What is a key joint?
The key joint is a pre -produced device used to create control joints in concrete structures. When the concrete has freshly poured dry, it tends to shrink or download. This contraction can lead to cracks or breaking on the surface of concrete or in tiles and other floors installed over a plate. In order to minimize the cracks associated with the stink of concrete, the builders place the control joints at specific intervals along the concrete. These control joints represent a planned break in concrete, eliminating the need for unplanned cracks in other places.
In order to create a traditional control joint, the installation staff must create and pour the concrete into the chessboard sample. Different slices are poured and left to dry before another neighboring section can be poured. This process is time consuming and includes extensive work and form planning.
Using the key joint, the installation programs can pour the entire concrete structure as one unit. KeyThe common device is placed for work on the form of a place where control joints are required. The concrete is poured into a mold and the key joint automatically creates the control joint in the structure.
Standard concrete key joint consists of a U -shaped steel channel with flange at both ends. The device is inserted into molds so that the flanges are perpendicular to the ground. The metal dowel is stacked over the joint -shaped part to keep the device in place until the concrete does not differ. The upper flange usually has a rounded or square shape to create aesthetically pleasant surface, while the remaining flange simply narrows to the point. When the concrete dries, part of the U -shaped joint keeps the space between different parts of the concrete, allowing them to move and download minimal rupture.
key joints from specific keys offer builders and developers a number of advantages. These devices accelerate UP processThe melting and during the concrete installation can reduce the cost of work and equipment. Because the key joint is made in advance, it allows installation workers to create a uniform, even the joint along the entire length of the structure. Steel keys are also easy to work and often fit together using a simple language connection and stimuling.
Key joints may require some maintenance as soon as the concrete is completely cured. If the concrete is too reduced as it dries, it can be left between the joint and the edge of the board. These spaces should be filled with seal or epoxy to avoid wear and prevent the collection of impurities and remnants in the joint. These devices also tend to cost more than traditional concrete forms, although material costs can be compensated by work and equipment savings.