Fly ash bricks are widely used in various construction projects due to their various advantages and benefits over clay bricks. However, with so many options available on the market, selecting the right fly ash brick for your project can be tricky. This article provides a detailed guide to selecting the right fly ash brick for all your projects.
What are Fly Ash Bricks?
Fly ash bricks are a type of building material made from the by-products of coal-fired power plants. They are a sustainable alternative to traditional clay bricks. These bricks are lightweight, strong, and provide good insulation properties, making them an ideal choice for construction projects. Additionally, the use of fly ash in the production of these bricks helps reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. It decreases the carbon footprint of construction.
Things to Consider When Buying Fly Ask Bricks
Fly ash bricks offer several advantages over traditional clay bricks. However, if you are planning to use fly ash bricks for your construction project, here are some important things to consider before making your purchase:
Quality of Fly Ash Used:
The quality of the fly ash used in the production of the bricks is critical to the final quality of your project. Ensure that the fly ash used has a low carbon content. Also ensure that it is free of contaminants that may affect the strength of the brick. If possible, ask the manufacturer for their fly ash source and ensure that it complies with local regulations.
Compressive Strength:
The compressive strength of the fly ash bricks is an important factor to consider when choosing the right product. The strength of the bricks can vary depending on the production process and the quality of raw materials used. Choose a product with a minimum compressive strength of 75kg/cm².
Dimensions:
Fly ash bricks come in a variety of sizes, so it is important to choose the size that is appropriate for your project. Consider the wall thickness, length and height of the structure, and any design features that may require special size bricks.
Thermal Conductivity:
Fly ash bricks are known for their superior thermal insulation properties. The thermal conductivity of the bricks should be low enough to reduce heat transfer, which locks the heat out, making them ideal for the Indian climate.
Durability:
The durability of the fly ash bricks is crucial to ensure the longevity of the structure. Look for bricks that have low water absorption, high resistance to weathering, and a low rate of efflorescence.
Efflorescence is the formation of salt deposits on the surface of concrete and brick structures, which weakens the structure and can even risk its integrity. Therefore, it is advised to look for fly ash bricks that efflorescence at a slow rate.
Cost:
Cost is an important factor to consider when choosing fly ash bricks. Compare the cost of different brands and products to ensure you are getting the best value for your money. It is not advised to go for the cheapest product on the market. Research well, and select the one that provides the best value. Generally, fly ash bricks from popular brands cost significantly higher, but also assure quality.
Testing:
Ask the manufacturer for the test results of their fly ash bricks. These tests may include compressive strength, water absorption, thermal conductivity, and efflorescence tests. Make sure that the products meet your required specifications. With a little investment in the equipment, you can also perform these tests on your own to get more authentic test results for all your future projects.
By considering the above factors, you can ensure that you purchase high-quality fly ash bricks that are suitable for your construction project and provide long-lasting performance.
Types of Fly Ash Bricks Available in India
There are four types of fly ash bricks primarily available in India.
- Clay fly ash bricks are made from a mixture of clay and fly ash and are known for their high durability. These bricks are suitable for construction in areas that receive high rainfall and where the soil has a high clay content.
- Sand fly ash bricks are made from fly ash and sand. These bricks have a smooth surface and are suitable for use in construction projects that require a high degree of accuracy and precision.
- Cement fly ash bricks are made by mixing fly ash, cement, and water. These bricks have high compressive strength with good resistance to weathering and erosion.
- Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) fly ash bricks are made from an aerated mixture of fly ash, water, cement, and lime. As a result, they are lightweight and have excellent thermal and sound insulation properties with good fire resistance.
Advantages of Using Fly Ash Bricks in Your Projects
Using fly ash bricks in your construction projects provide various advantages since they are comparatively cheaper than clay bricks. Moreover, they come with higher better compressive strength, good insulating properties, lower water absorption, and more fire resistance than clay bricks. Additionally, they are also a low-maintenance and eco-friendly alternative to clay bricks.
Final Thoughts
When buying fly ash bricks for your project, it is always advised to analyze your requirement and then make a calculated choice by considering the quality, cost, and specifications of the brick. L&T-SuFin is a leading marketplace in India that provides a wide range of fly ash bricks to choose from, suitable for almost all types of projects. Apart from that, they also provide accurate dimensions and specifications of each fly ash brick to help you select the right one, as per your requirement.