Dirt Dobber Construction (DDC) offers a full turn key service for Compressed Earth Block (CEB) manufacturing.

What do I need?

Simple- Dirt! Almost any soil can be used in the manufacturing of Compressed Earth Block as long as the Silt to Clay ratios are comparable with the geographic climate conditions of the construction site.

How do the blocks respond to rain?

Once a soil type is excavated from the site or selected, the soil will be stabilized to increase its load bearing capacity and resistance to moisture by mixing it with Fly ash, Lime or Portland cement.

How are the blocks made?

The mixed soil is dumped into the hopper of a Compressed Earth block machine. The machine is automated and begins to produce blocks by filling a chamber with dirt and ramming it with hydraulic rams. The pressure of the ram is adjusted to the type of soil and desired compressive strength desired in the finished block. Typically, the Blocks produced are 10” x 14” x 3.5” in size, weigh 35 to 40 pounds and have a compressive strength of 1,000 PSI.

How are the blocks moved?

Once the blocks are formed, they move along a conveyor and are stacked on a standard size industrial pallet. 72 Blocks make up a pallet. The pallet is then wrapped with polyurethane to allow the curing process to begin. Once the pallet has been wrapped it can be moved with a traditional forklift or forked skid steer.  

How long does it take to cure?

Typically, 3 to 4 days in Texas. Actual curing time depends on humidity and temperature.

Can the pallets be transported?

Once the curing process has been completed the pallets can be transported. The greater the distance the higher the probability of breakage. We recommend manufacturing and storing onsite so they can be easily accessed during erection.