Concrete Cube Testing

The Importance of Concrete Cube 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 based on your project schedule. This can be regular or on a call-off basis. We’re here to help.

Same-Day Reporting

We send detailed test reports the same day we crush your samples. This lets you spot potential problems early and avoid costly delays.

Hardened Concrete Testing

Testing Hardened Concrete Cubes:
An Overview

The concrete cube testing process is key for checking the concrete's strength and durability. Each step must meet strict quality assurance protocols. You should conduct them under controlled conditions, Following the latest British Standards outlined below:

BS EN 12390-2:2019 - Testing hardened concrete - Making and curing specimens for strength tests.
BS EN 12390-3:2019 - Testing hardened concrete - Compressive strength of test specimens.

Demoulding The Cube Sample

After air curing the cube sample in the mould at (20 ± 5) °C in a moist room, in line with British Standard BS EN 12390-2:2019, the cube is removed from the mould. Correct initial curing and hydration are vital for the concrete to gain strength.

Nine grey concrete cubes resting on top of steel cube moulds in rows on a work surface in a lab. One cube is in clear focus.

In-Depth Cube Examination

Each cube is checked and measured with precise tools to make sure it meets the required standards for testing. Skilled lab technicians look at the size, shape, and uniformity of each cube. They also look for cracks, chips, or other visible defects.

A person wearing black gloves uses a digital calliper to measure the size of a concrete cube on a workbench.

Unique Sample Identification

Each cube has a unique ID stamped on several sides. The testing system tracks the cube's location. This makes it easy to find, track, and test the right sample. Clear labelling and tracking stop cubes from being mixed up and support quality assurance.

A close-up of a metal stamp pressing the unique sample ID number onto the surface of a grey concrete block.

Temperature Controlled Curing

Each cube enters a water bath. The thermostat keeps the water at (20 ± 2) °C, as per British Standard BS EN 12390:2-2019. Advanced systems track the water temperature for optimal concrete curing. The ambient room temperature remains within the range of 15 °C to 25 °C.

A gloved hand holds a numbered concrete cube over a water curing tank, surrounded by other similar cubes.

Density Measurement

The density of a concrete cube is usually between 2,200 and 2,600 kg/m³. You measure it by weighing the sample in water and air, as per British Standard BS EN 12390-7:2019 + AC:2020. Density matters. It indicates greater strength, better durability, and higher quality in concrete.

A grey concrete cube sits on a digital scale with a blue and white screen. It displays 2450.5 grams as the air weight.

Compressive Strength Testing

The cured concrete cube is placed in a UKAS-calibrated hydraulic press. A load is gradually applied until the cube fails and breaks. The maximum load at the point of failure is recorded. The compressive strength is calculated based on the cross-sectional area of the cube.

A high-definition video camera on a tripod films a cube test under bright lights. Its screen shows the recording in progress.

Verification of Test Results

Our compliance team checks all test results for accuracy. We compare each sample's strength with others from the same batch. We also look for trends and consistency in strength. This helps us spot problems early and avoid costly fixes later.

A person wearing an orange high-vis jacket sits at a desk. They review a bar chart, a video, and test results on two monitors.

Comprehensive Test Reporting

We email PDF test reports on the same day the cube is crushed. Each report includes the sample reference, test age, density, failing load (in kN), compressive strength (in N/mm²), and type of failure. This follows the requirements of BS EN 12390-3:2019.

Three printed test reports are spread out on a desk. The visible titles are Entry, Completion, and Concrete Cube Test Report.

Responsible Waste Disposal

A licensed waste management company collects all concrete waste from our labs. They crush the cubes into small pieces. These pieces are recycled for use in new building projects. This reduces landfill waste and helps protect the environment.

A pile of broken and cracked grey concrete cubes in a waste skip. Each block is labelled with a sample ID and density data.

* For a full list of our UKAS-accredited activities, please visit our UKAS Accreditation page.

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.

Hardened Concrete Testing

Cube dimensions, we often test

Designation

Dimensions

UKAS Accredited

Prisms

160mm x 40mm x 40mm

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

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.

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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.

Frequently Asked Questions

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.