Lab Test
Standard(s): BS EN 1097-2
Resistance to Fragmentation – Los Angeles Test

The Los Angeles (LA) Abrasion Test measures the resistance of coarse aggregates to fragmentation and wear. It subjects a sample of aggregate (retained on a No. 12 sieve) to abrasion, impact, and grinding inside a rotating steel drum with steel spheres.

The Process

  1. Sample Preparation: A sample of coarse aggregates is prepared, ensuring that only material retained on the No. 12 (1.70 mm) sieve is used.
  2. Test Procedure: The sample is placed in a rotating steel drum along with a specified number of steel spheres (usually 12 to 20). The drum is rotated for a set period, typically 500 to 1000 revolutions, subjecting the sample to abrasion and impact from both the spheres and the drum.
  3. Assessment: After the test, the sample is removed, and the percentage of material that has broken down into finer particles is calculated. The lower the percentage, the more durable the aggregate.

Why Is This Test Important?

  • Durability: Ensures that aggregates used in construction can withstand wear and impact during transportation, placement, and use in roads, pavements, and other structures.
  • Quality Control: Helps assess the suitability of aggregates for specific applications, particularly in environments where high wear resistance is required.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Meets industry standards for aggregate quality, ensuring the materials are fit for use in construction projects.

The Los Angeles Abrasion Test is critical for evaluating the durability of coarse aggregates used in construction. Get in touch to arrange reliable testing for your project.

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Resistance to Fragmentation – Los Angeles Test

The Los Angeles (LA) Abrasion Test measures the resistance of coarse aggregates to fragmentation and wear. It subjects a sample of aggregate (retained on a No. 12 sieve) to abrasion, impact, and grinding inside a rotating steel drum with steel spheres.

The Process

  1. Sample Preparation: A sample of coarse aggregates is prepared, ensuring that only material retained on the No. 12 (1.70 mm) sieve is used.
  2. Test Procedure: The sample is placed in a rotating steel drum along with a specified number of steel spheres (usually 12 to 20). The drum is rotated for a set period, typically 500 to 1000 revolutions, subjecting the sample to abrasion and impact from both the spheres and the drum.
  3. Assessment: After the test, the sample is removed, and the percentage of material that has broken down into finer particles is calculated. The lower the percentage, the more durable the aggregate.

Why Is This Test Important?

  • Durability: Ensures that aggregates used in construction can withstand wear and impact during transportation, placement, and use in roads, pavements, and other structures.
  • Quality Control: Helps assess the suitability of aggregates for specific applications, particularly in environments where high wear resistance is required.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Meets industry standards for aggregate quality, ensuring the materials are fit for use in construction projects.

The Los Angeles Abrasion Test is critical for evaluating the durability of coarse aggregates used in construction. Get in touch to arrange reliable testing for your project.

BS EN 1097-2