ASTM C29/C29M-23

Standard Test Method for Bulk Density (“Unit Weight”) and Voids in Aggregate

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This test method is often used to determine bulk density values that are necessary for use for many methods of selecting proportions for concrete mixtures.  
4.2 The bulk density also may be used for determining mass/volume relationships for conversions in purchase agreements. However, the relationship between degree of compaction of aggregates in a hauling unit or stockpile and that achieved in this test method is unknown. Further, aggregates in hauling units and stockpiles usually contain absorbed and surface moisture (the latter affecting bulking), while this test method determines the bulk density on a dry basis.  
4.3 A procedure is included for computing the percentage of voids between the aggregate particles based on the bulk density determined by this test method.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of bulk density (“unit weight”) of aggregate in a compacted or loose condition, and calculated voids between particles in fine, coarse, or mixed aggregates based on the same determination. This test method is applicable to aggregates not exceeding 125 mm [5 in.] in nominal maximum size.  
Note 1: Unit weight is the traditional terminology used to describe the property determined by this test method, which is weight per unit volume (more correctly, mass per unit volume or density).  
1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard, as appropriate for a specification with which this test method is used. An exception is with regard to sieve sizes and nominal size of aggregate, in which the SI values are the standard as stated in Specification E11. Within the text, inch-pound units are shown in brackets. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.  
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Sep-2023
• ICS: 19.060 - Mechanical testing
• Technical Committee: C09 - Concrete and Concrete Aggregates
• Drafting Committee: C09.20 - Aggregates

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM C29/C29M-17a - Standard Test Method for Bulk Density (“Unit Weight”) and Voids in Aggregate
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2023
• Refers: ASTM C670-24a - Standard Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements for Test Methods for Construction Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2024
• Refers: ASTM C670-24 - Standard Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements for Test Methods for Construction Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2024
• Refers: ASTM C1077-24 - Standard Practice for Agencies Testing Concrete and Concrete Aggregates for Use in Construction and Criteria for Testing Agency Evaluation
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2024
• Refers: ASTM C1077-17 - Standard Practice for Agencies Testing Concrete and Concrete Aggregates for Use in Construction and Criteria for Testing Agency Evaluation
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2017
• Refers: ASTM C670-15 - Standard Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements for Test Methods for Construction Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Jun-2015
• Referred By: ASTM D7564/D7564M-16 - Standard Practice for Construction of Asphalt-Rubber Cape Seal
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2023
• Referred By: ASTM D1139/D1139M-22 - Standard Specification for Aggregate for Single or Multiple Asphalt Surface Treatments
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2023
• Referred By: ASTM D8378/D8378M-21 - Standard Test Method for Potential Expansion of Steel Slag from Hydration Reactions by Autoclave
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2023
• Referred By: ASTM C127-15 - Standard Test Method for Relative Density (Specific Gravity) and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate (Withdrawn 2024)
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2023
• Referred By: ASTM D7064/D7064M-21 - Standard Practice for Open-Graded Friction Course (OGFC) Asphalt Mixture Design
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2023
• Referred By: ASTM C1170/C1170M-20 - Standard Test Method for Determining Consistency and Density of Roller-Compacted Concrete Using a Vibrating Table
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2023
• Referred By: ASTM C566-19 - Standard Test Method for Total Evaporable Moisture Content of Aggregate by Drying
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2023
• Referred By: ASTM D1369-19 - Standard Practice for Quantities of Materials for Asphalt-Aggregate Surface Treatments
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2023
• Referred By: ASTM D692/D692M-20 - Standard Specification for Coarse Aggregate for Asphalt Paving Mixtures
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2023

Overview

ASTM C29/C29M-23: Standard Test Method for Bulk Density ("Unit Weight") and Voids in Aggregate is a widely recognized international standard developed by ASTM International. This test method establishes procedures for measuring the bulk density (unit weight) and calculated voids in fine, coarse, or mixed aggregates. The standard is essential in the concrete and construction industries, as it is used to determine key values for the selection and proportioning of concrete mixtures, as well as for mass/volume conversions in purchase agreements.

The method is applicable to aggregates with a nominal maximum size not exceeding 125 mm (5 in.), and covers both compacted and loose conditions. ASTM C29/C29M-23 is aligned with internationally accepted principles on standardization, facilitating its use in global specifications and contracts.

Key Topics

• Bulk Density Determination: The standard describes precise methods for determining the bulk density (unit weight) of aggregate in both compacted and loose conditions. These measurements are necessary for mixture design in concrete and for converting volume to mass in various commercial contexts.
• Voids Calculation: Procedures are included for computing the percentage of voids, representing the space between aggregate particles not occupied by solid material. This parameter affects concrete strength, durability, and workability.
• Sample Preparation: Comprehensive requirements are outlined for sampling and drying aggregate to ensure accuracy and repeatability in test results.
• Reporting Results: Guidance is provided on reporting bulk density and voids data, supporting quality control and compliance in construction projects.
• International Application: The standard accommodates both SI and inch-pound units, enabling its use across diverse geographies and regulatory frameworks.

Applications

ASTM C29/C29M-23 is broadly applied in:

• Concrete Mixture Proportioning: Engineers and technicians use bulk density values to accurately proportion ingredients for concrete, helping to optimize strength, workability, and economy.
• Aggregate Purchase and Supply: Measurement of bulk density and voids is often required in purchase contracts for aggregates, supporting fair transactions and compliance with specifications.
• Quality Control in Construction: Routine testing of aggregate in accordance with ASTM C29/C29M-23 enables monitoring and control of material consistency, contributing to the reliability and safety of construction projects.
• Material Conversion: The standard supports the conversion between aggregate mass and volume, which is essential in logistics, storage, and inventory management in the construction industry.

Related Standards

When using ASTM C29/C29M-23, the following related standards are frequently referenced:

• ASTM C125: Terminology Relating to Concrete and Concrete Aggregates
• ASTM C127: Test Method for Relative Density (Specific Gravity) and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate
• ASTM C128: Test Method for Relative Density (Specific Gravity) and Absorption of Fine Aggregate
• ASTM C670: Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements for Test Methods for Construction Materials
• ASTM C702/C702M: Practice for Reducing Samples of Aggregate to Testing Size
• ASTM C1077: Practice for Agencies Testing Concrete and Concrete Aggregates for Use in Construction and Criteria for Testing Agency Evaluation
• ASTM D75/D75M: Practice for Sampling Aggregates
• ASTM E11: Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves
• AASHTO T19/T19M: Method of Test for Unit Weight and Voids in Aggregate

Practical Value

ASTM C29/C29M-23 delivers critical benefits to the construction materials industry by ensuring:

• Reliable concrete mixture proportions for strength and durability
• Accurate conversion between aggregate mass and volume for procurement and logistics
• Standardized procedures supporting cross-border trade and international projects
• Consistent assessment of aggregate quality and suitability for structural applications

By following this standard, producers, suppliers, and engineers can confidently achieve compliance, quality assurance, and traceability within concrete and aggregate supply chains.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: C29/C29M − 23 American Association of State
Highway and Transportation Officials Standard
AASHTO No.: T19/T19M
Standard Test Method for
Bulk Density (“Unit Weight”) and Voids in Aggregate
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C29/C29M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope* 2. Referenced Documents
1.1 This test method covers the determination of bulk 2.1 ASTM Standards:
density (“unit weight”) of aggregate in a compacted or loose C125 Terminology Relating to Concrete and Concrete Ag-
condition, and calculated voids between particles in fine, gregates
coarse, or mixed aggregates based on the same determination. C127 Test Method for Relative Density (Specific Gravity)
This test method is applicable to aggregates not exceeding 125 and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate
mm [5 in.] in nominal maximum size. C128 Test Method for Relative Density (Specific Gravity)
and Absorption of Fine Aggregate
NOTE 1—Unit weight is the traditional terminology used to describe the
C670 Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements
property determined by this test method, which is weight per unit volume
for Test Methods for Construction Materials
(more correctly, mass per unit volume or density).
C702/C702M Practice for Reducing Samples of Aggregate
1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
to Testing Size
are to be regarded separately as standard, as appropriate for a
C1077 Practice for Agencies Testing Concrete and Concrete
specification with which this test method is used. An exception
Aggregates for Use in Construction and Criteria for
is with regard to sieve sizes and nominal size of aggregate, in
Testing Agency Evaluation
which the SI values are the standard as stated in Specification
D75/D75M Practice for Sampling Aggregates
E11. Within the text, inch-pound units are shown in brackets.
E11 Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test
The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents;
Sieves
therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other.
Combining values from the two systems may result in non- 2.2 AASHTO Standard:
T19/T19M Method of Test for Unit Weight and Voids in
conformance with the standard.
Aggregate
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
3. Terminology
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter- 3.1 Definitions—The terms used in this test method are
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. defined in Terminology C125.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
3.2.1 voids, n—in unit volume of aggregate, the space
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
between particles in an aggregate mass not occupied by solid
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
mineral matter.
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C09 on contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Concrete and Concrete Aggregatesand is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
C09.20 on Aggregates. the ASTM website.
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2023. Published October 2023. Originally Available from American Association of State Highway and Transportation
approved in 1920. Last previous edition approved in 2017 as C29/C29M – 17a. Officials (AASHTO), 444 N. Capitol St., NW, Suite 249, Washington, DC 20001,
DOI: 10.1520/C0029_C0029M-23 http://www.transportation.org.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C29/C29M − 23
TABLE 2 Requirements for Measures
3.2.1.1 Discussion—Voids within particles, either perme-
able or impermeable, are not included in voids as determined Thickness of
Metal, min
by this test method.
Capacity of
Units
Upper 38 mm
Measure
Remainder
Bottom or 1 ⁄2 in.
4. Significance and Use
of wall
A
of wall
4.1 This test method is often used to determine bulk density
Less than 11 L 5.0 mm 2.5 mm 2.5 mm
11 to 42 L, incl 5.0 mm 5.0 mm 3.0 mm
values that are necessary for use for many methods of selecting
SI
over 42 to 80 L, incl 10.0 mm 6.4 mm 3.8 mm
proportions for concrete mixtures.
over 80 to 133 L, incl 13.0 mm 7.6 mm 5.0 mm
Less than 0.4 ft 0.20 in. 0.10 in. 0.10 in.
4.2 The bulk density also may be used for determining
3 3
Inch- 0.4 ft to 1.5 ft , incl 0.20 in. 0.20 in. 0.12 in.
mass/volume relationships for conversions in purchase agree- 3
pound over 1.5 to 2.8 ft , incl 0.40 in. 0.25 in. 0.15 in.
ments. However, the relationship between degree of compac- over 2.8 to 4.0 ft , incl 0.50 in. 0.30 in. 0.20 in.
A
tion of aggregates in a hauling unit or stockpile and that
The added thickness in the upper portion of the wall may be obtained by placing
a reinforcing band around the top of the measure.
achieved in this test method is unknown. Further, aggregates in
hauling units and stockpiles usually contain absorbed and
surface moisture (the latter affecting bulking), while this test
method determines the bulk density on a dry basis.
within 0.3 mm [0.01 in.] and shall be parallel to the bottom
4.3 A procedure is included for computing the percentage of within 0.5° (see Note 2). The interior wall of the measure shall
voids between the aggregate particles based on the bulk density be a smooth and continuous surface.
determined by this test method.
NOTE 2—The top rim is satisfactorily plane if a 0.3 mm [0.01 in.] feeler
gage cannot be inserted between the rim and a piece of 6 mm [ ⁄4 in.] or
5. Apparatus
thicker plate glass laid over the measure. The top and bottom are
satisfactorily parallel if the slope between pieces of plate glass in contact
5.1 Balance—A balance or scale accurate to within 0.05 kg
with the top and bottom does not exceed 0.87 % in any direction.
[0.1 lb] or to within 0.1% of the test load, whichever is greater,
5.3.1 Measures larger than nominal 28 L [1 ft ] capacity
at any point within the range of use. The range of use shall be
shall be made of steel.
considered to extend from the mass of the measure empty to
the mass of the measure plus its contents at 1920 kg/m [120
5.4 Shovel or Scoop—A shovel or scoop of convenient size
lb/ft ].
for filling the measure with aggregate.
5.2 Tamping Rod—A round, plain steel rod with a diameter
5.5 Equipment for Measuring Volume of Measure:
5 1
of 16 mm 6 2 mm [ ⁄8 in. 6 ⁄16 in.]. The length of the tamping 1
5.5.1 Plate Glass—A piece of plate glass, at least 6 mm [ ⁄4
rod shall be at least 100 mm [4 in.] greater than the depth of the
in.] thick and at least 25 mm [1 in.] larger than the diameter of
measure or mold in which rodding is being performed, but not
the measure to be calibrated.
greater than 750 mm [30 in.] in overall length (see Note 2). The
5.5.2 Grease—A supply of water-pump, chassis, or similar
rod shall have the tamping end, or both ends, rounded to a
grease.
hemispherical tip of the same diameter as the rod. The rod shall
5.5.3 Thermometer—A thermometer having a range of at
be straight over its length to a tolerance of 0.5 % of its length.
least 10 °C to 32 °C [50 °F to 90 °F] and that is readable to at
least 0.5 °C [1 °F].
5.3 Measure—A cylindrical container made of steel or other
5.5.4 Balance—A balance as described in 5.1.
suitable metal that complies with the requirements of this
section, preferably provided with handles. The measure shall
6. Sampling
be watertight and sufficiently rigid to retain its form under
rough usage. The measure shall have a height at least 80 % and 6.1 Obtain the sample in accordance with Practice D75/
not more than 150 % of the diameter. The capacity of the
D75M, and reduce to test sample size in accordance with
measure shall conform to the limits in Table 1 for the aggregate Practice C702/C702M.
size to be tested. The thickness of metal in the measure shall be
7. Test Sample
as described in Table 2. The top rim shall be smooth and plane
7.1 The size of the test sample shall be between 125 % and
200 % of the quantity required to fill the measure, and shall be
TABLE 1 Capacity of Measures
handled in a manner to avoid segregation.
Nominal Maximum
A
Capacity of Measure
Size of Aggregate
7.2 Dry the aggregate sample to constant mass in an oven at
3 3
mm in. m [L] ft
110 °C 6 5 °C [230 °F 6 10 °F]. The sample is considered to
1 1
12.5 ⁄2 0.0028[2.8] ⁄10
be at constant mass when the difference in mass between two
25.0 1 0.0093 [9.3] ⁄3
1 1 consecutive weighings taken one hour apart is less than 0.1%
37.5 1 ⁄2 0.014 [14] ⁄2
75 3 0.028 [28] 1
of the last weighing.
100 4 0.070 [70] 2 ⁄2
125 5 0.100 [100] 3 ⁄2 NOTE 3—Alternative means of drying are sometimes chosen for quick
A determinations where rapid results are desired or if an oven is not
The indicated size of measure shall be used to test aggregates of a nominal
available. Alternative drying methods should not cause fracturing of
maximum size equal to or smaller than that listed. The actual volume of the
particles or chemical breakdown of the aggregate. Use of alternative
measure shall be at least 95 % of the nominal volume listed.
drying methods does not conform with this test method.
C29/C29M − 23
8. Determination of Volume of Measure gate with the fingers or a straightedge in such a way that any
slight projections of the larger pieces of the coarse aggregate
8.1 Determine the volume of the measure upon initial use
approximately balance the larger voids in the surface below the
and subsequently at a frequency not to exceed twelve months,
top of the measure.
or whenever there is reason to question the accuracy of the
9.2.1.2 In rodding the first layer, do not allow the rod to
volumetric capacity of th
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: C29/C29M − 17a C29/C29M − 23 American Association of State
Highway and Transportation Officials Standard
AASHTO No.: T19/T19M
Standard Test Method for
Bulk Density (“Unit Weight”) and Voids in Aggregate
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C29/C29M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope*
1.1 This test method covers the determination of bulk density (“unit weight”) of aggregate in a compacted or loose condition, and
calculated voids between particles in fine, coarse, or mixed aggregates based on the same determination. This test method is
applicable to aggregates not exceeding 125 mm [5 in.] in nominal maximum size.
NOTE 1—Unit weight is the traditional terminology used to describe the property determined by this test method, which is weight per unit volume (more
correctly, mass per unit volume or density).
1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard, as appropriate for a
specification with which this test method is used. An exception is with regard to sieve sizes and nominal size of aggregate, in which
the SI values are the standard as stated in Specification E11. Within the text, inch-pound units are shown in brackets. The values
stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining
values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and healthsafety, health, and environmental practices and determine
the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C125 Terminology Relating to Concrete and Concrete Aggregates
C127 Test Method for Relative Density (Specific Gravity) and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate
C128 Test Method for Relative Density (Specific Gravity) and Absorption of Fine Aggregate
C670 Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements for Test Methods for Construction Materials
C702/C702M Practice for Reducing Samples of Aggregate to Testing Size
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C09 on Concrete and Concrete Aggregatesand is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C09.20 on
Normal Weight Aggregates.
Current edition approved April 1, 2017Oct. 1, 2023. Published June 2017October 2023. Originally approved in 1920. Last previous edition approved in 2017 as
C29/C29M – 17.C29/C29M – 17a. DOI: 10.1520/C0029_C0029M-17a.10.1520/C0029_C0029M-23
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C29/C29M − 23
C1077 Practice for Agencies Testing Concrete and Concrete Aggregates for Use in Construction and Criteria for Testing Agency
Evaluation
D75/D75M Practice for Sampling Aggregates
E11 Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves
2.2 AASHTO Standard:
T19/T19M Method of Test for Unit Weight and Voids in Aggregate
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—The terms used in this test method are defined in Terminology C125.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 voids, n—in unit volume of aggregate, the space between particles in an aggregate mass not occupied by solid mineral matter.
3.2.1.1 Discussion—
Voids within particles, either permeable or impermeable, are not included in voids as determined by this test method.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 This test method is often used to determine bulk density values that are necessary for use for many methods of selecting
proportions for concrete mixtures.
4.2 The bulk density also may be used for determining mass/volume relationships for conversions in purchase agreements.
However, the relationship between degree of compaction of aggregates in a hauling unit or stockpile and that achieved in this test
method is unknown. Further, aggregates in hauling units and stockpiles usually contain absorbed and surface moisture (the latter
affecting bulking), while this test method determines the bulk density on a dry basis.
4.3 A procedure is included for computing the percentage of voids between the aggregate particles based on the bulk density
determined by this test method.
5. Apparatus
5.1 Balance—A balance or scale accurate to within 0.05 kg [0.1 lb] or to within 0.1% of the test load, whichever is greater, at any
point within the range of use. The range of use shall be considered to extend from the mass of the measure empty to the mass of
3 3
the measure plus its contents at 1920 kg/m [120 lb/ft ].
5 1
5.2 Tamping Rod—A round, plain steel rod with a diameter of 1616 mm 6 2 mm [ ⁄8 in. 6 ⁄16 in.]. The length of the tamping
rod shall be at least 100 mm [4 in.] greater than the depth of the measure or mold in which rodding is being performed, but not
greater than 750 mm [30 in.] in overall length (see Note 2). The rod shall have the tamping end, or both ends, rounded to a
hemispherical tip of the same diameter as the rod. The rod shall be straight over its length to a tolerance of 0.5 % of its length.
5.3 Measure—A cylindrical container made of steel or other suitable metal that complies with the requirements of this section,
preferably provided with handles. The measure shall be watertight and sufficiently rigid to retain its form under rough usage. The
measure shall have a height at least 80 % and not more than 150 % of the diameter. The capacity of the measure shall conform
to the limits in Table 1 for the aggregate size to be tested. The thickness of metal in the measure shall be as described in Table
2. The top rim shall be smooth and plane within 0.3 mm [0.01 in.] and shall be parallel to the bottom within 0.5° (see Note 2).
The interior wall of the measure shall be a smooth and continuous surface.
NOTE 2—The top rim is satisfactorily plane if a 0.3-mm [0.01-in.]0.3 mm [0.01 in.] feeler gage cannot be inserted between the rim and a piece of
6-mm6 mm [ ⁄4-in.] in.] or thicker plate glass laid over the measure. The top and bottom are satisfactorily parallel if the slope between pieces of plate
glass in contact with the top and bottom does not exceed 0.87 % in any direction.
5.3.1 Measures larger than nominal 28 L [1 ft ] capacity shall be made of steel.
Available from American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), 444 N. Capitol St., NW, Suite 249, Washington, DC 20001,
http://www.transportation.org.
C29/C29M − 23
TABLE 1 Capacity of Measures
Nominal Maximum
A
Capacity of Measure
Size of Aggregate
3 3
mm in. m [L] ft
1 1
12.5 ⁄2 0.0028[2.8] ⁄10
25.0 1 0.0093 [9.3] ⁄3
1 1
37.5 1 ⁄2 0.014 [14] ⁄2
75 3 0.028 [28] 1
100 4 0.070 [70] 2 ⁄2
125 5 0.100 [100] 3 ⁄2
A
The indicated size of measure shall be used to test aggregates of a nominal
maximum size equal to or smaller than that listed. The actual volume of the
measure shall be at least 95 % of the nominal volume listed.
TABLE 2 Requirements for Measures
Thickness of
Metal, min
Capacity of
Units
Upper 38 mm
Measure
Remainder
Bottom or 1 ⁄2 in.
of wall
A
of wall
Less than 11 L 5.0 mm 2.5 mm 2.5 mm
11 to 42 L, incl 5.0 mm 5.0 mm 3.0 mm
SI
over 42 to 80 L, incl 10.0 mm 6.4 mm 3.8 mm
over 80 to 133 L, incl 13.0 mm 7.6 mm 5.0 mm
Less than 0.4 ft 0.20 in. 0.10 in. 0.10 in.
3 3
Inch- 0.4 ft to 1.5 ft , incl 0.20 in. 0.20 in. 0.12 in.
pound over 1.5 to 2.8 ft , incl 0.40 in. 0.25 in. 0.15 in.
over 2.8 to 4.0 ft , incl 0.50 in. 0.30 in. 0.20 in.
A
The added thickness in the upper portion of the wall may be obtained by placing
a reinforcing band around the top of the measure.
5.4 Shovel or Scoop—A shovel or scoop of convenient size for filling the measure with aggregate.
5.5 Equipment for Measuring Volume of Measure:
5.5.1 Plate Glass—A piece of plate glass, at least 6 mm [ ⁄4 in.] thick and at least 25 mm [1 in.] larger than the diameter of the
measure to be calibrated.
5.5.2 Grease—A supply of water-pump, chassis, or similar grease.
5.5.3 Thermometer—A thermometer having a range of at least 1010 °C to 32 °C [50[50 °F to 90 °F] and that is readable to at least
0.5 °C [1 °F].
5.5.4 Balance—A balance as described in 5.1.
6. Sampling
6.1 Obtain the sample in accordance with Practice D75/D75M, and reduce to test sample size in accordance with Practice
C702/C702M.
7. Test Sample
7.1 The size of the test sample shall be between 125125 % and 200 % of the quantity required to fill the measure, and shall be
handled in a manner to avoid segregation.
7.2 Dry the aggregate sample to constant mass in an oven at 110110 °C 6 5 °C [230[230 °F 6 10 °F]. The sample is considered
to be at constant mass when the difference in mass between two consecutive weighings taken one hour apart is less than 0.1% of
the last weighing.
C29/C29M − 23
NOTE 3—Alternative means of drying are sometimes chosen for quick determinations where rapid results are desired or if an oven is not available.
Alternative drying methods should not cause fracturing of particles or chemical breakdown of the aggregate. Use of alternative drying methods does not
conform with this test method.
8. Determination of Volume of Measure
8.1 Determine the volume of the measure upon initial use and subsequently at a frequency not to exceed twelve months, or
whenever there is reason to question the accuracy of the volumetric capacity of the measure. If required, retain a record of volume
determination in accordance with Practice C1077.
8.2 Determine the mass of the plate glass and measure the nearest 0.05 kg [0.1 lb].
8.3 Place a thin layer of grease on the rim of the measure to prevent leakage of water from the measure.
8.4 Fill the measure with water that is at room temperature and cover with the plate glass in such a way as to eliminate bubbles
and excess water. Remove any water that may have overflowed onto the measure or plate glass.
8.5 Determine the mass of the water, plate glass, and measure to the nearest 0.05 kg [0.1 lb].
8.6 Mea
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