Laboratory Service

Concrete Cube Strength Testing

Laboratory Service
Concrete Cube Strength Testing

The Importance of Concrete Cube Strength Testing in the UK Construction Industry

Concrete cube testing is an essential aspect of quality assurance in the UK construction industry. It ensures that concrete can withstand the necessary compression forces through exacting quality standards. In accordance with BS EN 12390:3-2019, this test is crucial for proving structural integrity and safety, promoting durability, and preventing costly project delays caused by cube strength failures. UKAS-accredited testing laboratories, such as Omega, ensure the reliability and accuracy of your test results.
No Hidden Fees
We have no hidden costs. There are no extra charges for cube storage or disposal. The price we quote is the exact amount you will pay.
UK-Wide Cube Collection
We can collect your cube samples on a schedule that meets the needs of your project, either regularly or on a call-off basis. We can help.
Same-Day Reporting
Receive detailed test reports the same day as crushed, which allows for the early identification of potential costly problems.
Full Compliance with Industry Standards

Concrete Cube Test Procedure Step-by-Step

The concrete cube test procedure is crucial for verifying the strength and durability of concrete. Each stage must comply with strict quality assurance standards and controlled conditions in accordance with BS EN 12390:3-2019.

De-moulding Process

After an initial period of air curing at (20 ± 5) °C, as specified in BS EN 12390-2:2019, the cube sample is carefully removed from its mould, ready for inspection.
1
150mm concrete cubes on black steel cube moulds are arranged closely on a lab bench. The surface of the cubes appears rough and unpolished. The setting suggests an industrial or lab environment.
A person wearing black gloves uses a digital caliper to measure a gray metal cube on a speckled surface. Various measurement tools are scattered around.
2

Cube Inspection

Each cube is carefully inspected and measured using calibrated equipment. Trained laboratory technicians evaluate factors such as size, shape, uniformity, fractures, chips, and other characteristics.

Temperature Controlled Curing

Cubes are placed in water-curing baths controlled by a thermostat, which maintains a water temperature of (20 ± 2) °C. The temperature is continuously monitored 24/7 using UKAS-calibrated WiFi temperature loggers.
‍
‍
3
A blue-gloved hand holds a numbered concrete cube above a water-filled curing bath with more cubes submerged in rows. The scene suggests a laboratory setting for testing.
A concrete block with numbered markings is placed on a calibrated digital scale, which displays the air weight. The scale is on a blue platform in an industrial setting.
4

Cube Density (Weight / Mass)

We assess the density of the cube sample by weighing it first in water and then in air, following the British Standard BS EN 12390-7:2019 + AC 2020, using UKAS-calibrated balances and scales.

Testing the Compressive Strength

The cured concrete cube is placed in a UKAS-calibrated compression testing machine, which gradually applies force until the cube fails, providing a maximum load at the point of failure.
‍
‍
5
Close-up of an HD digital video camera on a tripod, displaying a concrete block on its preview screen with lines of text showing live results. The setting is a well-lit laboratory, suggesting a setting for documentation or analysis.
A person in a bright orange jacket analyses a test on dual monitors. The left screen shows a video preview, the right features a bar chart and a table. Desk items include pens and a coffee cup. The setting is an organised, focused workspace.
6

Test Result Verification

Our compliance team manually verifies all test result data to confirm its validity and accuracy. Checking the achieved strength against samples in the same batch is crucial, as it helps us identify problems early on and help prevent costly remedial work.

Reporting and Traceability

Detailed PDF test reports are sent via email on the same day the cube is crushed. Test reports include the sample reference, test age, density, failing load (in kN), compressive strength (in N/mm²), and failure type, as specified in BS EN 12390-3:2019.
‍
‍
7
Three report documents on a textured surface with blue headings and logos. Titles read "Entry Summary Report," "Completion Summary," and "Concrete Cube Test Report." The reports have organized text sections with labels like "Client" and "Site Address." The image conveys a professional, analytical tone.
Broken grey concrete cubes and blocks thrown at many angles into a metal waste skip—handwritten numbers on each surface. The cubes are cracked and chipped, conveying a sense of decay and age.
8

Responsible Disposal

Crushed or cracked concrete cubes are collected by a licensed waste management company, further crushed, and recycled for use in other construction projects, supporting our commitment to environmental sustainability.

Too busy to deliver? No problem, we can collect.

We offer a nationwide collection service for concrete cubes, so you don't have to worry about getting them to our lab. Please let us know when and where, and we'll take care of the rest. Quick, reliable, and hassle-free.

Call UsWhatsApp Us
In-House Recording Technology

Cube Test Video Recording and Photography

We record high-definition video and photographs of each compressive cube test using our specialised, in-house world-first technology. As continuous pressure is applied to the cube sample, live information, such as load (kN), stress (MPa), and time(s), can be viewed in real-time.

The visual details, including stress fractures and anomalies, enable the identification of the moment and type of failure, which has been crucial time and again, allowing for post-analysis playback after the cube test is completed.

View an example of a cube test video on our YouTube channel.

A concrete block with numbers is being compressed in a hydraulic press. The display shows a load of 432.4 kN and a stress of 43.2 MPa, indicating a technical testing setting.
A black industrial compression machine with a cube sample overlayed with "UKAS Accredited." The setting is industrial, with a focus on precision, authority, and credibility.
We're Independent & Impartial

Why use Omega as your Concrete Testing Laboratory?

The Omega Group is a leading independent concrete and materials testing laboratory based in the Midlands, UK. We take pride in delivering high-quality testing services and providing exceptional customer support. We see ourselves as an extension of your team, not just an external testing company.

We offer a range of UKAS-accredited on-site testing of fresh concrete, as well as laboratory-based testing of hardened concrete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are you accredited by UKAS for compressive cube testing?
Can you collect cube samples from any site or location?
Can I deliver the samples in person or ship them via courier to your laboratory?
How long will it take to receive my cube test results and the PDF report?
Do you keep failed cube samples?
Are the cracked and tested cube samples disposed of responsibly?
Can you test cube samples with very high strength?
Can you send the compressive test results directly to my consultant?
What are the most common compressive testing ages?
What happens with cubes that do not meet the target strength at 28 days?
Hardened Concrete Testing

Cube dimensions, we often test

Designation
Dimensions
UKAS Accredited
Prisms
160mm x 40mm x 40mm
No
70's
70mm x 70mm x 70mm
Yes
100's
100mm x 100mm x 100mm
Yes
150's
150mm x 150mm x 150mm
Yes
Beams
Assorted sizes
No

For a complete list of our activities accredited by UKAS, please visit our UKAS Accreditation page.

A trainee construction worker in a bright orange uniform and white hard hat operates machinery, handling wet concrete. The setting is an outdoor construction site.
Ensure Project Success

The Importance of Concrete Cube Testing

Concrete cube testing is a crucial and cost-effective method for determining the compressive strength of hardened concrete, ensuring the strength, safety and durability of structures through rigorous quality standards.

A range of professionals, from small builders to large contractors, use concrete cube testing. Its widespread application highlights its importance in guaranteeing quality and suitability across various scales, applications, and projects.

Testing provides several benefits:

  • Structural assurance

  • Compliance with standards 

  • Identification of potential weaknesses

Fast, accurate and affordable. Get a quote today!

We offer some of the best rates in the construction industry, along with a price-matching guarantee. Contact a member of our team today to discover how we can assist you.

Call UsGet a low-cost quote
Quality Assurance

Benefits of using a UKAS Accredited laboratory

Using a UKAS-accredited laboratory for concrete cube testing ensures compliance with British or European standards, as well as impartiality, trust and competence. Such assurances lead to high-quality testing procedures being followed, resulting in better service and more concrete results, which in turn reduce project risks related to time and cost.

  • Impartial Results: There is no conflict of interest.

  • Highest Compliance: Meet stringent BS or EN standards. 

  • Reliable Expertise: Skilled, trained laboratory technicians.

  • Increased Trust: Confidence in test results to BS EN 12390.

  • Peace of Mind: Confirms alignment with industry standards.

A room with three high-tech machines, blue flatscreens above on the wall displaying "The Omega Group" branding, and illuminated with a bright, modern industrial vibe.
Certificate of Accreditation for The Omega Group, Testing Laboratory No. 7644, from UKAS, certifying ISO/IEC 17025:2017 compliance for testing laboratories. Includes official seals, signature and accreditation details.
Established Laboratory Since 2010

UKAS ISO/IEC 17025:2017

We are an ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited laboratory, which demonstrates our technical competence in various areas. We are UKAS-accredited for certain concrete and materials testing and undergo an annual audit by a UKAS assessment manager.

We consistently train and develop our technicians to perform technical testing activities to the highest standards. Our training approach utilises rigorous methods to ensure consistent quality and reproducible results. You can trust that you are in excellent hands with Omega.

Please visit our accreditations page for more information.

You've made it this far...
Contact us today to receive your fixed price!