SRANDARD METHOD FOR FLEXURAL STRENGTH CONCRETE (ASTM C78/C78M)

Designation: C 78 02
Standard Test Method for
Flexural Strength of Concrete (Using Simple Beam with Third-Point Loading)

This test method describes the procedure used for determining the flexural strength or modulus
of rupture of Rapid Strength Concrete (RSC) by the use of a simple beam with third point
loading.
The testing machine shall conform to the requirements of Sections 16, 17, and 18 of ASTM E4
and Section 4 of ASTM C78/C78M.

This test method covers the determination of the exural strength of concrete by the use of a
simple beam with third-point loading. The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
as the standard. The SI equivalent of inch-pound units has been rounded where necessary for
practical application.
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 limitation prior to use.
ASTM C78 addresses the flexural testing of concrete used in the construction of slabs and
pavements with a "third-point" style flexure apparatus. To conduct the testing, we used our
SATEC Series 300DX testing system, a flex fixture, and Partner Materials Testing
Software. Specimen geometry is in the form of a beam that is 6 x 6 inches with a minimum
length of 21 inches. Sampling and specimen preparation for fresh concrete taken in the field is
covered in ASTM C31; sawed specimens taken from cured material are discussed in ASTM
C42; and for specimens made in the lab are referenced in ASTM C192. We suggest referencing
the instructions found in the ASTM C78 for the loading rates, proper specimen orientation, and
application of preload to assure "gap-free" contact between the specimen and fixture.

The 300DX is a servo-controlled system, which allows the test to perform automatically within a
closed loop. We find that operators prefer this style of system over manually controlled systems
because of the more consistent control of the loading rate and the less risk of shock to the
specimen. The desired results are that modulus of rupture is calculated and the specimen fails
within the middle third of the span length in the tension area or underside of the specimen.
Partner Software automatically calculates the modulus of rupture based upon the maximum
applied load and average dimensional values of the test specimen. If failure occurs outside of
the middle third of the specimen, but not more than 5% of the span length, a different formula
for calculating the modulus of rupture result is used. If failure occurs outside of the middle third
of the specimen's tension area by more than 5%, then the result cannot be used.
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