Can Non Shrink Grout Be Used for Heavy Machinery?
Yes, non shrink grout is specifically designed and widely used for heavy machinery installations. It plays a critical role in transferring loads from machinery to concrete foundations while maintaining dimensional stability under static and dynamic forces. When selected and applied correctly, non shrink grout ensures long-term performance, alignment, and vibration control for heavy equipment.
Why Heavy Machinery Requires Special Grouting
Heavy machinery generates high loads, vibration, and repeated movement during operation. Ordinary cement grout cannot reliably handle these conditions.
- Heavy loads demand high compressive strength
- Vibration requires full contact and stiffness
- Even small voids can cause misalignment and failure
- Long-term stability is essential for equipment performance
Non shrink grout is engineered to meet these requirements.
How Non Shrink Grout Supports Heavy Machinery
Non shrink grout works by creating a dense, fully bonded layer between machinery base plates and concrete foundations.
- Transfers load evenly across the foundation
- Prevents settlement and shrinkage after curing
- Maintains precise equipment alignment
- Reduces vibration and operational movement
This makes it ideal for both static and rotating machinery.
Key Properties Required for Heavy Machinery Grouting
Not all grouts are suitable for heavy machinery. The following properties are essential.
- High compressive strength (typically 40 MPa and above)
- Zero shrinkage or controlled expansion
- Good flow to eliminate voids under base plates
- Excellent bond with steel and concrete
- Resistance to vibration and cyclic loading
Types of Machinery Suitable for Non Shrink Grout
Non shrink grout is used across a wide range of heavy equipment installations.
- Generators and turbines
- Compressors and pumps
- Crushers and mills
- Presses and rolling equipment
- Industrial production machinery
Flowable vs Plastic Grout for Machinery Bases
Choosing the correct grout consistency is important.
- Flowable grout: Used for large base plates and tight gaps where complete filling is critical
- Plastic grout: Used where controlled placement is required without excessive flow
The selection depends on gap size, base plate geometry, and installation method.
Installation Best Practices for Heavy Machinery
Correct installation is just as important as material selection.
- Ensure foundation surface is clean and roughened
- Pre-wet concrete to saturated surface dry condition
- Use rigid, leak-proof formwork
- Pour grout continuously from one side only
- Avoid vibration during placement
When Can Heavy Machinery Be Loaded?
Loading must be based on strength development, not just setting time.
- Light alignment checks: after initial set
- Partial loading: after 3–7 days (depending on grout grade)
- Full operational load: only after achieving specified compressive strength
Always follow engineer recommendations and product datasheets.
Common Site Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best grout can fail if applied incorrectly.
- Adding excess water to improve flow
- Poor sealing of formwork leading to grout loss
- Early loading of machinery
- Using ordinary grout instead of high strength non shrink grout
Advantages of Using Non Shrink Grout for Heavy Machinery
- Long-term dimensional stability
- Improved equipment alignment
- Reduced vibration and noise
- Lower maintenance and repair costs
- Extended service life of machinery and foundations
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is non shrink grout strong enough for heavy machinery?
Yes, high strength non shrink grout is specifically designed for heavy loads.
2. Can ordinary cement grout be used instead?
No, ordinary grout shrinks and cannot provide reliable long-term support.
3. Does vibration affect non shrink grout?
Properly installed non shrink grout performs well under vibration.
4. Is curing important for machinery bases?
Yes, curing is essential to achieve full strength and durability.
5. Who specifies the grout type for machinery?
The project engineer or equipment manufacturer usually defines the requirement.
Raltro
Raltro is a construction materials knowledge platform focused on real-site performance and correct application practices. By explaining how and why non shrink grout is used for heavy machinery foundations, Raltro helps engineers and contractors understand load transfer requirements, avoid common installation mistakes, and ensure that machinery bases deliver stable, vibration-resistant, and long-lasting performance in industrial environments.