Which equipment is commonly used for performing the sieve analysis of aggregates?

The equipment primarily used for performing sieve analysis of aggregates is a set of graduated sieves. Sieve analysis is a technique used to determine the particle size distribution of granular materials, such as aggregates. It involves passing the material through a series of sieves, each with a specific mesh size, which helps in classifying the particles based on their size.

By using a set of graduated sieves, one can accurately measure the weight of the aggregate retained on each sieve, allowing for the calculation of the percentage of each size fraction in the total sample. This process is vital in quality control and material specifications for construction projects.

Other equipment mentioned, such as a hydraulic press, an asphalt mixer, and a temperature gauge, serve different purposes in the context of asphalt and concrete production. A hydraulic press is typically used for compacting materials, an asphalt mixer is used for mixing asphalt with aggregates and additives, and a temperature gauge monitors temperature but does not analyze particle size. Each has its specific functions but does not pertain to the sieve analysis process.