< Previoustel: +44 (0)1525 249 200 • email: ele@eleint.co.uk • www.ele.com20In-situ Sampling & PreparationSoil TestingSpecimen Trimmer - Hand Operated for 1.4 & 2.8 inch SamplesProduct Code: 23-5802Specimen Trimmers are designed to simplify precision trimming of soil samples for triaxial, shear, unconfined compression, and other tests requiring standard cylindrical specimens. This trimming frame is supplied complete with vane type grips for both 1.4 inches (35 mm) and 2.8 inches (70 mm) diameter specimens, and a narrow wire saw. ±Lightweight frame construction for both laboratory and field use. ±Sturdy plated steel uprights serve as guides for wire saw during final trimming procedure. ±Samples are held securely during trimming through vane type grips. ±Adjustable upper gripper platen for various sample heights. ±Plated steel uprights and gripper assemblies for rust resistance and long life. Includes Wire Saw.SpecificationsTrim samples to either:1.4 inches (35 mm) dia2.8 inches (70 mm) diaUprightsPositioned to guide wire saw to control final sample dia, plated steelSample GripsVane type; hold sample during trimming, plated steelOverall Dimensions W x D x H7 x 5 x 14 inches (178 x 127 x 356 mm)WeightNet 16 lbs (7.3 kg)Soil Sample Trimming KnifeProduct Code: 81-0710Wire SawProduct Code: 81-0708Split Former 38 mmProduct Code: 23-4120Split Former with quick release clamps. Soil Sample Cutting ToolProduct Code: 23-4140Used for end preparation of 38 mm samples.Soil Testingwww.ele.com • email: ele@eleint.co.uk • tel: +44 (0)1525 249 20021Moisture ContentRapid Method by Speedy Moisture TesterProduct Standards:ASTM D4944, AASHTO T217, BS 812-109 ±Reliable and accurate moisture measurement in the field. ±Direct reading in percent moisture. ±Rapid results in minutes. ±Carry case and portable electronic balance included.The new range of Speedy Moisture Testers, which now includes an Electronic Balance and a heavy duty plastic case, uses a technique based on the fact that water will react with calcium carbide to form a gas and that the quantity of gas formed is directly proportional to the water present. The gas pressure is indicated on a built-in pressure gauge. Designed for the most demanding on-site conditions, the new waterproof and durable case offers high levels of protection.The new model comprises: Speedy Moisture Tester, Electronic Balance, Beaker, Cleaning Cloth, Cap, Washer, Scoop, Steel Pulverising Balls and Cleaning Brushes.Used to weigh a sample before placing it in the Speedy Moisture Tester, the portable battery powered balance includes an LCD display with a measuring range 0-200 g x 0.1 g. The % moisture content of the sampleis read directly from the calibrated pressure gauge.ProductCodeModelMoisture Range(%)Gauge div.(%)Sample WeightWeight(g)(kg)23-7462G2 Large0 to 500.587.523-7502D2 Small0 to 200.265.523-7452D2 Large0 to 200.2208.4Accessories:Calcium carbide powder - 500 g (23-7700)Calcium carbide powder - 12 x 500 g (23-7702)Speedy Calibration Unit (23-7600)Oven Drying MethodThe standard method for determining the moisture content of soil is the Oven Drying Method, which is recommended for a Soils Laboratory.Grouped Product Standards:BS 2648, EN 932-5, BS 1924-1, BS 1377-1, BS598-107, EN 12697-32, ASTM C127For full Drying Oven products available see page 270 of the Laboratory Equipment Section Required EquipmentProductCodeProduct78-1250/01225 ltr Drying Oven78-1245Dial Thermometer 0 to 300˚C78-5456/01Electronic Balance 4600 x 0.01 g78-5527/01Electronic Balance 32 kg x 1 g81-0220Aluminium Scoop81-2979Unnumbered 90 g Moisture Content Tin10 required81-30000.5 ltr Sample Container10 required81-4020Sample Tray 306 x 306 x 38 mm10 requiredCasagrande Method ASTMParticular design features of the instrument include a positive action horizontal lead screw, which is rapidly adjustable and rigidly fixes the height of cup in relation to the base during the test procedure. The cam mechanism and cup suspension assembly have been designed to withstand constant use with minimum readjustment.Liquid Limit Device BS (Motorised)Product Code: 24-0417/01Product Standards: BS 1377-2Complete with revolution counter and motor.SpecificationsPower Supply220-240 V AC, 50 Hz, 1 phProduct Standards:BS 1377-2, ASTM D4318, AASHTO T90Required EquipmentProductCodeProduct24-0430Glass Plate 500 mm2 (2 required)24-0811Rod Comparator 3 mm dia to BS 137781-0100Spatula 100 mm(2 required)81-0120Spatula 120 mm81-0140Spatula 140 mm81-0160Spatula 160 mmtel: +44 (0)1525 249 200 • email: ele@eleint.co.uk • www.ele.com22Soil Index PropertiesSoil TestingSoil index properties are used extensively by engineers to discriminate between the different kinds of soil within a broad category, e.g. clay will exhibit a wide range of engineering properties depending on its composition.Determination of Plastic LimitThe plastic limit is defined as the lowest moisture content of a soil that will permit a sample to be rolled into threads of 3 mm diameter without the threads breaking. The test procedure has remained, in principle, the same since 1932, when Casagrande proposed to define the various limits by relating the moisture content characteristics of soil under certain conditions. The apparatus required is simple yet effective.Determination of Liquid LimitThe condition of a soil can be altered by changing the moisture content. The liquid limit is the empirically established moisture content at which a soil passes from the plastic to the liquid state. A knowledge of the liquid limit allows the engineer to correlate several engineering properties with the soil. Two main types of test are used; the Casagrande type Cup and the cone penetrometer method, which is now the definitive method specified in BS 1377.BS Liquid Limit Device shown with motor24-043024-081181-014081-016081-010081-0120Liquid Limit Device ASTMProduct Code: 24-0434Product Standards: ASTM D4318, AASHTO T89Complete with revolution counter. ±Rust resistant, brass construction. ±10 mm gauge block located at end of handle.SpecificationsWeight (kg)3Accessories:ASTM Metal Grooving Tool (24-0453)Casagrande Grooving Tool AASHTO T89 (24-0461) Used to control the width of the soil groove in the liquid limit cup.Liquid Limit Device BS (Hand Operated)Product Code: 24-0410Product Standards: BS 1377, EN1997-2Complete with revolution counter, metal grooving tool and test gauge.SpecificationsWeight (kg)5Accessories:Glass Plate 500 mm2 x 10 mm thick (24-0430) Grooving Tool and Gauge (24-0425)Soil Testingwww.ele.com • email: ele@eleint.co.uk • tel: +44 (0)1525 249 20023Soil Index PropertiesCone Penetrometer Method ±Reduces operator error. ±Applicable to a wide range of soils. ±Gives reproducible test results. ±Provides direct measurement of penetration.The method is fundamentally more satisfactory than the Casagrande method as it is essentially a static test depending on the soil shear strength. The test is based on the relationship between moisture content and the penetration of a cone into the soil sample under controlled conditions. Determines the moisture content at which clay soils pass from a plastic to a liquid state.Cone Penetrometer (Manual)Product Code: 24-0540Product Standards:BS 1377-2, EN 1997-2Bench mounted apparatus to determine the liquid limit of soils to BS 1377. This method is applicable to a wide range of soils. The apparatus is fitted with a 150 mm diameter dial indicator for direct reading of penetration. Supplied complete with 30˚, 30 mm long test cone. Manufactured from Stainless Steel and includes adjustable levelling feet.SpecificationsDial Indicator150 mm dia graduated in 400 x 0.1 mm divisions. Indicator point incorporates friction/gear system.Height AdjustmentRapid, using integral clamping mechanismCone1 x 30˚, 35 mm Test ConeBaseCast aluminium, adjustable levelling feetWeight (kg)7Cone Penetrometer (Semi-Automatic)Product Code: 24-0545/01Product Standards:BS 1377-2, EN 1997-2Bench mounted apparatus to determine the liquid limit of soils to BS 1377. This method is applicable to a wide range of soils. The apparatus is fitted with a 150 mm diameter dial indicator for direct reading of penetration. Supplied complete with 30°, 30 mm long test cone. Manufactured from Stainless Steel and includes adjustable levelling feet. Incorporates Digital Automatic controller which releases the plunger head and ensures free falling of the penetration device during the test. The time set is displayed by a bright easy to read display.SpecificationsDial Indicator150 mm dia graduated in 400 x 0.1 mm divisions. Indicator incorporates a friction/gear system.HeightAdjustable using rapid integral clamping mechanismCone1 x 30°, 35 mm Test ConeBaseCast aluminium with adjustable levelling feetPower Supply220-240 V AC, 50-60 Hz, 1 phWeightNet 19 lbs (8.64 kg)tel: +44 (0)1525 249 200 • email: ele@eleint.co.uk • www.ele.com24Soil Index PropertiesSoil TestingPenetration Test CupProduct Code: 24-0548Product Standards:BS 1377-2Brass construction 55 mm diameter x 40 mm depth.Penetration Test ConeProduct Code: 24-0544Product Standards:BS 1377-2Stainless Steel, 35 mm long with smooth surface at an angle of 30˚.Penetration Test Gauge for Checking Condition of Cone PointProduct Code: 24-0546Product Standards:BS 1377-240 mm diameter with the rim parallel to the flat base.SpecificationsDimensions L x W x H (mm)40 x 40 x 10Determination of Shrinkage CharacteristicsWhen the water content of a fine-grained soil is reduced below the plastic limit, shrinkage of the soil mass continues until the shrinkage limit is reached. Shrinkage can be significant in clays but less so in silts and sands. The equipment listed enables the engineer to determine a number of important parameters, including shrinkage ratio, volumetric shrinkage and linear shrinkage.Volumetric ShrinkageProduct Standards:BS 1377, ASTM D427, AASHTO T92This method of test covers the determination of the shrinkage limit, shrinkage ratio, volumetric shrinkage and linear shrinkage.Prong PlateProduct Code: 24-1500Product Standards:ASTM D427, AASHTO T92Made of acrylic plastic fitted with three metal prongs.SpecificationsDimensions78 mm dia x 6 mm thickWeightNet 1 oz (28 g)Shrinkage DishProduct Code: 24-1550SpecificationsDimensions (mm)42 dia x 12 deep24-150024-160024-1550Soil Testingwww.ele.com • email: ele@eleint.co.uk • tel: +44 (0)1525 249 20025Soil Index PropertiesGlass CupProduct Code: 24-1600SpecificationsDimensions (mm)70 dia x 50 deepWeight (lbs)0.388Measuring Cylinder - Glass 100 ml Product Code: 82-0380Soda glass, spouted, BS EN 4788.Evaporating Dish Product Code: 82-2000Product Standards:ASTM D427, AASHTO T92Shallow form with spout, porcelain.SpecificationsDimensions (mm)150 dia x 45 deepLinear ShrinkageThis test covers the determination of linear shrinkage of soils and indicates the plastic properties of soils with a low clay content.Shrinkage MouldProduct Code: 24-1800Product Standards:BS 1377-2To produce a specimen 140 mm long x 12.5 mm radius.SpecificationsWeight (kg)0.3Vernier CalipersProduct Code: 81-0588Range 0-200 x 0.002 mm. Graduated in mm and inches.Determination of Density, Particle Density & Specific GravityParticle density or specific gravity is a measure of the actual particles which make up the soil mass and is defined as the ratio of the mass of the particles to the mass of the water they displace. A knowledge of the particle density is essential in relation to other soil tests. It is used when calculating porosity and voids ratio and is particularly important when compaction and consolidation properties are being investigated. The majority of apparatus used for the various tests is general laboratory equipment.Gas Jar MethodThis method is suitable for soils containing up to 10% of particles retained on a 37.5 mm BS sieve.Gas Jar with Glass Cover & Rubber BungProduct Code: 24-2830Product Standards:BS-1377-2, EN 1997-2SpecificationsDimensions (mm)75 dia x 300 deepCapacity1 ltrMechanical End-Over-End ShakerProduct Code: 24-2854/01Product Standards: BS 1377-2Fitted with friction safety device and control panel, capable of rotating two 24-2830 gas jars at approximately 50 rpm to satisfy BS 1377.SpecificationsPower Supply220-240 V AC, 50 Hz, 1 phAccessories:37.5 mm Sieve 200 mm diameter (79-1640)tel: +44 (0)1525 249 200 • email: ele@eleint.co.uk • www.ele.com26Soil Index PropertiesSoil TestingParticle Size Distribution & Sand Equivalent ValueThe analysis of soils by particle size provides a useful engineering classification system from which a considerable amount of empirical data can be obtained. Two separate and different procedures are used. Sieving is used for gravel and sand size particles and sedimentation procedures are used for the finer soils. For soil containing a range of coarse and fine particles it is usual to employ a composite test of sieving and sedimentation procedures. The Sand Equivalent Test serves as a rapid field test to show the relative proportions of clay-like or plastic fines and dusts in granular soils and fine aggregates.Constant Temperature BathProduct Code: 24-4865/01Product Standards: ASTM D422, AASHTO T88Constant Temperature Bath 5 to 99.9°C x 0.1°C with LED display and false base support.Specially designed for the sedimentation testing of soils and other fine grained material, the bath is supplied with a false bottom to assist in circulation of the bath liquid. Will accommodate six sedimentation cylinders.SpecificationsExternal DimensionsL x W x H (mm)535 x 210 x 610CapacityHolds up to 6 sedimentation cylindersConstructionStainless Steel with toughened glass frontTemperature ControlHeater/thermostat/circulation with digital controller unit 5 to 99.9°C x 0.1°C Power (watts)1500Power Supply220-240 V AC, 50-60 Hz, 1 phWeight (kg)12Particle Density: Pyknometer MethodsThese methods are generally suitable for fine-grained soils. The larger Pyknometers are not usually suitable for clay soils.Density Bottles with Perforated StoppersProduct Standards:ISO 3507, EN 1097-7, ASTM D854, AASHTO T100Supplied complete with capillary vent stopper. Gay-Lussac type.SpecificationsProduct CodeCapacity (ml)24-28902524-29005024-2950100PyknometerProduct Code: 24-2885Product Standards:BS 812-2, BS 1377-2Glass jar with non-corrodible cone and rubber seal. Capacity: 1 kgSpecificationsGasket inside dia2-1/4 inches (57.2 mm)Gasket outside dia2-7/8 inches (73 mm)Accessories:Pyknometer Gasket (24-2885/11)Pyknometer Jar Only (24-2885/10)Pyknometer Top (24-2885/12)Soil Testingwww.ele.com • email: ele@eleint.co.uk • tel: +44 (0)1525 249 200Mechanical Analysis StirrerProduct Code: 24-4125/01Product Standards:ASTM D422, AASHTO T88High Speed Compact Bench Top Stirrer used for dispersing soil samples in water. Supplied complete with Mixing Paddle and Dispersion Cup with Baffle. Beaker position maintained by column retainer.SpecificationsPower Supply220-240 V AC, 50-60 Hz, 1 phWeight (kg)4Spares/Consumables:Mixing Paddle for 24-4125 series High Speed Stirrer (24-4125/10)Soil Dispersion Cup and Baffle (24-4125/11)Accessories:Sodium Hexametaphosphate 500 g (24-4145)27Particle Size Distribution & Sand Equivalent ValueSedimentation by the Hydrometer MethodThis method determines particle size distribution in a soil from the coarse sand size down to clay size (about 2 μm). The test does not require the weighing accuracy necessary for pipette sedimentation and is suitable for use in site laboratories.Hydrometer Sedimentation CylinderProduct Code: 24-4700Product Standards:ASTM D422, AASHTO T88Glass, 1000 ml capacity complete with rubber bung.SpecificationsGraduations1,000 ml at 20°CNomographic Chart for The Determination of Stoke’s LawProduct Code: 24-4800For the determination of Stoke’s Law.tel: +44 (0)1525 249 200 • email: ele@eleint.co.uk • www.ele.com28Particle Size Distribution & Sand Equivalent ValueSoil TestingSoil HydrometersProduct Standards:ASTM D422, AASHTO T88, ASTM E100ProductCodeProduct StandardsGraduation24-4620BS/EN DD ENV0.995 to 1.030 g/ml24-4640ASTM/AASHTO-5 to +60 g/litre24-4650ASTM D422 (151H)0.995 to 1.038 g/ml24-465024-464024-4620Mechanical Sand Equivalent ShakerSand Equivalent ValueThis test method assigns an empirical value to the relative amount, fineness and character of clay-like material present in the test specimen.Sand Equivalent ApparatusProduct Code: 24-4919Product Standards:ASTM D2419, AASHTO T176, EN 933-8Sand Equivalent Set ContentsQtyGlass Measuring Cylinder4Rubber Stopper for Cylinder2Graduated Rule 500 mm1Funnel1Measuring Can 200 ml1Plastic Bottle1Irrigator Tube1Weighted Foot Assembly1Concentrated Stock Solution 1000 ml1Spares/Consumables:Concentrated Solution (24-4919/10)Accessories:Syphon Assembly (24-4925)Calcium Chloride (24-4930)Formaldehyde (24-4932)Glycerol Analar (24-4934)Product standards:ASTM D2419, AASHTO T176, EN 933-8Recommended for use in laboratories performing a large number of tests, motorised shakers provide a consistent and repeatable oscillation, minimising variation in test results.SpecificationsProduct CodePower SupplyWeight (kg)24-4945/01220-240 V AC, 50 Hz, 1 ph3.224-4945/06220-240 V AC, 60 Hz, 1 ph4.224-4919/10Soil Testingwww.ele.com • email: ele@eleint.co.uk • tel: +44 (0)1525 249 20029Compaction & CBRCompactionCompaction tests typically enable the following criteria to be established: ±The relationship between dry density and moisture content for a given degree of compactive effort. ±The moisture content for the most efficient compaction; that is, at which the maximum dry density is achieved under that compactive effort. ±The value of the maximum dry density achieved. There are several different standard laboratory compaction tests, with the most appropriate in each case being based on the nature of the project, the type of soil and the availability of equipment on site.Applications of CompactionSoil used as fill ±To refill an excavation or void. ±To provide made-up ground to support a structure. ±As a sub-base for a road, railway or airfield runway. ±As a structure; e.g. an earth dam.Improvement by compaction ±Higher stability. ±Higher CBR value. ±Lower compressibility. ±Lower permeability. ±Lower frost susceptibility.Effect on mass of fill ±Greater stability. ±Less settlement. ±Less deformation. ±Less water absorption. ±Less risk of frost heave.Next >