ISO 20290-3:2019

Overview

ISO 20290-3:2019 specifies a laboratory test method for determining the Aggregate Crushing Value (ACV) of coarse aggregates for concrete. The ACV provides a relative measure of an aggregate’s resistance to crushing under a gradually applied compressive load. The standard is primarily applicable to aggregates passing a 14.0 mm test sieve and retained on a 10.0 mm test sieve; Annex A gives recommendations for other size fractions. The method is not intended for aggregates with ACV > 30 (see ISO 20290-4 in such cases).

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope and intent: Measure resistance of aggregates to crushing using a standard compaction and compressive loading regime to produce a percentage of fines.
• Specimen size and grading: Default size fraction is 14.0 mm to 10.0 mm; other fractions covered in Annex A or by national standards.
• Apparatus:
  • Compression testing machine capable of up to 500 kN and achieving 400 kN in 10 min ± 30 s.
  • Steel cylinder and freely moving plunger (nominal 150 mm internal diameter) with defined dimensional tolerances.
  • Tamping rod (16 ± 1 mm diameter), cylindrical measure, test sieves (14.0 mm, 10.0 mm and 2.36 mm compliant with ISO 565), oven (105 ± 5 °C), balance, rubber mallet and brush.
• Procedure highlights:
  • Prepare three specimens of the designated size fraction; compact in three layers with 25 strokes per layer using the tamping rod.
  • Apply compressive load to reach 400 kN in ~10 minutes; recover crushed material and sieve on 2.36 mm.
  • Calculate ACV = (mass passing 2.36 mm / total specimen mass) × 100 (expressed to 1 decimal).
  • Repeat and average results; rules provided for repeat tests if variability exceeds specified limits.
• Limitations: Not suitable for aggregates with ACV > 30; use ISO 20290-4 for such materials.

Applications and users

• Practical uses:
  • Quality control of coarse aggregates for concrete and pavement materials.
  • Comparative assessment of aggregate crushing resistance for material selection.
  • Input to mix design and performance specifications where aggregate strength and durability matter.
• Primary users:
  • Materials and testing laboratories, concrete and asphalt producers, quarry operators, civil engineers, specifications authors and standards bodies.

Related standards

• ISO 565 - Test sieves (referenced for sieve compliance)
• ISO 20290 series - other parts cover related mechanical and physical property tests (see ISO 20290-4 for high-ACV materials)

Keywords: ISO 20290-3:2019, aggregate crushing value, ACV, aggregates for concrete, test methods, 14 mm sieve, 10 mm sieve, compression testing machine, 2.36 mm sieve, Annex A.