Self-compacting concrete is an advanced concrete technology designed to flow under its own weight without the need for vibration during placing or compaction. With its ability to fill complex formwork and achieve full compaction even around congested reinforcement, self-compacting concrete produces a dense and homogeneous hardened concrete with the same engineering properties and long term durability as traditionally vibrated concrete. Its unique performance is achieved through a higher fines content, increased binder levels, optimised aggregate grading and the use of specially adapted superplasticisers that deliver exceptional fluidity and inherent compactability. Self-compacting concrete expands design and construction possibilities, enabling high quality results in situations where conventional compaction is difficult or where high surface finish, intricate shapes or accelerated installation are required.
Advantages of Self-Compacting Concrete
- Flows under its own weight for effortless placing
- Achieves full compaction without vibration
- Performs well with closely spaced or congested reinforcement
- Ideal for complex geometric shapes
- Suitable for slender components and areas where compaction is challenging
- Provides a homogeneous and dense concrete structure
- Supports fast installation rates
- Reduces site noise by eliminating vibration
- Reduces potential vibration related health issues for workers
- Allows high quality finishes even in difficult areas
- Expands design freedom through improved formwork possibilities
Installation of Self-Compacting Concrete
Formwork surface
The formwork for self-compacting concrete must be clean and tight. The formwork pressures can be higher than for normal vibrated concrete. The formwork pressure is dependent on the viscosity of the concrete, the installation rate and the filling point. The full hydrostatic pressure potential of the concrete should be used for the general formwork design.
Placing method
Self-compacting concrete is placed in the same way as conventional concrete. Self-copmacting concrete must not be freely discharged from a great height. The optimum flow potential and surface appearance are obtained by installation with a filling socket from below or by tremie pipes which reach beneath the concrete surface level.
Our Range of Admixtures for Self-Compacting Concrete
Sika ViscoFlow® Admixture Technology for Self-Compacting Concrete
Sika ViscoFlow® technology enhances the performance of self-compacting concrete by delivering excellent flowability, significant water reduction and consistent slump and flow over time. These properties support easy placing, effortless finishing and full compaction even around dense reinforcement, resulting in high strength, high quality concrete with superior surface appearance.
The benefits extend across every stage of production, construction and long-term performance. Concrete producers gain more robust and reliable mix consistency, while contractors experience faster placing, reduced labour needs and simplified finishing. Specifiers and clients benefit from improved durability, smoother surfaces and extended service life.
Improved Production and Placing Process
- Reduced labour requirements
- Lower equipment costs
- Faster placing times
- Less finishing work
- Lower concrete consumption when thinner elements are possible
- Faster turnaround of formwork and moulds
Improved Quality and Durability
- Fewer rejects and claims
- Increased service life of the structure
- Smooth and uniform surface finishes
Improved Health and Safety
- Reduced vibration lowers the risk of white finger syndrome
- Less vibration helps prevent hearing damage and improves communication on site
- Reduced disturbance for other trades and neighbours
