Differences Between AAC Blocks and CLC Blocks

Different types of construction materials are used these days. The CLC blocks or the Cellular Lightweight Concrete blocks and the AAC blocks or the Autoclaved Aerated Concrete blocks are among the two most popular types of concrete blocks used for building purposes.

Requirement of Land: Most of the CLC equipment is compact in size and therefore it requires very less space. It also includes lower production capacity. However, the finished goods require a large amount of space for curing. These blocks can seldom be stacked on top of one another. Therefore it needs more space for accommodation.

The Autoclaved Aerated Concrete blocks require a considerable amount of space for production as it involves the use of large equipments. However, once it is steam cured inside the autoclave, it is ready to be used. Therefore it can be stacked on top of one another without the fear of damage. Additional space is not required for storage of finished goods.


Production Capacity: The production capacity of CLC blocks are relatively less compared to the aerated concrete blocks. However, the production capacity of aerated blocks is quite large and it can be increased according to the requirements of the clients. The production of aerated concrete blocks is ideal for large projects as it is quite profitable.


Scalability: It is quite difficult to increase the production of CLC blocks in the same setting as these equipments include small capacities. Moreover, it requires a considerable amount of curing time and it would require additional space to store the finished products. Even if the production is increased, these blocks can seldom be stacked on top of each other to save time and space.

The production of AAC blocks can be increased by installing extra molds and more autoclaves. The production capacity can be increased with lesser investment which makes it one of the ideal choices of most of the builders.

Manpower: A CLC plant requires manpower of 18-30 workers per day whereas an aerated concrete plant 36-45 workers daily.

Investment: CLC plants require less investment compared to the aerated concrete plants as these machineries are quite expensive. Setting up an aerated concrete plan involves huge capital investment and therefore it is often chosen by entrepreneurs with large funds.

Common Disadvantages of AAC Blocks:

One of the most innovative types of concrete products, the autoclaved aerated concrete blocks contain eighty percentage of air. Compared to the conventional blocks, the aerated blocks are light in weight and provide thermal insulation. But it also includes various disadvantages such as:

Strength Limitations: Although the aerated concrete blocks, it is quite expensive as it includes higher production costs.

Energy Usage: Although the aerated concrete blocks are considered to be eco-friendly, the production process consumes large amount of energy. Even though it is easy to transport these blocks due to its lightweight, it is still heavier than most of the other construction materials.