When it comes to evaluating the performance of concrete in construction, flexural strength testing plays a critical role. The ASTM C78/C78M standard, also known as the Standard Test Method for Flexural Strength of Concrete (Using Simple Beam with Third-Point Loading), is widely used by geotechnical engineers and construction materials testing (CMT) firms.
This test provides data on how concrete will perform under bending stresses—information essential for roadways, slabs, beams, and other structural elements subject to flexural loads.
However, while the test procedure itself is standardized, managing the associated field data, calculations, and reporting can be cumbersome when done manually or with outdated software. That’s where Aldoa’s Field Data Management Software comes in—helping labs and engineers collect, calculate, and report ASTM C78 test results more efficiently.
The ASTM C78/C78M standard defines a procedure for determining the flexural strength of concrete using a simple beam with third-point loading.
Test Objective: Measure the modulus of rupture (MOR), which represents the tensile strength of concrete in bending.
Specimens Used: Typically, beams measuring 6 x 6 x 21 inches or similar, depending on project requirements.
Applications: Pavements, slabs-on-grade, bridge decks, and structural beams.
This test is particularly valuable in highway and pavement design, where flexural strength is often more relevant than compressive strength.
The test involves recording and calculating multiple parameters, including:
| Parameter | Description | Example Field Type in Aldoa |
|---|---|---|
| Date Sampled / Tested | Tracking specimen age | Date field |
| Age | Calculated from sampling to testing | Auto-calculated field |
| Average Depth (d) | Average cross-section depth of beam | Number field (in) |
| Average Width (b) | Average cross-section width of beam | Number field (in) |
| Span Length (L) | Support span for testing | Number field (in) |
| Maximum Load (P) | Force applied until fracture | Number field (N) |
| Distance Between Fracture | Location of fracture relative to supports | Number field (in) |
| Modulus of Rupture (MOR) | Calculated flexural strength = (P × L) ÷ (b × d²) | Calculated field |
Traditionally, technicians have to manually record these values, then calculate MOR using formulas, which risks errors and slows down reporting.
Many CMT and geotechnical labs still rely on spreadsheets, paper forms, or rigid legacy software. Common challenges include:
Manual Data Entry: Increased chance of transcription errors.
Time-Consuming Calculations: Engineers must manually compute modulus of rupture and verify units.
Reporting Delays: Preparing ASTM-compliant reports often requires reformatting data.
Limited Traceability: Difficulty tracking specimen IDs, curing history, and test modifications across projects.
Aldoa’s Field Data Collection and Reporting Platform eliminates inefficiencies by digitizing ASTM test workflows:
Your technicians can input data directly into custom digital forms, like the one shown above, with built-in validation to reduce errors.
Required fields ensure complete records.
Dropdowns simplify ASTM specification selections.
Date fields auto-calculate specimen age.
Aldoa automatically computes modulus of rupture (MOR) using the standard formula:
This eliminates errors and saves time, ensuring every result is ASTM-compliant.
The software supports unit assignment (inches, Newtons, psi), ensuring consistency across projects and preventing reporting errors.
Technicians can enter results in the lab or field using any device. Data syncs instantly to the cloud, making it accessible to project managers and engineers in real time.
With one click, Aldoa generates professional ASTM C78 reports—including all specimen data, calculations, and results—ready for client delivery.
| Benefit | Impact |
|---|---|
| Faster Testing Workflows | Reduce data entry and calculation time. |
| Improved Accuracy | Automated formulas reduce human error. |
| ASTM Compliance | Standardized forms ensure consistent reporting. |
| Better Project Management | Real-time access to test data. |
| Client Satisfaction | Faster turnaround on reports builds trust. |
Technician records specimen dimensions and load in Aldoa’s ASTM C78/C78M form.
Age is auto-calculated from sampling and testing dates.
MOR is automatically computed using maximum load, span, width, and depth.
Unique specimen ID ensures full traceability across the project.
Final report is generated instantly with all test results.
With growing demands in infrastructure development, DOT compliance, and quality assurance in concrete pavements, ASTM C78 testing is increasingly important for project success. Firms need faster, more accurate workflows to keep up with client expectations and regulatory requirements.
Aldoa empowers firms to do just that—by combining field data collection, automated calculations, and reporting in one platform.
The ASTM C78/C78M Flexural Strength Test is a cornerstone in concrete performance evaluation. But the process of recording, calculating, and reporting results doesn’t have to be complicated.
With Aldoa, geotechnical and CMT firms can:
Digitize ASTM test forms.
Automate modulus of rupture calculations.
Generate ASTM-compliant reports instantly.
By reducing errors and saving time, Aldoa helps labs focus on what matters most—delivering accurate, reliable test results to clients.
Ready to streamline your ASTM C78 testing workflows? Book a demo with Aldoa today.
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