Mass Concrete Consulting/Thermal Control Plans
Hydration of portland cement involves several chemical reactions that are exothermic, which means they release energy and increase the internal temperature of concrete. Large concrete structures generate higher internal temperatures that can potentially damage the concrete. In these cases, specifications often require thermal control plans to manage the temperature of the structure during construction.
Braun Intertec uses finite element analysis strategies to model the temperature of different sized structures based on the mix design, incoming concrete temperatures, curing strategy, and the expected ambient weather conditions. The temperatures these models predict are used to provide a placement and curing plan to avoid undesired temperatures.
We are trained and equipped with COMMAND center temperature monitoring equipment to monitor the internal and external temperatures of a structure, as well as provide continuous monitoring of concrete temperatures in the field.