Full-scale trials for RCC

Before the beginning of RCC dam construction it is very important to know how the concrete will behave. A full-scale trial has been used to optimize equipment performance, construction methods and other parameters. FURNAS Technological Center is established in Goiania - Brazil, and it is equipped for full-scale trials for RCC, which simulate field conditions. This apparatus simulates the action of a trade vibration roller by means of a small laboratory test site, allowing for variation of: - Vibration frequency; - Pace speed; - Roller load: static and dynamic. The RCC apparatus allows for the compaction of concrete lifts up to 1.20 m in height. The compaction can be accomplished in horizontal as well as in sloped lifts. The laboratory compaction degree is achieved similarly to the one in the field by use of a nuclear densimeter. Concrete properties are determined through laboratory tests with extracted cores from the full-scale trial.