Why is Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Important?

What is CMT?   4861093851_26ff4c5287_b.jpg

Construction Materials Testing (CMT) is the process of testing building materials used in new engineering projects or added to existing projects. The services involved in a comprehensive CMT process greatly depend on the project, the land, and the scope of services. Various agencies, such as DOT, ACI, and the EPA, offer certification for specific CMT knowledge.  

Testing services can generally be divided into field testing and laboratory testing.   

Field Testing  

Field testing CMT services take place on-site. Roadways, airports, utility projects, and building developments typically involve CMT processes carried out by certified professionals. In the field, construction materials testing can involve:  

  • Soils  
  • Concrete/Asphalt  
  • Steel  
  • Masonry  
  • Timber  

During a field test, building components, moisture, air content, and more are evaluated through visual inspection and/or non-destructive techniques. Steel structures, retaining walls, and soil foundations are perfect examples of construction evaluated during field testing. In the event a field test result is inconclusive, it's common to gather samples of various materials and send them off for further testing and evaluation. 

Laboratory Testing  

When field testing indicates further study is needed, lab testing is recommended as the next phase of a comprehensive CMT regimen. Laboratory testing is typically performed on an as-needed basis. Common lab-tested construction materials include:  

  • Soil – Modified/Standard Proctor, Bearing Ratios, Classification Tests, Swell Testing, Compressive Strength Testing, pH Testing, Chloride/Sulfide Testing, Hydraulic Conductivity, Consolidation, Permeability Testing, Shear Testing, and more.  
  • Asphalt – Mix Evaluation, Stability, Flow, Bulk Specific Gravity, Gradation, Density (Marshall), and more.  
  • Masonry/Concrete – Flexural Strength Testing, Compression Strength Testing, Unit Weight, Tensile Testing, Absorption, Efflorescence Testing, Mix Design, Structural Masonry Testing, and more.  

Why is CMT So Important?  

CMT can reveal any issues related to construction quality and is considered critical for the viability and safety of a construction project. It can help classify a building site, highlight future risks, and assist with engineering decisions. Without CMT, engineers and builders cannot determine if the quality of their projects meets specific requirements.  

Construction Materials Testing is also a regulatory requirement for most large-scale engineering projects. Specifications and regulatory overseers vary from state to state, but a few of the most-cited oversight organizations include ASTM, FAA, USACE, and AASHTO. To stay compliant, project managers must work with licensed CMT professionals before starting work.  

Shield Engineering provides comprehensive CMT services in a variety of industries. Our services include physical inspections and observation, special inspections, lab testing, and Code Compliance, among many others.  

From civil projects to private development, the roster of satisfied Shield clients is growing every year. To find out how our Construction Materials Testing services can improve your processes, give our team a call today at 704-394-6913. 

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