Dear Sir,
We have imported and using two Machine from CVBT for Habitat Regular Housing Program with CIEB. Now under Disaster research, we would like to produce some 4”x4”x4” cubical solid block (see attachment) for potential use of slope protection Raised Home plinth from Flood. Does it possible to make a separated mould to make by our existing machine. After successful completion of test, we are planning to buy another mechanic for that solid block making purpose.
I am looking forwarded to hear from you soon.
Thanks in advance for your cooperation.
Regards
Dear Ranadhir,
Thank you for your inquiry. It is a very good question. It shows that we know that "an ICEB house needs good boots and a good hat." Especially in flood-prone areas we need to raise the first row of earth blocks up high. So, a concrete block raised plinth is a good solution.
Now we need to consider your raw material. Because we want to have a flood durable block we need to use concrete: cement, sand and stone. This is not advisable with a BP6 press. You will have the following problems:
- Difficult to press and difficult to determine the charge weight or volume. The penetrometer cannot be used. Sand and stone are not compressible. The charge weight must be very exact.
- Difficult to pick up after ejection. The blocks have very little or no strength.
- The block press will wear more rapidly. Stone and sand are abrasive and will rub the insides of the press block.
What are your other options? Perhaps these are a couple:
- Use a mold and cast concrete blocks. Do you want me to design and send you a price for one that will interlock with the compressed earth blocks? This is actually a big project.
- Use stone or rocks. If you are on a flood plain these will not be available locally.
Do not forget to use an anti-capillary layer directly under the first layer of earth blocks.
How high do you want to make your plinth?
Keep up the good work.
Sincerely, Geoffrey