The grade of cement matters a lot to determine the compressive strength of the cement. Cement is the basic foundation for any building construction, and the strength and quality of cement depend on its grade. The right cement grade decides the durability and overall finishing of any construction project. The strength and longevity of different grades are unique, and it requires your careful selection before purchase.
What is the grade of cement?
The strength of cement is measured in MegaPascals (MPa) which assess the compressive strength of cement after 28 days of curing under standard temperature conditions of 20°C. You cannot ignore the grade of cement because it determines how much pressure the cement can bear. The selection of appropriate grades is essential for the durability and strength of building structures.
Type of Grade of Cement
There are basically three types of cement grade: OPC 33, OPC 43, and OPC 53. It also has two types of specialized cement, like Portland Slag Cement (PSC) and Pozzolana Cement (PPC). You need to consider the environmental condition and structural demand of your construction before selecting grade of cement. OPC stands for Ordinary Portland Cement and it is made up from clinker that is formed by heating clay and limestone mixture.
- OPC 33 grade of cement
OPC33 is best suitable for structural applications that do not require high strength, like plastering, flooring, ceilings, or masonry. This type of cement has a compressive strength of 33Mpa after 28 days of curing.
- OPC 43 grade of cement
The minimum compressive strength of OPC43 cement is 43 MPa after 28 days of curing. It is resistant to any cracking due to its high compressive strength. It is best suited for moderate- to high-strength building construction. The residential building , bridge, and dams use this type of cement grade.
- OPC 53 grade of cement
OPC53 cement grade has the highest comprehensive strength of 53 MPa. This type of grade is used in heavy construction projects. It has fewer chances of structural fractures. Bridges, high-rise buildings, and industrial-purpose construction use OPC53 grade of cement.
Cement is one of the most important materials for every construction project. The knowledge of different varieties of cement, its composition, and its properties is essential before making any purchasing decision. The quality of cement has a great impact on durability, and it raises severe concern about safety also.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC)?
PPC is produced by mixing Portland clinker, pozzolana particles, and gypsum. It is highly resistant to water and sulfate and safeguards buildings in all types of environmental challenges.
What is Portland Slag Cement (PSC)?
Portland Slag Cement (PSC) is a special type of cement formed by blending 25-65% OPC clinker with 35-71% blast furnace slag. 3-5% gypsum is also added with it to form PSC.
Why is comprehensive strength for grade of cement considered after 28 days?
The compressive strength of cement reaches its highest level after 28 days of curing, almost 90%. After that it does not gain any further strength. So, MPa is measured after this period only.
