The Growing Trend of Polished Concrete in Warehousing and Its Testing Parameters
Published On: July 01, 2022
Polished concrete is a popular choice for warehouses and other industrial facilities due to its durability, low maintenance, and cost-effectiveness. However, the quality of polished concrete floors can vary significantly depending on the parameters used in the polishing process. Measuring these parameters can help to ensure that the floor is smooth, even, and resistant to wear and tear.
One important parameter to measure when polishing concrete floors is surface roughness. Surface roughness refers to the roughness or smoothness of the surface of the floor and is typically measured in microinches or micrometers. A smoother surface is less prone to wear and tear and is easier to clean and maintain, making it an important consideration for warehouses and other industrial facilities.
Another important parameter to measure is surface reflectivity. Surface reflectivity refers to the amount of light that is reflected off the surface of the floor and is typically measured using a gloss meter. A high level of surface reflectivity can help to improve the visibility and safety of the floor, making it an important consideration for warehouses and other industrial facilities.
In addition to surface roughness and surface reflectivity, there are several other parameters that can be measured to assess the quality of polished concrete floors. These parameters may include abrasion resistance, stain resistance, and resistance to impact.
Gloss level is an important parameter to consider when selecting a polished concrete floor. Gloss level refers to the amount of light that is reflected off the surface of the floor and is typically measured using a gloss meter. A higher gloss level will result in a shinier, more reflective surface, while a lower gloss level will result in a matte finish.
The distinction of image (DOI) is another parameter that can be used to assess the quality of a polished concrete floor. The DOI measures the clarity of an image reflected in the surface of the floor and is typically measured using a specialized device. A higher DOI indicates a clearer, more distinct image, while a lower DOI indicates a blurrier image.
Abrasion resistance is an important parameter to consider when selecting a polished concrete floor, as it determines the floor's ability to withstand wear and tear. Abrasion resistance can be measured using a variety of techniques, including the Taber abrasion test, which involves rubbing a rotating abrasive wheel against the surface of the floor.
Slip coefficient of friction is another important parameter to consider when selecting a polished concrete floor. This parameter measures the floor's resistance to slipping and is typically measured using a specialized device that simulates the movement of a pedestrian on the surface of the floor. A higher slip coefficient of friction indicates a lower risk of slipping, making it an important consideration for warehouses and other industrial facilities.
In summary, gloss level, distinction of image, abrasion resistance, and slip coefficient of friction are all important parameters to consider when selecting a polished concrete floor. These parameters can be measured using a variety of techniques, including gloss meters, specialized devices for measuring DOI and slip coefficient of friction, and the Taber abrasion test. By measuring these parameters, it is possible to assess the quality
In comparison to polished concrete, epoxy and polyurethane (PU) coatings offer some benefits, such as enhanced chemical resistance and improved appearance. However, these coatings also have some drawbacks, including the need for frequent maintenance and the risk of delamination or peeling.
In summary, the measurement of different parameters of polished concrete, such as surface roughness and surface reflectivity, can help to ensure that the floor is smooth, even, and resistant to wear and tear. While epoxy and PU coatings may offer some benefits, they also have some drawbacks, including the need for frequent maintenance and the risk of delamination or peeling. Ultimately, the choice between polished concrete and coatings will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the facility.