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As an example, a concrete mixture that reaches final set in three hours at 60 degrees Fahrenheit may reach final set in as little 1½ hours at 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Setting Time The effect of high ambient temperatures and high temperature concrete component materials have on the setting time of concrete mixtures is a topic of concern due to the reduced time in which concrete must be placed, consolidated and finished increased potential for plastic shrinkage cracking, thermal cracking and cold joints potential strength reduction due to high water demand and high curing temperatures difficulty in controlling air content and increased urgency for applying appropriate curing method at an early age.Īs a general rule of thumb an increase of 20 degrees Fahrenheit will reduce the setting time of a concrete mixture by as much as 50 percent. With proper planning and execution concrete can be successfully placed and finished to produce high quality durable concrete at temperatures of 95 degrees Fahrenheit or more. In extreme conditions consider adjusting the time of concrete placement to take advantage of cooler temperatures, such as early morning or night time placement.
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Provide appropriate curing methods as soon as possible after the concrete finishing processes have been completed.Consider fogging the area above the concrete placement to raise the relative humidity and satisfy moisture demand of the ambient air.Provide sufficient labor to minimize the time required to place and finish the concrete, as hot weather conditions substantially shorted the times to initial and final set.
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