Cement is undoubtedly the most significant building material utilised in modern construction. Cement is commonly used to manufacture concrete and mortar, which are then utilised to construct RCC-framed buildings. Cement’s binding qualities allow it to easily combine with aggregates and produce a homogenous slurry that hardens to a stone-like strength. The strength and longevity of the construction are mostly determined by the cement’s strength.
However, extensive adulteration has slipped into this commodity as well, and laypeople are frequently uninformed of points to keep in mind while purchasing and storing cement.
Cement factories may be found all over the world. They regularly use unethical methods to make and pack cement for the express purpose of raising their profit. There are also many white cement dealers to make white cement-based putti As many of us are aware, the cost of cement is higher than that of other building materials (coarse aggregates, fine aggregates, and so on), and this impacts the entire cost of your project. As a result, a few precautions can go a long way toward guaranteeing that we are acquiring an authentic product and reducing the likelihood of duplicate substandard cement bags appearing on our building site. The rationale is simple: duplicate or adulterated cement shortens the life of the construction. To ensure that such a tragedy does not occur, verify some fundamental standard parameters before purchasing cement.
CHECKING FOR POINTS ON THE CEMENT BAG
- Read the manufacturer’s name and registered trademark correctly. If the trademark and name are not properly written, or if there is a spelling error, the cement bag might be a duplicate.
- The ISI mark should be printed in black on the cement bags. The ISI logo verifies that the cement packaged in the bag satisfies all of the criteria.
- The grade and kind of cement should be checked on a cement bag. Ordinary Portland Cement, 53 Grade or Ordinary Portland Cement, 53-S Grade, whichever is relevant, must be printed on an OPC 53 cement bag.
- The net weight of cement in kilogrammes, such as 25 Kg, 50 Kg, and so on, must be specified on the cement bag.
- Examine the cement brand. It is critical that the cement is of a reputable brand. To obtain a grasp of the technical specifics of the product, one should also consult the cut-sheet offered by the brand.
- The MRP (Maximum Retail Price) of a cement bag is an essential consideration. The store or vendor might deceive us by selling the cement bag for a higher price than the MRP. As a result, verifying the MRP before purchasing the cement bag will assist the buyer in avoiding any type of fraud.
- Check to see if the words ‘Use no Hooks’ or a similar symbol is printed on the cement bag.