The challenge
Valmont Industries makes custom-engineered products for utility, agriculture and infrastructure, in concrete, steel or hybrid materials. For its spun-cast concrete pole production in Georgia, USA, it needed a concrete mix with high workability and compaction for spinning, as well as durability and a good finish. The admixture had to lower the water to cement ratio without loss of workability or structural integrity. The plant also needed to extend workability so finishers had time to spread the concrete and secure it in the steel column forms.
The DCP solution
DCP supplied Donplast PC214, a water reducing admixture based on polycarboxylic polymers. It allows a high-strength, workable mix at a lower water to cement ratio, with minimal air entrainment. DCP also supplied Donplast HC3, a liquid admixture that controls cement hydration and keeps the mix workable for longer. DCP installed a custom admixture dispensing system for precise, automated dosing.
DCP products used
How it was applied
- Install the DCP admixture dispensing system for automated dosing.
- Dose Donplast PC214 to reduce the water to cement ratio while keeping workability.
- Dose Donplast HC3 to extend working time for finishers to spread and secure the concrete in the forms.
- Spin-cast the poles.
The result
Donplast PC214 improved workability, giving full compaction, a consistent surface finish and better water impermeability. Donplast HC3 gave control of setting time, which cut waste and improved quality control. Automated dosing reduced manual errors and gave consistent product quality.
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