Compaction Factor Apparatus

The Compaction Factor Apparatus is an essential laboratory testing instrument used to determine the workability and degree of compaction of fresh concrete mixes, especially those with low workability or low slump values where standard slump tests prove insensitive. It measures workability based on the ratio of the weight of partially compacted concrete dropped through standardized heights to the weight of the same concrete when fully compacted in a cylinder.

Built on a rigid, heavy-duty tubular steel support frame, the apparatus consists of two conical hoppers mounted vertically above a cylindrical collection receiver. Both hoppers feature quick-release trap doors at their base with smooth interior surfaces to ensure concrete falls freely without sticking, providing consistent drop dynamics and high repeatability across mix design trials and quality assurance testing.