sieve analysis

1. Scope*
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the particle
size distribution of fine and coarse aggregates by sieving.
1.2 Some specifications for aggregates which reference this
test method contain grading requirements including both
coarse and fine fractions. Instructions are included for sieve
analysis of such aggregates.
1.3 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inchpound
units are to be regarded separately as standard. The
values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents;
therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other.
Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance
with the standard.
NOTE 1—Sieve size is identified by its standard designation in Specification
E11. The alternative designation given in parentheses is for
information only and does not represent a different standard sieve size.
Specification E11 cites the following with respect to SI units versus
inch-pound units as standard. “The values stated in SI units shall be
considered standard for the dimensions of the sieve cloth openings and the
wire diameters used in the sieve cloth. The values stated in inch-pound
units shall be considered standard with regard to the sieve frames, pans,”
and covers.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 A sample of dry aggregate of known mass is separated
through a series of sieves of progressively smaller openings for
determination of particle size distribution.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 This test method is used primarily to determine the
grading of materials proposed for use as aggregates or being
used as aggregates. The results are used to determine compliance
of the particle size distribution with applicable specification
requirements and to provide necessary data for control of

8. Procedure
8.1 Dry the sample to constant mass at a temperature of 110
6 5 °C [230 6 10 °F].
NOTE 5—For control purposes, particularly where rapid results are
desired, it is generally not necessary to dry coarse aggregate for the sieve
analysis test. The results are little affected by the moisture content unless:
(1) the nominal maximum size is smaller than about 12.5 mm (1⁄2 in.); (2)
the coarse aggregate contains appreciable material finer than 4.75 mm
(No. 4); or (3) the coarse aggregate is highly absorptive (a lightweight
aggregate, for example). Also, samples may be dried at the higher
8.2 Select sieves with suitable openings to furnish the
information required by the specifications covering the material
to be tested. Use additional sieves as desired or necessary
to provide other information, such as fineness modulus, or to
regulate the amount of material on a sieve. Nest the sieves in
order of decreasing size of opening from top to bottom and
place the sample on the top sieve. Agitate the sieves by hand or
by mechanical apparatus for a sufficient period, established by
trial or checked by measurement on the actual test sample, to
meet the criterion for adequacy or sieving described in 8.4.
8.3 Limit the quantity of material on a given sieve so that all
particles have opportunity to reach sieve openings a number of
times during the sieving operation. For sieves with openings
smaller than 4.75-mm (No. 4), the quantity retained on any
sieve at the completion of the sieving operation shall not
exceed 7 kg/m2 of sieving surface area (Note 6). For sieves
with openings 4.75 mm (No. 4) and larger, the quantity
retained in kg shall not exceed the product of 2.5 × (sieve
opening, mm × (effective sieving area, m2)). This quantity is
shown in Table 1 for five sieve-frame dimensions in common
use. In no case shall the quantity retained be so great as to
cause permanent deformation of the sieve cloth.
8.3.1 Prevent an overload of material on an individual sieve
by one of the following methods:

RC: 1279131