ASTM D5971/D5971M-16
(Practice)Standard Practice for Sampling Freshly Mixed Controlled Low-Strength Material
Standard Practice for Sampling Freshly Mixed Controlled Low-Strength Material
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This practice shall be used to provide a representative sample of the material for the purpose of testing various properties. The procedures used in sampling shall include the use of every precaution that will assist in obtaining samples that are truly representative of the nature and condition of the CLSM.
Note 2: The quality of the result produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it and the suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing/sampling/inspection/ and the like. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors. Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of these factors.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice explains the procedure for obtaining a representative sample of freshly mixed controlled low-strength material (CLSM) as delivered to the project site on which tests are to be performed to determine compliance with quality requirements of the specifications under which the CLSM is furnished (Note 1). This practice includes sampling from revolving-drum truck mixers and from agitating equipment used to transport central-mixed CLSM. This Practice is based on Practice C172 for concrete.
1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. 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.
Note 1: Composite samples are required by this practice unless specifically excepted by procedures governing the tests to be performed, such as tests to determine uniformity of consistency and mixer efficiency. Procedures used to select the specific test batches are not described in this practice. It is recommended that random sampling be used to determine overall specification compliance.
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 health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. (Warning—Fresh hydraulic cementitious mixtures are caustic and may cause chemical burns to skin and tissue upon prolonged exposure.2)
1.4 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing one or more specific operations. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgement. Not all aspects of this practice may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a projects many unique aspects. The word “standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 30-Nov-2016
- Technical Committee
- D18 - Soil and Rock
- Drafting Committee
- D18.15 - Stabilization With Admixtures
Relations
- Replaces
ASTM D5971/D5971M-13 - Standard Practice for Sampling Freshly Mixed Controlled Low-Strength Material - Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2023
- Effective Date
- 01-Oct-2019
- Effective Date
- 15-Dec-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2016
- Effective Date
- 15-Nov-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-Aug-2014
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2012
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2012
- Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2011
- Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2011
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2010
- Effective Date
- 15-Jan-2010
- Effective Date
- 01-Jan-2009
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2008
Overview
ASTM D5971/D5971M-16 is the standard practice for sampling freshly mixed controlled low-strength material (CLSM). Developed and maintained by ASTM International, this standard outlines the recommended procedures to obtain representative samples of CLSM delivered to a project site. Representative sampling is crucial for testing the material’s properties and verifying compliance with project specifications, ensuring quality control in construction and civil engineering applications involving CLSM.
Controlled low-strength material, often used as a flowable backfill or structural fill, must be sampled with precision to ensure accurate test results for parameters like density, air content, and compressive strength. Proper sampling according to this standard is essential for reliable laboratory and field test outcomes.
Key Topics
- Representative Sampling: Guidance on obtaining composite samples that accurately reflect the consistency and quality of the delivered CLSM. Samples are collected from the middle portion of the batch, avoiding the initial and final discharges.
- Sampling Methods: Procedures for sampling from revolving-drum truck mixers and agitating equipment, ensuring the sample captures the true characteristics of the mixture.
- Sample Size and Handling:
- Minimum sample size recommendations for strength and other testing requirements
- Use of suitable, non-absorbent receptacles and proper hand tools
- Ensuring composite samples are adequately mixed and protected from contamination or evaporation before testing
- Time Constraints: Strict time limits between sampling and performing tests to maintain the accuracy of parameters such as flow consistency, unit weight, and air content.
- Use of Dual Measurement Units: The standard is provided in both SI and inch-pound units to facilitate international and US-based applications.
- Quality and Competency: Emphasis on the significance of personnel competency and equipment suitability, and referencing ASTM D3740 for evaluating testing agencies’ capabilities.
- Safety and Health Considerations: Recognition of the caustic nature of fresh CLSM and the need for appropriate safety practices during sampling.
Applications
ASTM D5971/D5971M-16 is widely applied in projects where controlled low-strength material is utilized. Common applications include:
- Backfill for Utility Trenches: CLSM is often used as a flowable, self-compacting soil replacement behind utility lines and pipelines, making accurate sampling critical for quality assurance.
- Structural Fill in Roadways and Foundations: Ensuring that the material meets design requirements for compressive strength and flow consistency is vital to meet engineering specifications.
- Quality Control in Construction Projects: Proper sampling forms the foundation for subsequent laboratory and field tests, such as density, air content, and compressive strength tests, which are essential for project certification and compliance.
- Inspection of Ready-Mix CLSM Delivery: Field technicians and inspectors use this standard to evaluate material uniformity and consistency as the CLSM arrives on site.
By following ASTM D5971/D5971M-16, organizations ensure they meet regulatory requirements and achieve reliable, repeatable test results.
Related Standards
- ASTM C172: Standard Practice for Sampling Freshly Mixed Concrete (basis for many procedures in D5971)
- ASTM D3740: Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock
- ASTM D4832: Test Method for Preparation and Testing of Controlled Low-Strength Material (CLSM) Test Cylinders
- ASTM D6023: Test Method for Density (Unit Weight), Yield, Cement Content, and Air Content (Gravimetric) of CLSM
- ASTM D653: Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
Practical Value
Adhering to ASTM D5971/D5971M-16 ensures that quality control testing of CLSM is reliable and representative, helping project teams avoid costly errors, rework, or structural failures. Proper sampling safeguards both performance and compliance, which is essential for successful infrastructure projects. This standard is a key resource for engineers, technicians, and quality managers involved in the use and testing of controlled low-strength materials.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM D5971/D5971M-16 is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Practice for Sampling Freshly Mixed Controlled Low-Strength Material". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 This practice shall be used to provide a representative sample of the material for the purpose of testing various properties. The procedures used in sampling shall include the use of every precaution that will assist in obtaining samples that are truly representative of the nature and condition of the CLSM. Note 2: The quality of the result produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it and the suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing/sampling/inspection/ and the like. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors. Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of these factors. SCOPE 1.1 This practice explains the procedure for obtaining a representative sample of freshly mixed controlled low-strength material (CLSM) as delivered to the project site on which tests are to be performed to determine compliance with quality requirements of the specifications under which the CLSM is furnished (Note 1). This practice includes sampling from revolving-drum truck mixers and from agitating equipment used to transport central-mixed CLSM. This Practice is based on Practice C172 for concrete. 1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. 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. Note 1: Composite samples are required by this practice unless specifically excepted by procedures governing the tests to be performed, such as tests to determine uniformity of consistency and mixer efficiency. Procedures used to select the specific test batches are not described in this practice. It is recommended that random sampling be used to determine overall specification compliance. 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 health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. (Warning—Fresh hydraulic cementitious mixtures are caustic and may cause chemical burns to skin and tissue upon prolonged exposure.2) 1.4 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing one or more specific operations. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgement. Not all aspects of this practice may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a projects many unique aspects. The word “standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 This practice shall be used to provide a representative sample of the material for the purpose of testing various properties. The procedures used in sampling shall include the use of every precaution that will assist in obtaining samples that are truly representative of the nature and condition of the CLSM. Note 2: The quality of the result produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it and the suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing/sampling/inspection/ and the like. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors. Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of these factors. SCOPE 1.1 This practice explains the procedure for obtaining a representative sample of freshly mixed controlled low-strength material (CLSM) as delivered to the project site on which tests are to be performed to determine compliance with quality requirements of the specifications under which the CLSM is furnished (Note 1). This practice includes sampling from revolving-drum truck mixers and from agitating equipment used to transport central-mixed CLSM. This Practice is based on Practice C172 for concrete. 1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. 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. Note 1: Composite samples are required by this practice unless specifically excepted by procedures governing the tests to be performed, such as tests to determine uniformity of consistency and mixer efficiency. Procedures used to select the specific test batches are not described in this practice. It is recommended that random sampling be used to determine overall specification compliance. 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 health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. (Warning—Fresh hydraulic cementitious mixtures are caustic and may cause chemical burns to skin and tissue upon prolonged exposure.2) 1.4 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing one or more specific operations. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgement. Not all aspects of this practice may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a projects many unique aspects. The word “standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.
ASTM D5971/D5971M-16 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 19.020 - Test conditions and procedures in general. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM D5971/D5971M-16 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM D5971/D5971M-13, ASTM D3740-23, ASTM D3740-19, ASTM D4832-16, ASTM D6023-16, ASTM D6023-15, ASTM D653-14, ASTM D3740-12a, ASTM D3740-12, ASTM D3740-11, ASTM D653-11, ASTM D3740-10, ASTM D4832-10, ASTM D653-09, ASTM D653-08a. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM D5971/D5971M-16 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
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: D5971/D5971M − 16
Standard Practice for
Sampling Freshly Mixed Controlled Low-Strength Material
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5971/D5971M; 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.
1. Scope* judged, nor should this document be applied without consid-
eration of a projects many unique aspects. The word “stan-
1.1 This practice explains the procedure for obtaining a
dard” in the title of this document means only that the
representative sample of freshly mixed controlled low-strength
document has been approved through the ASTM consensus
material (CLSM) as delivered to the project site on which tests
process.
are to be performed to determine compliance with quality
requirements of the specifications under which the CLSM is
2. Referenced Documents
furnished (Note 1). This practice includes sampling from
revolving-drum truck mixers and from agitating equipment
2.1 ASTM Standards:
used to transport central-mixed CLSM. This Practice is based C172 Practice for Sampling Freshly Mixed Concrete
on Practice C172 for concrete. D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained
Fluids
1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies
are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in
Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as
each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each
Used in Engineering Design and Construction
system shall be used independently of the other. Combining
D4832 Test Method for Preparation and Testing of Con-
values from the two systems may result in non-conformance
trolled Low Strength Material (CLSM) Test Cylinders
with the standard.
D6023 Test Method for Density (Unit Weight), Yield, Ce-
NOTE 1—Composite samples are required by this practice unless
ment Content, and Air Content (Gravimetric) of Con-
specifically excepted by procedures governing the tests to be performed,
trolled Low-Strength Material (CLSM)
such as tests to determine uniformity of consistency and mixer efficiency.
D6103 Test Method for Flow Consistency of Controlled
Procedures used to select the specific test batches are not described in this
Low Strength Material (CLSM) (Withdrawn 2013)
practice. It is recommended that random sampling be used to determine
overall specification compliance.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the 3. Terminology
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
3.1 Definitions:
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
3.1.1 For definitions of common technical terms in this
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
standard, refer to Terminology D653.
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. (Warning—Fresh
3.1.2 controlled low-strength material (CLSM), n—a mix-
hydraulic cementitious mixtures are caustic and may cause
ture of soil, aggregates (sand, gravel, or both), cementitious
chemical burns to skin and tissue upon prolonged exposure. )
materials, water, and sometimes admixtures, that hardens into
1.4 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing
a material with a higher strength than the soil, but less than
one or more specific operations. This document cannot replace
about 8400 kPa [1200 psi].
education or experience and should be used in conjunction
3.1.2.1 Discussion—Used as a replacement for compacted
with professional judgement. Not all aspects of this practice
backfill, CLSM can be placed as a slurry, a mortar, or a
may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is
compacted material and typically has strengths of 350 to 700
not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by
kPa [50 to 100 psi] for most applications.
which the adequacy of a given professional service must be
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.15 on Stabilization With
Admixtures. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2016. Published December 2016. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1995. Last previous edition approved in 2013 as D5971 – 13. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/D5971_D5971M-16. the ASTM website.
2 4
Section on Safety Precautions, Manual of Aggregate and Concrete Testing, The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 04.02. www.astm.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
D5971/D5971M − 16
3.2.1 flow consistency, n—measured by the average diam- the middle portion of the batch (Note 3). These samples shall
eter of the spread achieved by removal of the flow cyli
...
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: D5971/D5971M − 13 D5971/D5971M − 16
Standard Practice for
Sampling Freshly Mixed Controlled Low-Strength Material
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5971/D5971M; 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.
1. Scope*
1.1 This practice explains the procedure for obtaining a representative sample of freshly mixed controlled low-strength material
(CLSM) as delivered to the project site on which tests are to be performed to determine compliance with quality requirements of
the specifications under which the CLSM is furnished (Note 1). This practice includes sampling from revolving-drum truck mixers
and from agitating equipment used to transport central-mixed CLSM. This Practice is based on Practice C172 for concrete.
1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. 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.
NOTE 1—Composite samples are required by this practice unless specifically excepted by procedures governing the tests to be performed, such as tests
to determine uniformity of consistency and mixer efficiency. Procedures used to select the specific test batches are not described in this practice. It is
recommended that random sampling be used to determine overall specification compliance.
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 health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory
limitations prior to use. (Warning—Fresh hydraulic cementitious mixtures are caustic and may cause chemical burns to skin and
tissue upon prolonged exposure. )
1.4 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing one or more specific operations. This document cannot replace
education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgement. Not all aspects of this practice may be
applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the
adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a projects
many unique aspects. The word “standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through
the ASTM consensus process.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C172 Practice for Sampling Freshly Mixed Concrete
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as Used in
Engineering Design and Construction
D4832 Test Method for Preparation and Testing of Controlled Low Strength Material (CLSM) Test Cylinders
D6023 Test Method for Density (Unit Weight), Yield, Cement Content, and Air Content (Gravimetric) of Controlled
Low-Strength Material (CLSM)
D6103 Test Method for Flow Consistency of Controlled Low Strength Material (CLSM) (Withdrawn 2013)
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—For common definitions of terms in this standard, refer to Terminology D653.
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:Definitions:
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.15 on Stabilization With
Admixtures.
Current edition approved Aug. 1, 2013Dec. 1, 2016. Published August 2013December 2016. Originally approved in 1995. Last previous edition approved in 20072013
as D5971 – 07.D5971 – 13. DOI: 10.1520/D5971-13.10.1520/D5971_D5971M-16.
Section on Safety Precautions, Manual of Aggregate and Concrete Testing, Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 04.02.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.astm.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
D5971/D5971M − 16
3.2.1 composite sample, n—a sample that is constructed by combining equal portions of grab samples taken at two or more
regularly spaced intervals during discharge of the middle portion of the batch of CLSM.
3.1.1 For definitions of common technical terms in this standard, refer to Terminology D653.
3.1.2 controlled low-strength material (CLSM), n—a mixture of Portland cement, fly ash, aggregates, water, and possibly
chemical admixtures that, as the cement hydrates, forms a soil replacement material. The CLSM is a self compacting, flowable,
cementitious material that is primarily used as a backfill or structural fill instead of compacted fill or unsuitable native soil.
Depending on the amount of water used in the CLSM mixture, it can be placed as a non-flowable compacted material or as a
mortar. soil, aggregates (sand, gravel, or both), cementitious materials, water, and sometimes admixtures, that hardens into a
material with a higher strength than the soil, but less than about 8400 kPa [1200 psi].
3.1.2.1 Discussion—
Used as a replacement for compacted backfill, CLSM can be placed as a slurry, a
...
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