Operating Principle: Air Pressure Compensation
Our entire QualiAEM™ line operates strictly on the air pressure compensation principle (conforming to ASTM C231, ASTM C185, DIN EN 12350-T.7, and DIN EN 459-2). This physics-based method is built on straightforward physical compression, relying on the simple fact that you cannot really squeeze solid aggregates or liquid water, but you can definitely compress air down.
Step-by-Step Testing Procedure
Sealing the Sample
You pack your freshly mixed concrete or mortar into a heavy-duty, cast aluminum test pot. You then clamp the upper pressure chamber section down using quick-locking bolts with comfortable palm grips, securing a completely airtight seal.
Pressurizing the Chamber
Using either a sturdy, hand-operated manual pump or our built-in, highly efficient electric mini-compressor, you push air into the upper pressure chamber. You then dial in the precise starting zero-point on the Class 1.0 accuracy gauge using the highly sensitive connection valve equipped with a knurled-head screw.
Activating Pressure Compensation
Next, you press the valve rocker to open the overflow valve. This action allows the pressurized air from the top chamber to discharge and equalize with the air trapped in the freshly mixed material inside the bottom test pot.
Determining Air Content
Because the cement paste and coarse aggregates refuse to shrink under pressure, the compressed air pockets inside the mix take the entire brunt of the force. The resulting drop in pressure is measured and displayed directly on the large, easy-to-read dial of your Air Entrainment Meter as the exact percentage of air in the mixture.
QualiAEM™ Configurations & Capacities
Because different mixtures and testing protocols call for different sample volumes, our pressure-compensation gear comes in highly practical variants built for the messy reality of actual job sites:
Mortar and Masonry Cement Testing (ASTM C185 & DIN EN 413-2)
When you are working with finer materials like mortar, you need smaller, more precise sample pots to get accurate results.
- QualiAEM™ 050M (0.5L) & 075M (0.75L): These compact, manual hand-pump units are perfect for smaller batch testing where portability on your workstation is key.
- QualiAEM™ 100E (1.0L): For ultimate ease of use, this 1-litre variant swaps out the traditional manual pump for a highly efficient electric mini-compressor, allowing automated pressure buildup that frees up the technician's hands.
Fresh Concrete Testing (ASTM C231 & DIN EN 12350-T.7)
For heavier concrete mixes featuring larger coarse aggregate sizes, larger test pot capacities are required to ensure a representative sample.
- QualiAEM™ 500M (5.0L) & 700M (7.0L): Heavy-duty, manual-pump workhorses built out of thick, cast aluminum to withstand severe field conditions.
- QualiAEM™ 800E (8.0L): Our largest model, combining an 8-litre capacity with an integrated electric compressor for rapid, completely uniform pressure drops on major commercial pours.
To guarantee maximum measurement accuracy, we also offer a Fast Calibration Set so you can verify your gear in record time. You get spot-on, trustworthy numbers every single day without wrestling with overly complex equipment while delivery trucks wait on active job sites.
