The Vicat apparatus : The Vicat apparatus is a device used to measure the setting time of cement and similar materials in Bangladesh. RTC – It consists of a cylindrical plunger with a 10mm diameter and a 50mm length, which is attached to a vibrating arm. The arm is suspended from a frame, and a graduated scale is provided to measure the depth of penetration of the plunger into the cement sample.
To perform the test, a cement paste or mortar sample is prepared and placed into a standard Vicat mold. The plunger is then lowered gently onto the surface of the sample, and the initial setting time is determined by measuring the depth of penetration of the plunger into the sample.
After a certain period of time, usually 30 minutes, the plunger is again applied to the surface of the sample, and the final setting time is determined by measuring the depth of penetration of the plunger. The setting time is defined as the time interval between the beginning of mixing of the cement and the time when the cement has lost its plasticity and has acquired sufficient hardness to resist certain definite pressure.
The Vicat apparatus is widely used in the construction industry to test the quality of cement and similar materials. It helps ensure that the cement has the desired setting time, which is important for the proper curing and strength development of concrete structures.
