Engineering Materials·MCQ explained

In a slump test, each layer of concrete is compacted by a steel rod 60 cm long and of 16 mm diameter for:

Try it first: pick an option, then read the explanation.

Correct answer: B. 25 times

Detailed Explanation: Slump Test Procedure — Tamping

Why B (25 times) is correct: IS 1199 specifies: fill the slump mould in 3 equal layers, each approximately 1/3 of the mould height. Rod each layer 25 times uniformly distributed over the cross-section. The bottom layer must be rodded throughout its depth; upper layers are rodded just through into the layer below. 25 strokes provide sufficient compaction without over-compacting.

Slump Test Step-by-Step (IS 1199)

StepDetail
Mould dimensionsTop 100 mm, Bottom 200 mm, Height 300 mm
Number of layers3 equal layers
Strokes per layer25 times
Tamping rod16 mm dia, 600 mm long, bullet nose
After roddingStrike off excess, lift mould vertically
Slump measurement300 mm minus height of slumped concrete
  • 3 layers × 25 strokes each = 75 total strokes for the complete specimen.
  • The tamping rod must penetrate each layer fully but not into the previous layer (except bottom layer).