Rapid Set® Cement — FAQs
High Performance, fast setting Cement
Q: How fast does Rapid Set® gain strength?
A: Rapid Set® Cement gains strength much faster than portland cement. In most cases, material made using Rapid Set® Cement can be put into service in as little as one hour. Rapid Set® Cement mixes will obtain strengths in one day, that an equivalent portland cement mix will take 1 month to achieve.
Q: What makes it fast?
A: It's in the chemistry. When Rapid Set® combines with water (hydrates), it forms crystalline compounds that are unique to Rapid Set®. These compounds form faster than the compounds in portland cement.
Q: Is it durable?
A: Yes! Rapid Set® Cement shrinks less and is more resistant to harsh chemical environments than portland cement. Shrinkage, attack from sulfates, and alkali reactions play a major role in concrete durability. Rapid Set® Cement outperforms the competition in all three areas.
Q: How do I buy Rapid Set® Cement? What size packaging?
A: Rapid Set® Cement is available in a variety of forms: Blended and prepackaged into our line of quality, high-performance concrete repair materials know as Rapid Set® products. Packaged as straight cement in 50 lb. bags, 88 lb. bags, and 2000 lb. bags. In bulk form delivered by tank truck or rail car.
Q: Where do I buy Rapid Set® Cement?
A: Rapid Set® Cement and blended products are distributed throughout North America. Contact CTS or your local building supply outlet for availability of Rapid Set® products.
Q: How do you mix it?
A: Rapid Set® Cement is mixed using equipment and methods common to the concrete industry. Consideration should be made for the speed of Rapid Set®. It is recommended that power- driven mechanical mixers be used to maximize the working time after mixing. Additives are available to allow for the extended mixing and transport times of high-volume applications.
Q: How do I increase the working time?
A: The working time of Rapid Set® Cement is easily modified through the use of chemical additives or by lowering the mix temperature.
Q: Is it the same color as regular concrete?
A: Rapid Set® is similar in color to portland cement. The color of portland cement varies but Rapid Set® is generally lighter and more tan in color.
Q: Can I change the color?
A: Yes. The color of Rapid Set® Cement can be easily changed using dry powder pigments designed for use in cement mixes. Due to the lighter color of Rapid Set®, the resulting colors are often more vibrant.
Q: Is this a gypsum cement?
A: Rapid Set® Cement is not a gypsum cement. Unlike gypsum, Rapid Set® Cement can be used in wet environments.
Q: Is this a modified portland cement?
A: Rapid Set® Cement is not a portland cement. It is made using similar materials and manufacturing processes but the end result is a cement of different chemistry that offers higher performance and increased durability. Rapid Set® is not an accelerated cement. It comes out of the manufacturing process with built-in performance.
Q: Can I blend Rapid Set® Cement with other cements?
A: Rapid Set® Cement is a high-quality cement that is manufactured in a tightly controlled process. CTS is not in control of the manufacturing process for other cements and therefore doesn't know the quality or contents of those cements. Blending Rapid Set® with other cements is not recommended.
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