The Components and Benefits of Concrete Cooling
Contents |
[edit] Background
Concrete cooling is a method to build robust and long-lasting structures. In this article, we will discuss the definition, importance, and components of concrete cooling.
[edit] Science of the concrete
In laymen’s language, people use the terms concrete and cement interchangeably but it is important to know the distinction in order to understand the importance of concrete cooling. Cement is the mixture that is mixed with water and forms the material called concrete. The hydration of the concrete is an exothermic process which means when the cement is mixed with water it releases humongous heat (~200 degrees Fahrenheit).
[edit] What are the problems associated with hot concrete?
The process of hardening concrete is known as curing. The high curing temperatures for concrete result in decreased tensile strength. A problem arises in large pour settings in which the outer concrete is less warm than the inner concrete, resulting in non-uniform density. Subsequently, the poor quality of concrete can create issues with the overall strength of the structure.
[edit] What is concrete cooling and why is it important?
Concrete cooling is the process of reducing the temperature of the concrete to guarantee the strength and quality of the concrete pour. There are numerous disadvantages of using hot concrete such as unequal density and poor tensile strength. In order to assure the quality and strength of the concrete pour the mixture must undergo concrete cooling procedures to reduce the temperature. The temperature-controlled concrete eliminates the risk of expansion in the volume of concrete due to heat exchange. The heat exchange also leads to cracks in the sets, so to avoid it the initial filling temperature should be kept low. However, the specifications of concrete cooling systems vary according to the application and need of the project.
[edit] What are the major components of concrete cooling?
Below are the major components of concrete cooling systems. Although, the components used may change as per the company and the necessity of the project.
[edit] Water chilling plant
The use of water with considerably lower temperatures is an efficacious concrete cooling strategy. Water chilling plant is used to lower the temperature of the water to near freezing point. The components of water chilling plants are compressors, control panels, pumps, heat exchangers, and condensers.
[edit] Cold-water tank
Once the water is chilled it will need to be stored in an insulated tank to maintain its temperature. The cold water tank includes a pump for circulating the water into other parts of the cooling systems. The size of the tank will typically vary according to the requirements of the concrete cooling systems.
[edit] Ice plant
Another concrete cooling procedure is to add ice, especially ice flakes into large containers such as drums. Since the size of flake ice is small and has a relatively low surface area, these properties ensure that flake ice will melt rapidly so that the cement mixture remains uniform. Ice plants fabricate the ice that is used in the concrete cooling process.
[edit] Aggregate cooling with air
Air cooling is a procedure that doesn’t require much space. The process involves the blowing of cool air in a stream through a silo. Nozzles are installed below the silos to render a constant air stream. The use of air cooling is not only energy efficient but also eco-friendly.
[edit] Post cooling
Some projects require thoroughly cooled concrete that might require another cooling method along with the other cooling techniques. Post-cooling procedures are used in the construction of dams to allow very intensive concrete cooling. In the ultimate option of the post-cooling systems, the chilled water runs through a network of pipes throughout the concrete.
[edit] External links
- https://www.researchnester.com/sample-request-3386
- https://www.researchnester.com/reports/concrete-cooling-market/3386
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Cast-in-place concrete.
- Concrete.
- Concrete batching plants.
- Concrete vs. steel.
- Concreting plant.
- Decarbonising concrete in the UK.
- Glass reinforced concrete.
- Lime concrete.
- Portland cement.
- Precast concrete.
- Prestressed concrete.
- Screed.
- Self-compacting concrete.
- Slip form.
- Smart concrete.
- Stratification of concrete.
- Testing concrete.
- The properties of concrete.
- Types of concrete.
- Vibration Compaction Technology.
Featured articles and news
The benefits of engaging with insulation manufacturers
When considering ground floor constructions.
Lighting Industry endorses Blueprint for Electrification
The Lighting Industry Association fully supports the ECA Blueprint as a timely, urgent call to action.
BSRIA Sentinel Clerk of Works Training Case Study
Strengthening expertise to enhance service delivery with integrated cutting-edge industry knowledge.
Impact report from the Supply Chain Sustainability School
Free sustainability skills, training and support delivered to thousands of UK companies to help cut carbon.
The Building Safety Forum at the Installershow 2025
With speakers confirmed for 24 June as part of Building Safety Week.
The UK’s largest air pollution campaign.
Future Homes Standard, now includes solar, but what else?
Will the new standard, due to in the Autumn, go far enough in terms of performance ?
BSRIA Briefing: Cleaner Air, Better tomorrow
A look back at issues relating to inside and outside air quality, discussed during the BSRIA briefing in 2023.
Restoring Abbotsford's hothouse
Bringing the writer Walter Scott's garden to life.
Reflections on the spending review with CIAT.
Retired firefighter cycles world to raise Grenfell funds
Leaving on 14 June 2025 Stephen will raise money for youth and schools through the Grenfell Foundation.
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.