1.

0 INTRODUCTION

Setting time refers to the stiffening of the cement paste or the change from a plastic
state to a solid state. The setting time also refers during the changes of the cement paste from
fluid to rigid. Usually, setting are described in two level which is the initial vicat reading and
final vicat reading. Initial vicat reading is the beginning of the noticeable stiffening in the
cement paste and it is corresponding to the rapid rise temperature. While final vicat reading is
the completion of setting which correspond to the peak temperature in the cement paste. As
the volume of the gel increases, stiffening of cement paste increases and the stage at which is
completed, the final hardening process begins. The setting time can be determined with the
vicat apparatus. The vicat test requires sample of cement using the amount of water for
normal consistency according to a specified procedure.

2.0 OBJECTIVE

To determine the amount of water required for normal consistency according to a

specific procedure.

3.0 EQUIPMENT AND MATERIAL

3.1 EQUIPMENT

1. Analytical balance
2. Measuring cylinder
3. Vicat test
4. Stop watch
5. Ladle
6. Vicat set time apparatus

3.2 MATERIAL

1. 2500g cement ( 6 times trying)

4.0 RESULT

No. Cement Water Percentage Vicat reading Penetration

weight (g) amount water (%) (mm)
Initial Final
(ml)
1 400 90 22.5 0 0 0
2 400 95 23.8 7 0 7
3 400 100 25.0 15 0 15
4 400 105 26.3 21 0 21
5 400 110 27.5 29 0 29
6 400 115 28.8 36 0 36

4.1 CALCULATION

1) Percentage water = ( water amount / cement weight ) x 100%

= (95 / 400) x 100%

= 23.8%

2) Penetration = initial vicat reading – final vicat reading

=7–0

= 7 mm