>> FACTORIES - MANUFACTURING PROCESS

> 4. Curing

To achieve the concrete transfer strength in the required time prior to releasing the stress in the bed, the strength gain in the concrete must be accelerated. To do this the heat of hydration temperature is maintained and increased in a very controlled manner.

Tarpaulins are placed over the bed, effectively to provide a chamber. Heat can then be introduced into this chamber under strict conditions using micro-processor controlled valves. Temperatures in the chamber are continuously logged as a permanent record for that bed.

The rate of temperature gain and maximum temperature is strictly controlled to avoid any delayed ettringite formation.