What Is Sieve Analysis?
Sieve Analysis Test of Sand is done to check the gradation of sand particles. Sand particle distribution in sand volume is important for good-quality concrete and mortar.
In this test, the sand sample is passed through a series of IS sieve sizes ordered from bigger to smaller sizes at the bottom. A sand particle having a respective size is retained on a sieve and then the weight of sand retained on each IS Sieve is taken.
Then % of sand retained on each IS Sieve is calculated which shows the particle size distribution in the sand sample.
Sieve analysis test of sand is an important test that is commonly used in the construction industry to determine the suitability of sand for different applications. The test results can help to determine the grading of sand and its suitability for use in concrete, mortar, and other construction applications.
Read More: Silt Content Test of Sand – Procedure & Result
Sieve Analysis Test
The sieve analysis test of sand is carried out to find different particle sizes available in a particular sand sample.
Aim
To determine the Particle Size Distribution of Sand samples.
Apparatus for Sieve Analysis Test
- Sieves as per IS standards (sieve 10mm, 4.75mm, 2.36mm, 1.18mm, 600µ, 300µ, 150µ)
- Mechanical sieve shaker
- Dry oven
- Weighing scale
IS Sieve Sizes
The following IS sieve sizes were used for the test,
- 10 mm
- 4.75 mm
- 2.36 mm
- 1.18 mm
- 600 micron
- 300 micron
- 150 micron
- PAN

Sieve Analysis Test Procedure
The following is the test procedure for the sieve analysis test of sand,
Take the required amount of aggregate sample (for a sand (fine aggregate) minimum of 0.5kg sample is required.
Arrange the required no of sieves as per the contract or job requirement in a descending manner. (i.e. keep the sieve having the largest size opening at the top and the smallest size opening at the bottom)
Sieve Arrangement – At Top 10mm, 4.75mm, 2.36mm, 1.18mm, 600µ, 300µ, 150µ at Bottom and Last Pan)
Place the sieve set on the mechanical shaker and shake vigorously for at least 2 minutes.
Then measure the weight of aggregate retained on each sieve and express it as the percentage of passing.
Now compare these values with the recommendation values to know whether it falls within the range or not. If not come within the desired gradation, then take the necessary action to make the sand well graded.
The grading limit of sand (fine aggregate) is given below.

Sieve Analysis Calculation Table
Sieve Size | % of Passing | % of Passing | % of Passing | % of Passing |
Zone – I | Zone -II | Zone -III | Zone – IV | |
10 mm | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 |
4.75 mm | 90-100 | 90-100 | 90-100 | 95-100 |
2.36 mm | 60-95 | 75-100 | 85-100 | 95-100 |
1.18 µ | 30-70 | 55-90 | 75-100 | 90-100 |
600 µ | 15-34 | 35-59 | 60-79 | 80-100 |
300 µ | 5-20 | 8-30 | 12-40 | 15-50 |
150 µ | 0-10 | 0-10 | 0-10 | 0-15 |
Sample Calculation

Read More: Sand Moisture Content Test – Procedure and Result
Sand Sieve Analysis and Fineness Modulus Calculation Excel Sheet:
Watch Video: Sand Sieve Analysis and Fineness Modulus Determination
FAQs:
Sieve Analysis
Sieve Analysis Test of Sand is done to check the gradation of sand particles. Sand particle distribution in sand volume is important for good quality concrete and mortar. In this test, the sand sample is passed through a series of IS sieve sizes ordered from bigger to smaller sizes at the bottom.
Sieve Sizes
The following IS sieve size was used for the test,
10 mm
4.75 mm
2.36 mm
1.18 mm
600 micron
300 micron
150 micron
PAN
Sieve Test
Sieve Test on Sand is carried out to check the gradation of sand particles. Sand particle distribution in sand volume is important for good quality concrete and mortar. In this test, the sand sample is passed through a series of IS sieve sizes ordered from bigger to smaller sizes at the bottom.
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