Gradation sieves are used in engineering to analyse aggregate materials. A sample of the aggregate is precisely weighed and then passed through the progressively smaller meshed sieves. When the sample has passed through, each sieve is removed and weighed and compared against the total weight. This measurement can be used to grade or identify an aggregate. It is important in the construction industries to select the correct aggregate for building works.

In schools the sieves can be used to grade soil types or sand/stone mixes or used individually.