What is the best concrete repair mix? Repair mixes for concrete Composition for repair of concrete walls

Repair mixtures are designed to eliminate various defects in concrete structures. Special compositions can be used in winter and summer, they tolerate temperature extremes well, let water vapor through, are not afraid of mold and fungus, have increased adhesion, and provide a quick and durable connection.

The widespread use of concrete is due to a large set of advantages: strength, incombustibility, durability and low cost. Gradually, under the influence of various factors, the structures begin to collapse. The reasons are different: non-observance of proportions during mixing, violation of the mortar laying technology, mechanical damage, aggressive external environment. As a result, the material loses its design characteristics, cracks and chips are formed.

Additional concreting usually does not give good results, so it is better to purchase specialized mixtures for repairs. They help to quickly restore the geometric parameters and performance.

Situations in which it is advisable to use them:

  • multiple chips in the floor;
  • recesses exposing the reinforcing cage;
  • cracks with a width of more than 0.5 mm;
  • significant dust formation;
  • base corrosion (deep or surface);
  • other defects larger than 0.3 mm.

Types and characteristics of mixtures

In the distribution network they are sold in the form of dry powders, which are enough to be diluted with water in certain proportions. Ready mortar fills the free space in concrete, reliably seals and strengthens the defective surface. To impart special qualities (frost resistance, moisture resistance, high hardening rate), various plasticizers, modifying additives, and granular aggregates are used.

All of them are conditionally classified according to several criteria.

1. By the complexity of the composition.

  • One-component - cement with different fineness of the filler.
  • Two-component - epoxy of varying degrees of fluidity.
  • Multicomponent - polyurethane liquid.

2. According to the degree of compression.

  • Shrinkage - mixtures that shrink when cured in air. When shrinking, it is difficult to calculate in advance the required number of layers. Depending on the complexity of the repair, it is additionally applied 1-2 times. The main advantage is the low price.
  • Non-shrinking - includes special additives with an expanding reagent. This allows you to get a non-separating and mobile solution that does not shrink and quickly hardens. With it, you can easily repair any base, which in the end is strong and durable. Of the shortcomings, only the high price.

3. By appointment.

  • Compositions for concrete structures subjected to increased mechanical loads: load-bearing walls, floor slabs, beams, columns.
  • Mixtures for strengthening reinforced concrete elements against corrosion, as well as protection against fungus and mold.
  • Means of increased strength for road surfaces and screeds. In winter, they provide additional protection from frost.

4. According to the conditions of use.

  • Molded - for screeds and other horizontal planes.
  • Thixotropic - to correct defects on the walls.
  • Frost-resistant - for concrete surfaces on the street.
  • Fast-hardening - for urgent repairs and elimination of leaks.
  • Industrial and domestic purposes.

With the help of bulk (injection) types, planes up to 100 mm thick can be repaired. Fast-hardening compounds are used for a working layer of not more than 40 mm.

How to choose mixes for concrete?

When buying, you need to proceed from the nature of the defect, the size of the damaged area and the operating conditions. It is better to choose solutions that, after setting, do not exfoliate and do not shrink.

Of great importance is the compatibility of the composition with the work surface and the level of adhesion. Large manufacturers in the product line always have branded deep penetration soil mixtures that bind concrete and provide reliable adhesion.

When choosing, you need to take into account the scale of the repair. Deep cracks, potholes and pronounced drops are leveled with coarse-grained mortars or reinforced with fiberglass. For small chips and cracks, it is better to buy a version of increased plasticity with a content of small fractions.

If concrete is used outdoors, in damp and other extreme conditions, then the compositions must contain additives that give special characteristics (frost resistance, water resistance, etc.). Properly selected products and strict adherence to the instructions for use are a guarantee of strength and durability.

Repair Technology

To correct large defects and level differences, inexpensive sand-cement mixtures are most often used.

  • Clean the work surface from dust and debris and degrease.
  • For better adhesion, treat the concrete with an epoxy primer.
  • Estimate the scale of the repair and make a calculation of the required composition. Experts recommend maintaining the thickness of the screed within 40 mm.
  • Set control beacons and lay the solution.
  • Remove excess and level with a rail.
  • Cover the finished plane with plastic wrap and leave for 2 weeks to gain strength. During this time, the concrete is periodically (more often in summer) moistened with water to avoid cracking.

If the size of the defects is insignificant, then for horizontal planes it is better to buy self-leveling bulk types with increased plasticity.

2. Crack repair.

First, all slots are widened and cleaned. To do this, you need to cut grooves around them to a depth of not more than 50 mm. It is convenient to do this with a diamond wheel or a grinder. Then select the debris with a chisel or perforator. Clean the working area with compressed air or with a vacuum cleaner, prime and apply the product.

  • Gradually fill cracks on horizontal and inclined surfaces with mortar, without exerting strong pressure on it.
  • To eliminate cracks on vertical planes, dry mixes of fast hardening should be used.
  • Internal voids and very deep cracks are filled by injection, using a special device for this - a packer. Remove excess compound acting under pressure with a rail.

After hardening, the surface is polished.

Overview of popular brands

The manufacturer is the Russian company Basf. Mixtures are used to repair defects of varying degrees of complexity.

  • Emako N 5100 is chosen for minor damage: cracks, shells, dust formation.
  • Emaco N 900 and N 5200 are recommended for defects of moderate severity: small chips, crumbled areas.
  • Emaco S 5400, S 488 are designed to eliminate the consequences of corrosion, remove cracks up to 40 mm deep.
  • Emako T 1100 TIX, S 466, S 560FR, A 640 - for heavily damaged structures with open reinforcement and deep chips.

2. Consolidation Bars.

The Russian-made composition is excellent for restoring vertical and horizontal surfaces. It sets quickly and does not shrink. Possesses high degree of adhesion with concrete.

  • Bulk - for horizontal and inclined planes.
  • Thixtotropic - for the restoration of walls and various vertical surfaces. The line is represented by repair, finishing, reinforcing and moisture resistant coatings.

A product of domestic production, intended for the reconstruction of concrete of any complexity.

  • Birss 28,29,30,30N - for light repairs of cracks and crumbling surfaces.
  • 30S1, 58S1, 59S2 - for the restoration of structures of an average degree of deterioration.
  • 59С3, 59Ц - options for serious damage.
  • RSM, RBM, 600VRS are used in cases of severe damage.

4. Knauf Flahendicht.

Specially designed for repairing concrete defects. Gives the planes steam and water resistance. Among the many positive characteristics are the absence of toxic components and small volumes of packages (5-6 kg). Equally used outdoors and indoors.

5. Ceresite CX5.

Restoring mix for repair of concrete products in the conditions of the increased humidity. It does not shrink during hardening and reliably protects against high and low temperatures.

6. Founding.

  • Innoline NC60 is a grout used for the restoration of all types of surfaces. It is successfully applied to installation and fixing of the heavy equipment on the concrete basis.
  • Selform T112 - for walls and floors. Features excellent grip and water repellency.

Price

Name Packaging, kg Price per package, rubles
Emako 25 850-1700
birss 50 400-450
Knauf 5 350-450
ceresite 25 2700-3500
Consolit Bars 30 800-1500
Founds Innoline NC60 25 800-1200
Founding Selform T112 20 160-250
SW 25 240-260
mapei 25 850-1300
Alit 25 1100-1700

Potholes, chips, cracks - all this can happen to any concrete surface. In this article we will tell you how and with what mixtures you can repair concrete.

Types of repair compounds

Concrete is known for its strength, reliability and durability. However, under the influence of various factors over time, it begins to collapse. The reason for this may be poor-quality installation, non-compliance with the proportions of the components, aggressive external environment, mechanical damage. Defects can be eliminated with the help of special repair compounds.

In order to prepare the composition, you need to mix the dry repair mixture with water. A variant is possible with the use of special additives that improve some of the characteristics of concrete. Ready-made compounds are used to repair floors, walls, stairs, bridges, roads and other concrete structures.

All repair mixtures can be conditionally divided according to their purpose:

  • for the repair of load-bearing concrete structures, for example, columns, beams, floor slabs;
  • for the repair of roads and concrete floors;
  • to protect concrete structures from corrosion.

A fairly wide range of repair compounds with different properties is presented on the market, from various domestic and global manufacturers. Accordingly, their quality and price category can vary quite significantly.

Repair compounds must provide high adhesion to concrete, non-shrinkage and absolute compatibility with it. With their help, the bearing capacity of structures is restored, water resistance, frost resistance and concrete strength are increased. In addition, they must be affordable and economically viable.

According to international and domestic experience, it has been proven that the use of repair mixtures is more effective than the use of traditional cement-sand mortars.

Repair mixes for concrete are divided into thixotropic and casting mixes. The former are used for vertical surfaces, the latter for horizontal ones. You can increase the reinforcing properties with the help of fiberglass.

How to choose a repair compound

Several factors influence the choice of repair composition:

  • damage type
  • defect size
  • terms of Use

There are three main types of repairs:

  • reinforcement of the concrete surface
  • leveling the concrete surface
  • crack repair

To strengthen concrete, which carries heavy loads and has a fragile surface (screed, floor slabs), deep penetration primers are usually used.

The most common type of concrete repair is leveling unevenness. The sealing of vertical surfaces is carried out using thixotropic dry mixes. They perfectly cling to the surface, hold well on them and do not blur. They have minimal shrinkage and high characteristics in terms of strength, water and frost resistance.

Particularly critical areas require the addition of reinforced fiberglass. Quick repair is provided by special compounds. Their curing time is up to 6 hours. But they have a limitation on the thickness of the layer - up to 30-40 mm.

Horizontal surfaces are leveled with casting mixtures. They are more liquid and, due to this, they are simply poured onto the surface. The mixture sets quickly, has minimal shrinkage and is quite strong. One layer can be laid up to 10 cm thick.

Leveling compounds are also used to repair cracks in concrete.

The choice of repair composition is influenced by the operating conditions of the structure. If necessary, components can be added to the mixture that enhance various properties, for example, water resistance or quick solidification.

The most famous manufacturers of repair mixtures are BASF, MAPEI, SIKA, from Russian ones - Lakhta, Alit, Konsolit, SpetsRemSmes.

floor leveling

To level the floor, it is necessary to prepare a cement-sand screed. The concrete surface is pre-cleaned of dust and treated with a primer. After that, they are determined with the point at which the floor will be leveled, beacons are installed at the laser level.

Next, the screed is poured. Its maximum height should not exceed 35-40 mm. The pre-mixed solution is poured onto the surface and leveled with a spatula. On the second day, the beacons are removed and the seams are sealed with a rubbing solution.

The screed should dry well. This may take up to 2 weeks. The screed is covered with a film, and the surface itself is periodically moistened with water. Thanks to this, it will become stronger and will not crack.

Horizontal surfaces can be repaired using a self-levelling compound. They are used in the presence of small defects and uneven areas. The end result is a perfectly flat surface.

To level the floor, I use the following mixtures: VOLMA-Nivelir Express (cost - 14 rubles / kg), Vetonit-2000 (17 rubles / kg), KESTONIT 97 (39 rubles / kg).

Floor pothole repair

At the beginning of work, small incisions are made around the damage using a diamond disc or grinder. Then, the remains of damaged concrete are removed with a chisel and a perforator, the surface is cleaned of dust. For better adhesion of the composition to concrete, a special epoxy primer is applied to the surface.

After applying the solution, it is necessary to remove its excess and level the surface with a rail. After complete drying, the composition becomes as durable as possible. The closed place is polished.

The following mixtures are suitable for filling potholes: IVSIL EXPRESS-BASIS (cost - 10 rubles / kg), Thomsit RS 88 (30 rubles / kg), LAKHTA Quick Repair (80 rubles / kg).

Crack repair

Cracks appear in concrete due to various reasons. Over time, they can grow, destroying the whole structure. This defect must be repaired.

Vertical cracks are repaired by the injection method. When using the injection method, the composition is pumped into the fracture using special equipment - a packer.

Surface cracks, which usually form on inclined and horizontal surfaces, are repaired by the saturation method. In this case, the cracks are impregnated with a mixture without pressure.

There is another way to fix cracks. At the beginning of the work, the crack is sawn 25-50 mm deep and 10-20 mm wide. Excess concrete must be removed and the crack blown out of dust and dirt. The cut is filled with a repair mixture. In the event that the concrete crumbles, it is worth using a better mixture, if it practically does not dust, a cheaper agent will do.

The following mixtures can be used to repair cracks: LAKHTA basic repair compound (cost - 57 rubles / kg), BASF MasterEmaco S 488 (33 rubles / kg), Sika Monotop 612 (86 rubles / kg).

Comparative table of technical characteristics of dry repair mortars:

Options "LAKHTA repair composition basic" BASF MasterEmaco S 488 Sika Monotop 612
Material consumption, kg / dm 3 1,6-1,7 1,9 2,11
Water consumption, l/kg 0,13 0,145-1,6 0,1-0,115
Adhesion strength with concrete after 28 days, MPa, not less than 1,5 2,5 1,5-2,5
Bending strength after 28 days, MPa, not less than 8 8 7-9
Water resistance mark not less than W12 W16 W16
Application temperature, °C +5 to +35 from +5 to +50 +5 to +35
Cost, rub./kg 57 33 86

The main technical characteristics presented in this table will help you choose the best repair mortar for your needs.

The right mixture for concrete repair and the quality of the work performed guarantee an excellent end result.

Andrey Badovsky, rmnt.ru

No construction industry is complete without concrete. This material is highly durable, it is reliable and durable, so no replacement has yet been found for it. However, even the most durable concrete structures break down over time. And there can be a lot of reasons for the formation of cracks, chips and other defects. This is the influence of the environment and mechanical influences, violation of the technology of mixing the main elements of the solution, loads, and the like.

To restore the original properties of the material, repair mixes for concrete are used.



Peculiarities

After the creation of mixtures for the reconstruction of concrete, the builders no longer needed to completely replace the deformed sections. Now, thanks to special repair substances, it is possible not to spend large sums and time to restore the original parameters of the concrete system. With the help of restorative mixtures, a defective product receives an attractive appearance and returns to its original properties.

The composition of the repair joints is designed in such a way that the concrete base and the mixture itself reliably adhere to each other. After they have completely solidified, you can not worry that the updated system will soon become unusable. High-quality repair mixtures from well-known manufacturers do not need to be replaced quickly, since they differ in a number of positive properties.

Among them:

  • frost resistance;
  • resistance to sharp drops and rises in temperature;
  • vapor permeability;
  • long period of service;
  • high level of adhesion;
  • antiseptic abilities;
  • water repellency.


Indications for use

The repair mixture is used if a large number of cracks, potholes and other defects have appeared on the concrete surface, which are open by 0.3 mm or more. In addition, almost all concrete structures are characterized by increased dust formation, this fact is also an indicator for the use of a repair compound.

Concrete structures can become covered with voids, suffer from rust, and a variety of defects can form on them. All these moments serve as an occasion for the use of a restorative composition.




Classification

In most cases, repair mixtures are sold in the form of a powder, which must be diluted with water before use. Some manufacturers add certain components to their products to improve the properties of the concrete base.

Repair substances are classified according to their destination:

  1. for the regeneration of concrete systems that are under load, such as load-bearing building structures, beams, columns;
  2. for the reconstruction of floor coverings made of concrete;
  3. to protect reinforced concrete structures from rust.

In addition, there is a division into dry mixes and casting mixes.

Dry mixes are used to restore the original properties of concrete and strengthen solid structures.

Resistance to the most severe frosts and high strength make it possible to use these products for the repair of systems that are regularly under the negative influence of natural phenomena and constant loads.

Due to such parameters as strength and endurance in conditions of high humidity, concrete is often waterproofed with restorative materials. Dry material is environmentally friendly, safe for human health, therefore it can be used for domestic purposes, for example, to restore the previous type of containers for supplying drinking water.

The last criterion determines the division of repair mixtures into industrial and household ones.



Casting masses are used to fill cracks and small pits previously cleared of dirt. They expand during pouring, reliably stick together with concrete, and practically do not shrink when solidified. Filling the formed voids, the solution hermetically closes and seals the damaged area. Casting mixtures restore horizontal planes.

According to the complexity of the initial composition, mixtures are distinguished:

  • monocomponent- cement compositions with large and small particles;
  • two-component– prepared using synthetic resins;
  • multicomponent– liquid polymeric repair masses.



The modern market also provides restorative compounds for concrete with limited operating conditions.

Fast-acting mortar for repairing concrete substrates

The name itself suggests that such products quickly dry and harden. As a rule, 30 minutes after pouring, work can be carried out using heavy loading equipment.

These types of mixtures help out a lot when it is necessary to make repairs as soon as possible. For example, in factory warehouses, where various goods are constantly moving, and downtime due to forced repairs will become a real disaster. If you need to repair the concrete structure as quickly as possible, but at the same time qualitatively, then high-speed mixtures are the best solution.


Non-shrink repair product

Shrinkage is called deformation, manifested as a result of a reduction in the amount of cement stone in the concrete solution. They are formed during the evaporation of water from the adhesive mixture, therefore, the more liquid is required for the mortar, the deeper the shrinkage will be.

A simple building mixture shrinks up to 5 mm, which is considered a rather large figure in the construction business. Such shrinkage can provoke the appearance of shrinkage cracks.

To prevent premature destruction of the concrete system, it is precisely a non-shrinking repair material that is used.


Thixotropic compound

This type of repair substance was created specifically for the repair of vertical surfaces and walls that are at an angle. Due to the design features, it does not need the use of an auxiliary crate.

The high viscosity of the substance does not allow it to spread outside the treated area.


frost-resistant

Can be used in winter at low temperatures.


Manufacturers

The modern market is distinguished by a wide range of different restoration compounds for concrete structures that have lost their original appearance and characteristics. They differ in composition, functionality, consumption, cost, quantity in the package and, of course, the name of the manufacturer.

To date, several manufacturers are considered the most successful in sales, and, consequently, the highest quality, according to consumers.

Domestic repair mixture Emaco

It is used to improve the properties of concrete products that have minor damage. The components of the dry mixtures of the company are: fine quartz, polymer additives are viscous, non-toxic and absolutely safe for humans. The solution eliminates large and deep cracks from 2 mm to 2 cm formed on concrete foundations.

Repair compositions "Emaco" have increased resistance to low temperatures, so they can remove flaws in concrete systems even in winter.


Birss - Russia

The frost resistance of the compositions of this brand allows you to perform regenerating work at sub-zero temperatures. Products for the restoration of the trade mark "Birss" are durable and water resistant.



Consolit Bars

Worthy representative of domestic market producers. The brand's products are ideal for the regeneration of various concrete systems. Does not sag during hardening, adheres strongly to concrete.



Ceresit CN 83

The masonry mix is ​​calculated on operation in the conditions of high degree of humidity. It does not shrink when it freezes. After complete hardening, a coating is formed that is resistant to moisture and low temperature, all flaws are closed.


Knauf

Ideal for waterproofing concrete. In addition to leveling the surface, the mixture gives moisture resistance to the structure and vapor impermeability. The main advantage of the building material is the absence of toxic components and convenient packaging of 5 kg, you can work with it both indoors and outdoors.


Indastro

Another representative of Russian manufacturers. Repair mortar NC60 is a material that can be used to recreate a variety of concrete surfaces.

The advantage of this product is that it is used not only for restoration work, but also for installation, for example, the construction of buildings on a concrete foundation.


Mapei - Italy

The manufacturer promises an easy reconstruction of concrete. Brand solutions shrink a little when solidified, but do not crack, surfaces do not wear out for a long time. The SW series is applied on reinforced concrete products.

Concrete surfaces and structures have the qualities of durability and high strength, however, during long-term operation or significant loads, damage and cracks appear on them. In this case, a repair mix for concrete will help. However, before purchasing it, it is important to consider the features and quality characteristics of each brand.

Characteristics of repair mixtures

A mixture intended for the restoration of concrete structures and surfaces must be resistant to frost and temperature extremes. Among other things, it must have a high level of adhesion, as well as demonstrate durability. The composition must have antiseptic properties and vapor permeability. After application to the surface, the mixture should cope well with the effects of water.

Indications for the use of the repair mixture

It is applied when there are a large number of potholes and defects on the base. Such compositions are used when the cracks are open by 0.3 millimeters or more. Quite often, concrete is characterized by increased dust formation, while the use of a repair mixture is also indicated. The design can be covered with voids, corrode, it can have all sorts of defects. In all these cases, it is recommended to use a repair mixture.

Manufacturers of repair mixtures

Repair mix for concrete "Emako" is produced in Russia. It is used to restore concrete structures that have serious or minor damage. This composition is able to eliminate five different degrees of damage.

The first degree involves the presence of shells, shrinkage cracks, as well as pollution. The maximum depth of damage in this case is 5 millimeters. To eliminate such errors, a mixture of brand Emaco N 5100 should be used.

The second degree of damage includes peeling of the surface and the presence of minor chips. In order to get rid of such shortcomings, you should use the compositions of the brands Emaco N 900 and Emaco N 5200.

The third degree involves the occurrence of cracks within 1-2 millimeters and rust. The maximum depth of damage in this case is 40 millimeters. If you choose repair mixes for concrete restoration with such errors, then it would be best to purchase compositions of the brands Emaco S 488 PG, Emaco S 5400 and Emaco S 488.

The fourth degree is cracks that are larger than 0.2 millimeters. In this case, bare reinforcement may appear and carbonization can be noted. The maximum depth of damage is 10 cm. It is best to purchase mixtures of Emaco T1100 TIX, Emaco S560FR or Emaco S 466 to repair such damage.

The most recent destruction belongs to the fifth degree. In this case, the reinforcement may be exposed, there may be deep cracks on the surface. The depth of damage in this case exceeds 20 cm. The Emaco Nanocrete AP mixture will help protect against the effects of corrosion on the reinforcement. If you decide to use the repair compounds of the above brands, then you will have to pay from 13 to 26 dollars for 25 kg.

Repair mixes brand "Birss"

Repair mixes for concrete restoration are produced by the Birss company, which is located in Russia. These compositions are intended for the restoration of structures and If there is a need to cope with damage to the first degree, then the mixtures "Birss 28", "Birss 29" can be used. Whereas the compositions "Birss 30 C1" and "Birss 58 C1" will allow you to cope with the second degree.

This manufacturer has repair mixtures for all degrees of damage. The main advantages are salt resistance, high adhesion, water resistance, frost resistance, density and elasticity, as well as wear and shrinkage resistance. The price of such mixtures is much lower and is equal to $ 6 per 50 kg.

Features of repair mixtures "Bars"

Repair mix for concrete "Bars" is easy to apply and can be used to repair horizontal and vertical surfaces. These compositions can even be applied to old concrete coatings. On sale are mixtures of bulk and thixotropic type. The latter variety includes the composition of the Bars 102 B45 brand, it should be applied to the surface with a layer whose thickness varies from 2 to 4 cm. The composition contains non-shrinking components, as well as reinforcing fibers. The price compared to other mixtures is considered average and is equal to $ 13 per 30 kg. If there is a need to eliminate water leaks in the concrete structure, then the Bars 113 console should be used, this mixture has additional qualities of strength and the ability to expand.

Features of repair mixtures "Cerezit"

Repair mix for concrete "Cerezit" is distributed in the building materials market, perhaps the most. It has excellent restoration properties for all kinds of concrete surfaces and substrates. After application, the composition forms a non-shrinking cork, which is resistant to frost and water. It will securely seal all cracks and leaks. You can buy such a composition for a higher price compared to other mixtures, the price varies within $ 41 per 25 kg. However, this mixture will be compensated by excellent quality.

Features of MBR repair mixtures

In the assortment you can find other types of compositions. For example, the MBR 500 concrete repair mix is ​​intended for the repair of structures that have defects. Such a composition can be stored for six months at a fairly wide temperature range, from -50 to +50 degrees. Considering the technical characteristics of this composition, it can be noted that it has different grades within MBR 300 - MBR 700. Each of these mixtures can be laid with a maximum thickness in one go. For example, MBR 320 is applied with a thickness of 40 millimeters, while MBR 700 is applied with a thickness of 20 millimeters. As an alternative solution in the latter case, a form can be used. After hardening, MBR 700 acquires a density of 2350 kilograms per cubic meter. Whereas the MBR 300 demonstrates a density in the range of 2100 grams per cubic meter.

The repair mix for concrete should be selected depending on the type of defect, the expected load during operation, as well as the size of the damage. If there is a need to strengthen the base, then the most suitable option is the use of a deep-penetrating primer mixture. If you are choosing a concrete repair compound that is intended to help reinforce a vertical surface or concrete structure, thixotropic compounds should be preferred. Such mixtures have a thick consistency and excellent adhesive qualities. This leads to the fact that they adhere well enough to the surface of the walls.

Conclusion

When leveling surfaces, use compounds that have good adhesion qualities. If there is a need to eliminate cracks, it is recommended to choose compositions reinforced with fiberglass. Before buying, you need to pay attention to some characteristics of the composition, among them - the solidification period, material consumption, and shrinkage size.