The Le Chatelier Mould is utilized to determine the soundness of cement by measuring its potential expansion when subjected to boiling water, ensuring the material's volume stability.
Constructed from spring-tempered brass, the mould comprises a split cylinder with an internal diameter and height of 30 mm, equipped with two indicator stems extending 165 mm from the centerline, facilitating precise measurement of expansion.
This apparatus is essential for quality control in cement manufacturing, detecting unsoundness caused by excessive free lime or magnesia, which can lead to delayed expansion and structural issues.
The mould is designed for repeated use, maintaining its shape and accuracy over time, and is compatible with standard water baths used in cement testing laboratories.
Compliance with international standards ensures the mould's suitability for use in various regulatory environments, supporting consistent and reliable testing outcomes.