Hylec plastic moulds

The Hylec plastic moulds for casting concrete test cylinders offer an alternative to conventional steel moulds. The moulds weigh less than 1.5 kg each, and around 2–4 samples can be safely carried by test personnel.

Features include: detachable carry handle; stackable with interlocking cap and base; a rigid plastic, detachable lid prevents samples drying out; include a stainless steel base insert flat to 20 microns to prevent damage from rodding; more accurate than alternatives as mould diameter is between 99.8 and 100 mm.

The base includes an outer steel plate to enable the mould to be used with a mechanical vibrator with magnetic clamping. In operation the mould inner surfaces are coated with oil prior to casting of the sample to ensure easy removal of the sample by applying air pressure to the hole in the base. Water can also be used for sample ejection.

The lid and mould, being plastic, insulate the sample against the effects of hot and cold weather. Tests show sample strength using plastic moulds is stronger at 3 and 10 days but with no detectable difference at 28 days.