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.