When placing concrete in cold weather, the mix sets up at a slower rate than normal. This increases the risk the water will freeze before the batch fully hardens. Frozen concrete does not set up correctly, and the concrete will likely need replacement in the future. Fortunately, adding a concrete accelerator to the mix increases the speed of the set time. Accelerating admixtures are more cost-effective than warming the mix. Fritz-Pak’s Non-Chloride Accelerator offers increased set time in a convenient water-soluble bag. One bag of NCA can speed up the set time by up to one hour. Plus, it is chemically formulated to not harm the steel reinforcements in the project.
Calcium chloride is among the more popular concrete accelerator chemicals. When added to freshly batched concrete, calcium chloride works quickly to accelerate the setting time of the concrete. Unfortunately, this product increases the risk of corrosion in the steel reinforcements, as well as an efflorescence in concrete exposed to salt water or deicing chemicals. Not only does this destroy the aesthetic of the concrete, but it also compromises its durability of the concrete.
Fritz-Pak manufactures our Non-Chloride Accelerator with calcium formate. This chemical offers the same set time acceleration without the risk of corrosion or efflorescence. Calcium formate is a white powder that acts quickly to speed up the rate of hydration in the mix, increasing not only the set time but also the development of early strengths. For this reason, NCA is the perfect admixture to have for both cold-weather concrete projects and precast manufacturing sites. Using NCA in precast concrete allows for more efficient use of molds and protects the pieces from damage during transportation or storage.
If you have questions about using NCA as a concrete accelerator, give us a call at (214) 221-9494. Don’t forget to follow our social media pages for more information on how our products can improve your concrete.
Item# | Description | Bags/Case | Bags/Pallet | Cases/Pallet |
---|---|---|---|---|
98450 | 5 lb. (2.27-kg.) water soluble bag | 8 | 36 | |
98450 | 50 lb. paper bag | 42 |
Fritz-Pak NCA is compatible with most concrete admixtures. When used with other admixtures, each one should be dispensed separately into the mix. Effectiveness of NCA is dependent on the proportion of C3A to SO3 in the cement. Higher acceleration will be obtained in cements with ratios greater than 4.0. In general, higher accelerations will be obtained in mixes with Type I, III or white cement.
This product meets the following specifications: