Maximum Load of Cinder Block?
#1
Maximum Load of Cinder Block?
Can anyone tell me what would be the average maximum load that a standard 8"x8"x16" cinder block, standing on its walls, can bear?
thanks
kevin
thanks
kevin
#2
Maximum Load of Cinder Block?
If it is in a wall, the allowable load would depend on the height of the wall.
The specifications (ASTM C90) for hollow load bearing concrete masonry units require that the block has a net compressive strength of 1900 psi. Since a 8" block is about 50% solid, it would take about 120,000 pounds to break it. The load you put on it in a building is much less because of a factor of safety.
This is for a minimum strength block. In reality, most block are well above the minimum, because of the raw materials and manufacturing process. In Brazil, 20 story loadbearing block buildings (no steel ot concrete columns) are routinely built using 6" block walls. Usually 5 different strengths of block are used.
The strength is measured for block with the cores and face shells vertical. It is not adviseable to use block with the cores horizontal.
Dick
The specifications (ASTM C90) for hollow load bearing concrete masonry units require that the block has a net compressive strength of 1900 psi. Since a 8" block is about 50% solid, it would take about 120,000 pounds to break it. The load you put on it in a building is much less because of a factor of safety.
This is for a minimum strength block. In reality, most block are well above the minimum, because of the raw materials and manufacturing process. In Brazil, 20 story loadbearing block buildings (no steel ot concrete columns) are routinely built using 6" block walls. Usually 5 different strengths of block are used.
The strength is measured for block with the cores and face shells vertical. It is not adviseable to use block with the cores horizontal.
Dick