Aggregate Sieve Analysis: Procedure, Calculations and How to Read the Results
Aggregate sieve analysis determines how particles in a sample are distributed across different sizes. Laboratories use the results to assess aggregate gradation, compare batches, and check whether a material meets the requirements of a project specification.
The test produces a record of the mass retained on each sieve, the percentage retained, and the percentage passing. This guide explains how the test works, how to calculate the results, and what to check before interpreting them.
What Is Aggregate Sieve Analysis?
Aggregate sieve analysis, also called an aggregate gradation test, separates a representative sample using a stack of sieves with progressively smaller openings. Larger particles remain on the upper sieves, while smaller particles pass through to the sieves below.
After sieving, the material retained on each sieve is weighed. These masses are used to calculate the particle size distribution of the aggregate. The result is usually presented in a table or as a gradation curve.
Sieve analysis describes particle size distribution. It does not, by itself, measure aggregate strength, shape, cleanliness, or suitability for every intended use.
Why Does Aggregate Gradation Matter?
Particle size distribution affects how aggregate particles fit together in a mixture. For concrete and asphalt producers, gradation data supports mixture design and routine production control. It also helps laboratories identify changes between deliveries or production batches.
An acceptable result depends on the material’s intended use and the specification that applies to the project. There is no single grading limit that fits every aggregate.
Which Standards Cover Aggregate Sieve Analysis?
ASTM C136/C136M covers sieve analysis of fine and coarse aggregates. EN 933-1 addresses the determination of aggregate particle size distribution by the sieving method.
Laboratories should use the edition and full procedure required by their contract, accreditation scope, or local specification. The test method explains how to obtain the result; the applicable material or project specification determines whether the result is acceptable.
This article is an introduction, not a replacement for either standard.
Equipment Needed for Aggregate Sieve Analysis
A typical laboratory setup includes:
- A representative aggregate sample prepared for the required test method
- Test sieves with openings specified for the material and project
- A receiving pan and lid
- A balance suitable for the required sample mass and precision
- Sample preparation equipment, where required
- A sieve shaker suitable for the sieve sizes and sample load
- A results sheet or laboratory software for recording masses and calculations
The sieve stack, sample mass, and preparation steps must follow the applicable method. For some materials, measuring very fine particles requires additional washing or preparation; dry sieving alone should not be assumed to capture every fine fraction.
Aggregate Sieve Analysis Procedure
Obtain and reduce the aggregate sample according to the specified sampling and preparation procedures. A well-run sieve test cannot correct a sample that does not represent the material being assessed.
Choose the sieve openings required by the test method and the relevant grading specification. Arrange the sieves from the largest opening at the top to the smallest at the bottom, with a receiving pan below.
Measure and record the mass of the prepared test portion before sieving. Keep the same mass units throughout the calculations.
Place the sample on the top sieve, secure the stack, and run the test using the procedure required by the applicable method. The equipment must accommodate the sieve dimensions and sample load without overloading individual sieves.
Carefully collect and weigh the material retained on each sieve and in the pan. Record every mass against the correct sieve opening.
Add the retained masses and compare the total with the initial sample mass. Investigate unexplained losses, spills, or recording errors before reporting the result. Apply the acceptance criteria in the governing test method.
How to Calculate Percent Retained and Percent Passing
For this introductory example, percentages are calculated using the total recovered mass. For a reportable test, follow the calculation and reporting requirements of the governing method.
Percent retained = (Mass retained on a sieve ÷ Total recovered mass) × 100
Cumulative percent retained = Sum of the percentages retained on that sieve and all larger sieves
Percent passing = 100 − Cumulative percent retained
Percent passing is also called percent finer. It indicates what share of the recovered sample passed through a particular sieve.
Worked Sieve Analysis Example
The figures below are illustrative only. They demonstrate the calculation and are not a prescribed sieve series, test portion, or grading requirement.
| Sieve | Mass Retained (g) | Percent Retained | Cumulative Retained | Percent Passing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19 mm | 0 | 0% | 0% | 100% |
| 9.5 mm | 120 | 12% | 12% | 88% |
| 4.75 mm | 280 | 28% | 40% | 60% |
| 2.36 mm | 350 | 35% | 75% | 25% |
| Pan | 250 | 25% | 100% | 0% |
| Total | 1,000 | 100% | — | — |
For the 4.75 mm sieve, the material retained on that sieve is 280 g:
(280 ÷ 1,000) × 100 = 28% retained
Adding the percentages retained on the 19 mm, 9.5 mm, and 4.75 mm sieves gives 40% cumulative retained. Therefore, 60% passes the 4.75 mm sieve.
For a reportable test, use the required sieve series, precision, calculations, and reporting rules of the specified method.
How to Read an Aggregate Gradation Curve
A gradation curve plots sieve opening against percent passing. It makes the distribution easier to compare with another sample or with the upper and lower limits in a project specification.
When reviewing the curve, ask:
- Does the result fall within the grading limits that apply to this material?
- Has the distribution shifted compared with earlier production batches?
- Are there unexpected gaps or concentrations in particular size fractions?
- Were sample preparation, sieving, and weighing performed consistently?
A curve outside the specified limits calls for investigation. The curve alone does not reveal whether the cause was aggregate production, sampling, or the test procedure.
Common Mistakes That Affect Sieve Analysis Results
Accurate weighing cannot make an unrepresentative test portion reliable.
Excess material can prevent particles from separating effectively.
Check both the opening sizes and their order before starting.
Material left in a container, spilled between sieves, or omitted from the pan changes the mass balance.
Follow the specified method when washing or other preparation is required to measure fines appropriately.
Assess the result against the specification for the actual material and application.
Choosing a Sieve Shaker for the Laboratory
Choose a sieve shaker around the test portion, sieve format, and testing workload. Check the supported sieve dimensions, sample capacity, suitability for wet or dry testing where needed, and compatibility with the laboratory’s procedure.
For routine laboratory sieve stacks, BESMAK’s Electromechanical Sieve Shaker BGE-611 supports several circular sieve diameters and wet sieving applications.
For larger aggregate batches, the High Capacity Sieve Shaker BAG-414 is designed for high-volume gradation work with its specified sieve format and sample capacity.
Confirm the configuration against the test method and sample requirements before selecting equipment.
Explore BESMAK’s aggregate testing equipment or contact the team with your required standard, sieve sizes, and typical sample mass to identify a suitable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Percent retained is the share of the sample captured on a particular sieve. Percent passing is the share that passes through that sieve. Subtract cumulative percent retained from 100% to calculate percent passing.
Sieve analysis is a test method used to determine gradation. Gradation is the resulting distribution of particle sizes in the aggregate.
No. The sieve dimensions, sample mass, test method, and any wet sieving requirements must match the equipment’s capabilities.
It shows particle size distribution. Acceptability requires comparison with the applicable grading specification and may also depend on other required aggregate tests.