Circ05 - 2007 Ready Mix Concrete

CT 2465/2006 Contracts Circular N° 5/2007
Department of Contract
Notre Dame Ravelin
Floriana
To Heads of Department 29 March 2007

and Parastatal Bodies
READY MIXED CONCRETE FOR GENERAL/MARITIME USE (Lean Mix) -

MALTA 2007 (North and South Region)
1. Heads of Department and Accounting Officers are requested to note that the
contract for the supply and delivery of Ready Mixed Concrete for General and
Maritime Use has been placed with the contractor shown below at the prices
indicated on the attached Schedules ‘A’, ‘B’, ‘C’ and ‘D’ for North and ‘A’, ‘B’,
‘C’, and ‘D’ for South and Schedule E for Lean Mix. Prices, are inclusive of all
charges and all taxes, including 18% VAT and delivery costs.
Żrar Ltd.
Bonnici House
Sardine Street
Burmarrad
Tel: 21459780
VAT No. 1052-8529
2. Payments are to be made direct to contractor.
3. This contract shall run up to the 31st December 2007.
4. The Specifications and Conditions regulating this contract are attached.
5. This contract is governed by the attached ‘General Conditions of Contract for the
Supply of Goods and Materials under a Running Period Contract.”
F Attard
Director General (Contracts)
enc.
1
STRUCTURAL CONCRETE MIX SCHEDULE 'A'
NORTH REGION - (Mellieha, St.Paul’s Bay, Mgarr, Mtarfa, Naxxar, Mdina, Burmarrad,
Bugibba, Mosta, Maghtab, Rabat, Dingli, Lija, Balzan, Attard as well as the confines of their
respective towns and villages)
Item 1 Item 2 Item 3 Item 4 Item 5

MIX DESCRIPTION REINFORCED CONCRETE
Type of Mix Designed Designed Designed Designed Designed
Type of Cement To B.S. 12 (OP) 12 (OP) 12 (OP) 12 (OP) 12 (OP)
Type of Aggregate Coarse To B.S. 882, 1201 882, 1201 882, 1201 882, 1201 882, 1201
Fine To B.S. 882, 1201 882, 1201 882, 1201 882, 1201 882, 1201
Nominal Maximum Aggregate Size (mm) 20 20 20 20 20
Concrete Grade C20 C25 C30 C35 C40
Minimum Cement Content kg/m3 240 260 275 300 325
Sampling Rate #/m3 20 20 20 20 20
Workability Slump mm 40-70 40-70 40-70 40-70 40-70
Flow mm
Maximum Free Water / Cement Ratio 0.8 0.7 0.65 0.6 0.55
Admixtures Prohibited Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Specified
Density of Concrete Minimum kg/m3 2250 2250 2250 2250 2250
Mix Cement Content kg/m3 304 330 362 395 441

Mix Fine Aggregate kg/m3 791 762 731 701 665
Mix Coarse Aggregate kg/m3 930 932 931 930 918
Water Content l/m3 225 225 225 225 225
Admixtures l/m3 0 0 0 0 0
Estimated Qty.* m3 800 800 600 200 200
Rate** Lm/m3 19.90 24.00 26.35 27.90 29.90
# Four cubes per sample: 2 tested at 7 days and 2 tested at 28 days

N/A Not Applicable
(a) Superplasticiser
(b) Accelerating
(c) Retarding
(d) Water-Reducing
(e) Air-entraining
* Vide Clause 1.2 of the Preliminary Conditions
** Rate quoted should be per cubic metre delivered inclusive of VAT, and other charges as applicable
2
STRUCTURAL CONCRETE MIX SCHEDULE 'B'
NORTH REGION - (Mellieħa, St. Paul’s Bay, Mġarr, Mtarfa, Naxxar,

Mdina, Burmarrad, Buġibba, Mosta, Magħtab, Rabat, Dingli, Lija,
Balzan, Attard as well as the confines of their respective towns and
villages)
Item 1 Item 2 Item 3

MIX DESCRIPTION
Type of Mix Designed Designed Designed
Type of Cement To B.S. 12 (OP) 12 (OP) 12 (OP)
Type of Aggregate Coarse To B.S. 882, 1201 882, 1201 882, 1201
Fine To B.S. 882, 1201 882, 1201 882, 1201
Nominal Maximum Aggregate Size (mm) 20 20 20
Concrete Grade C30 C35 C40
Minimum Cement Content kg/m3 275 300 325
Sampling Rate #/m3 20 20 20
Workability Slump mm
Flow mm 510-620 510-620 510-620
Maximum Free Water / Cement Ratio 0.65 0.6 0.5
Admixtures Prohibited No No No
Specified (a) (a) (a)
Density of Concrete Minimum kg/m3 2250 2250 2250
Mix Cement Content kg/m3 350 400 450

Mix Fine Aggregate kg/m3 740 788 719
Mix Coarse Aggregate kg/m3 1100 820 880
Water Content l/m3 160 217 203
Admixtures l/m3 3 3 3
Estimated Qty.* m3 400 500 200
Rate** Lm/m3 26.35 27.90 29.90

N/A Not Applicable
(b) Accelerating
(c) Retarding
(d) Water-Reducing
(e) Air-entraining

3
STRUCTURAL CONCRETE MIX SCHEDULE 'C'

villages)

MIX DESCRIPTION MASS CONCRETE
Fine To B.S. 882, 1201 882, 1201 882, 1201
Workability Slump mm 40-70 40-70 40-70
Admixtures Prohibited Yes Yes Yes
Specified

Rate** Lm/m3 18.05 19.90 19.90

N/A Not Applicable
(b) Accelerating
(c) Retarding
(d) Water-Reducing
(e) Air-entraining
4
STRUCTURAL CONCRETE MIX SCHEDULE 'D'

villages)

MIX DESCRIPTION UNDERWATER CONCRETE
Fine To B.S. 882, 1201 882, 1201 882, 1201
Workability Slump mm 125 125
Flow mm 510-620
Maximum Free Water / Cement Ratio
Admixtures Prohibited Yes Yes No
Specified (d)

Estimated Qty. Malta * m3 400 300 300
Rate** Lm/m3 21.50 21.50 26.50

N/A Not Applicable
(b) Accelerating
(c) Retarding
(d) Water-Reducing
(e) Air-entraining

5
STRUCTURAL CONCRETE MIX SCHEDULE 'A'
SOUTH REGION - (B’Kara, Pembroke, St. Julians, Sliema, Gżira, San Ġwann, Manoel
Island, Ta’ Xbiex, Msida, Pieta, Marsa, Ħamrun, Qormi, Żebbuġ, Siġġiewi, Qrendi, Luqa,
M’Xlokk, Paola, Gudja, Għaxaq, B’Bugia, Żejtun, Żabbar, Kottonera, Valletta and Floriana as
well as the confines of their respective towns and villages)
Item 1 Item 2 Item 3 Item 4 Item 5

MIX DESCRIPTION REINFORCED CONCRETE
Type of Mix Designed Designed Designed Designed Designed
Type of Cement To B.S. 12 (OP) 12 (OP) 12 (OP) 12 (OP) 12 (OP)
Type of Aggregate Coarse To B.S. 882, 1201 882, 1201 882, 1201 882, 1201 882, 1201
Fine To B.S. 882, 1201 882, 1201 882, 1201 882, 1201 882, 1201
Nominal Maximum Aggregate Size (mm) 20 20 20 20 20
Concrete Grade C20 C25 C30 C35 C40
Minimum Cement Content kg/m3 240 260 275 300 325
Sampling Rate #/m3 20 20 20 20 20
Workability Slump mm 40-70 40-70 40-70 40-70 40-70
Flow mm
Maximum Free Water / Cement Ratio 0.8 0.7 0.65 0.6 0.55
Admixtures Prohibited Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Specified
Density of Concrete Minimum kg/m3 2250 2250 2250 2250 2250
Mix Cement Content kg/m3 304 330 362 395 441

Mix Fine Aggregate kg/m3 791 762 731 701 665
Mix Coarse Aggregate kg/m3 930 932 931 930 918
Water Content l/m3 225 225 225 225 225
Admixtures l/m3 0 0 0 0 0
Estimated Qty.* m3 400 700 700 300 100
Rate** Lm/m3 19.90 24.00 26.35 27.90 29.90

N/A Not Applicable
(b) Accelerating
(c) Retarding
(d) Water-Reducing
(e) Air-entraining

6
STRUCTURAL CONCRETE MIX SCHEDULE 'B'
SOUTH REGION - (B’Kara, Pembroke, St. Julians, Sliema, Gżira, San Ġwann, Manoel
Island, Ta’ Xbiex, Msida, Pieta, Marsa, Ħamrun, Qormi, Żebbuġ, Siġġiewi, Qrendi, Luqa,
M’Xlokk, Paola, Gudja, Għaxaq, B’Bugia, Żejtun, Żabbar, Kottonera, Valletta and Floriana as
well as the confines of their respective towns and villages)

MIX DESCRIPTION
Fine To B.S. 882, 1201 882, 1201 882, 1201
Workability Slump mm
Flow mm 510-620 510-620 510-620
Admixtures Prohibited No No No
Specified (a) (a) (a)

Rate** Lm/m3 26.35 27.90 29.90

N/A Not Applicable
(b) Accelerating
(c) Retarding
(d) Water-Reducing
(e) Air-entraining
7
STRUCTURAL CONCRETE MIX SCHEDULE 'C'
SOUTH REGION - (B’Kara, Pembroke, St. Julians, Sliema, Gżira, San Ġwann, Manoel Island,
Ta’ Xbiex, Msida, Pieta, Marsa, Ħamrun, Qormi, Żebbuġ, Siġġiewi, Qrendi, Luqa, M’Xlokk,
Paola, Gudja, Għaxaq, B’Bugia, Żejtun, Żabbar, Kottonera, Valletta and Floriana as well as the
confines of their respective towns and villages)

MIX DESCRIPTION MASS CONCRETE
Fine To B.S. 882, 1201 882, 1201 882, 1201
Workability Slump mm 40-70 40-70 40-70
Admixtures Prohibited Yes Yes Yes
Specified

Estimated Qty.* m3 1200 1400 1400
Rate** Lm/m3 18.05 19.90 19.90

N/A Not Applicable
(b) Accelerating
(c) Retarding
(d) Water-Reducing
(e) Air-entraining

8
STRUCTURAL CONCRETE MIX SCHEDULE 'D'
SOUTH REGION - (B’Kara, Pembroke, St. Julians, Sliema, Gżira, San Ġwann, Manoel Island, Ta’
Xbiex, Msida, Pieta, Marsa, Ħamrun, Qormi, Żebbuġ, Siġġiewi, Qrendi, Luqa, M’Xlokk, Paola,
Gudja, Għaxaq, B’Bugia, Żejtun, Żabbar, Kottonera, Valletta and Floriana as well as the confines of
their respective towns and villages)

MIX DESCRIPTION UNDERWATER CONCRETE
Fine To B.S. 882, 1201 882, 1201 882, 1201
Workability Slump mm 125 125
Flow mm 510-620
Maximum Free Water / Cement Ratio
Admixtures Prohibited Yes Yes No
Specified (d)

Estimated Qty. Malta * m3 400 300 300
Rate** Lm/m3 21.50 21.50 26.50

N/A Not Applicable
(b) Accelerating
(c) Retarding
(d) Water-Reducing
(e) Air-entraining

9
LEAN MIX SCHEDULE ‘E’
NORTH REGION - (Mellieħa, St. Paul’s Bay, Mġarr, Mtarfa, Naxxar, Mdina,
Burmarrad, Buġibba, Mosta, Magħtab, Rabat, Dingli, Lija, Balzan, Attard as well
as the confines of their respective towns and villages)
Estimated Quantity Unit Rate

Lm/m³ **
Item 1 - 1500 Cubic Metres * 6.50
SOUTH REGION – (B’Kara, Pembroke, St. Julians, Sliema, Gżira, San Ġwann, Manoel
Island, Ta’ Xbiex, Msida, Pieta, Marsa, Ħamrun, Qormi, Żebbuġ, Siġġiewi, Qrendi,
Luqa, M’Xlokk, Paola, Gudja, Għaxaq, B’Bugia, Żejtun, Żabbar, Kottonera, Valletta and
Floriana as well as the confines of their respective towns and villages)
Estimated Quantity Unit Rate

Lm/m³ **
Item 2 - 1500 Cubic Metres * 6.50
** Rate quoted shall be per cubic metre delivered inclusive of VAT and all
other charges as applicable
10
2. TECHNICAL CONDITIONS
2.1 DEFINITIONS.
For the purpose of this tender, definitions given in BS 5328 and BS 6100 are
deemed to apply.
Producer will be deemed to imply any person or firm entering into a contract to
supply concrete.
Purchaser will be deemed to be any person or firm entering into a contract to buy
concrete.
Engineer is the engineer who acts on behalf of the Purchaser.
2.2 CERTIFICATES
When, submitting his tender, and when requested by the purchaser, a producer is
to produce the following documents:-
a. The nature and source of each constituent material;

b. The source of supply of concrete and any proposed alternative sources;
c. A recent test report on the aggregates to be used in the mix including a
sieve analysis of each aggregate type dated within the tendering period;
d. A certificate or test report stating that the cement complies with the
appropriate British Standard.
e. The proposed proportions or quantity of each constituent per cubic metre
of fully compacted concrete;
f. Details of admixtures, if any are to be used. The producer shall provide
the following information:
1. the typical dosage and details of the effects of underdosage and
overdosage;
2. the generic type(s) of the main active constituent(s) in the admixture;
3. whether or not the admixture contains chlorides and, if so, the
chloride content of the admixture expressed as a percentage of
chloride ion by mass of admixture;
4. whether or not the admixture leads to the entrainment of air when
used in the proposed dosage;
5. where more than one (1) admixture is used, data on their interaction
and compatibility.
g. Evidence of suitability of the proposed mix proportions to meet the

specified requirements.
11
It may also be required that independent testing be carried out at the discretion of
the purchaser to guarantee the conditions specified by this tender. The extent,
liability and type of test shall be mutually agreed between the producer and
purchaser prior to commencement of testing. In the event that the producer
refuses to allow testing of any concrete, the concrete in question will be assumed
to be below grade and rejected.
2.3 OPTIONAL REQUIREMENTS
When evidence is requested to verify the adequacy of the proposed mix

proportions to meet the specified performance conditions, this generally shall be
data from previous production of concrete using the materials and plant which will
be used to produce the concrete, confirming that the proposed mix proportions
satisfy.
It is recommended that the producer adopts the maintenance routines outlined in

Section 3: Appendix A, Routine Maintenance Checks for Plant and Equipment.
2.4 SAMPLING
The purchaser concerned reserves the right to take samples of any or all the
constituent materials in a mix from a producer and test them in accordance to the
tests stipulated in the technical conditions, before awarding the contract. The
purchaser may also require a producer to furnish evidence that he has the ability to
supply concrete in the quantities expected and to maintain the quality of the
product.
When sampling a batch or load of ready mixed concrete, three (3) samples shall be
taken during discharge from the first part, the middle part and the last part of the
load. The three 3) samples shall be mixed on a non-absorbent base to form the
composite sample.
2.5 POOR QUALITY
If the concrete delivered under the contract is found to fail to satisfy the
specification requirements, the purchaser may order the rate of payment to be
reduced. If however, the concrete is of such poor quality that the purchaser
considers its characteristics to be seriously impaired, then the concrete may be
rejected, in which case the contractor will become liable to the penalties as
provided for in the contract.
12
2.6 WORKABILITY
Two (2) workability tests shall be carried out on the composite sample. The load
of concrete represented by this sample shall be considered to have satisfied the
compliance requirement if the average of the results of the two(2) tests lies within
the following tolerances of the specified value:
Slump +/- 25mm or +/- one-third (1/3 ) of the required value, whichever is the
greater.
Compacting Factor
+/- 0.03 where required value is 0.90 or more,

+/- 0.04 where required value is between 0.80 and 0.90,
+/- 0.05 where required value is 0.80 or less.
2.7 MIXING
The cement and the aggregate shall be mixed together - either in the proportions
described in the tendered mix design or as required by the purchaser. Mixing may
be carried out at a batching plant or in a truck mixer. Mixing time is measured
from the time all materials, including water, are in the drum of the mixer; where
no uniformity tests have been carried out, this should be not less than 2 minutes.
For concrete mixed in truck mixers, mixing should continue for not less than 100
revolutions of the truck mixer drum at a rate not less than 7 revolutions a minute
(i.e. -:about 10 to 15 minutes).
2.8 VARIATIONS
The Head of Department reserves the right to specify variations in the mix design
parameters specified throughout the contract and for his representatives to take
samples and test cubes from the concrete as it is delivered to the sites. The
contractor shall be required to furnish test moulds and provide all necessary help
to ensure an accurate assessment supplied.
2.9 CHANGES IN MATERIALS
The producer shall provide the purchaser with details of any proposed changes in
the source or nature of any of the constituent materials made during the period of
concrete production. Acceptance of any such changes is at the discretion of the
purchaser or his agent.
13
2.10 ENGINEER`S AUTHORITY
The Engineer shall upon arrival of material and after, have power to order:
a. The contractor to break up and remove from site at his expense within
fifteen (15) days any concrete which is not according to the specification
and substitution by proper and suitable concrete.
b. Final payment will be effected as soon as it made known (but not before
twenty-eight (28) days), by the Quality Control Section of the Purchaser,
that the concrete of the particular pour satisfies the minimum test
requirements as set out in the Technical Conditions. The contractor shall
incur a penalty of LM75 for every truckload of ready-mixed concrete not in
accordance with the specifications. Moreover he shall not be paid for the
concrete supplied and represented by the failed sample/s and become liable
for the cost of replacement of the failed concrete together with any damages
which government may suffer through such default.
2.11 DELIVERY
The concrete shall be delivered on the day at the time and place as directed by the
Engineer provided that at least 24 hours notice be given. The contractor may be
required to deliver up to 500 cubic metres per day even after normal working
hours. It is also expected that limited deliveries shall be required on Saturdays,
Sundays, Holidays of Obligation and Public Holidays. Claims for waiting time or
overtime after or before working time shall not be entertained.
Where a truck mixer is used for transporting concrete, the discharge shall be
completed within two hours after contact between the cement and water, either as
mixing water or water contained in the damp aggregates, unless a longer time is
authorised by the purchaser. The time of contact between the cement and water
shall be the loading time recorder on the delivery ticket.
Where concrete is transported in non-agitating equipment, discharge shall be

complete within one hour after mixing, unless a longer time is authorised. The
time at which mixing was completed shall be the loading time recorded on the
delivery ticket.
Where a truck mixer is used for transporting mixed concrete, the concrete shall
either be agitated during transit, or remixed for not less than 10 revolutions of the
truck mixer drum at the site.
14
2.12 QUANTITY OF CONCRETE
The basis of supply shall be by the cubic metre of fresh, fully compacted concrete.
The volume of a given batch of concrete shall be calculated from the total mass of
the batch divided by the mass per cubic metre of fresh, fully compacted concrete
determined in accordance with BS 1881:Part 107. The total mass of the batch
shall either be calculated as the sum of the masses of all materials used including
water or be determined from the gross and tare weights of the vehicle on a
weighbridge. The government at any time can request the total mass of the batch
to be verified on a weighbridge close to the site of works.
2.13 TRANSPORTATION
Concrete shall be transported in a truck mixer unless the purchaser agrees to the
use of non-agitating vehicles. When non-agitating vehicles are used, the mixed
concrete shall be protected from gain or loss of water. Truck mixers, used either
as mixers or agitators for transporting concrete, should comply with BS 3963:
Method for testing the mixing performance of Concrete Mixers.
2.14 CONDITION OF MIXERS
All vehicles to be used to transport concrete shall be approved by the purchaser

and any maintenance or modifications requested by the purchaser prior to
approval, shall be inspected before acceptance for use. Central and truck-type
mixers shall be maintained in an efficient and clean condition with no appreciable
build-up hardened cement or concrete in the mixing drum, on the mixing blades,
or on the loading hopper or discharge chutes. When, due to wear, the height or
depth of the mixing blades is less than two-thirds of the original, the blade or
paddles shall be renewed or replaced.
The producer shall afford any assistance to the purchaser to carry out all necessary
inspections of the delivery of the concrete at the purchaser’s discretion.
15
2.15 DELIVERY TICKET
Before discharging the concrete at the point of delivery, the supplier shall provide
the Engineer or his representative with a delivery ticket for each batch of concrete
on which is printed, stamped or written the following minimum information:
(a) the name or number of the ready-mixed concrete depot;
(b) the serial number of the ticket;
(c) the date;
(d) the truck number;
(e) the name of the purchaser;
(f) the name and location of the site;
(g) the grade or mix description of the concrete;
(h) the specified workability;
(i) the minimum cement content, if specified;
(j) the type of cement
(k) the limiting proportions of pfa, if specified;
(l) the maximum free water/cement ration, if specified;
(m) the nominal maximum size of aggregate;
(n) the type and name of admixture, if included;
(o) the quantity of concrete in cubic metre;
(p) the time of loading.
The following information shall be added to the delivery ticket on site:
(q) the time of completion of discharge;
(r) the water added to meet the specified workability;
(s) the extra water added at the request of the purchaser of the concrete, or his
representative, and his signature.
Unsigned, unreceipted or incomplete delivery tickets shall not be accepted for

payment purposes.
Upon request, the contractor shall provide the government with additional
information concerning the mix, including the following:
(i) weight of cement in kilograms per cubic metre of concrete
(ii) weights of fine and coarse aggregate in kilograms per cubic metre of concrete
(iii) water content in litres per cubic metre of concrete.
16
2.16 CHECKING
Should any doubts arise regarding quantities supplied, the Engineer in charge
reserves the right to disregard the quantities indicated in the delivery ticket
(although this is signed by the purchaser) and payment to producer shall be made
on the basis of the actual measurements on site.
2.17 SUPERVISOR AT PLANT
The Government reserves the right to despatch to the successful tenderer`s plant
his representative to continually check that the mix and amounts being delivered in
each truck fully comply to the specifications laid out in this contract. Every
facility must be provided by the producer so that this representative would be able
to carry out his work.
2.18 PENALTY FOR DELAY
Should the contractor fail, refuse, or neglect to supply concrete within the period
prescribed on the requisition he shall be liable for the whole period and on account
of the delay, to a penalty of LM20 per day in respect of each truckload of concrete
up to that day on which delivery shall have been completed. The Government
shall moreover without prejudice to the payment of the fines to which the
contractor may have become liable and without the necessity of any prior legal
proceedings have the right to order from other sources, at its discretion, such
concrete at any price on account and at the contractor’s expense.
2.19 QUANTITIES
The quantities indicated on the schedule are only indicative and the producer
would still be bound to continue supplying up to the end of the contract period
should this amount be exceeded.
2.20 CEMENT
Cements used shall comply with the following British Standards:
Ordinary Portland Cement BS12

Rapid-hardening Portland Cement
White Portland Cement
Coloured Portland Cement
Sulphate-resisting Portland Cement BS4027
Portland-blast furnace Cement BS146
Low heat Portland Cement BS1370
17
Low heat Portland-blast furnace Cement BS4246
High Alumina Cement BS915
Supersulphated Cement BS4248
Where cements other than those complying with BS12 and BS146 are used,
account should be taken of their properties and any particular conditions of use.
Separate storage for different types of cement must be provided, bins or silos must
be weather proof and permit free flow and efficient discharge of the cement.
Cement contents in excess of 550 kg/ m3 should not be used unless special
consideration has been given in design to the increased risk of cracking due to
drying shrinkage in thin sections or to thermal stresses in thicker sections, and to
the increased risk of damage due to alkali silica reaction.
In the case of marine concrete, mix proportions may be adapted from those which
are known to give the required strength at the workability appropriate for
concreting the dry by increasing the cement content by 25%. This enables
adequate properties to be achieved with increased workability and offsets any
losses of cement due to washing out. Mixes should normally have a cement
content of at least 350 kg/m3.
The best method of ensuring that the natural alkaline protective mechanism is
maintained is by providing concrete which has the lowest possible permeability
and this can be obtained by adopting mixes designed to produce a concrete of the
highest practicable density. Care should be taken that requirements for high
strength and low permeability do not result in the workability being restricted to
less than required for compaction.
In warm and polluted waters the use of sulphate resisting Portland cement is
suggested.
2.21 STRENGTH OF CONCRETE
For concrete mixes specified in terms of characteristic strength, tests shall be

carried out on cubes prepared and tested in accordance with BS 1881. Each cube
shall be made from a single sample taken from a randomly selected batch of
concrete. The samples should be taken at the point of discharge from the mixer, or
in the case of ready mixed concrete at the point of discharge from the delivery
vehicle.
2.22 COMPLIANCE
18
Compliance with the specified characteristic strength may be assumed if:
1. the average strength determined from any group of four consecutive test cubes
exceeds the specified characteristic strength by not less than 0.5 times the
`current margin`. (The ‘current margin’ is equivalent to at least 1.64 times the
standard deviation for the production facility)
2. each individual test result is greater than 85 per cent of the specified
characteristic strength.
3. the chloride content in the concrete shall not exceed the limits set in BS 8110
Part 1
4. where admixtures are used, they should comply with the requirements set in
BS 8110, with strict adherence to the limits of chloride ion content.
The `current margin` should be taken to be two-thirds of the specified

characteristic strength for concrete of grade 7.5, 10 or 15N/mm2 for concrete of
grade 20 or above, unless a smaller margin has been established to the satisfaction
of the engineer.
2.23 WATER
Water shall be clean and free from impurities to have a harmful effect on concrete.
If there is doubt concerning its suitability for making concrete, tests shall be
carried out in accordance with BS 3148 Tests for water for making concrete.
No water, other than any amount required to produce the specified workability,
shall be added to the truck mixer drum before discharge unless specifically
required and signed for by the purchaser. The water added shall be recorded on
the delivery ticket.
The water/cement ratio of a batch of concrete should not exceed the specified
maximum value by more than 5 per cent of that value.
2.24 AGGREGATE
In general aggregates should comply with one of the following British Standards:
Aggregates from natural sources for concrete (including granolithic) BS 882,
BS1201
19
The engineer may specify or approve on request the use of other aggregate
including types or gradings not covered by one of the above British Standards,
provided there are satisfactory data on the properties of concrete made with them.
The various sizes of aggregates shall be stored in separate bins or heaps so that
there is no possibility of intermixing or contamination. All aggregates and cement
used in the mix are to be batched by weight. `Volume batching` will not be
permitted in this contract.
For most work, 20mm aggregate is suitable. Where there are no restrictions to the
flow of concrete into sections, 40mm or larger sized aggregate is permitted. In
concrete elements with thin sections, closely spaced reinforcement or small cover,
consideration should be given to the use of 10mm nominal maximum size.
Materials for underwater concrete should comply with the same general
requirements as for normally placed concrete which is subject to the same
environment. Because of the requirements of high workability, rounded
aggregates are preferred and crushed fine aggregates should be avoided because
their particle shape and grading are usually unsuitable.
The usual principles of mix design apply to underwater concrete. Maximum

aggregate size should be as large as possible, consistent with the need to avoid
obstructing flow in delivery pipes. In tremis work, maximum size should only
exceed 40mm in large pours when large diameter tremie is used. Concrete should
be wet by normal standards and a slump of 125mm is necessary when measured in
the dry.
2.25 AGGREGATE QUALITY
The aggregates are to be from an approved source and will normally be from first
quality crushed coralline limestone. The aggregates are to be dense, durable
crystalline stone, with only limited porosity, free from any fine dust, from
adhering concrete residues, organic matter and other impurities. Qualitative tests
are to be carried out on all aggregates in accordance with BS 812 and must have
the following properties:
a) Aggregate Crushing Value Not more than 30%

b) Flakiness Index Not more than 30%
c) Water Absorption Less than 8%
20
2.26 ADMIXTURES
Admixtures shall only be used when specified by the engineer. Admixtures

should comply with BS 5075 Part 1 - 3. Other admixtures may be used provided
there are satisfactory data on the properties of the type of concrete made with
them. Admixtures should not impair the durability of the concrete nor combine
with the constituents to farm harmful components nor increase the risk of the
reinforcement.
2.27 SAMPLING FOR COMPLIANCE TESTING
Rate of sampling for strength compliance testing should be in accordance with

Table 15 and clause 8.2, BS 5328 Part 1:1990. The actual rate of sampling may be
increased in appropriate circumstances such as critical elements.
2.28 TESTING FOR ACCEPTANCE AND COMPLIANCE
The normal requirements for acceptance for ready mixed concrete are based on
workability tests and strength tests are carried out in accordance with BS 1881.
Where necessary, the purchaser shall specify to the producer:
(a) any special cements that shall or may be used;

(b) any limits on the proportion of substitute materials such as pulverized fuel
ask (pfa);
(c) any special requirements for aggregates;
(d) the type (s) of admixture specified or prohibited and the performance or
quantity required;
(e) the details of any test procedure(s) and the method(s) of assessing
compliance if not specifically; covered by this tender;
(f) any other requirements.
2.29 QUALITY CONTROL PROCEDURES
Testing of Materials
Cement:
(a) test certificates shall be obtained from the cement manufacturer at regular
intervals.
(b) continuous records and control charts of all cement tests shall be kept
available for inspection.
21
Aggregates:
(a) Sieve analysis and specific gravity tests on all aggregate sizes and types used,
and organic impurities and field settling tests on the sands used, shall be
carried out initially and when a new source of supply is used. Thereafter, sieve
analysis and field settling tests shall be carried out at least once each week to
assess the variations from the assumed average values. The test methods shall
be generally in accordance with BS 812 Methods for sampling and testing of
mineral aggregates, sands and fillers.
(b) Continuous records and control charts of all aggregate tests shall be kept
available for inspection.
2.30 CONCRETE CONTROL TESTS
Compressive strength
(a) For grades of concrete normally produced, cubes shall be made, cured and test
at 28 days, and at an earlier age, from batches of concrete randomly sampled
at the place of deposit, generally in accordance with BS 1881 Methods of
testing concrete. When a central or stationary mixer is used for the complete
mixing of the concrete, cubes may be sampled from the mixer in accordance
with B.S. 1881.
(b) Concrete mixers shall be randomly sampled and tested on at least 80% of the
full working days in each month during which concrete is produced.
Workability tests
A slump test shall be performed on a sample of concrete on each and every

occasion that cube specimens are made.
Records
Continuous records and control charts of all concrete tests shall be kept
available for inspection and certificates shall be provided where required.
22
2.31 LABORATORIES
(a) Control testing by ready mixed concrete producers shall be permitted,

provided their quality control procedures, Laboratories and staff are approved
by the producer and the necessary test apparatus is available to carry out the
specified tests on materials, concrete and equipment.
(b) Where producers make use of independent laboratories or test houses, these
must be approved by the purchaser.
3. APPENDIX A - ROUTINE MAINTENANCE CHECKS FOR

PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
3.1 STORAGE AND HANDLING EQUIPMENT
Weekly routine Check area under plant for spillage and trace source. Clean up
yard, checking that all drains and traps are clear. Maintain settlement pits and
wash-down in efficient working order. Check all storage bins and doors for
efficient operation. Check conveyors and bucket elevators for free-running and
wear, and adjust as necessary. Routine checks and servicing on loading shovels.
Routine checks and servicing on compressors. Report any defects.
3.2 BATCHING AND MIXING EQUIPMENT
Daily routine Adjust tare weights and clean weighing dials. Ensure weighing
hoppers empty properly. Wash out central mixer drum or pan.
Weekly routine Maintain all hoppers and doors in clean and efficient working
order. Check central mixer blades, paddles or arms for wear and tightness and
adjust as necessary . Remove any cement or concrete build-up in mixer. Shake out
cement silo filter sock and maintain in efficient working order. Check dust seals
on cement hoppers for wear. Clean knife edges on weighing equipment. Check
calibration of moisture meter. Check oil levels on air line lubricators. Drain water
traps on air lines. Check rams and air lines for leaks. Check pipework for leaks
and wear. Check wiring and electrical apparatus for correct operation and
overheating. Routine gressing of bearings and gears. Routine checks and serving
on central mixers. Report any defects.
Monthly Routine Check calibration of all weight scales

Check calibration of water meter
Check calibration of admixture dispenser
23
Quarterly Routine Inspection and testing of all weigh scales over their
complete range
Routine oil changes in gear boxes and oil baths
3.3 TRANSPORTING EQUIPMENT - VEHICLE CHASSIS
It is the responsibility of the producer to maintain all vehicle chassis in accordance

with the relevant Commissioner of Police Regulations.
3.4 TRANSPORTING EQUIPMENT - MIXER AND AGITATOR UNIT
Daily Routine Wash out truck mixer drum.
Monthly Routine Check mixer unit for blade wear.

Check operation of revolution counters.
Check calibration of truck water meter.
Report any defects.
Specification for the Manufacture, Use and Testing of Lean Mix
A. Background
Lean mix is essentially a recently developed alternative reinstatement material for

use in road construction and reconstruction. Such materials allow more rapid,
reliable and cost-effective reinstatements, with less dependence on the skill and
physical effort of the operators. These materials essentially also offer significant
environmental or practical advantages, and/or cost benefits, compared with
conventional materials, including various combinations of the following:
a) Reduced usage of virgin materials, by including recycled, secondary or waste

materials;
b) Lower energy requirements during manufacture;
c) Reduced landfill requirements during construction or reconstruction;
d) Self-cementing properties to improve reliability of laying and compaction;
e) Self-levelling or flowable, to avoid need for compaction;
f) May be placed in fewer layers.
Lean mix is therefore a Structural Material for Reinstatements (SMRs) and falls
into a category of alternative bound reinstatement materials that include a
cementitious, chemical or hydraulic binder or are inherently self-cementing. It is
also a Flowable SMRs (FSMRs) which group comprise of any type and
24
combination of aggregates and hinders. They are flowable mixes that should not
normally require compaction.
SMRs may be used, by prior agreement, in any combination of the following,

regardless of the nature of reinstatement materials used above and below:
a) At any position within the surround to apparatus and/or backfill, as the entire
layer or combined with any other permitted backfill materials, in any
proportion, within any reinstatement;
b) As a sub-base, within any reinstatement;
c) As combined sub-base and base (roadbase) within any reinstatement;
d) As combined sub-base and binder course, within any reinstatement in
footways, footpaths and cycletracks.
SMRs shall not be used in place of surface course materials.
B. Material Production
FSMRs shall be prepared in accordance with the procedures set out in the agreed
manner, to the approved mix formulation(s) (obtained by prior development and
testing), to achieve the required compressive strength. Binders, additives and
admixtures may be included as agreed and based on prior development and testing.
FSMRs may be delivered to site as ready-made materials or be prepared partly or

wholly on site.
Mixing may be carried out using any equipment, adapted as necessary for the
manufacture of FSMRs in quantities appropriate to the intended usage, provided
the approved mixing procedure is used throughout. Mixing equipment should be
maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and checked
regularly. All metering and weighing apparatus should be calibrated regularly.
All binders, additives and admixtures, including diluted solutions thereof, should
be stored according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and used within the
recommended shelf life.
Suggested mix design compositions for lean mix for use in trenching and
reinstatement of roads could have the following characteristics:
25
1. Grading for 0/9.5:
Particle size Cumulative % passing
9.55mm 100
4mm 61-74
2mm 36-57
1mm 21-42
0.25mm 5-11
2. Cement content: 3-5%
3. Water / cement content 2.5-3.0
4. Compressive strength: 0.5 N/mm2
It is to be noted that these mix characteristics are suggested only as a starting point
for mix development and therefore the final agreed mix will only be accepted after
the results of tests carried out on the cubes or appropriate trial mixes have been
submitted to the Engineer for evaluation and approval.
C. Testing
1) The compressive strength shall be determined in accordance with the

principles of BS 1881: part 116 or Part 120, with the following exceptions
or options:
a) Test specimens may be prepared at the time of placement by casting within

a test mould, or recovered from site after placement by the extraction of
cores from the reinstatement;
b) Cast specimens may be conventional test cubes with a nominal side length
of 150mm, or they may be cylindrical with a diameter in the range 150-
300mm and an aspect ration of 1.0. Moulds may be manufactured from
cellular foam (preferably polystyrene) and include a cellular foam lid. The
samples shall not be compacted, except for minimal tamping to allow the
mould to be filled without leaving excessive regions of voidage;
c) Core test specimens shall be cylindrical, with a diameter in the range 150 –
300mm and an aspect ration of 1.0. The top and bottom surfaces of the test
specimen may be grouted to ensure flat, parallel loading surfaces;
26
d) Following preparation or recovery, the test samples shall be stored upright,
at ambient temperature until 90 days have elapsed from the placement of
the material on site. Accelerated curing at temperatures exceeding 25ºC is
not permitted.
2) Experience suggests that results obtained from 150mm test cubes, in lidded
cellular foam moulds, stored at ambient temperature, within the mould, are
most representative of in-ground conditions.
D. Particular Requirements
FSMRs shall not normally be tamped or otherwise compacted.
FSMRs of density less than 1000 kg/cu.m. may not displace standing water.
27

Circ05 - 2007 Ready Mix Concrete

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CT 2465/2006 Contracts Circular N° 5/2007

To Heads of Department 29 March 2007

READY MIXED CONCRETE FOR GENERAL/MARITIME USE (Lean Mix) -

2. Payments are to be made direct to contractor.

3. This contract shall run up to the 31st December 2007.

4. The Specifications and Conditions regulating this contract are attached.

Item 1 Item 2 Item 3 Item 4 Item 5

Mix Cement Content kg/m3 304 330 362 395 441

# Four cubes per sample: 2 tested at 7 days and 2 tested at 28 days

NORTH REGION - (Mellieħa, St. Paul’s Bay, Mġarr, Mtarfa, Naxxar,

Item 1 Item 2 Item 3

Mix Cement Content kg/m3 350 400 450

# Four cubes per sample: 2 tested at 7 days and 2 tested at 28 days

* Vide Clause 1.2 of the Preliminary Conditions

NORTH REGION - (Mellieħa, St. Paul’s Bay, Mġarr, Mtarfa, Naxxar,

Item 1 Item 2 Item 3

Mix Cement Content kg/m3 310 379 362

# Four cubes per sample: 2 tested at 7 days and 2 tested at 28 days

NORTH REGION - (Mellieħa, St. Paul’s Bay, Mġarr, Mtarfa, Naxxar,

Item 1 Item 2 Item 3

Mix Cement Content kg/m3 350 350 350

# Four cubes per sample: 2 tested at 7 days and 2 tested at 28 days

* Vide Clause 1.2 of the Preliminary Conditions

Item 1 Item 2 Item 3 Item 4 Item 5

Mix Cement Content kg/m3 304 330 362 395 441

# Four cubes per sample: 2 tested at 7 days and 2 tested at 28 days

* Vide Clause 1.2 of the Preliminary Conditions

Item 1 Item 2 Item 3

Mix Cement Content kg/m3 350 400 450

# Four cubes per sample: 2 tested at 7 days and 2 tested at 28 days

Item 1 Item 2 Item 3

Mix Cement Content kg/m3 310 375 362

# Four cubes per sample: 2 tested at 7 days and 2 tested at 28 days

* Vide Clause 1.2 of the Preliminary Conditions

Item 1 Item 2 Item 3

Mix Cement Content kg/m3 350 350 390

# Four cubes per sample: 2 tested at 7 days and 2 tested at 28 days

* Vide Clause 1.2 of the Preliminary Conditions

Estimated Quantity Unit Rate

Item 1 - 1500 Cubic Metres * 6.50

Estimated Quantity Unit Rate

Item 2 - 1500 Cubic Metres * 6.50

* Vide Clause 1.2 of the Preliminary Conditions

a. The nature and source of each constituent material;

g. Evidence of suitability of the proposed mix proportions to meet the

2.3 OPTIONAL REQUIREMENTS

When evidence is requested to verify the adequacy of the proposed mix

It is recommended that the producer adopts the maintenance routines outlined in

2.5 POOR QUALITY

+/- 0.03 where required value is 0.90 or more,

2.9 CHANGES IN MATERIALS

Where concrete is transported in non-agitating equipment, discharge shall be

2.14 CONDITION OF MIXERS

All vehicles to be used to transport concrete shall be approved by the purchaser

Unsigned, unreceipted or incomplete delivery tickets shall not be accepted for

2.17 SUPERVISOR AT PLANT

2.18 PENALTY FOR DELAY

Cements used shall comply with the following British Standards: