Cement is an essential construction material, which is extensively used in the modern-age of construction. Cement is a prominent ingredient for concrete, mortar, and plaster, etc. Cement is available in different grades. The strength of the concrete mix is dependent on the grade of cement. Hence, one must know the grade of cement, and how it can affect the construction of your house. Here we have given information on grade of cement, and their applications. Generally, there are three grades of cement available in the market. Cement is available in 33 grade, 43 grade and 53 grade.
The grade of cement is generally differentiated in terms of indicates the strength of cement. The strength of cement is generally measured as compressive strength. Compressive strength is the strength of cement molded in a standard cube, after 28 days of curing. Compressive strength usually measured in Mega-pascal (Mpa) or in N/mm2.
Grade of Cement
01. 33 Grade Cement
33 grade cement means that the compressive strength of the cement after 28 days is 33N/mm2 when tested as per Indian Standards under standard conditions.
This grade of cement is used for general construction work under normal environmental condition. It may not be suitable for concrete grade above M20. Due to the availability of higher grades in the cement, use of 33 grade cement has declined. Nowadays 33 grade cement is hardly manufactured.
02. 43 Grade Cement
43 grade cement means that the compressive strength of the cement after 28 days is 43N/mm2 when tested as per Indian Standards under standard conditions.
This grade of cement is used for plain concrete work and plastering works. It is suitable make concrete mix up to M30. 43 grade cement is also used to make precast items, such as tiles, blocks, pipes, etc. It can be used where setting time is not a necessary criterion.
03. 53 Grade Cement
53 grade cement means that the compressive strength of the cement after 28 days is 53 N/mm2 when tested as per Indian Standards under standard conditions. 53 grade cement has a fast setting time as compared to 43 grade cement.
This grade of cement is not used for ordinary works. It is mostly used for the structural purposes as in reinforced cement concrete. 53 grade cement is suitable in making concrete mix above M 25. It can also be used in prestressed concrete.
It is very important to check the grade of cement before using, it because it ultimately affects the strength of your structure. If you do not use suitable grade of cement for the particular job, you never get your desired strength.
Nowadays, with the advent of new sophisticated techniques, manufacturing of high strength have become possible. But you don’t need high strength everywhere like masonry or mortar for plaster, flooring etc. Nowadays there are very few manufacturers that manufacture 33 grade cement and 43 grade cement. In such case when 33 and 43 grade cement are not available, one can opt for Portland pozzolana cement, which has less cost. Mini plants generally manufacture 33 or 43 grade cement. So wisely choose your grade of cement while buying, to construct your house depending upon the applications.