HP-Xcel

What is HP-Xcel?

HP-Xcel is a chloride free concrete accelerator and low temperature plasticiser. It is a specially formulated non-chloride, non-corrosive liquid hardening accelerator, designed to act as both a concrete accelerator and a plasticiser.

It accelerates the setting time of concrete by speeding up the cement hydration process, which increases the early age strength of the concrete. HP-Xcel can also be used to provide safer winter concreting without delays. It conforms to the requirements of BS EN 934-2, the European standard for concrete admixtures.

Why does chloride free matter?

Chloride based accelerators have historically been used to speed up setting, but in general terms chlorides can promote corrosion of steel reinforcement. A non-chloride, non-corrosive accelerator avoids adding chloride to the mix.

Where is HP-Xcel used?

HP-Xcel is suitable for use with all types of Portland cement. Its advantages make it useful for:

• Winter concreting, where it provides safer concreting without delays
• Precast production, where it enables earlier safe handling of precast units
• Formed concrete, where it permits earlier release of formwork
• Mixes that need higher early strengths and a faster rate of strength gain

As a plasticiser it also improves workability and enables a reduction in water content.

How to use HP-Xcel

1. Add HP-Xcel preferably to the gauging water. Alternatively, add it direct into the mixer at the same time as the gauging water, after the aggregates and cement have been mixed.
2. Mix for at least 30 seconds after the admixture has been added.

A typical addition is 1 litre (1000ml) of HP-Xcel to 100kg of Portland cement. Dosage rates depend on mix design, process, aggregate type and the desired effect, but are typically 1% to 5% by weight of cement. These figures are a guide only, so confirm your dose with trials and with our technical support team.

Please refer to the Safety Data Sheet, available on request, before handling HP-Xcel.

Packaging, storage and shelf life

Store HP-Xcel in cool conditions but above freezing, protect it from extreme temperatures, and stir just prior to use. On prolonged storage at very low temperatures a slight sediment may occur in the material, and an occasional stir will quickly return the sediment to solution. In the event of freezing, the material should be completely thawed and then thoroughly mixed before use.

Shelf life is approximately 1 year. For current pack sizes and delivery options, please contact UKCP.

Planning a winter pour or a faster precast cycle? Talk to our technical support team, or request a sample to trial HP-Xcel with your own mix.