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Water Conditioner

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False setting concrete presents a unique challenge for volumetric or mobile mixer operators. This phenomenon occurs because of a chemical reaction between gypsum in the cement and the water. It is less common in ready-mixed concrete because the extended mix times break up the false set before the load arrives at the job site. Fortunately, Fritz-Pak’s false set concrete admixture, Water Conditioner, offers a fast, easy solution for false setting concrete. Water Conditioner neutralizes the gypsum particles in the cement to prevent the chemical reaction that promotes the false set of cement. This product contains no hazardous or corrosive materials and comes packaged in our signature, water-soluble bag.

More About the False Set Concrete Admixture

Check out our product video to learn more about Water Conditioner and how this false set concrete admixture could greatly improve the efficiency of your volumetric concrete delivery. Don’t forget to follow our social media channels for more information about how our admixtures can improve your concrete.

Item#DescriptionBags/CaseCases/Pallet
984204 oz. (113 g.) water soluble bag10024
Why does false set occur in volumetric mixers but not in regular ready mix concrete?
False set is a rapid hardening of the concrete shortly after adding water. This false set is not a hard set and in regular ready mix concrete, the extended mixing simply breaks up this false set.
Why does false set occur?
In the manufacture of cement, gypsum is added to control the set. The gypsum is normally added in the final milling process. If in the final milling the temperature of the cement gets too hot, the gypsum will dehydrate forming anhydrate or hemihydrate (Plaster of Paris). When water is added the Plaster of Paris hardens very fast and gives the appearance of a false set.
Why doesn't false set happen all the time?
False set is more common in the summer time and when cement plants are working at full capacity.
Why it is important to control the false set in volumetric mixers?
Because when the false set appears, it is very difficult for the contractor to work the concrete. If excess water or superplasticizer is added to the concrete to reduce the effects, this can cause a weaker concrete or increased cost of admixtures.
Will the Water Conditioner affect the true set of concrete?
No.
  • Fritz-Pak Water Conditioner reduces false-set problems in volumetric mixers
  • Does not delay set of concrete
  • Very easy to store and ship
  • Prepackaged doses in patented water-soluble Fritz-Pak bags are simple to use

Compatibility

Water Conditioner is compatible with most concrete admixtures. When used with other admixtures, each one must be dispensed separately into the mix.

Technical Documents