Expanded clay blocks or ceramic blocks? Choosing a claydite block: characteristics, masonry, transportation and storage conditions The best expanded clay concrete blocks.

From expanded clay describes GOST 6133-99 "Concrete wall stones". It is for this normative document numerous suppliers of popular material refer, but not every one of them can guarantee the absence of flaws in the proposed product. A guide to choosing expanded clay blocks, compiled by a builder with twenty years of experience, will help not to fall for the bait of unscrupulous sellers.

External signs of the quality of expanded clay concrete block

It takes 3 minutes for a specialist to determine the quality of a claydite-concrete block. Signs of non-compliance with GOST are difficult to disguise, because the first thing to do is to carefully examine one, or rather several, copies.

Geometry and overall dimensions

High-quality building blocks, as they say, one to one. The height of all copies of the batch is equal - 18.8 cm, the same applies to width and depth. Do not be too lazy to take a tape measure with you and measure the dimensions of the blocks. Differences in numbers will indicate a violation of the production technology, it is possible that the composition does not meet the requirements of GOST, this also sometimes leads to excessive shrinkage or swelling building material.

Corners and edges must be precise, even, not crumbling, so that the wall of blocks does not wave and warp.

Color and surface structure

The standard color of the expanded clay concrete block is gray, like asphalt after a summer rain. There is no yellowness on the surface, showing an excess of sand in the original mixture, white and black spots, which is also typical for blocks made of low-quality raw materials.

The block does not have to be smooth like sand-lime brick. The structure is strongly rough, with clearly noticeable inclusions of expanded clay.

Weight and strength

By weight, blocks from one batch must match, only a slight discrepancy is permissible. And quality material will not be unnecessarily heavy, which happens with an excess of sand and cement.

The strength will be indicated by the presence of chips and crumbling edges. For the construction of durable walls, blocks that crumble before use are not suitable. Even a high-quality finish will not hide the flaws of the frame.

conclusions

A good expanded clay concrete wall block is gray as wet asphalt, it does not crumble, has a rough surface, complies with dimensional and geometric standards, and sounds right.

It is not difficult to test the sound of the block, just tap on it wrench, what is it in Astrakhan watermelon. The sound from the impact should be sonorous.

If all the tests are passed, then you can safely buy out a batch of expanded clay blocks and start construction, they will not let you down. You can buy expanded clay concrete blocks on our website - you can get detailed information on the procedure for purchasing products and their delivery to the facility from our managers.

Absolutely everything is known in comparison. Making a choice in one direction or another, we will think three times and compare everything possible options. In construction, it’s the same, because you always have to make a choice. The fact is that the market provides us with a large number of building materials that have their own characteristics and characteristics. For the construction of houses, garages, bathhouses or other buildings, many stop at lightweight concrete. Some prefer, others prefer gas silicate blocks. And if you put the question point-blank and decide expanded clay concrete blocks or gas silicate, which is better?

Since everything can be learned by comparison, we will compare these two excellent materials to find out the answer to this question. We'll figure it out specifications materials, as well as dwell on their positive and negative sides.

Expanded clay concrete blocks technical characteristics

These blocks are made on the basis of expanded clay known to everyone, which is added to the concrete solution. The composition contains both expanded clay of a large fraction and expanded clay sand. Depending on the size of the filler, the strength of the blocks and their thermal insulation characteristics depend. Everyone knows that expanded clay is used as a heater. Accordingly, the properties of expanded clay blocks include high rate heat savings.

Let's start with standard sizes expanded clay blocks. In fact, the sizes can be different, depending on the needs and goals. But the following values ​​​​are considered the standard:

• 188×190×390 mm;
• 188×90×390 mm.

Maximum tolerance from the standard - 10–12 mm. The first type of blocks - products for masonry walls, the second - for partitions. If we take into account the quality of the surface of the side face, then expanded clay concrete is divided into ordinary and front. Ordinary blocks are used to build a box that will be protected by trim. And the front ones are used for the construction of clean walls, without additional finishing.

Note! In one expanded clay concrete block, from 3 to 7 simple bricks will fit.

In addition, the products are available in full-bodied and hollow. Thanks to the voids, the block weighs even less, and its energy saving is much higher. But solid products are more reliable and heavy. They erect capital walls, on which there is a large load.

Additional Information

Characteristics of gas silicate blocks

The material also has a porous structure. In the production, a silicate mixture and aluminum powder are used. Due to the reaction between the components, a foam is obtained, which is processed in an autoclave. Due to this processing, the material becomes durable. The composition includes only environmentally friendly components, such as gypsum, simple sand and cement with water. Everything is mixed and filled with aluminum powder.

The dimensions of the gas silicate blocks may be different. It all depends on the manufacturer. On the shelves you can find the main dimensions: 600 × 100 × 300 mm; 250×400×600 mm; 600×200×300 mm; 500×200×300 mm. But the weight depends on the indicators of density and size. It is in the range from 5 to 40 kg.

Due to their structure, the blocks are quite easy to process. They can make strobes and cut into any shape. This effective material used in construction.

Additional Information

1. The density of gas silicate blocks is from D400 to D700, that is, from 350 to 900 kg / m 3.
2. The strength of gas silicate blocks is from 10 to 50 kg / cm 2 (B0.75–B3.5 and higher).
3. Weight - 5-40 kg / pc.
4. Service life - from 50 years.
5. Energy saving - 0.15-0.3 W / mS.
6. Frost resistance - F25–F75.
7. Fire safety - does not burn.
8. Vapor permeability - 0.26–0.16 mg / m h Pa.

Now that you know the characteristics of both materials, you can compare them and choose the best one. Let's look at the positive and negative sides products.

Expanded clay blocks

Advantages:

1. They have excellent thermal conductivity. Buildings will be warm.
2. They have sound insulation properties, much better than gas silicate.
3. They have a low cost. But the ratio price - quality at the highest level.
4. It has a greater density and strength than gas silicate.
5. High frost resistance, so the material lasts longer.
6. Moisture resistant, it does not need to be looked after. The material is not afraid of weather conditions.
7. Has a low specific gravity.
8. Ecologically pure.
9. Due to good vapor permeability, the walls will breathe.
10. After construction does not shrink.

Flaws:

1. Since the structure of the material is porous, the blocks themselves can be called fragile.
2. If we take into account the same characteristics of products, then the thermal insulation properties of expanded clay concrete are worse.
3. The material does not have clear and perfectly even shapes.

Otherwise, it is an excellent building material that has proven itself only from the best side.

gas silicate blocks

As always, let's start with the advantages of this material:

1. Ideal dimensions, precision and light weight. Work is done quickly and easily.
2. It is possible to carry out laying not on a solution, but on a special glue.
3. Excellent heat saving performance.
4. Due to the size, weight, ridges, grips and grooves, it is comfortable to work with the material. It can be cut, sanded, grooved and transported without much effort.
5. Since the structure of the material is porous, the walls will "breathe".
6. Ecological purity. There are no toxins that can harm the body.

Note! Due to the low density and good thermal insulation properties of gas silicate, the weight of the wall structure can be reduced. For example, comparing gas silicate wall and brick, the first will be 3 times easier. And in comparison with expanded clay concrete - 1.7 times.

Disadvantages of gas silicate blocks:

1. The material is fragile.
2. It absorbs moisture very strongly, so it needs to be protected.
3. It has low compressive strength.
4. Frost resistance is lower.
5. After erection, the material shrinks.
6. High price.

If you visually look at the indicators of expanded clay concrete and gas silicate, then the number of points in the first and second groups immediately becomes noticeable. Expanded clay concrete for 10 positive sides has only 3 negative ones. And if we talk about gas silicate, then for 6 advantages there are as many as 6 minuses. The numbers speak for themselves. Still, a reasonable decision should remain with you.

The construction of a country house from modern heat-efficient ceramic blocks is economically less expensive than from expanded clay concrete blocks.

If we do not limit ourselves to comparing the cost of 1 m 3 of blocks, but consider all costs, it becomes clear that when choosing heat-efficient ceramic blocks, the savings will be 250-350 thousand rubles.

At the same time, in all main characteristics, heat-efficient ceramic blocks are superior to expanded clay concrete blocks:

• strength grade of heat-efficient ceramic blocks - M75, expanded clay concrete blocks - M35-M50;
• thermal resistance outer wall from heat-efficient ceramic blocks - 3.73 m 2 *S/W, thermal resistance of the outer wall of expanded clay concrete blocks with the included layer of mineral wool insulation 100mm - 3.48 m 2 *S/W.

The argument for this thesis is given below. No ads - just numbers!

In recent years, the construction of low-rise buildings from expanded clay concrete blocks rapidly losing popularity.

Main reasons 2.

1. The need to use a layer of insulation in the construction of the outer wall. Otherwise, the constructed housing does not meet the requirements (below is a thermal engineering calculation of the structure). Insulation is the weak link in construction, its service life is 30-35 years, after which an expensive facade repair with replacement of thermal insulation will be required (more on this below).
2. Higher construction costs compared to the main competitors - heat-efficient ceramic blocks and aerated concrete blocks.

Expenses when choosing expanded clay concrete blocks for the construction of a house with an area of ​​​​140-150m 2 are below for about 100-150 thousand rubles.

And this is true if we consider conventional large-format ceramic blocks with void geometry rectangular or diamond shape. The technology for the production of ceramic blocks with such a geometry of voids was adopted by German manufacturers of building ceramics in the early 80s. Majority Russian manufacturers ceramic blocks were able to master and are currently implementing this outdated technology.
The thermal characteristics of such blocks make it possible to provide SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings" when using blocks with a diamond-shaped void geometry with a thickness of 440mm, and in the case of using blocks with a rectangular void geometry with a thickness of 510mm.

The construction industry does not stand still, 15 years ago German engineers developed a technology for the production of ceramic blocks with a more heat-efficient lattice (void geometry). In Russia, this technology was the first to be mastered by the Samara Combine of Ceramic Materials, and for 10 years it has been producing blocks of the line Superthermo.
In the middle of 2017, the Samara plant discontinued the production of blocks of the line Superthermo, because they were replaced by blocks with an even more heat-efficient design - these are the blocks of the line Caiman.

What's the Difference best block Russia from a conventional ceramic block?

4 signs of real warm ceramics.

1. When we choose from which multi-hollow slotted ceramic block to build our house, an important parameter is not overall size block, and the length of the ceramic tracks. It is along them that the heat flow moves, because. the air in closed chambers is an excellent insulator. In a more modern ceramic block Cayman30, the path that the heat flow will have to overcome is longer;

2. Please note that the ceramic track at the block Cayman30 has a smaller thickness than conventional ceramic blocks, the smaller the thickness of the path, the less heat flow will pass through it per unit time;

3. Real warm ceramics cannot have a strength grade of M100 or more, because. an increase in brand strength is achieved due to the higher density of clay, the denser the material, the better it transmits heat. At Cayman30 compressive strength grade M75, this is due to the fact that heat-efficient ceramic blocks Cayman30 high porosity of the clay itself. Air microchambers also increase the path length for heat flow. At the same time, the strength grade M75 allows you to use Cayman30 as a self-supporting unit in buildings up to 5 floors.;

4. And finally, the last, patented know-how in block design Cayman30, this is a heat-efficient lock of side docking of blocks, Cayman30 the castle is a long sawtooth path for heat to escape from the house, in an outdated model of ordinary ceramic blocks, the heat in the castle flows along a straight and thick path.

Here you can see Thermal conductivity test report for Kerakam Kaiman 30 ceramic blocks
You can find the value of the thermal conductivity coefficient in the operational state at the end of the document.

Let's compare expanded clay concrete blocks with heat-efficient ceramic blocks Cayman30 on the example of a specific house, with an area of ​​166.6 m 2, designed by our design office.

1,200 projects of houses of our development can be viewed on the page Projects of houses included in the action Project a house for free.

• Below is a comparison of the main characteristics of the materials under consideration, as well as the features of their installation.
• The thermotechnical calculation of the structures of external walls made of expanded clay concrete blocks and ceramic blocks Cayman30, prepared according to the methodology of SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings".
• And to top it off, a comparative calculation of the cost of building a house was made when choosing expanded clay concrete blocks or ceramic blocks Kerakam Cayman30.

Looking ahead, I inform you that the choice in favor of building a house from a ceramic block Kerakam Kaiman 30, superior in all characteristics, will not lead to an increase in costs, but, on the contrary, to their decrease by 252 420 rubles.

You can see the calculation in numbers below, at the end of the article. In the comparative calculation, the price was used expanded clay concrete block 45 rub/piece, the cost of a heat-efficient ceramic block Cayman30 was taken equal 95 rub/piece including delivery to the object.

Let's compare the considered materials - expanded clay concrete blocks and ceramic blocks Kerakam Cayman30 by characteristics.

1. Strength.

The strength of wall materials is determined by the limiting pressure of the distributed load on the test sample and is characterized by the number of kilograms of force (kgf) applied to one square centimeter of the material surface.

So ceramic block Kerakam Cayman30 has a strength grade M75, which means that one square centimeter is able to withstand a load equal to 75 kg.

The value of the strength grade of the expanded clay concrete block is quite low and varies from M35 to M50 for different manufacturers. As a result, according to the instructions of the manufacturers of expanded clay concrete blocks, every third row of masonry should be reinforced; for this, grooves are made in the expanded clay concrete blocks for laying reinforcement.

Ceramic block masonry Kerakam Kaiman 30 reinforced only at the corners of the building, per meter in each direction. For reinforcement, a basalt-plastic mesh is used, which is laid in the masonry joint. Labor-intensive chasing and subsequent covering of the reinforcement in the strobe with glue is not required.

Masonry mortar during the installation of ceramic blocks is applied only along the horizontal masonry seam. The bricklayer applies the solution immediately to one and a half to two meters of masonry and starts each next block along the groove-ridge. The laying is very fast.

When installing expanded clay concrete blocks, the solution must also be applied to the side surface of the blocks. It is obvious that the speed and laboriousness of masonry with this method of installation will only increase.

Also, for professional masons, sawing ceramic blocks is not a problem. For this purpose, a reciprocating saw is used. In each row of the wall, only one block is required to be cut.

2. The ability of the structures under consideration to resist heat transfer, i.e. keep the house warm in winter, cool in summer.

To ensure the SNiP "Thermal Protection of Buildings", it is necessary to include a layer of thermal insulation in the structure of the external wall, erected from expanded clay concrete blocks. As noted above insulation is the weak link in design, service life 30-35 years old, after which an expensive repair of the facade with the replacement of thermal insulation will be required. As a heat-insulating layer can be used:

• mineral wool insulation
• expanded polystyrene PSBS M25,
• extruded polystyrene foam.

Extruded polystyrene foam material is quite new, but it is believed that its service life in the structure will exceed 30-35 years, which is the limit for mineral wool and M25 expanded polystyrene. The cost of extruded polystyrene foam is higher, but the thermal characteristics of this type of insulation are superior to those of mineral wool boards and expanded polystyrene. As a result, using extruded polystyrene foam, the required thermal resistance of the structure can be achieved with a smaller layer thickness, i.e. it will be required less, which partially compensates for the high cost cubic meter extruded polystyrene foam.

At the same time, it is necessary to understand that expanded polystyrenes have a very low vapor permeability, which affects the comfort of living in houses made of expanded clay concrete blocks insulated with expanded polystyrenes. Also, you should pay attention to the fact that this type of insulation contains styrene. Styrene is a poison of general toxic action, it has an irritant, mutagenic and carcinogenic effect, belongs to the second (GN 2.1.6.1338-033) hazard class. For more information on the toxic properties of styrene, see Wikipedia.

Mineral wool insulation, unlike expanded polystyrenes, has good vapor permeability. This improves the indicator of living comfort in the house, but imposes requirements for the arrangement of multi-layer vapor-permeable structures, in particular, between the surface of the insulation and the laying of the front brick, it is necessary to arrange an air gap of 40-50 mm, ensuring free air circulation in it, for this, air ducts are arranged in the front masonry. Vertical masonry seams are cleared from the mortar, one seam per 3 m 2. Creating a ventilation gap increases the overall thickness of the outer wall, which will entail an increase in the thickness of the foundation wall, and this, in turn, will affect the cost of foundation work.
It should also be noted that most mineral wool insulation (yellow-green-brown boards) contains phenol, which is used to glue stone or glass fibers to give them the shape of a plate. Phenol is a poison of general toxic action, it also belongs to highly hazardous substances of the second (GN 2.1.6.1338-033) hazard class. For more information on the toxic properties of phenol, see the Wikipedia website.
Also, it is necessary to understand that during the operation of the house, the phenolic glue will gradually evaporate, as a result, after about 30-35 years, the stone fibers will remain without an adhesive bond with each other, which will lead to the loss of the mineral wool slab of its original shape. The fibers will begin to settle, exposing sections of the outer wall and filling the ventilation gap. Would need overhaul facade, with the dismantling of facade cladding and insulation residues.

The thermal characteristics of the ceramic block Kerakam Caiman30 are such that the inclusion of thermal insulation in the design is not required. Thermal resistance of an external wall built from blocks Cayman30 and lined with slotted brick - 3.73 m2*S/W, which with a margin provides SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings" for residential buildings in the city Novosibirsk.

Below is a thermotechnical calculation of an external wall made of expanded clay concrete block, 390 mm thick, insulated with a layer of extruded polystyrene foam 80 mm, and a wall made of heat-efficient ceramic block Caiman 30, made according to the method described in SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings".

Thermal engineering calculation made for the city of Dmitrov, Moscow region.

The ability of a structure to retain heat is determined by such a physical parameter as the thermal resistance of the structure ( R, m 2 *S/W).

Let us determine the degree-day of the heating period, °С ∙ day / year, according to the formula (SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings") for the city Dmitrov.

GSOP = (t in - t out)z out,

where,
t v- the design temperature of the internal air of the building, ° С, taken in the calculation of the enclosing structures of the groups of buildings indicated in table 3 (SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings"): according to pos. 1 - according to the minimum values ​​​​of the optimal temperature of the corresponding buildings in accordance with GOST 30494 (in the range 20 - 22 °С);
t from- average outdoor air temperature, °С during the cold period, for the city of Dmitrov meaning -3,1 °C;
z from- duration, days / year, of the heating period, adopted according to the set of rules for the period with an average daily outdoor temperature of not more than 8 ° C, for the city Dmitrov meaning 216 days.

GSOP \u003d (20- (-3.1)) * 216 \u003d 4,989.60 ° C * day.

The value of the required thermal resistance for the external walls of residential buildings is determined by the formula (SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings)

R tr 0 \u003d a * GSOP + b

where,
R tr 0- required thermal resistance;
a and b- coefficients, the values ​​of which should be taken according to table No. 3 of SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings" for the corresponding groups of buildings, for residential buildings the value a should be taken equal to 0.00035, the value b - 1,4

R tr 0 \u003d 0.00035 * 4 551.0 + 1.4 \u003d 3.1463 m 2 * C / W

The value of the required thermal resistance for the external walls of residential buildings in a number of Russian cities

The formula for calculating the conditional thermal resistance of the considered structure:

R0 = Σ δ n /λ n + 0,158

Where,
Σ – symbol of summation of layers for multilayer structures;
δ - layer thickness in meters;
λ - coefficient of thermal conductivity of the layer material under the condition of operational humidity;
n- layer number (for multilayer structures);
0.158 is a correction factor, which can be taken as a constant for simplicity.

Formula for calculating the reduced thermal resistance.

R r 0 \u003d R 0 x r

Where,
r- coefficient of thermal engineering homogeneity of structures with inhomogeneous sections (joints, heat-conducting inclusions, porches, etc.)

according to standard STO 00044807-001-2006 according to Table No. 8, the value of the coefficient of thermal uniformity r for masonry of large-format hollow porous ceramic stones and gas silicate blocks should be taken equal to 0,98 .

At the same time, I draw your attention to the fact that this coefficient does not take into account the fact that

1. we recommend laying with a warm masonry mortar (this significantly eliminates heterogeneity at the joints);
2. as connections between the bearing wall and the front masonry, we use not metal, but basalt-plastic connections, which conduct heat literally 100 times less than steel connections (this significantly eliminates the inhomogeneities formed due to heat-conducting inclusions);
3. window slopes and doorways, according to our design documentation, they are additionally insulated with extruded polystyrene foam (which eliminates heterogeneity in the places of window and door openings, porches).

From which we can conclude that when the requirements of our working documentation are fulfilled, the masonry uniformity coefficient tends to unity. But in the calculation of the reduced thermal resistance R r 0 we will still use the tabular value of 0.98.

R r 0 must be greater than or equal to R 0 required.

We determine the operating mode of the building in order to understand what thermal conductivity coefficient λ a or λ in taken when calculating the conditional thermal resistance.

The procedure for determining the operating mode is described in detail in SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings" . Based on the specified regulatory document, we will follow the step-by-step instructions. 1st step. Let's define hmoisture content of the building region - Dmitrov using Appendix B of SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings".

According to the city table Dmitrov located in zone 2 (normal climate). We accept the value 2 - normal climate. 2nd step. According to Table No. 1 of SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings" we determine the humidity regime in the room. At the same time, I would like to draw your attention to heating season humidity in the room drops to 15-20%. During the heating season, air humidity must be raised to at least 35-40%. Humidity of 40-50% is considered comfortable for a person. In order to raise the level of humidity, it is necessary to ventilate the room, you can use humidifiers, installation of an aquarium will help.

According to Table 1, the humidity regime in the room during the heating period at an air temperature of 12 to 24 degrees and a relative humidity of up to 50% - dry. 3rd step. According to Table No. 2 of SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings" we determine the operating conditions. To do this, we find the intersection of the line with the value of the humidity regime in the room, in our case it is dry, with humidity column for city Dmitrov, as explained earlier, is the value normal.

Summary. According to the methodology of SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings" in the calculation of conditional thermal resistance ( R0) should apply the value under operating conditions A, i.e. it is necessary to use the coefficient of thermal conductivity λ a. Here you can see Thermal Conductivity Test Report for Ceramic BlocksKerakam Kaiman 30. The value of the coefficient of thermal conductivity λ a You can find it at the end of the document.

Consider the laying of the outer wall, using ceramic blocks Kerakam Kaiman 30 and gas silicate blocks D500, lined with ceramic hollow bricks. For ceramic block use option Kerakam Kaiman 30 total wall thickness without plaster layer 430mm(300mm Kerakam Caiman 30 ceramic block + 10mm technological gap filled with cement-perlite mortar + 120mm face masonry). 1 layer 2 layer(pos.2) - 300mm masonry wall using a block Kerakam Kaiman 30(the coefficient of thermal conductivity of the masonry in the operational state is A 0.094 W / m * C). 3 layer(pos.4) - 10mm light cement-perlite mixture between the laying of the ceramic block Kerakam Kaiman 30 and facing masonry (density 200 kg/m3, thermal conductivity coefficient at operating humidity less than 0.12 W/m*C). 4 layer Pos. 3 - warm masonry mortar pos. 6 - colored masonry mortar.

Consider the masonry of the outer wall, using expanded clay concrete blocks, insulated with a layer of extruded polystyrene foam and lined with ceramic hollow bricks. For the option of using expanded clay concrete block, the total thickness of the wall without taking into account the plaster layer 605mm(390mm expanded clay concrete block + 5mm adhesive layer + 80mm extruded polystyrene foam layer + 10mm technological gap + 120mm face masonry). 1 layer(pos.1) - 20mm thermal insulation cement-perlite plaster (thermal conductivity coefficient 0.18 W / m * C). 2 layer(pos. 2) - 390 mm wall masonry using expanded clay concrete block (the thermal conductivity of the masonry in the operational state is 0.45 W / m * C). 3 layer(pos. 4) - 80mm extruded expanded polystyrene (thermal conductivity coefficient 0.030 W / m * C) 4 layer(pos.5) - 120 mm wall masonry using slotted facing bricks (the thermal conductivity coefficient of the masonry in the operational state is 0.45 W / m * C. * - the layer of facing bricks in the calculation of the thermal resistance of the structure is not taken into account, because in the technological gap between the extruded polystyrene foam and the facing brick, free air convection occurs.

We consider the conditional thermal resistance R 0 for the structures under consideration.

Kerakam Kaiman 30

R 0 Cayman30 \u003d 0.020 / 0.18 + 0.300 / 0.094 + 0.01 / 0.12 + 0.12 / 0.45 + 0.158 \u003d 3.8106 m 2 *S/W

R 0 expanded clay concrete \u003d 0.020 / 0.18 + 0.390 / 0.45 + 0.08 / 0.03 + 0.158 \u003d 3.8026 m 2 *S/W

We consider the reduced thermal resistance R r 0 of the structures under consideration.

The design of the external wall in which the block is used Kerakam Cayman30

R r 0 Cayman30 =3.8106 m 2 *C/W * 0.98 = 3.7344 m 2 *S/W

The design of the external wall in which the expanded clay concrete block is used

R r 0 expanded clay concrete\u003d 3.3179 m 2 * C / W * 0.98 \u003d 3.7266 m 2 *S/W

The reduced thermal resistance of the two structures under consideration is higher than the required thermal resistance for the city of Dmitrov (3.1463 m 2 * C / W), which means that both structures comply with the SNiP "Thermal Protection of Buildings" for the city of Dmitrov.

The growth in the number of developers and the desire to find an economical, strong, durable and warm material for building a house has led to an increase in the popularity of lightweight concrete blocks. Along with and widely used steel expanded clay concrete blocks, which have excellent thermal insulation qualities, are safe, light and relatively inexpensive. Many private builders call this material one of best solutions for or giving. Is it really? Dealing with the issue right choice expanded clay concrete, the pros and cons of the material, its types and manufacturers.

No. 1. How is claydite concrete made

Expanded clay concrete began to be made in the middle of the last century, then they safely forgot about it, and today it is experiencing new era popularity. The composition of the material, like any lightweight concrete block, includes cement, water and sand, and used as a filler expanded clay– granules different size, obtained by firing low-melting grades of clay. The granules are light due to a large number pores inside, but strong, as they have a strong burnt shell. For the production of expanded clay concrete, granules with a size of 5-40 mm are used. Blocks can be solid or hollow. Moreover, claydite concrete solution can be used for monolithic construction of the walls of the house.

great importance for performance characteristics block has a ratio of expanded clay and cement. The more expanded clay, the lighter, warmer and more expensive the block will be. The quality of cement determines the strength grade of the material. Due to the expanded clay filler, the material acquires unique thermal insulation properties, for which modern developers are so fond of it.

Unscrupulous manufacturers add adhesive additives to the mixture to increase the strength of the material, but this negatively affects environmental safety. Blocks in production are formed under the influence vibration, dried in special chambers, where heating is carried out by streams of hot air or infrared rays.

Today private and country houses, dachas, it is used for monolithic construction of buildings.

No. 2. Expanded clay blocks: pros and cons

The composition of expanded clay concrete determines its numerous positive sides, which ensure the popularity of the material. Among the main advantages of expanded clay concrete blocks:

• excellent thermal insulation qualities, so the material was chosen by the inhabitants of the Scandinavian countries. For harsh climatic conditions our country, such blocks are irreplaceable. The coefficient of thermal conductivity of expanded clay concrete grade D500 is 0.17-0.23 W / m * K, grade D1000 - 0.33-0.41 W / m * K;
• not bad soundproofing;
  
• low construction cost. The price of expanded clay concrete is comparable to the cost of other lightweight concrete blocks, but significantly lower than the price of. If we take into account the reduction in the cost of arranging the foundation, fewer seams, then we can say that a house made of expanded clay concrete will cost about a third cheaper than a brick house;
• fast construction time, which is associated with the large size of the blocks and their relatively low weight;
• sufficient strength;
• vapor permeability allows the walls of the house to breathe and removes excess moisture;
• moisture resistance and frost resistance, resistance to fire (blocks do not melt and do not burn), and rodents;
• durability, which is achieved due to moisture and frost resistance and is at least 75-100 years;
• environmental friendliness, because the composition includes only natural materials;
• no shrinkage;
• the ability to use both traditional mortar and glue for masonry.

Expanded clay concrete blocks also have disadvantages:

• difficulties at work with material. If many blocks (for example,) can be cut with a hacksaw and easily give them the necessary shape, then expanded clay concrete will have to be cut with a saw with teeth from Pobedit - back side strength;
• mounting complexity cannot be denied, but this problem should not be overestimated either. For example, anchor bolts and dowels normally stay in walls made of expanded clay concrete;
• although the material has vapor permeability, it is less pronounced than that of a brick, so it is better to provide high-quality in the house;
• another drawback is often called - the formation of cold bridges, but it is rather far-fetched, since it absolutely always takes place when the walls are built from individual elements. It is possible to get rid of cold bridges if walls are erected from expanded clay concrete using monolithic technology;
• if it is planned to build a multi-storey massive building from expanded clay concrete, then one cannot do without careful professional calculations;
• another dubious drawback is the need for facing blocks of expanded clay concrete, as they do not look very aesthetically pleasing. Yes, there is little beauty in them, but today almost all houses are finished, with the only exception being wooden ones. But you can use anything:, plaster with, decorative brick.
  

No. 3. Types of expanded clay concrete blocks for their intended purpose

Based on the presence or absence of voids, expanded clay concrete blocks can be divided into two fundamentally different groups:

• corpulent;
• hollow.

solid blocks It is a structural material with high density and relatively high weight. Load-bearing and non-bearing walls are erected from it, even multi-storey buildings can be built.

Hollow Blocks thanks to the holes inside, they are distinguished by improved thermal insulation qualities, suitable for the construction of partitions and load-bearing walls of one-story buildings.

No. 4. The size of expanded clay concrete blocks

By size, expanded clay concrete blocks are usually divided into:

• wall;
• partition walls.

It is clear that the former are used for laying exterior walls. They must have certain indicators of strength and density, which will be discussed further. They can be 288*138*138, 288*288*138, 290*190*188, 390*190*188, 190*190*188, 90*190*188 mm in size. By fullness they are full-bodied and hollow.

Partition blocks, as the name suggests, are used for masonry internal partitions. They have less weight, which reduces the load on the foundation. In size, as a rule, partition blocks are produced 590*90*188, 390*90*188, 190*90*188 mm.

Some companies produce blocks that do not match the above dimensions- they are carried out not according to GOST, but according to TU, which the manufacturer himself can determine for himself. As a rule, large-format blocks are produced according to specifications.

It is worth noting separately facing blocks which are produced by some companies. They have dimensions of 600 * 300 * 400 mm, are produced by adding dyes to the solution and have a relief decorative surface.

No. 5. Strength grade of expanded clay concrete blocks

When choosing expanded clay concrete for the construction of a house, garage, partitions, utility rooms and other buildings, it is necessary to take into account a lot of performance indicators of the material: strength, density, frost resistance and thermal conductivity. All of them are interconnected. Let's start with strength.

strength called the ability of a material to withstand loads and resist destruction. Usually, the strength of expanded clay concrete is denoted by the letter M and the number following it. from 25 to 100, which means how many kilograms each cm 2 of the surface of the block can withstand. The M25 block can withstand 25 kg / cm 2, and the M100 - 100 kg / cm 2. In private construction, as a rule, blocks with a strength higher than M100 are not used: blocks M75-M100 are used for the construction of walls, and M35-M50 for partitions. In industrial and high-rise construction, blocks of greater strength can be used.

It is worth noting that the M75 block can withstand both 65 kg / cm 2, as well as 75 or 80 kg / cm 2. Despite the inaccuracies this method classification of expanded clay concrete still continues to be used. A much more accurate version is strength classes, which are marked with the letter B. This is strength with guaranteed security. A numerical indicator from 2.5 to 40: the higher it is, the more durable the block will be. M100, for example, corresponds to B7.5.

No. 6. Density of expanded clay concrete

Another important indicator is density. The lower the density, the higher the thermal insulation qualities. On the other hand, the higher the density, the higher the strength and resistance to moisture. The block density is marked with the letter D followed by a coefficient from 350 to 1800. The coefficient is equal to the density, expressed in kg / m 3.

The scope of use of the material depends on the density:

No. 7. Frost resistance and thermal conductivity of expanded clay concrete

Frost resistance called the ability of a material to withstand sudden changes in temperature. This indicator is determined by the number of shock freezing and thawing, marked with the letter F. For expanded clay concrete, this indicator can vary from 25 to 300, but in private construction, the material is used F15-F100. For the northern regions, it is better to take material with frost resistance F50-F75. Blocks with low frost resistance are suitable only for interior work.

Thermal conductivity material directly depends on the density. For the D1000 block, it is 0.33-0.41, D1400 - 0.56-0.65, etc. (see table). Depending on which block is chosen for construction and in which region the house will be located, they carry out calculation of the thickness of expanded clay concrete and analyze the need to use a heater:№9. Top Producers expanded clay concrete

Today there are a lot of factories engaged in the production of such a promising building material, and there is a big risk of stumbling upon low-quality goods produced in inappropriate conditions. A normal producer is not afraid to show manufacturing process and invite the buyer to the factory, can provide all the necessary quality certificates and test results. Let us dwell on the largest manufacturers of expanded clay concrete blocks:

No. 10. DIY concrete blocks

Independent production of expanded clay concrete can significantly reduce the cost of building a house. As a rule, small batches of material are made with their own hands for the construction of simple small buildings, otherwise the laboriousness of the work will simply be unjustified.

In addition to the already known ingredients, you will need special equipment, you can rent it. It will be necessary with a volume of at least 130 liters. You will also need a vibrating machine, it already has molding containers, so you don’t have to bother with their production. Otherwise, you will have to make them out of metal or wood.

The process of making expanded clay concrete blocks with your own hands looks like this:

• mixing components in a concrete mixer. First, 3 parts of sand and 1 part are mixed, then 1-1.2 parts of water are added, and then another 6 parts of expanded clay. Everything is thoroughly mixed, it may be necessary to add a small amount of water if the mixture is too dry. Some add a little liquid soap for better viscosity;
• mixture in portions put into mold machine and include vibration, excess solution is removed;
• the plate with the finished block rises, the blanks are dried for 2 days, then the steel plates are removed;
• without using a machine, the process is somewhat more complicated and longer. It will be necessary to pour the solution into pre-prepared and lubricated forms and carefully tamp. It is better to use blocks no earlier than 28 days later.

If there is no self-confidence, then it is better to buy ready-made material with well-known performance qualities. Subject to the production technology (famous manufacturers can be trusted) and the technology of masonry, a house made of expanded clay concrete will stand for a very long time.

When choosing blocks for construction, it is necessary to take into account such parameters as strength, thermal conductivity, frost resistance, voidness and density.

Expanded clay blocks or sand-cement blocks?
For the construction of the outer walls of houses, expanded clay concrete blocks are usually used, as they have better thermal conductivity and lighter weight. Sand-cement blocks are used for heavily loaded structures, such as: foundations, plinths, bearing supports, since these blocks have great strength, and thermal conductivity and weight in such buildings do not matter.

Slotted (hollow) expanded clay concrete blocks or full-bodied?

Solid claydite-concrete blocks (with a similar density of concrete) have greater strength (up to M100) compared to slotted ones. Solid blocks are perfect for reliable installation of all types of fasteners (various dowels, anchor bolts, etc.). Solid blocks are used for the construction of load-bearing walls of houses, including high-rise ones, filling caracas of monolithic houses, load-bearing walls with subsequent installation hinged facades. Slotted claydite-concrete blocks (with a similar density of concrete) have lower strength, lower weight than full-bodied ones, but also lower cost. Hollow claydite concrete blocks have optimal parameters for construction country cottages, garages,

outbuildings, filling the frames of monolithic buildings.

What brand to use expanded clay concrete blocks?
Strength grades of expanded clay concrete blocks produced at the factories at the present time: M25, M35, M50, M75, M100. Strengths below M50 are used for unloaded low-rise buildings, such as garages, fences and households. the buildings. Strengths M50, M75 are used for the construction of load-bearing walls of country houses, including those with heavy concrete floors, up to 10 floors. For low-rise cottages with a wall thickness of 20 cm, it is advisable to use M75 blocks, with a thickness of 40 cm - M50.

Blocks of the same voidage have different weights. Which ones to choose?

Expanded clay concrete blocks with a bulk weight of up to 900 kg/cu.m. (lightweight) have better thermal conductivity and lighter weight, which reduces the load on the foundation and slightly improves thermal insulation. Such expanded clay concrete blocks have a rough surface, which increases the cost of subsequent processing of the walls. The cost of lightweight blocks is higher due to the high cost of expanded clay gravel. In the presence of external wall insulation (according to modern standards, it is mandatory for year-round houses), the difference in the final thermal conductivity of the wall is less than 1% (compared to a wall made of a block with a density of more than 1000 kg / m3).

Thus, the thermal conductivity of the blocks of the bearing wall of year-round houses fades into the background. Expanded clay concrete blocks with a density of 1000 kg/cu.m. have a greater weight compared to lightweight ones and a smooth surface, which reduces the cost of plastering. More weight increases the thermal inertia of the house, which smooths out temperature fluctuations in the house when the outside air temperature changes. The lower cost makes such expanded clay concrete blocks more preferable during construction.

What geometry of voids is more preferable? What partition blocks to choose?

Blocks with a size of 390x90x188mm are used for partitions for various purposes. Sand-cement (including full-bodied) partition blocks are used in damp rooms: cellars, basements, foundations, inspection pits. For residential premises, expanded clay concrete blocks are used, since they are lighter and better soundproof the premises. Full-bodied partitioning expanded clay concrete blocks are used in critical places when installing door frames, hanging heavy house equipment, appliances, furniture, etc. Lightweight hollow partition blocks are better soundproofing rooms, but more difficult to process. Expanded clay concrete blocks weighing more than 1000 kg/cu.m. have smooth walls and require less processing and they are also cheaper.

What blocks to take for finishing the facade with porcelain stoneware?

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