Slump / Flow / Slump-Flow

UKAS Accredited

Standard(s): BS EN 12350-2, BS EN 12350-5, BS EN 12350-10
Site Test
Lab Test
Slump, Flow, and Slump-Flow tests measure the workability and consistency of fresh concrete. These tests assess how easily concrete flows and compacts before it hardens. Conducted in accordance with BS EN 12350-2, BS EN 12350-5, and BS EN 12350-10, they are commonly used for quality control during concrete production and placement.

Enquire about this test

The Process

For the slump test, fresh concrete is placed into a slump cone mould in layers and compacted before the mould is lifted vertically. The amount the concrete subsides is measured as the slump. The flow table test measures the spread of concrete after the table is dropped a set number of times. Slump-flow testing is commonly used for highly workable or self-compacting concrete, where the spread diameter of the concrete is measured after lifting the cone.

The Reason

Concrete must have the correct workability to ensure it can be placed, compacted, and finished properly. If the mix is too stiff it may be difficult to place, while overly fluid concrete may segregate or lose strength. These tests help verify that the concrete delivered to site has the correct consistency for its intended use.

The Application

Slump and flow testing are routinely carried out on construction sites during concrete deliveries. They are used for a wide range of projects including foundations, slabs, structural frames, and precast elements. The results help confirm that the concrete mix complies with project specifications before placement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Amtest carry out slump and flow testing on site?

Yes. Amtest technicians can attend site to perform slump, flow table, or slump-flow testing on fresh concrete during delivery or placement.

When should slump testing be carried out?

Slump testing is typically performed when concrete arrives on site and before it is placed. Amtest can carry out testing as part of routine concrete quality control.

What types of concrete can be tested?

Amtest can test a wide range of concrete types, including conventional concrete, highly workable mixes, and self-compacting concrete using the appropriate method.

Will Amtest provide records of the test results?

Yes. Amtest provides clear test records confirming the measured slump, flow, or slump-flow values to support quality assurance and specification compliance.

View more Concrete testing services:

View all

Air Content

Air content test for air-entrained concrete.
BS EN 12350-7:2019
Concrete
UKAS Accredited
Lab Test
Site Test
View Test

Pull Out Test

Evaluates the strength and security of fixings by applying tension to the desired load level.
Concrete
Lab Test
Site Test
View Test

Polypropylene Fibres

Measures density of steel, polypropylene, or glass fibers by washing and weighing sample.
BS EN 14488-7 & BS EN 14721
Concrete
Lab Test
Site Test
View Test

Residual Flexural Tensile Strength (RFTS) of Concrete Beams

Flexural strength tested through application of load through upper and lower roller.
BS EN 12390‑5, BS EN 14651: 2005
Concrete
Lab Test
View Test

Young's Modulus

Young’s Modulus is a measure of a material’s stiffness, indicating how much it will deform under a given stress.
Concrete
Lab Test
View Test

Chloride Migration

This procedure determines the chloride migration using non-steady-state experiments.
NT BUILD 492.1999-11
Concrete
UKAS Accredited
Lab Test
Site Test
View Test

Water Permeability

Measures water penetration depth under pressure in concrete samples.
EN 12390-8
Concrete
Lab Test
View Test

Slump / Flow / Slump-Flow

Tests include slump, flow table, degree of compactability, setting time, and air content.
BS EN 12350-2, BS EN 12350-5, BS EN 12350-10
Concrete
UKAS Accredited
Lab Test
Site Test
View Test

Compressive Strength - Cylinders

Cores are taken and tested to assess concrete strength.
BS EN 12504-1:2019
Concrete
Lab Test
Site Test
View Test

Compressive Strength - Cubes

Evaluates concrete’s load-bearing capacity, ensuring compliance with construction standards and structural integrity.
BS EN 12390-1:2021, BS EN 12390-2:2019, BS EN 12390-3:2019
Concrete
UKAS Accredited
Lab Test
View Test
Site Test
Lab Test
Slump / Flow / Slump-Flow

To evaluate the rheological (fluid) properties of fresh concrete, several tests are available, each suited to the consistency of the mix. These tests provide insights into the workability, flow, and setting characteristics of the concrete.

Common Tests for Fresh Concrete

  1. Slump Test: The most widely used method for determining the workability and consistency of fresh concrete. The slump test measures the change in height when a cone-shaped mold is removed, indicating the concrete's flowability.
  2. Degree of Compactability Test: Used for assessing the workability of stiff concrete. The test evaluates how easily the concrete can be compacted, indicating its ability to fill forms without excessive effort.
  3. Flow Table Test: Used for flowing concrete, this test measures the ability of the concrete to spread on a flat surface, providing an indication of its fluidity and ease of handling.
  4. Setting Time Test: Measures the time taken for fresh concrete to begin setting, helping determine when it can no longer be worked with or molded.
  5. Air Content Test: Measures the amount of air entrained in the concrete mix, which affects its durability and resistance to freeze-thaw cycles.

Conclusion

Rheological testing of fresh concrete is essential for ensuring the mix meets the desired consistency and workability for the specific application, helping achieve optimal performance and durability in the final structure.

BS EN 12350-2, BS EN 12350-5, BS EN 12350-10