Frequently Asked Questions

 

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Mixing & Batching

Questions:


FORTA® products should be added to the concrete mixing system at the batch plant for best distribution. Follow the normal mixer manufacturers' standard recommendations and ASTM C-94. Mixing time should be a minimum of four to five minutes per load at a normal mixing speed. The batch plant will be the most economical and safest place for addition of the fibers. Typically it is not recommended that fibers be introduced to the mixer as a first ingredient, but added with other ingredients or at the end of the addition sequence. Contact FORTA® for mixing and addition recommendations for specific types of mixing equipment.
Fibers can be added to ready-mix trucks at the job site, though it is recommended they be added at the
batch plant for optimum mixing and distribution. If fibers are added at the site, extra caution should
be exercised to ensure sufficient mixing time. Allow at least 4 to 5 minutes of mixing time at drum
mixing speed after the last product bag has been added.
Synthetic fibers have no effect on air entrainment, super plasticizers, or water reducers. If possible, synthetic fibers should be added prior to any liquid admixtures to take full advantage of the mixing shear and friction of the mix to optimize the distribution.