Non shrink grout provides exceptional dimensional stability and load transfer capabilities for precision construction applications. This specialized grouting material prevents settlement and shrinkage cracking while maintaining complete contact between structural elements throughout the curing process.
Table of Contents
- What is Non Shrink Grout
- Key Benefits and Performance Characteristics
- Critical Applications in Construction
- Mixing and Pumping Requirements
- Performance Standards and Testing
- Equipment Considerations for Non Shrink Grout
- Your Most Common Questions
- Non Shrink vs Traditional Grout Comparison
- AMIX Systems Solutions
- Best Practices and Tips
- Final Thoughts
Article Snapshot
Non shrink grout delivers superior dimensional stability and load transfer efficiency for precision construction applications. This comprehensive guide covers formulation, applications, and equipment requirements for successful non shrink grout projects.
Market Snapshot
Key performance metrics for non shrink grout applications:
- High-performance formulations achieve compressive strengths up to 10000 psi[1]
- Maintains 0 percent net shrinkage during curing process[2]
- Provides 100 percent load transfer efficiency in machinery applications[3]
- Enhances bond strength with 100 percent complete contact maintained[4]
- Covers over 20 primary application types in construction[3]
Non shrink grout represents a fundamental advancement in construction materials technology, addressing critical challenges in precision alignment and structural integrity. These specialized cementitious mixtures maintain their original volume throughout the curing process, preventing the settlement and dimensional changes that plague conventional grouting materials.
The unique formulation of non shrink grout incorporates expansive agents and specialized additives that counteract the natural tendency of cement-based materials to shrink as they cure. This characteristic makes non shrink grout indispensable for applications requiring precise dimensional control, such as machinery base plates, structural repairs, and load-bearing connections.
What is Non Shrink Grout
Non shrink grout is a specialized cementitious material designed to maintain its volume throughout the curing process. Unlike traditional cement-based grouts that typically shrink as they harden, these formulations incorporate expansive agents and additives that compensate for natural shrinkage tendencies.
The fundamental principle behind non shrink grout involves carefully balanced chemical reactions. As the cement hydrates and would normally contract, controlled expansion occurs simultaneously, resulting in net zero volume change. This process ensures complete contact between the grout and adjacent surfaces throughout the entire curing period.
Modern non shrink grout formulations utilize various expansion mechanisms, including calcium sulfoaluminate compounds, metallic powders, and polymer additives. Each type offers specific advantages depending on the application requirements, environmental conditions, and performance specifications.
According to construction materials engineers, “Non-shrink cementitious grouts are unsung heroes in the world where precision alignment of plant, equipment and structures is critical to their optimum performance. Their unique composition and properties make them invaluable for applications where dimensional stability and load transfer are paramount”[3].
Key Benefits and Performance Characteristics
The primary advantage of non shrink grout lies in its dimensional stability, which provides numerous downstream benefits for construction projects. This stability ensures that structural connections remain intact and load transfer capabilities are maintained throughout the service life of the installation.
Compressive strength represents another critical performance characteristic. Quality non shrink grout formulations typically achieve compressive strengths of 7000 psi[4], with high-performance variants reaching 10000 psi[1] or 100 MPa[1] according to ASTM C109 standards.
The enhanced bond strength between repair materials and existing concrete structures represents a significant benefit. Non shrink additives enable 100 percent complete contact maintained[4] between surfaces, eliminating the gaps that commonly develop with conventional grouting materials.
Durability improvements include enhanced resistance to freeze-thaw cycles and moisture penetration, with formulations providing 100 percent enhanced resistance[4] compared to standard cement-based materials. This improved durability translates to reduced maintenance requirements and extended service life for grouted installations.
Construction specialists note that “Using a non-shrink grout made with NS-7 enhances the durability of the repairs, saving time and money down the road by preventing settlement, shrinkage cracking, and maintaining dimensional stability as the grout sets”[4].
Critical Applications in Construction
Non shrink grout finds application across 20 primary application types[3] in modern construction, each leveraging its unique dimensional stability characteristics. Equipment base plates represent one of the most common applications, where precision alignment and load transfer are essential for proper machinery operation.
Structural repair work benefits significantly from non shrink grout properties. When repairing concrete elements, the material’s ability to maintain complete contact with existing surfaces prevents water infiltration and ensures structural integrity. This application is particularly valuable in bridge repairs, foundation reinforcement, and industrial facility maintenance.
Precast concrete connections utilize non shrink grout to achieve monolithic performance between individual elements. The material flows into connection details and maintains its volume, creating continuous load paths that are essential for structural performance. This application is common in parking structures, industrial buildings, and infrastructure projects.
Anchor bolt installations require the precision that non shrink grout provides. Whether setting new anchors or replacing existing ones, the material’s dimensional stability ensures proper embedment depth and prevents loosening due to shrinkage gaps. Heavy equipment installations, sign structures, and seismic retrofits frequently utilize this application.
Mining and tunneling operations present unique challenges where non shrink grout proves invaluable. Ground stabilization, equipment foundations, and void filling applications all benefit from the material’s ability to maintain volume under challenging environmental conditions. The harsh conditions common in these applications make the enhanced durability characteristics particularly valuable.
Mixing and Pumping Requirements
Proper mixing represents a critical factor in achieving optimal non shrink grout performance. The material requires thorough blending to activate expansion mechanisms and ensure uniform consistency throughout the mixture. High-shear mixing equipment typically produces superior results compared to conventional paddle mixers.
Water content must be carefully controlled to balance workability with performance characteristics. Excessive water reduces strength and can interfere with expansion mechanisms, while insufficient water prevents proper flow and placement. Most formulations specify narrow water-to-powder ratios that must be strictly maintained.
Technical specialists explain that “Non-shrink grouts are formulated for mixing into a fluid consistency that enables placement by pouring or pumping in precision grouting and formwork repair applications, allowing the material to flow easily past congested spaces and fill voids completely without air entrapment”[2].
Pumping requirements for non shrink grout often exceed those of conventional materials due to the specialized additives and controlled consistency. Positive displacement pumps, particularly peristaltic units, offer advantages for maintaining consistent flow rates and preventing segregation during transport. The abrasive nature of some formulations requires pump selection that can handle wear while maintaining accuracy.
Temperature considerations affect both mixing and placement procedures. Cold weather slows expansion reactions and may require heated materials or extended curing times. Hot weather accelerates reactions and reduces working time, potentially requiring chilled water or accelerated placement procedures.
Performance Standards and Testing
ASTM C1107 provides the primary standard for non shrink grout performance evaluation in North America. This standard establishes testing procedures for expansion, compressive strength, and flow characteristics that define acceptable performance parameters.
The expansion test measures volume change during the critical early curing period when shrinkage typically occurs. Acceptable non shrink grout must demonstrate positive or zero net volume change, with 0 percent net shrinkage[2] representing ideal performance.
Compressive strength testing follows ASTM C109 procedures, with results typically reported at 1, 7, and 28-day intervals. High-performance formulations achieve strengths of 10000 psi[1], though project specifications may require different strength levels depending on load requirements.
Flow characteristics determine placement capabilities and void-filling performance. The standard measures flow under specific conditions to ensure the material can be placed effectively in the intended applications. Proper flow characteristics enable complete filling of complex geometries without air entrapment.
International standards including EN 1504 and CSA A3000 provide alternative testing protocols that may be specified for projects outside North America. These standards address similar performance parameters but may use different test methods or acceptance criteria.
Equipment Considerations for Non Shrink Grout
Successful non shrink grout placement requires specialized equipment capable of handling the unique characteristics of these materials. High-shear colloidal mixers provide the intensive mixing action necessary to activate expansion mechanisms and ensure uniform consistency throughout the batch.
The demanding nature of non shrink grout mixing makes equipment reliability particularly important. Downtime during placement can compromise project schedules and potentially affect material performance if working time limitations are exceeded. Robust, proven equipment designs minimize these risks while maintaining consistent quality.
Pumping equipment must accommodate the flow characteristics and abrasive nature of non shrink grout formulations. Peristaltic pumps offer advantages for maintaining consistent flow rates and preventing material segregation during transport to placement locations. Their ability to handle high-solids content and abrasive materials makes them well-suited for these applications.
Materials engineers note that “Non-shrink grouts create a stable and dense mixture that can be easily poured or pumped into the desired area, ensuring they do not shrink or crack as they harden, unlike traditional cement-based grouts”[5]. This stability requires equipment capable of maintaining consistent performance throughout the placement process.
Containerized mixing plants provide advantages for projects requiring mobility or temporary installations. These systems integrate mixing, pumping, and control functions in transportable packages that can be quickly deployed to project sites. This capability is particularly valuable for infrastructure repairs and remote construction applications.
Your Most Common Questions
What makes non shrink grout different from regular grout?
Non shrink grout contains specialized additives that prevent volume loss during curing, maintaining complete contact with adjacent surfaces. Regular grout typically shrinks 1-3% as it cures, creating gaps that compromise structural integrity and allow water infiltration. The expansion agents in non shrink formulations counteract this natural shrinkage tendency, achieving net zero volume change. This characteristic makes non shrink grout essential for precision applications where dimensional stability is critical, such as equipment base plates and structural connections. The material also typically achieves higher compressive strengths and improved durability compared to conventional grouting materials.
How strong is non shrink grout compared to concrete?
High-performance non shrink grout formulations achieve compressive strengths up to 10000 psi[1], which exceeds typical concrete strengths by a significant margin. Standard concrete typically ranges from 3000-5000 psi, making quality non shrink grout approximately twice as strong. This superior strength, combined with zero shrinkage characteristics, enables non shrink grout to handle higher loads while maintaining dimensional stability. The enhanced strength also contributes to improved durability and resistance to environmental factors. However, strength requirements vary by application, and project specifications should determine the appropriate strength level for specific uses.
Can non shrink grout be pumped long distances?
Non shrink grout can be successfully pumped moderate distances using appropriate equipment and procedures. Peristaltic pumps offer advantages for maintaining consistent flow rates and preventing segregation during transport. The key factors include maintaining proper consistency, preventing material buildup in lines, and accounting for working time limitations. Pumping distances typically range from 50-200 feet depending on the specific formulation and equipment used. Longer distances may require relay pumping or special additives to extend working time. Proper line sizing and pumping pressure management are essential for successful long-distance placement.
What happens if non shrink grout gets too much water?
Excess water in non shrink grout compromises both strength and expansion characteristics, potentially negating the benefits of the specialized formulation. Too much water reduces compressive strength, increases permeability, and can interfere with expansion mechanisms that prevent shrinkage. The result may be a material that shrinks like conventional grout while providing reduced structural performance. Most formulations specify precise water-to-powder ratios that must be maintained within narrow tolerances. If excess water is accidentally added, the affected batch should typically be discarded rather than attempting to compensate with additional powder, as this approach rarely restores proper material properties.
How long does non shrink grout take to reach full strength?
Non shrink grout typically achieves significant strength within 24 hours and continues gaining strength for 28 days, similar to conventional concrete materials. However, the expansion phase that prevents shrinkage typically occurs within the first few hours of curing. Initial set times range from 30 minutes to several hours depending on temperature and formulation. Load-bearing capability may be achieved within 24-48 hours for many applications, though full design strength requires the complete 28-day curing period. Cold weather extends curing times while warm conditions accelerate the process. Project specifications should establish appropriate curing requirements for specific applications and environmental conditions.
What equipment is needed for non shrink grout mixing?
High-shear colloidal mixers provide optimal results for non shrink grout preparation, ensuring thorough blending of all components and activation of expansion mechanisms. Conventional paddle mixers may not provide sufficient mixing energy for these specialized materials. The mixing equipment should be capable of handling the specific batch sizes required for the project while maintaining consistent quality. Additional equipment typically includes accurate batching systems for water and powder, pumping equipment for placement, and cleaning systems for equipment maintenance. The specialized nature of these materials makes equipment selection particularly important for achieving specified performance characteristics.
Can non shrink grout be used in freezing conditions?
Non shrink grout can be used in cold weather conditions with appropriate precautions and procedures. Cold temperatures slow chemical reactions, extending working time but also delaying strength gain and the expansion process. Materials may require heating, and protection from freezing during early curing is essential. Many formulations include provisions for cold weather placement, though minimum temperature limits typically apply. Hot water or heated aggregates may be necessary to achieve proper mixing and placement temperatures. Insulation or heated enclosures may be required to protect the material during initial curing. Project specifications should address cold weather procedures when applicable.
Non Shrink vs Traditional Grout Comparison
| Characteristic | Non Shrink Grout | Traditional Grout |
|---|---|---|
| Volume Change | 0 percent net shrinkage[2] | 1-3% shrinkage typical |
| Compressive Strength | 7000-10000 psi[1] | 3000-5000 psi typical |
| Bond Performance | 100 percent complete contact[4] | Contact reduced by shrinkage |
| Load Transfer | 100 percent efficiency[3] | Reduced by shrinkage gaps |
| Durability | 100 percent enhanced resistance[4] | Standard performance |
| Application Types | 20 primary applications[3] | General grouting only |
| Precision Requirements | Suitable for critical alignment | Limited precision capability |
AMIX Systems Solutions
AMIX Systems provides specialized mixing and pumping equipment designed to handle the demanding requirements of non shrink grout applications. Our colloidal mixing technology ensures thorough blending of specialized additives while maintaining the precise consistency required for optimal performance.
The Typhoon Series grout plants offer containerized solutions ideal for non shrink grout projects requiring mobility and consistent quality. These systems integrate high-shear mixing capabilities with precise batching controls, ensuring that water-to-powder ratios remain within specified tolerances throughout the project.
Our Peristaltic Pumps provide the positive displacement pumping action that non shrink grout applications often require. These pumps maintain consistent flow rates while handling the abrasive characteristics common in specialized formulations, ensuring reliable placement even in challenging conditions.
For projects requiring high-volume production, the Cyclone Series plants deliver the throughput and consistency needed for large-scale non shrink grout applications. These systems incorporate automated controls that maintain precise mixing parameters while maximizing production efficiency.
AMIX Systems also offers rental solutions for projects requiring specialized grouting equipment on a temporary basis. This option allows contractors to access high-quality mixing and pumping equipment without the capital investment, particularly valuable for specialized non shrink grout applications that may not justify equipment purchase.
Our technical team provides support for optimizing mixing parameters and pumping procedures specific to non shrink grout formulations. This expertise ensures that contractors achieve the dimensional stability and performance characteristics that make non shrink grout essential for precision applications.
Best Practices and Tips
Successful non shrink grout placement begins with proper preparation and planning. Surface preparation must ensure clean, sound substrates free from oil, loose material, or other contaminants that could interfere with bonding. Pre-wetting of dry surfaces may be necessary to prevent rapid moisture loss from the grout.
Batch size planning should account for working time limitations and placement requirements. Mixing larger batches than can be placed within working time wastes material and may compromise quality if placement is rushed. Conversely, very small batches may not activate expansion mechanisms properly.
Temperature management affects both material performance and working characteristics. Hot weather requires cooled materials and accelerated placement procedures, while cold conditions may necessitate heated components and extended curing protection. Monitoring ambient and material temperatures helps optimize placement procedures.
Proper consolidation techniques ensure complete void filling and eliminate air entrapment. Vibration may be used carefully to promote flow, but excessive vibration can cause segregation or interfere with expansion mechanisms. The fluid consistency of properly mixed non shrink grout typically provides good self-leveling characteristics.
Quality control procedures should verify expansion performance, compressive strength, and flow characteristics through field testing. These tests confirm that the material meets specification requirements and performs as expected under project conditions. Documentation of test results provides verification of proper installation procedures.
Equipment maintenance becomes particularly important when handling specialized materials. Thorough cleaning prevents contamination and buildup that could affect subsequent batches. Pump line flushing and mixer cleaning procedures should be established to maintain consistent performance throughout the project.
Final Thoughts on Non Shrink Grout
Non shrink grout represents an essential technology for modern construction applications where dimensional stability and precision are paramount. The material’s ability to maintain volume throughout curing while achieving superior strength characteristics makes it invaluable for equipment installations, structural repairs, and precision grouting applications.
Understanding the specialized requirements for mixing, pumping, and placement ensures successful project outcomes. The investment in proper equipment and procedures pays dividends through improved performance, reduced maintenance, and extended service life of grouted installations.
As structural engineering experts note, “A true non-shrink grout will not exhibit shrinkage in either the plastic or hardened stage of the curing process and will support the plant or equipment being grouted for the life of that plant or equipment, making it essential for precision alignment applications”[3].
The continued development of non shrink grout formulations and application techniques expands the range of projects that can benefit from this technology. From mining operations to infrastructure repairs, the dimensional stability and enhanced performance characteristics continue to prove valuable across diverse applications.
For contractors and engineers working with non shrink grout, partnering with experienced equipment suppliers and technical support teams ensures access to the specialized knowledge and equipment necessary for successful project completion. Contact sales@amixsystems.com to discuss your specific non shrink grout application requirements and equipment needs.
Sources & Citations
- Non-shrink grout – Wikipedia. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-shrink_grout
- Non-Shrink Grouts vs Patch Repair Mortars: How are they different?. MAPEI. https://www.mapei.com/sg/en/blog/detail/tech-talk/2019/12/27/non-shrink-grouts-vs-patch-repair-mortars-how-are-they-different
- Exploring Non-shrink Cementitious Grouts. Tremco Australia. https://www.tremco.com.au/buildsmarterblog/concrete/exploring-non-shrink-cementitious-grouts
- 5 Benefits of NS-7 and Non-Shrink Grout. Fritz-Pak. https://fritzpak.com/5-benefits-of-ns-7-and-non-shrink-grout
- Non-shrink grouts – where stability and durability are key. BASF. https://myindustryworld.basf.com/emea/en/industries/construction-additives/non-shrink-grouts