ACI Concrete Strength Testing Technician Practice Test

Pads with cracks or splits exceeding what size in length or depth must be replaced?

1. 1/4 in.

2. 3/8 in.

3. 1/2 in.

4. 5/8 in.

The correct answer is: 3/8 in.

The correct choice is based on the industry standard guidelines for concrete strength testing and equipment maintenance. Pads that exhibit cracks or splits can significantly affect the accuracy and reliability of compressive strength tests performed on concrete samples. When a pad has cracks or splits that exceed a specific threshold—in this case, 3/8 inches—it can lead to uneven pressure distribution during testing, which may compromise the integrity of the test results. Pads that are in good condition are crucial for ensuring that loads are applied uniformly across the concrete specimen. The specified threshold of 3/8 inches aligns with best practices and helps maintain the quality of testing procedures. Choosing a limit like 1/4 inches would not adequately account for potential variations and damage that could impair performance, while larger values like 1/2 inches or 5/8 inches would be too lenient and could allow for unacceptable variability in test outcomes. Hence, the selected threshold represents a balance between maintaining equipment integrity and ensuring reliable test results.