After the final rodding, should the sides of the slump mold be tapped lightly?

The procedure after completing the final rodding does not require tapping the sides of the slump mold. The purpose of the slump test is to assess the consistency and workability of fresh concrete, and the mold should remain untouched once the final rodding is complete. Tapping the sides could disturb the concrete and potentially alter the slump measurement by introducing air bubbles or causing segregation of the mix, which would compromise the accuracy of the test results.

The importance of maintaining the integrity of the mold and the concrete within it cannot be overstated, as ensuring a stable environment during testing is crucial for obtaining valid, reliable outcomes. By leaving the mold undisturbed after rodding, the slump test provides a true reflection of the concrete's workability as it would be used in real-world conditions.