While precast construction is mostly associated with panel names, there are actually different production molds within this system.
If precast concrete blocks are used, they serve as elements primarily in the construction process of walls. Thanks to the advantageous properties of precast, more reliable, sturdy, and aesthetically pleasing living spaces are created. These concrete blocks are not made on-site during the construction of the structure. Similarly, their production is carried out in production areas such as factories. Subsequently, they are brought to the construction site and applied with the necessary steps.
What is Precast Concrete Block?
In terms of production of this building product, both manual and automatic machines are used. Similarly, it has the same materials as precast.
However, the dimensions here are quite different. Unlike a panel, the length of a precast concrete block can range from 400-600 mm, its height from 100-200 mm, and its widths can be 50, 75, 100, 200, or 250-300 mm. Production can be done manually or with block-making processes. It is commonly used in walls of primary residential buildings. This ensures durability against environmental factors such as fire, rain, and wind.
What are the Materials Used in Precast Concrete Blocks?
The same materials used in precast production are generally preferred in concrete block production as well. However, some materials may differ here. This is because blocks are produced with different dimensions and shapes for different purposes.
For example, these block-making processes can be used in foundation feet, cornices, and sills. In this sense, the materials and dimensions vary. Generally, the materials are as follows:
- Gravel stones
- Water
- Sand
- Concrete
- Powdered cement
The proportions of use of these materials determine the strength of the block material. These products have a firm structure due to a high sand ratio and low gravel with water. In addition to gravel and sand, materials such as slag, granular coal can be preferred. These are also referred to as slag blocks.
They exhibit high strength similar to the standard. Apart from these materials, clay and slate can also be used. However, their strength is lower. This aspect is taken into account in the areas where they are used. The stages to be considered in the production process of precast concrete blocks are as follows:
- Materials are piled up and mixed.
- Water is added to this mixture.
- When the material is mixed adequately, the molding process begins.
- Molding can be done manually or with automatic molding machines.
- The prepared products are removed from the molds. They are kept covered for about 24 hours.
- In this way, curing is done for 7 days.
Advantages Provided by Precast Concrete Blocks
Apart from material and size diversity, the advantages provided by these concrete block products can be listed in the following general manner:
- Resistant to factors such as fire, wind, rain.
- Exhibits high stability.
- Resistant to high pressure.
- Construction processes progress rapidly.
- Hollow blocks are lighter, making logistics easier.
- Hollow concrete blocks can be filled with concrete to become earthquake-resistant.
- Hollow concrete blocks provide better sound and thermal insulation compared to solid ones.
- With these products, more accurate processes can be carried out in desired dimensions in precast facade cladding processes.