Masonry units, segmental pavers and flags-Methods of test-Method 7: Determining core percentage and material thickness

AS/NZS 4456.7:2003: Masonry units, segmental pavers and flags—Methods of test—Method 7: Determining core percentage and material thickness

For engineers and designers working with masonry construction, understanding the precise physical properties of building materials is paramount. AS/NZS 4456.7:2003 provides an essential, authoritative method for quantifying critical characteristics of masonry units, segmental pavers, and flags, directly impacting structural integrity and material performance. This standard ensures consistency and reliability in the assessment of these fundamental building components.

What is AS/NZS 4456.7:2003?

Developed by Standards Australia/Standards New Zealand, AS/NZS 4456.7:2003 is a key document within the AS/NZS 4456 series. It specifically details the proven testing methodology for determining two crucial physical attributes of masonry units: the percentage of internal void (core percentage) and the thickness of the solid material. Adherence to this standard ensures that manufacturers and specifiers have a common, reliable basis for material evaluation.

Scope & Purpose

This comprehensive standard governs the procedures for assessing the core volume percentage and material thickness of hollow masonry units, including segmental pavers and flags. It outlines the precise steps for conducting these volumetric and dimensional tests. Importantly, AS/NZS 4456.7:2003 focuses solely on these two specific material property determinations and does not cover other aspects of masonry unit testing or performance characteristics.

Who Must Comply?

• • Primary audience: Materials Engineers, Quality Control Inspectors, Laboratory Technicians, Civil Engineers, and Building Surveyors.
• • Industries affected: Construction, Manufacturing (Building Materials), and Civil Engineering.
• • Compliance nature: While often specified in contracts and product certifications, compliance is generally considered recommended or contractual rather than strictly mandatory by law unless referenced in specific building codes or regulations.
• • Enforcement: Compliance is typically verified through internal quality control processes, third-party testing laboratories, and product certification bodies.

Key Requirements Overview

The standard requires professionals to accurately measure the dimensions of masonry units to calculate their gross volume. It mandates specific procedures for determining the volume of internal voids (cores) using methods such as sand filling or immersion weighing. Professionals must ensure the calculation of core volume percentage is performed by comparing the core volume to the gross volume. Key provisions include the calculation of material thickness by dividing the net volume of material by the area of a vertical face. Accurate recording and reporting of all test data and calculated results are also essential.

Related Standards & References

AS/NZS 4456.7:2003 is an integral part of a larger suite of testing methods. It directly references AS/NZS 4456.0 for general introductions and a list of methods, and AS/NZS 4456.1 for guidance on sampling. Furthermore, AS/NZS 4456.2 is critical for the statistical assessment of test results, enabling the calculation of mean values and standard deviations for core percentage and material thickness, which are vital for design considerations and quality assurance.