Concrete vibration is an activity aimed at thickening and standardizing the laid concrete. It involves the use of a special concrete vibrator, whose vibration uniformly and accurately arranges the concrete mixture, both in formwork (in the case of foundations) and poured freely (e.g. floors). Of course, there are different types of concrete vibrators, used depending on the amount of concrete or the way it has been laid.
As the name suggests, the phenomenon of concrete vibration consists of the transfer of vibration of relatively high frequency from the device to the laid mixture. Vibration allows for the removal of excess water from the fresh concrete, as well as the gases formed during the casting and as a result of chemical reactions between its components. Besides, vibration decreases the friction between the components of the concrete, which in combination with the removal of air bubbles makes the mixture more uniform, and thus, allows it to fill all voids better. This is particularly important in the case of reinforcement, as excess air in the concrete will accelerate its corrosion. The risk of fracture is also reduced significantly. In other words – vibration is necessary for any kind of reinforced concrete.
Vibration increases the strength of the concrete, particularly its compression resistance, which may increase up to 30%. Furthermore, the proper use of vibrator allows making the composite with the use a lower than normal amount of water – vibrations will “lay down” the concrete evenly, and less water will make the mortar dry faster.
