Grades of Non Shrink Grout and Their Uses
Non shrink grout is available in different grades to suit a wide range of construction and industrial applications. Each grade is formulated to deliver specific strength levels, flow characteristics, and performance requirements. Selecting the correct grade of non shrink grout is essential to ensure proper load transfer, durability, and long-term structural performance. This guide explains the common grades of non shrink grout and how each grade is used on site.
What Are Non Shrink Grout Grades?
Grades of non shrink grout are typically classified based on their compressive strength, flowability, and intended application. Higher grades are designed to handle heavier loads and more demanding conditions, while lower grades are suitable for general-purpose structural grouting.
Grout grades help engineers and contractors match the material’s performance with the structural demands of the project.
Grade 20 Non Shrink Grout
Grade 20 non shrink grout is a low to medium strength grout commonly used for light structural and general grouting applications.
Typical Characteristics
- Compressive strength around 20 MPa
- Good workability and easy placement
- Non shrink performance for basic load transfer
Common Uses
- Light equipment base grouting
- Void filling and gap filling
- Non-critical structural repairs
- General construction grouting works
Grade 30 Non Shrink Grout
Grade 30 non shrink grout is widely used in standard structural applications where moderate loads are expected.
Typical Characteristics
- Compressive strength around 30 MPa
- Balanced flow and strength
- Suitable for most commercial construction needs
Common Uses
- Column base plates
- Anchor bolts and dowels
- Structural void filling
- Precast concrete connections
Grade 40 Non Shrink Grout
Grade 40 non shrink grout is designed for higher load-bearing applications and is commonly specified in commercial and industrial projects.
Typical Characteristics
- Compressive strength around 40 MPa
- High durability and load transfer capability
- Good flow for precision grouting
Common Uses
- Heavy column base plates
- Machinery base grouting
- Structural repairs requiring higher strength
- Bridge bearings and infrastructure works
Grade 50 Non Shrink Grout
Grade 50 non shrink grout is a high-strength grout used in demanding structural and industrial applications.
Typical Characteristics
- Compressive strength around 50 MPa or higher
- Excellent load-bearing performance
- Designed for heavy static and dynamic loads
Common Uses
- Heavy machinery foundations
- Industrial equipment bases
- High-load anchor bolts
- Critical structural connections
High-Flow vs High-Strength Grades
Non shrink grout grades are also differentiated by flow characteristics.
- High-flow grades: Used where grout must flow into tight gaps and congested areas
- High-strength grades: Used where load capacity is more critical than flow
Choosing between flow and strength depends on joint geometry and application needs.
How to Select the Right Grade of Non Shrink Grout
Selecting the correct grade ensures performance and safety.
- Evaluate expected loads on the grouted element
- Consider equipment vibration and dynamic forces
- Check joint thickness and grout flow requirements
- Follow structural engineer specifications
Importance of Using the Correct Grade
Using an incorrect grout grade can cause serious issues.
- Low-grade grout may fail under heavy loads
- Excessively high-grade grout may increase cost unnecessarily
- Improper selection can lead to cracking or settlement
Correct grade selection balances performance and economy.
Installation Considerations by Grade
Different grades may require different handling.
- Higher grades often require precise water control
- Proper mixing is critical to achieve rated strength
- Curing requirements increase with strength grade
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is higher grade non shrink grout always better?
No, the grade should match the load and application requirements.
2. Can grade 30 grout be used for machinery bases?
Only for light machinery; heavy equipment requires higher grades.
3. Does grout grade affect flow?
Yes, higher strength grades may have lower flow if not designed as high-flow products.
4. Can different grades be mixed on site?
No, each grade is factory formulated and should not be altered.
5. Who decides the grout grade?
The structural engineer or project specification usually defines the required grade.
Raltro
Raltro is a construction materials knowledge platform focused on helping professionals understand material selection and performance in real construction scenarios. By explaining different grades of non shrink grout, their strength levels, and correct applications, Raltro supports engineers and contractors in choosing the right grout grade to ensure structural stability, durability, and long-term performance across residential, commercial, and industrial projects.