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Step-by-step solution

Self-compacting concrete (SCC)

Self-compacting concrete flows into congested reinforcement and fills forms without vibration. It needs a high-range polycarboxylate superplasticiser, an SCC mix design and strong, well-sealed formwork.

  • 6 steps
  • 4 products
  • 4 answers
Fluid concrete flowing level through dense reinforcement in a sealed beam form, with no vibrator, after an admixture dose

Get this solution priced Proposal brief ↓

You need this when…

  • Reinforcement too congested for a poker vibrator
  • Honeycombing at column bases and beam–column joints
  • Fair-faced or architectural finish required
  • Vibration noise not allowed at night

The work, step by step

General guidance based on the manufacturer data sheets. Site conditions differ: confirm the system with MCT before you start. Where we do not name a product, ask us and we will confirm the right one.

  1. Step 1: Design an SCC mix

    SCC needs its own mix proportions, not just more admixture (Sika ViscoCrete-58 HT-PK p.1). A pre-trial with local materials must confirm the dosage (Sika ViscoCrete-3355 p.2).

  2. Step 2: Choose the SCC superplasticiser

    Sika ViscoCrete-3355 is made for high-flow and self-compacting concrete with up to 30 % water reduction (p.1); dose 0.4–1.5 % of binder for flowing and SCC (p.2). Self-compacting properties can last more than 1 hour at 30 °C depending on the mix (p.1). ViscoCrete-3110 PK uses 0.4–1.5 % for SCC (p.2); ViscoCrete-58 HT-PK 0.3–1.5 % (p.2).

    Sika ViscoCrete-58 HT-PK Sika Request a quotation

    Sika® ViscoCrete®-58 HT-PK is mainly used for the following applications: For all Piling application including C.F.A, Concrete Containing GGBS, Micro Silica, Fly ash, Etc, Concrete in hot & windy weather with extended transportation and workability requirements, Production of Ready Mixed Concrete… (TDS p.1)

    Pack
    05 ltr jerry can
  3. Step 3: Precast and fast-stripping SCC

    Sika ViscoCrete-20 HE gives high early strength for precast and SCC; use 1.0–2.0 % of cement for SCC (p.1, p.2).

  4. Step 4: Batch and mix

    Add the admixture with the gauging water, wet mix for at least 60 seconds, and add the remaining water only after two-thirds of the mixing time (Sika ViscoCrete-3355 p.2). With ViscoCrete-58 HT-PK, wet mix at least 2 minutes per m³ (p.2). Never add to dry cement (p.2).

  5. Step 5: Formwork and placing

    SCC stays fluid for longer, so formwork must be properly installed and secured (Sika ViscoCrete-3355 p.2). Seal form joints to stop paste loss. No vibration is needed (Sika ViscoCrete-58 HT-PK p.1).

  6. Step 6: Cure

    Cure properly and start curing as early as possible (Sika ViscoCrete-58 HT-PK p.2). A curing compound can be sprayed on exposed concrete surfaces (Sikafloor ProSeal W p.1).

    Product for this stepAsk us

    The right product here depends on your site. We confirm it before naming it.

Proposal brief

Self-compacting concrete (SCC): scope and system

A starting point for a site proposal. Quantities, prices and the final specification follow a site visit or photos.

Scope of work

  1. SCC mix review and trial mixes (slump flow and stability checks)
  2. Supply of SCC superplasticiser
  3. Dosing and mixing-time guidance
  4. Formwork and placing checklist for the site team

System build-up

StepProductPackSource
2. Choose the SCC superplasticiserSika ViscoCrete-335505 ltr jerry canTDS p.1 · June 2025, Version 02.01
2. Choose the SCC superplasticiserSika ViscoCrete-3110 PK05 ltr jerry canTDS p.1 · June 2025, Version 02.01
2. Choose the SCC superplasticiserSika ViscoCrete-58 HT-PK05 ltr jerry canTDS p.1 · July 2026, Version 03.01
3. Precast and fast-stripping SCCSika ViscoCrete-20 HE—TDS p.1 · May 2021, Version 01.02

What we need from you

  • Elements to be cast and reinforcement density
  • Required strength and finish
  • Cement, fillers and aggregate sources
  • Haul and placing times
  • Placing method: pump, skip or chute

Site conditions

  • SCC trial approved before the first pour (Sika ViscoCrete-3355 p.2)
  • Formwork checked and secured for fluid concrete (Sika ViscoCrete-3355 p.2)

Not included

  • Concrete supply and pumping
  • Formwork design
  • Structural design

Questions customers ask

Do I need to vibrate SCC?

No. When the mix is designed as SCC no vibration is needed (Sika ViscoCrete-58 HT-PK p.1).

How long does SCC stay self-compacting?

With ViscoCrete-3355, depending on the mix and materials, self-compacting properties can be kept for more than 1 hour at 30 °C (Sika ViscoCrete-3355 p.1).

Can SCC be used for piles?

Sika ViscoCrete-58 HT-PK is listed for all piling including CFA and for SCC (p.1). Pile design and mix approval stay with the project engineer.

Why is my SCC bleeding?

Usually excess water or overdosing (Sika ViscoCrete-20 HE p.2). Check the water content and repeat the trial at a lower dosage.

Steps and product facts are taken from the manufacturer data sheets (page cited). Products are named only where the data sheet confirms the use; quantities follow a site visit or photos. General guidance: check the data sheet or ask us before you start.