Effects of working with a good Material testing laboratory

Material testing is important in identifying qualities and characteristics of the samples gathered from the construction site. The results will help engineers decide next steps for the project. It also includes testing of materials to be used for the construction to determine whether they are suitable for the land and overall project.

The samples are sent to a Material testing laboratory where they are subjected to certain tests that will determine their resistance and reactions to other materials and circumstances. Here are some of the tests done during material testing:

• soil classification
• soil strength or solidity
• pH testing
• hydraulic conductivity
• Soil moisture content
• Density

Some materials that will possibly be used during construction:

• Concrete: Composition test, tensile test, strength, consistency, setting time test
• Asphalt: Shear test, binder content, mixture test, absolute viscosity

Most of these tests aim to determine strength, resistance, and durability of materials. This is critical in  identifying which raw materials or finished products are suitable or will best fit the construction project. With the knowledge of these materials’ qualities, engineers can compare and contrast the available materials. In case the available ones still do not meet the standard for the project, they can search for better ones as early as possible.

Compared to field testing, laboratory testing allows for a more comprehensive quality evaluation. In terms of building construction, laboratory tests can reveal qualities that are not visible superficially like chemical content, chemical reactions or density and feasibility.

A Material testing laboratory is responsible for taking up the materials for testing and delivering results. The outcome of the tests will be given to geotechnical engineers for interpretation and evaluation which they will also use for necessary decisions for the project.

Why is it important?

Materials testing is important because it ensures the safety of the construction project. The necessary standards can be established once the results are delivered. It helps determine which materials are good for the project and the ones that need to be improved. Through testing, potential risks are determined and actual measures can be planned and done with this knowledge at hand. When the site is prone to natural disasters or calamities, materials testing provides accurate data that will also garner more accurate response plans and strategies.

Materials testing is also required in most regulations by the state. It is also essential in the overall plan of the project. By determining materials’ quality and classifications, the completion of building design and plan will be more comprehensive and accurate.

All projects, construction projects included, run on a strict timeline and budget. Materials testing helps streamline the tasks and avoid delays caused by faulty decisions. A lot of risks can be avoided even during the construction period when proper testing is done. It saves time and resources for the project and allows more time for other improvements to be done. Getting a reliable material testing laboratory will help generate precise and detailed results. Make sure to hire excellent engineers and laboratories to help with the success of the project.