QUALITY ASSURANCE OF HOLLOW SANDCRETE BLOCKS PRODUCED BY BLOCK MOULDING FACTORIES IN GOMBE METROPOLIS

Akeem Usman, umar Gidado

Abstract


The quality assurance of hollow sandcrete blocks is necessary in Gombe Metropolis due to the spring up of block moulding factories in order to meet up the demand in the building industries by the governments, corporate bodies and individuals. Quality of blocks produced in local moulding factories in Gombe metropolis, were investigated. Blocks from six different block moulding factories were obtained and cured for 28 days in the laboratory. The blocks were weighted before they were crushed individually to determine the compressive strength ranges from 0.53N/mm2 to 0.86N/mm2 and when compared with the compressive strength of 2.76N/mm2 (load bearing) and 1.72N/mm2 (Non-load bearing) of blocks as specified by Nigeria Industrial Standard Draft Code on blocks. The blocks failed to meet the required standard. Factors such as the use of obsolete equipment, engagement of unskilled labour, low level of workmanship and use of inadequate mix ratio were observed to contribute to the poor quality of produced sandcrete blocks. It is recommended that there should be close monitoring of block moulding factories by appropriate government Agency to enforce the required standard.

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References


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