RC40 / RC45 / RC50
The “RC” series (e.g., RC40/RC45/RC50) represent high-strength ready-mix concretes with characteristic compressive strengths in the ballpark of 40-50 N/mm² (and higher for special mixes). These grades are chosen when structural loads are high, durability demands more severe, or when long-term performance is critical.
They are used in commercial/industrial builds, structural beams, major footings, roadworks and agricultural use where very heavy loads or demanding exposures exist.
Technical details
- Strength: Typically 40, 45 or 50 N/mm² (depending on design) at 28 days (or higher if specified)
- Mix designs include high cementitious content, optimised aggregate grading, admixtures (plasticisers, superplasticisers, air-entrainment or other durability enhancers) and tight quality control
- Depending on design codes (e.g., Eurocode EN 1992-1-1) the design compressive strength f_ck is used with safety factors to calculate structural design values
- These mixes often need more careful placing, compaction, curing and finishing than lower grades due to lower water/cement ratio and potential increased risk of plastic shrinkage cracking
- For heavy industrial slabs, modulus of elasticity, shrinkage behaviour, creep, fatigue and durability may all be more critical.
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Typical applications & key benefits
Typical applications
- Structural beams, columns and deep foundations in commercial or multi-storey buildings
- External paving, yards and slabs for heavy industrial usage (HGVs, plant, storage racks)
- Roadworks, vehicle loading zones, airports taxiways or hard standings
- Agricultural yards with heavy machinery, slurry exposure, or frequent load turning
- Precast concrete elements where high strength, thin sections or weight reduction is needed
Key benefits
- Higher strength ? enables slimmer structural sections, longer spans, reduced reinforcement or reduced foundation size
- Enhanced durability for demanding exposures (chemical, freeze/thaw, abrasion)
- Suitable for high-performance structural design, enabling more challenging architecture or heavier loading
- Market perception: higher grade concrete often signals quality, longevity and performance
Specification & durability considerations
- Ensure mix specification matches design drawings (strength class, exposure class, slump/consistency, admixtures)
- For heavy load slabs, design must incorporate appropriate joint spacing, reinforcement details, dowels, and consider turning/point loads
- Curing is critical: high-strength mixes benefit from effective curing regimes to avoid early age cracking and to achieve design strength
- For external slabs or aggressive environments (XD, XS exposure classes), special admixtures or surface treatments may be required
- Be aware that higher strength mixes may cost more and require more careful handling – place only when site logistics and finishing capability are suitable.
Ordering & delivery advice
Provide: design strength required (RC40/45/50), slab/beam dimensions, reinforcement/mesh or prestress details, loading (vehicle types, static/dynamic loads, turning), finish required (industrial power-float, broom, trowel, etc), access/pumping requirements, early loading or traffic timing, exposure environment (salt, frost, chemical). Site must be ready for high-spec placement (compaction, finishing, curing facilities).
