Optimization of Moulding Technology of Polymer Concrete Used for Manufacture Precision Tool Machine Bases

Abstract

Aspects of moulding technology have a great effect on the mechanical properties and curing behaviour of polymer concrete used to manufacture the base of precision tool machine. In this paper, the results and the analysis are both presented of an experimental investigation on the effects of moulding technology on polymer concrete (PC) used for manufacture the base of precision tool machine. Effect of voids population on compressive strength of polymer concrete was examined. Various frequencies were applied during the packing operation of the polymer concrete samples using the vibration table. The optimum frequency for vibration and for producing a PC sample with the highest compressive strength was found to be 18.9375 Hz, which resulted in 109 MPa compressive strength for basalt, sand and chalk composition. In addition influence of Dimethyl aniline (DMA) amount and moulding temperature on mixing process and the strength of matrix domain were experimented. The relation between time of viscosity build-up t (min), temperature T (°C) and DMA content C (%) were correlated. This relation was used to obtain the suitable time required for mixing to prevent the mixing while the polymeric binder reach the gelling time through the copolymerization process. Also mixing technology and its influence on mechanical properties of PC were investigated. The optimized mixing technology was reached. Enhancing certain aspects of moulding technology could lead to an elevation of the mechanical strength of PC that may assist in producing polymer concrete with a high level of compliance with the optimisation criteria for PC used in manufacturing bases for precision tool machinery.