from oil or grease; the surface shall be wet is on the initial pressure line. Allow a few seconds for the
to prevent adherence of air bubbles that might be difficult to compressed air to cool to normal temperature. Stabilize the
dislodge after assembly of the apparatus. gage hand at the initial pressure line by pumping or
bleeding-off air as necessary, tapping the gage lightly by hand.
8.2.3 Test Procedure—Apply more than the desired test Close both petcocks on the holes through the cover. Open the
pressure, P, (about 0.2 psi (1380 Pa) more) to the concrete by air valve between the air chamber and the measuring bowl. Tap
means of the small hand pump. To relieve local restraints, tap the sides of the measuring bowl smartly with the mallet to
the sides of the measure sharply and, when the pressure gage relieve local restraints. Lightly tap the pressure gage by hand to
indicates the exact test pressure, P, as determined in accor- stabilize the gage hand. Read the percentage of air on the dial
dance with , read the water level, h1, and record to the nearest of the pressure gage. Failure to close the main air valve before
division or half-division on the graduated precision-bore tube releasing the pressure from either the container or the air
or gage glass of the standpipe (see Fig. 1 B). For extremely chamber will result in water being drawn into the air chamber,
harsh mixes tap the bowl vigorously until further tapping thus introducing error in subsequent measurements. In the
produces no change in the indicated air content. Gradually event water enters the air chamber it must be bled from the air
release the air pressure through the vent at the top of the water chamber through the bleeder valve followed by several strokes
column and tap the sides of the bowl lightly for about 1 min. of the pump to blow out the last traces of water. Release the
Record the water level, h2, to the nearest division or half- pressure by opening both petcocks (Fig. 1, A and B) before
division (see Fig. 1 C). Calculate the apparent air content as removing the cover.
follows:
A1 5 h 1 – h 2 (3) 9. Calculation
where: 9.1 Air Content of Sample Tested—Calculate the air content
A1 5 apparent air content, of the concrete in the measuring bowl as follows:
h1 5 water level reading at pressure, P (see Note 6), and As 5 A1 – G (5)
h2 5 water level reading at zero pressure after release of
pressure, P. where:
8.2.4 Check Test—Repeat the steps described in 8.2.3 with- As 5 air content of the sample tested, %,
A1 5 apparent air content of the sample tested, % (see
out adding water to reestablish the water level at the zero mark.
section 7.2.2 and 8.3.2), and
The two consecutive determinations of apparent air content
G 5 aggregate correction factor, % (Section 6).
should check within 0.2 % of air and shall be averaged to give
the value A1 to be used in calculating the air content, As, in 9.2 Air Content of Full Mixture—When the sample tested
accordance with Section 9. represents that portion of the mixture that is obtained by wet
sieving to remove aggregate particles larger than a 11⁄2-in.
8.2.5 In the event the air content exceeds the range of the (37.5-mm) sieve, the air content of the full mixture is calcu-
meter when it is operated at the normal test pressure P, reduce lated as follows:
the test pressure to the alternative test pressure P1 and repeat
the steps outlined in 8.2.2 and 8.2.3. At 5 100 AsVc /~100 Vt – AsVa! (6)

NOTE 9—See A1.7 for exact calibration procedures. An approximate where: (Note 10):
value of the alternative pressure, P1, such that the apparent air content will At 5 air content of the full mixture, %,
equal twice the meter reading can be computed from the following Vc 5 absolute volume of the ingredients of the mixture
relationship: passing a 11⁄2-in. sieve, airfree, as determined from
the original batch weights, ft3 (m3),
P1 5 PaP/~2Pa 1 P! (4)

5
 C 231

Vt 5 absolute volume of all ingredients of the mixture, not allow a single operator time to conduct more than one test
airfree, ft3 (m3), and on a sample.
Va 5 absolute volume of the aggregate in the mixture 10.1.2 Multilaboratory Precision—The multilaboratory
coarser than a 11⁄2-in. sieve, as determined from standard deviation has not been established.
original batch weights, ft3 (m3). 10.1.3 Multioperator Precision—The multioperator stan-
9.3 Air Content of the Mortar Fraction—When it is desired dard deviation of a single test result has been found to be
to know the air content of the mortar fraction of the mixture, 0.28 % air by volume of concrete for Type A air meters as long
calculate it as follows: as the air content does not exceed 7 %. Therefore results of two
tests properly conducted by different operators but on the same
Am 5 100 As Vc /@100 Vm 1 As ~Vc 2 Vm!# (7)
material should not differ by more than 0.8 % air by volume of
where: (Note 10): concrete (see Practice E 177, Note 8 and Note 9).
Am 5 air content of the mortar fraction, %, and NOTE 11—These numbers represent, respectively, the (1s) and (d2s)
Vm 5 absolute volume of the ingredients of the mortar limits as described in Practice C 670. The precision statements are based
fraction of the mixture, airfree, ft3 (m3). on the variations in tests on three different concretes, each tested by eleven
different operators.4
NOTE 10—The values for use in Eq 6 and Eq 7 are most conveniently
obtained from data on the concrete mixture tabulated as follows for a NOTE 12—The precision of this test method using Type B air meters has
batch of any size: not been determined.
Absolute 10.2 Bias—This test method has no bias because the air
Volume,
ft3(m3)
content of freshly mixed concrete can only be defined in terms
of the test methods.
J J
Cement ______
Water ______ Vm
Vc
Fine aggregate ______ 11. Keywords
Coarse aggregate (No. 4 (4.75-mm) ______
to 11⁄2-in. (37.5-mm)) 11.1 air content; calibration; concrete; correction factor;
Coarse aggregate (11⁄2-in.) ______ Va
Total ______ Vt
measuring bowl; meter; pressure; pump; unit weight

10. Precision and Bias

10.1 Precision: 4
Reidenour, D. R., and Howe, R. H., “Air Content of Plastic and Hardened
Concrete,” presented at the 2nd International Conference on“ Durability of Building
10.1.1 Single-Operator Precision—The single-operator
Materials and Components” Sept. 14–16, 1981. Reprints compiled by: G. Frohns-
standard deviation cannot be established because the sampling dorff and B. Horner, National Institute for Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg,
requirements for this test, as established in Practice C 172, do MD 20899, formerly National Bureau of Standards, Washington, DC 20234.

ANNEX

(Mandatory Information)

A1. CALIBRATION OF APPARATUS

A1.1 Calibration tests shall be performed in accordance A1.4 Effective Volume of the Calibration Vessel, R—The
with the following procedures as applicable to the meter type constant R represents the effective volume of the calibration
being employed. vessel expressed as a percentage of the volume of the measur-
ing bowl.
A1.2 Calibration of the Calibration Vessel—Determine
accurately the weight of water, w, required to fill the calibration A1.4.1 For meter Types A, calculate R as follows (Note A1):
vessel, using a scale accurate to 0.1 % of the weight of the R 5 0.98 w/W (A1.1)
vessel filled with water. This step shall be performed for Type
A and B meters. where:
w 5 weight of water required to fill the calibration vessel,
A1.3 Calibration of the Measuring Bowl—Determine the and
weight of water, W, required to fill the measuring bowl, using W 5 weight of water required to fill the measuring bowl.
a scale accurate to 0.1 % of the weight of the bowl filled with
NOTE A1.1—The factor 0.98 is used to correct for the reduction in the
water. Slide a glass plate carefully over the flange of the bowl
volume of air in the calibration vessel when it is compressed by a depth
in a manner to ensure that the bowl is completely filled with of water equal to the depth of the measuring bowl. This factor is
water. A thin film of cup grease smeared on the flange of the approximately 0.98 for an 8-in. (203-mm) deep measuring bowl at sea
bowl will make a watertight joint between the glass plate and level. Its value decreases to approximately 0.975 at 5000 ft (1524 m)
the top of the bowl. This step shall be performed for Type A above sea level and 0.970 at 13 000 ft (3962 m) above sea level. The
and B meters. value of this constant will decrease by about 0.01 for each 4-in. (102-mm)

6
 C 231
increase in bowl depth. The depth of the measuring bowl and atmospheric K5R1D (A1.3)
pressure do not affect the effective volume of the calibration vessel for
meter Types B. where:
A1.4.2 For meter Types B calculate R as follows (Note R 5 effective volume of the calibration vessel (A1.4.1),
A1.1): and
D 5 expansion factor (A1.5.1, Note A1.6).
R 5 w/W (A1.2)
A1.6.2 For meter Types B the calibration reading, K, equals
A1.5 Determination of, or Check of, Allowance for Expan- the effective volume of the calibration vessel (A4.2) as follows:
sion Factor, D: K5R (A1.4)
A1.5.1 For meter assemblies of Type A determine the
NOTE A1.6—If the water column indicator is graduated to include an
expansion factor, D (Note A1.2) by filling the apparatus with
initial water level and a zero mark, the difference between the two marks
water only (making certain that all entrapped air has been being equivalent to the expansion factor, the term D shall be omitted from
removed and the water level is exactly on the zero mark (Note Eq A1.3.
A1.3) and applying an air pressure approximately equal to the
operating pressure, P, determined by the calibration test A1.7 Calibration Test to Determine Operating Pressure, P,
described in A1.7. The amount the water column lowers will be on Pressure Gage, Type A Meter—If the rim of the calibration
the equivalent expansion factor, D, for that particular apparatus cylinder contains no recesses or projections, fit it with three or
and pressure (Note A1.5). more spacers equally spaced around the circumference. Invert
NOTE A1.2—Although the bowl, cover, and clamping mechanism of
the cylinder and place it at the center of the dry bottom of the
the apparatus must of necessity be sturdily constructed so that it will be measuring bowl. The spacers will provide an opening for flow
pressure-tight, the application of internal pressure will result in a small of water into the calibration cylinder when pressure is applied.
increase in volume. This expansion will not affect the test results because, Secure the inverted cylinder against displacement and carefully
with the procedure described in Sections 6 and 8, the amount of expansion lower the cover assembly. After the cover is clamped in place,
is the same for the test for air in concrete as for the test for aggregate carefully adjust the apparatus assembly to a vertical position
correction factor on combined fine and coarse aggregates, and is thereby
and add water at air temperature, by means of the tube and
automatically cancelled. However, it does enter into the calibration test to
determine the air pressure to be used in testing fresh concrete. funnel, until it rises above the zero mark on the standpipe.
NOTE A1.3—The water columns on some meters of Type-A design are Close the vent and pump air into the apparatus to the
marked with an initial water level and a zero mark, the difference between approximate operating pressure. Incline the assembly about
the two marks being the allowance for the expansion factor. This 30° from vertical and, using the bottom of the bowl as a pivot,
allowance should be checked in the same manner as for meters not so describe several complete circles with the upper end of the
marked and in such a case, the expansion factor should be omitted in standpipe, simultaneously tapping the cover and sides of the
computing the calibration readings in A1.7.
NOTE A1.4—It will be sufficiently accurate for this purpose to use an
bowl lightly to remove any entrapped air adhering to the inner
approximate value for P determined by making a preliminary calibration surfaces of the apparatus. Return the apparatus to a vertical
test as described in A1.7 except that an approximate value for the position, gradually release the pressure (to avoid loss of air
calibration factor, K, should be used. For this test K 5 0.98R which is the from the calibration vessel), and open the vent. Bring the water
same as Eq A1.2 except that the expansion reading, D, as yet unknown, is level exactly to the zero mark by bleeding water through the
assumed to be zero. petcock in the top of the conical cover. After closing the vent,
A1.5.2 For meters of Type B design, the allowance for the apply pressure until the water level has dropped an amount
expansion factor, D, is included in the difference between the equivalent to about 0.1 to 0.2 % of air more than the value of
initial pressure indicated on the pressure gage and the zero the calibration reading, K, determined as described in A1.6. To
percent mark on the air-content scale on the pressure gage. This relieve local restraints, lightly tap the sides of the bowl, and
allowance shall be checked by filling the apparatus with water when the water level is exactly at the value of the calibration
(making certain that all entrapped air has been removed), reading, K, read the pressure, P, indicated by the gage and
pumping air into the air chamber until the gage hand is record to the nearest 0.1 psi (690 Pa). Gradually release the
stabilized at the indicated initial pressure line, and then pressure and open the vent to determine whether the water
releasing the air to the measuring bowl (Note A1.5). If the level returns to the zero mark when the sides of the bowl are
initial pressure line is correctly positioned, the gage should tapped lightly (failure to do so indicates loss of air from the
read zero percent. The initial pressure line shall be adjusted if calibration vessel or loss of water due to a leak in the
two or more determinations show the same variation from zero assembly). If the water levels fails to return to within 0.05 %
percent and the test repeated to check the adjusted initial air of the zero mark and no leakage beyond a few drops of
pressure line. water is found, some air probably was lost from the calibration
NOTE A1.5—This procedure may be accomplished in conjunction with
cylinder. In this case, repeat the calibration procedure step by
the calibration test described in A1.9. step from the beginning of this paragraph. If the leakage is
more than a few drops of water, tighten the leaking joint before
A1.6 Calibration Reading, K—The calibration reading, K, repeating the calibration procedure. Check the indicated pres-
is the final meter reading to be obtained when the meter is sure reading promptly by bringing the water level exactly to the
operated at the correct calibration pressure. zero mark, closing the vent, and applying the pressure, P, just
A1.6.1 For meter Types A, the calibration reading, K, is as determined. Tap the gage lightly with a finger. When the gage
follows: indicates the exact pressure, P, the water column should read

7
 C 231
the value of the calibration factor, K, used in the first pressure calibration vessel (A1.2) has a capacity within the normal
application within about 0.05 % of air. range of use, remove exactly that amount of water. With some
NOTE A1.7—Caution: The apparatus assembly must not be moved meters the calibrating vessel is quite small and it will be
from the vertical position until pressure has been applied which will force necessary to remove several times that volume to obtain an air
water about one third of the way up into the calibration cylinder. Any loss content within the normal range of use. In this instance,
of air from this cylinder will nullify the calibration. carefully collect the water in an auxiliary container and
determine the amount removed by weighing to the nearest
A1.8 Calibration Test to Determine Alternative Operating
0.1 %. Calculate the correct air content, R, by using Eq A1.2.
Pressure P1—Meter Type A—The range of air contents which
can be measured with a given meter can be doubled by Release the air from the apparatus at the petcock not used for
determining an alternative operating pressure P1 such that the filling the calibration vessel and if the apparatus employs an
meter reads half of the calibration reading, K, (Eq A1.3). Exact auxiliary tube for filling the calibration container, open the
calibration will require determination of the expansion factor at petcock to which the tube is connected to drain the tube back
the reduced pressure in A1.5. For most purposes the change in into the measuring bowl (Note A1.7). At this point of procedure
expansion factor can be disregarded and the alternative oper- the measuring bowl contains the percentage of air determined
ating pressure determined during the determination of the by the calibration test of the calibrating vessel. Pump air into
regular operating pressure in A1.7. the air chamber until the pressure reaches the initial pressure
line marked on the pressure gage, close both petcocks in the
A1.9 Calibration Test to Check the Air Content Gradua- cover assembly, and then open the valve between the air
tions on the Pressure Gage, Type B Meter—Fill the measuring chamber and the measuring bowl. The indicated air content on
bowl with water as described in A1.3. Screw the short piece of the pressure gage dial should correspond to the percentage of
tubing or pipe furnished with the apparatus into the threaded air determined to be in the measuring bowl. If two or more
petcock hole on the underside of the cover assembly. Assemble determinations show the same variation from the correct air
the apparatus. Close the air valve between the air chamber and content, the dial hand shall be reset to the correct air content
the measuring bowl and open the two petcocks on holes and the test repeated until the gage reading corresponds to the
through the cover assembly. Add water through the petcock on calibrated air content within 0.1 %. If the dial hand was reset to
the cover assembly having the extension below until all air is
obtain the correct air content, recheck the initial pressure mark
expelled from the second petcock. Pump air into the air
as in A1.5.2. If a new initial pressure reading is required, repeat
chamber until the pressure reaches the indicated initial pressure
the calibration to check the accuracy of the graduation on the
line. Allow a few seconds for the compressed air to cool to
pressure gage described earlier in this section. If difficulty is
normal temperature. Stabilize the gage hand at the initial
encountered in obtaining consistent readings, check for leaks,
pressure line by pumping or bleeding off air as necessary,
tapping the gage lightly. Close the petcock not provided with for the presence of water inside the air chamber (see Fig. 2), or
the tube or pipe extension on the under side of the cover. the presence of air bubbles clinging to the inside surfaces of the
Remove water from the assembly to the calibrating vessel meter from the use of cool aerated water. In this latter instance
controlling the flow, depending on the particular meter design, use deaerated water which can be obtained by cooling hot
by opening the petcock provided with the tube or pipe water to room temperature.
extension and cracking the air valve between the air chamber NOTE A1.8—If the calibrating vessel is an integral part of the cover
and the measuring bowl, or by opening the air valve and using assembly, the petcock used in filling the vessel should be closed
the petcock to control flow. Perform the calibration at an air immediately after filling the calibration vessel and not opened until the test
content which is within the normal range of use. If the is complete.

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