A beam mould is a device used to form concrete specimens in the shape of a rectangular beam. These specimens are later subjected to various tests, such as flexural strength tests, to evaluate the mechanical properties of the concrete. Beam moulds are commonly used in construction and materials testing laboratories to ensure that concrete meets specified standards and performance criteria.
 
Components and Types of Beam Moulds:
1. Mould Body:
   - Typically made from durable materials like steel, cast iron, or high-quality plastic to withstand the rigors of repeated use.
   - Comes in various sizes, with common dimensions being 100mm x 100mm x 500mm or 150mm x 150mm x 600mm.
2. Base Plate:
   - A flat, rigid plate that forms the bottom of the mould.
   - Ensures that the concrete specimen has a smooth and level bottom surface.
3. Side and End Plates:
   - Removable plates that form the sides and ends of the beam.
   - Secured to the base plate and to each other using clamps, screws, or bolts to create a watertight seal.
4. Assembly Hardware:
   - Bolts, screws, or clamps used to secure the side and end plates to the base plate and to each other.
   - Ensures the mould maintains its shape and integrity during the pouring and curing of concrete.
5. Handles (Optional):
   - Some moulds have handles attached to the side plates for easier handling and transport.
 
Procedure for Using Beam Moulds:
1. Preparation:
   - Clean the mould and apply a thin layer of release agent (such as oil or a non-stick spray) to the inner surfaces to prevent the concrete from adhering to the mould.
   - Assemble the mould by attaching the side and end plates to the base plate and securing them with the provided hardware.
2. Pouring the Concrete:
   - Pour the freshly mixed concrete into the mould in layers.
   - Compact each layer using a tamping rod or vibrator to remove air bubbles and ensure uniform density.
3. Finishing the Surface:
   - Level the top surface of the concrete using a trowel or straightedge to ensure a smooth and even finish.
4. Curing:
   - Cover the mould with a plastic sheet or damp cloth to prevent moisture loss and promote proper curing.
   - Allow the concrete to cure for a specified period, typically 24 hours, before demoulding.
5. Demoulding:
   - After the initial curing period, carefully remove the side and end plates to release the concrete beam from the mould.
   - Place the beam in a curing tank or moist curing room to continue curing until it reaches the desired age for testing (usually 7, 14, or 28 days).
 
Applications:
- Flexural Strength Testing: Concrete beams are subjected to flexural tests to determine their resistance to bending and evaluate their tensile strength.
- Quality Control: Beam moulds are used in quality control processes to ensure that concrete mixtures meet required specifications and performance standards.
- Research and Development: In laboratories, beam moulds are used to create specimens for experimental studies on the properties and behavior of concrete under different conditions.
 
Advantages:
- Standardized Dimensions: Ensures that concrete specimens are uniform and comparable across different tests and laboratories.
- Durability: Made from robust materials that can withstand repeated use and handling.
- Ease of Use: Simple assembly and disassembly process, allowing for efficient specimen preparation and testing.
 
Limitations:
- Weight: Metal moulds can be heavy and cumbersome to handle, especially for larger sizes.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Requires regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent contamination and ensure accurate test results.
 
Beam moulds are essential tools in the field of concrete testing, providing a reliable means to produce standard-sized specimens for evaluating the mechanical properties and performance of concrete.