We have discussed the requirements of EN206-1:2000 here at Sol22, but what we haven't discussed is the general control of concrete strength using CUSUM.

You do not have to use the EN206-1:2000 conformity database for conformity compliance only! It will work as a general concrete strength control system. This is because is has a simple cusum strength forecasting system built into it. It can also generate dynamic strength lists for your concrete batching plants.

If you do not need to comply with EN206-1:2000 then consider using this system as a general strength quality control tool for your ready mixed concrete production operation. If you use it like this the only strength analysis report you will need is the Mean Strength and Standard Deviation analysis. All the other reports will be analytically useful as well providing some data to help make some informed commercial decisions.

What is Cusum?

In order to control the production of concrete, manual graphical control charts can be used to detect significant changes in performance and to indicate when actions should be taken in order to meet the specifications. A cumulative sum control chart (CUSUM) is well adapted to detect the inherent and abrupt changes in the concrete production. In order to indicate when actions should be taken, a mask is superimposed on the CUSUM chart.

When EN206 was introduced the running of a CUSUM system was no longer a absolute requirement for compliance. However, ready mixed concrete production companies still needed a method of strength prediction control which has led to CUSUM systems taking many forms most of which are now computerised.

These days computers