SCG (SELF CONSOLIDATING GROUT)
Fills Cores in Masonry Units Faster than Standard Grout
Standard (SC-02)
STRUCTURALLY SOUND. HIGHLY FLUID.
PRODUCT FEATURES
- Bonds together adjacent masonry units, fill bond beams and occupy all areas around steel reinforcement in the cores of the masonry assemblage without mechanical consolidation or reconsolidation
- Meets ASTM C 476 requirements for reinforced masonry construction
- Provides superior fluidity over conventional core fill grout with increased cohesion while offering excellent resistance to segregation of the fluid grout mix
SPEC MIX Self Consolidating Grout(SCG) is designed to completely fill cores in masonry units at a higher rate of flow than standard masonry grout. All the constituents of SPEC MIX SCG are dispersed and suspended evenly throughout the masonry core; therefore, no mechanical consolidation or reconsolidation during or after placement at any lift height is required. Anytime structural reinforcement (core fill grout) is necessary, SPEC MIX SCG can be used to create a high quality structurally reinforced masonry assemblage.
HOW SCG IS PRODUCED
SPEC MIX SCG is a dry, preblended mix containing cementitious materials, special admixtures and dried aggregates formulated for superior fluidity and cohesion that meets compressive strength requirements of reinforced masonry construction in all types of grout applications. SPEC MIX SCG is manufactured with the finest raw materials available in each geographic region. SPEC MIX SCG is available in both coarse and fine formulations. Each mix produces high quality grout providing excellent compressive and shear bond strength, increased adhesion to masonry unit cores and reinforcement steel resulting in a unified structural masonry system. Packaged completely dry, SPEC MIX SCG eliminates the inconsistencies associated with field proportioned grouts while offering the contractor the flexibility to mix as little or as much grout as required, when needed. The SPEC MIX manufacturing process first extracts the moisture from the aggregate, since wet aggregate directly affects the quality and consistency of core fill grout. The specified mix design is entered into the computer batching system where each of the ingredients is weighed separately. A digital print out displaying proper proportions of each batch may be kept as a permanent record. Next, the product is completely preblended and packaged in the appropriate size bag. SPEC MIX SCG products are designed to meet ASTM C 476 property requirements for core fill self-consolidating grout. SPEC MIX SCG is accepted for all types of masonry construction with submittals available upon request.
HOW IS SCG USED
SPEC MIX Self Consolidating Grout products are dry, preblended products that are used primarily for grouting masonry cores. Due to the high fluidity of SPEC MIX SCG, cells that are to be filled should be cross-webbed with mortar at the core of the CMU. This will prevent leakage into adjacent cells that do not require core fill grout. Like ordinary grout, SPEC MIX SCG should be installed in accordance with the provisions of the local building code, ICC, MSJC, and The0 American Concrete Institute’s requirements and specifications TMS 402/602.1 Building Code Requirements for Masonry Structures and Specification for Masonry Structures. SPEC MIX SCG may be used in both low-lift and high-lift applications. Special consideration should be used in selecting the type of grout used for a particular application. Always check project specifications and structural notes to ensure proper product selection has been made (See TMS 402/602 Table 1.20.1). SPEC MIX SCG may be placed by hand or or by mechanical delivery. SPEC MIX SCG should be discarded after 30 minutes from the time of initial mixing. SPEC MIX products are custom packaged to project specification. Handle and store products according to SPEC MIX recommendations; they must be kept dry, covered, and protected from weather and other damage.
Self-Consolidating Grout Engineering Data
Our Engineers focus on superior product performance through constant research and use of advanced technology to develop innovative materials for better masonry wall systems. Following that protocol, SPEC MIX SCG is specifically engineered to create a highly fluid, cohesive, masonry grout. Unlike standard core fill grout, SPEC MIX SCG is a homogeneous product that eliminates the need for mechanical consolidation or reconsolidation because it evenly disperses and suspends the specially graded aggregates in the mix. SPEC MIX SCG is formulated with the newest generation of water reducing and viscosity modifying admixtures to achieve the properties reported below. The aggregate gradations have been optimized to meet ASTM C 404 requirements.
| Typical Product Test Data | ||
|---|---|---|
| Properties | Coarse SCG | Fine SCG |
| Compressive Strength (ASTM C 1019), 28 Day | 3,000 PSI (20.6 MPa) Minimum* | 3,000 PSI (20.6 MPa) Minimum* |
| Slump Flow (ASTM C 1611) | 24 to 28 in (610 mm to 710 mm) | 24 to 28 in (610 mm to 710 mm) |
| T (50) | 2 to 5 seconds | 2 to 5 seconds |
| Visual Stability Index (VSI) | 0 | 0 |
| *Mix design are available with a minimum compressive strength ranging from 3,000 PSI (20.6 MPa) to 5,000 PSI (34.4 MPa). Contact your local SPEC MIX representative for more information. | ||
| Grout Selection & Lift Height Requirements (TMS 402/602) | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Grout Type | Minimum Width of Grout Space (*2,3) | Maximum Grout Pour Height ft (m) | Minimum Grout Space Dimensions for Grouting Cells of Hollow Units (*3,4) |
| Fine | 3/4 in (19.1 mm) | 1 ft (0.30 m) | 1 1/2 x 2 in (38.1 x 50.8 mm) |
| Fine | 2 in (50.8 mm) | 5.33 ft (1.63 m) | 2 x 3 in (50.8 x 76.2 mm) |
| Fine | 2 1/2 in (63.5 mm) | 12.67 ft (3.86 m) | 2 1/2 x 3 in (63.5 x 76.2 mm) |
| Fine | 3 in (76.2 mm) | 24 ft (7.32 m) | 3 x 3 in (76.2 x 76.2 mm) |
| Coarse | 1 1/2 in (38.1 mm) | 1 ft (0.30 m) | 1 1/2 x 2 in (38.1 x 50.8 mm) |
| Coarse | 2 in (50.8 mm) | 5.33 ft (1.63 m) | 2 1/2 x 3 in (63.5 x 76.2 mm) |
| Coarse | 2 1/2 in (63.5 mm) | 12.67 ft (3.86 m) | 3 x 3 in (76.2 x 76.2 mm) |
| Coarse | 3 in (76.2 mm) | 24 ft (7.32 m) | 3 x 4 in (76.2 x 102 mm) |
| 1 Fine and coarse grouts are defined in ASTM C 476. 2 For grouting between masonry wythes. 3 Grout space dimension is the clear dimension between any masonry protrusion and shall be increased by the diameters of the horizontal bars within the cross section of the grout space. 4 Area of vertical reinforcement shall not exceed 6 percent of the area of the grout space. |
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SCG Use Guidelines
Grout Lift Height Requirements
MSJC SPECIFICATION FOR MASONRY CONSTRUCTION SECTION 3.5 D GROUT LIFT HEIGHT FOR SELF-CONSOLIDATING GROUT:
1. WHEN PLACED IN MASONRY THAT HAS CURED FOR AT LEAST 4 HOURS, PLACE IN LIFTS NOT EXCEEDING THE GROUT POUR HEIGHT
2. WHEN PLACED IN MASONRY THAT HAS NOT CURED FOR AT LEAST 4 HOURS, PLACE IN LIFTS NOT EXCEEDING 5 ft 4 in (1.63 m).
MSJC SPECIFICATION FOR MASONRY CONSTRUCTION SECTION 3.5 E CONSOLIDATION CONVENTIONAL GROUTS NEED TO BE CONSOLIDATED AT THE TIME OF PLACEMENT ACCORDING TO THE FOLLOWING
1. CONSOLIDATE GROUT POURS 12 in (300 mm) OR LESS IN HEIGHT BY MECHANICAL VIBRATION OR BY PUDDLING
2. CONSOLIDATE POURS EXCEEDING 12 in (300 mm) IN HEIGHT BY MECHANICAL VIBRATION, AND RECONSOLIDATE BY MECHANICAL VIBRATION AFTER INITIAL WATER LOSS AND SETTLEMENT HAS OCCURRED.
SCG MIXES NEED NOT BE CONSOLIDATED OR RECONSOLIDATED. SEE TABLE AT LEFT FOR GROUT LIFT MAXIMUMS.
Self-Consolidating Grout Field Testing and Handling
Sampling and testing SPEC MIX SCG in accordance with applicable ASTM standards should be performed to ensure that the proper consistency is achieved. Slump flow, T50, and the VSI of the SPEC MIX SCG should be checked first following the instructions indicated below. Casting prisms from the sample should be conducted according to the instructions in the “Casting SCG Prisms” section below. Procedures for curing and testing the specimens for compressive strength should follow ASTM C 1019 specifications as outlined below under “CASTING SPEC MIX SCG PRISMS.” On the job site, SPEC MIX SCG should be discarded after 30 minutes from initial mixing to ensure product quality and performance. SPEC MIX SCG must be kept dry, covered, and protected from weather and other damage at all times.
FIELD TESTING FOR SLUMP FLOW, T50 & VISUAL STABILITY INDEX (VSI):
Testing the plastic properties of SPEC MIX SGC requires the following tools:
1. SLUMP CONE
2. NON-ABSORPTIVE SCG SLUMP-FLOW TARGET
3. TAPE MEASURE
4. STOP WATCH OR TIMER (IN SECONDS)
There are three tests conducted in the field to measure the plastic properties of
SPEC MIX SCG:
Slump Flow, T50 and Visual Stability Index (VSI).
SLUMP FLOW is the measurement of the fluidity of the grout mix. The slump flow is measured in accordance with ASTM C 1611. It is tested using an upright or inverted slump cone filled with SPEC MIX SCG and then released on a level surface containing the Nonabsorptive SCG Slump-Flow Target. The spread (diameter) of the slump flow is measured once it stops moving. SPEC MIX SCG mixtures are specially formulated to produce a cohesive material with a flow of between 24 in to 28 in (610 mm to 710 mm) with no segregation. If the slump flow is not in the 24 in to 28 in (610 mm to 710 mm) range, it is likely that the water or dry SPEC MIX SCG material quantity needs to be adjusted to either increase or reduce fluidity
T50 is the next test which is performed during the slump flow procedure. T50 is the time, in seconds, in which the slump flow reaches a diameter of 20 inches (50 cm). The T50 measurement is an indicator of the relative viscosity of the SPEC MIX SCG. T50 values should be between 2 and 5 seconds. If the T50 is not in the 2 to 5 seconds range, it is likely that the water or dry SPEC MIX SCG material quantity needs to be adjusted to either increase or reduce fluidity.
VISUAL STABILITY INDEX (VSI) is an indication of the stability and/or resistance to segregation of the fluid SCG mixture or material. The VSI of fresh SPEC MIX SCG is visually estimated by observing the SPEC MIX SCG for signs of segregation and bleeding. VSI observations can be made during the slump flow test and are recorded as a value between 0 and 3. Segregation can be identified as a halo of paste along the perimeter of the SPEC MIX SCG slump flow sample. Bleed water can be identified by water pooling at the surface or edges of the SCG sample. Correctly mixed SPEC MIX SCG shows a VSI of 0 to 1. If the VSI is above 1, it is likely that the water or dry SPEC MIX SCG material quantity needs to be adjusted to improve stability.
CASTING SPEC MIX SCG PRISMS
In comparison to casting normal grout prisms, note the following:
1. PRIOR TO CASTING THE GROUT PRISMS, THE SLUMP FLOW, T50 AND VSI
TESTS MUST BE COMPLETED.
2. POUR SPEC MIX SCG INTO THE MOLD IN ONE LIFT, NOT MULTIPLE LIFTS.
3. SPEC MIX SCG SHOULD NOT BE RODDED IN THE GROUT MOLD.
Applicable Standards
ASTM AND TMS ASTM C33 STANDARD SPECIFICATION FOR CONCRETE AGGREGATES: ASTM C 150 STANDARD SPECIFICATION FOR PORTLAND CEMENT: ASTM C 260 STANDARD SPECIFICATION FOR AIR-ENTRAINING ADMIXTURES FOR CONCRETE: ASTM C 404 STANDARD SPECIFICATION FOR AGGREGATES FOR MASONRY GROUT: ASTM C 476 STANDARD SPECIFICATION FOR GROUT FOR MASONRY: ASTM C 595 STANDARD SPECIFICATION FOR BLENDED HYDRAULIC CEMENTS: ASTM C 618 STANDARD SPECIFICATION FOR COAL FLY ASH AND RAW OR CALCINED NATURAL POZZOLAN FOR USE IN CONCRETE: ASTM C 989 STANDARD SPECIFICATION FOR SLAG CEMENT FOR USE IN CONCRETE AND MORTARS: ASTM C 1019 STANDARD TEST METHOD FOR SAMPLING AND TESTING GROUT: ASTM C 1093 STANDARD PRACTICE FOR ACCREDITATION OF TESTING AGENCIES FOR MASONRY: ASTM C1157 STANDARD PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATION FOR HYDRAULIC CEMENT: ASTM C 1314 STANDARD TEST METHOD FOR COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF MASONRY PRISMS: ASTM C 1611 STANDARD TEST METHOD FOR SLUMP FLOW OF SELF-CONSOLIDATING CONCRETE: TMS 402/602 SPECIFICATION FOR MASONRY STRUCTURES
SPEC MIX Self-Consolidating Grout Mixing Instructions
Mixing SPEC MIX SCG from our silo system with 3,000 lb (1,360.7 kg) and 80 lb (36.2 kg) bags is slightly different compared to standard masonry grout. Since SCG is completely dry, preblended with aggregates and admixtures, the following steps are required:
WEAR IMPERVIOUS GLOVES, such as nitrile.
1. A mechanical batch mixer is strongly recommended. Only hand-mix upon the written approval of the project specifier or engineer.
2. Always use clean, potable water.
3. Start by adding 80 percent of the estimated water content required. The optimal amount of mixing water necessary is predetermined by SPEC MIX’s engineers and is available from your local SPEC MIX representative.
4. Add the dry SCG and mix for at least two minutes.
Note: Due to unique chemistry of the specialized admixtures in SCG, these materials need approximately two minutes to activate.
5. After two minutes of initial mixing and the mix appears fluid and consistent, temper the SCG with water as needed to achieve optimal fluidity without segregation. Total mix times are between 3 to 5 minutes and should be consistent from batch to batch. Water/SCG ratios should also be consistent. Although a visual test of the cementitious paste and aggregates will indicate when a homogenous mix is achieved, it is imperative to perform a slump-flow test, T50 test, and a visual stability index (VSI) assessment to ensure the mix is ready for installation. See the Field Testing and Handling section above which lists the equipment required and procedures to conduct a proper slump-flow test.
Sizes and Equipment
SPEC MIX Self Consolidating Grout is available in 80 lb (36.2 kg) packages for easy hand loading or in 3,000 lb (1,360.7 kg) reusable bulk bags to be used with the various SPEC MIX silo systems. When using the silo system, once the bulk bags of mortar are delivered to the project site, the portable silo is loaded with a jobsite forklift and the product is dispensed into a mechanical batch mixer.
HOW TO SPECIFY SCG
SPECIFIED GROUT MUST ACHIEVE COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS OF AT LEAST 2,000 PSI (13.7 MPa) AT 28 DAYS. WHEN COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH IS SPECIFIED, ADMISSIBLE UNDER ASTM C 476, GROUTS ARE DESIGNED TO ACHIEVE THOSE PROPERTIES. TESTING SHOULD BE CONDUCTED FOLLOWING ASTM C 1019 AND ASTM C 1611 PROCEDURES. THERE ARE GENERALLY TWO TYPES OF GROUT USED IN MASONRY APPLICATIONS: FINE GROUT AND COARSE GROUT. FINE GROUT CONTAINS MAXIMUM SIZED AGGREGATES OF 3/8 in (9.5 mm) WHILE COARSE GROUT CANNOT HAVE AGGREGATES EXCEEDING 1/2 in (13 mm). THE TYPE OF GROUT USED WILL DEPEND ON THE DIMENSIONS OF THE VOIDS BEING FILLED. PLEASE CONSULT LOCAL BUILDING CODES FOR SPECIFIC PROVISIONS AND CONSULT WITH ACI 530-11 TABLE 1.20.1. THE CONTRACTOR ON THE SITE WILL TYPICALLY NEED TO ENSURE THAT THE GROUT IS SUFFICIENTLY FLOWABLE USING THE OUTLINED FIELD TESTING METHODS. ADDING TOO MUCH WATER CAN COMPROMISE COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH BY RAISING THE WATER/CEMENT RATIO OF THE GROUT. SPEC MIX PRODUCTS ARE REGULARLY TESTED TO ENSURE THAT PRODUCT MEETS SPECIFICATIONS.