How to Determine Hollow Block Wal Thickness
Hollow block wall thickness depends on the product's intended use, applicable requirements and production conditions. Learn how face shell and web dimensions are defined before mould manufacturing.
What Does Hollow Block Wall Thickness Mean?
Hollow concrete blocks contain outer face shells and internal webs separating the cavities. Face shell thickness and web thickness are different dimensions, and both should be specified in the product drawing.
The overall width of a block is not its wall thickness. Two blocks with the same external dimensions may have different face shells, webs and cavity arrangements.
How Should Face Shell and Web Thicknesses Be Selected?
Start with the intended use of the block and the requirements applicable to the project and destination market. Loadbearing masonry, non-loadbearing partitions and other applications may require different product specifications.
There is no single minimum wall thickness that can be applied to every hollow concrete block. Where a product standard is specified, confirm its scope, edition, dimensional requirements and measurement method before approving the design.
Thickness alone does not establish strength, thermal insulation or fire performance. These characteristics depend on the materials, manufacturing process and, where relevant, the complete wall system.
Material Consumption and Production Conditions
For the same external dimensions and concrete density, thicker face shells or webs generally increase the concrete volume and block weight. Reducing these dimensions may reduce material consumption, but the product must still meet its specified requirements.
Narrow sections can also make filling and compaction more demanding. Aggregate size and grading, mix characteristics and machine operation should therefore be considered when reviewing the proposed dimensions.
For the relationship between cavity arrangement, concrete volume and mould design, see our guide to hollow block cavity geometry and mould design.
Specify the Dimensions in the Mould Drawing
The approved product drawing should show the block's external dimensions, height, face shell thicknesses, web thicknesses and cavity positions. Where dimensions change through the block height, identify the relevant sections and measurement locations.
Block Mould prepares the mould box, core-forming components and tamper shoes according to the approved geometry and machine configuration. Finished product dimensions should be checked during production, alongside the relevant product quality requirements.
To request a quotation, send your dimensioned block drawing, required product height, machine brand and exact model, and production board dimensions. For an existing block, include clear photographs and measurements of its face shells, webs and cavities.
Contact us to discuss your project and request a quotation.