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Soil Testing Compaction and CBR

Dry Density/Moisture Relationship BS/EN DD ENV

Compaction Test 4.5 kg

BS 1377-4, 1924-2, EN DD ENV 1997-2
This test method utilises a 4.5 kg hand rammer resulting in a heavier compactive effort than the 2.5 kg test method. Compactive energy some 4.5 times greater is applied to the sample using the heavier rammer. The method is often specified where higher levels of compaction are necessary in a structure, e.g. an airfield subbase material. Manufactured from corrosion protected steel components the 4.5 kg rammer is designed to withstand heavy usage involved in the test method.

Compaction Test 2.5 kg

BS 1377-4, 1924-2, EN DD ENV 1997-2
This test method utilises a 2.5 kg hand compaction hammer and a one litre capacity compaction mould. Often referred to as the 'Proctor' test it is suitable for soils containing particles no larger than 20mm. The mould and hammer is manufactured from corrosion protected steel components to withstand the heavy usage involved in the test.

Compaction Mould, BS
Specification Mould volume Construction Weight 1 litre All steel, threaded studs with wing nuts, plated 5.5 kg

Compaction Rammer, 4.5 kg

Specification Rammer Drop Guide sleeve Finish Weight

BS

Ordering Information
EL24-9000 Standard Compaction Mould BS

50 mm dia, 4.5 kg 450 mm Machined steel tubing with air pressure release holes Corrosion resistant 7.5 kg

Ordering Information

Compaction Rammer, 2.5 kg

Specification Rammer Drop Guide sleeve Finish Weight

BS

EL24-9004 Compaction Rammer 4.5 kg BS

50 mm dia, 2.5 kg 300 mm Machined steel tubing with air pressure release holes Corrosion resistant 4.2 kg

Accessories
EL24-9010 EL24-9025 Straightedge, 300 mm Weight 600 g Tamping Foot 146 mm dia and 300 mm long Shank

Ordering Information
EL24-9002 Compaction Rammer 2.5 kg BS

Dry Density Moisture Content Relationship for Soils

BS Compaction Mould and Rammers

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Dry Density/Moisture Relationship ASTM

ASTM Compaction Mould

ASTM D698, D1557; AASHTO T99,T180
Specification Mould volume Construction Weight /13.33 ft3 All steel, threaded studs with wing nuts, plated 8.2 kg
1

Proctor Compaction Mould

ASTM D558, D559, D560, D698, D1557; AASHTO T99,T134,T135,T136,T180
Specification Mould volume Construction Weight /30 ft3 All steel, threaded studs with wing nuts, plated 5.4 kg
1

Ordering Information
EL24-9066 ASTM Compaction Mould

Ordering Information
EL24-9060 Proctor Compaction Mould

ASTM Compaction Rammer

ASTM D1557; AASHTO T180
Specification Rammer Drop Guide sleeve Finish Weight 2 in diameter, 10 lb 18 in Machined steel tubing with air pressure release holes Corrosion resistant 6.3 kg

Proctor Compaction Rammer

ASTM D558, D559, D560, D698; AASHTO T99, T134,T135,T136
Specification Rammer Drop Guide sleeve Finish Weight 2 in dia, 5.5 lb 12 in Machined steel tubing with air pressure release holes Corrosion resistant 4.1 kg

Ordering Information
EL24-9070 ASTM Compaction Rammer

Ordering Information
EL24-9063 Proctor Compaction Rammer
EL24-9066 ASTM Compaction Mould

Accessories
Straightedge, 300 mm see EL24-9010
EL24-9060 Proctor Mould and EL24-9063 Compaction Rammer

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Soil Testing Compaction and CBR

Automatic Compaction of Soils

The time and effort required to prepare specimens for compaction studies and other test methods can often be costly and time-consuming.The use of an automatic, mechanical compactor will show considerable cost benefits over hand compaction methods.Two models meeting the requirements of BS and ASTM are available.

Automatic Compactor
BS1377, EN DD ENV 1997-2, 1924; ASTM D558, D560, D698, D1557; AASHTO T99,T134,T135,T136,T180 s Pre-set blow pattern ensures even compaction s Solid state controls for reliability and ease of maintenance s Automatic re-setting of counter after completion of blow pattern
These machines automatically compact specimens eliminating the laborious hand compaction method.The height and weight of the rammer is adjustable to suit test requirements. An automatic blow pattern ensures optimum compaction for each layer of soil.The rammer travels across the mould and the table rotates the mould in equal steps on a base that is extremely stable. The number of blows per layer can be set at the beginning of the test. Specification Dimensions (l x w x h) 430 x 250 x 1400 mm Rammer BS/ENV Circular faced, 50 mm dia, adjustable to 2.5 kg or 4.5 kg weight ASTM Circular faced, 2 in (50.8 mm) dia, adjustable to 5.5 lb (2.5 kg) or 10 lb (4.5 kg) weight Drop BS/ENV Adjustable to 300 mm or 450 mm ASTM Adjustable to 12 in (305 mm) or 18 in (457 mm) Weight 98 kg
EL24-9090 series Automatic Soil Compactor with accessory Mould

Ordering Information
EL24-9095 series Automatic Soil Compactor, ASTM EL24-9095/01 for 220 240 V AC, 50 Hz, 1ph EL24-9095/02 for 110 120 V AC, 60 Hz, 1ph

Accessories
Proctor Compaction Mould see EL24-9060 ASTM Compaction Mould see EL24-9066

Ordering Information
EL24-9090/01 Automatic Soil Compactor, BS/ENV For 220 240 V AC, 50 Hz, 1ph

Accessories
Standard Compaction Mould see EL24-9000 BS CBR Mould Body see EL24-9198 BS CBR Extension Collar see EL24-9200 BS CBR Solid Base see EL24-9204

Rammer mechanism of Automatic Soil Compactor

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Soil Testing Compaction and CBR

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Moisture Condition Value (MCV) and Chalk Crushing Value (CCV)

Both these tests incorporate a Moisture Condition Apparatus.The MCV is a measure of the minimum compactive effort required to produce near full compaction of a soil.The CCV measures the rate at which a sample of chalk lumps are crushed. Used with the saturated moisture content of chalk, CCV can be used to classify chalk as a fill material.

Moisture Condition Apparatus

BS 1377, EN 13286-46 s s s s TRL approved Improved design Simple portable apparatus Automatic blow count

The original Moisture Condition Apparatus was developed by the Transport Research Laboratory, England. ELE has redesigned the equipment to give improvements in terms of strength and reliability, particularly under site conditions.The ELE model is TRL approved and is used in construction control to assess the suitability of earthwork material in relation to the specified upper limits of moisture content. In a second mode of operation, it determines a chalk crushing value for use in classification of chalk as a fill material. To assess the suitability of earthwork material a moisture condition value is determined. The test is based on the determination of the minimum number of blows of the rammer required to produce a state of full compaction in a sample of soil. After calibration over a range of moisture contents the suitability of earthwork material can be assessed without the measurement of the moisture content of the soil with its associated delays.The chalk crushing value is determined from the rate at which a sample of single-sized chalk lumps (passing 20 mm and retained on a 10 mm BS sieve) is crushed under the impact of the rammer.The chalk crushing value, taken together with the value of the saturation moisture content of lumps of the chalk, gives a classification in terms of the likely behaviour of the chalk during construction. Operation of the apparatus is extremely simple.The rammer is lifted, when it reaches the top of its travel, a striker attached to the cross member releases the automatic catch allowing the rammer to fall.The rammer has a scale for measurement of penetration into the mould. After each blow, the height of drop can be reset and checked by means of the vernier gauge supplied.To record the number of blows, a counter is fitted to the release mechanism.

EL24-9135 Moisture Condition Apparatus

Ordering Information
EL24-9135 ELE-Moisture Condition Apparatus The apparatus is supplied complete with vernier caliper, mould, 6 fibre discs, operating instructions and standard forms for determining Moisture Condition Value and Chalk Crushing Value. Dimensions 300 x 630 x 950 mm (l x w x h). Weight 60 kg

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Soil Testing Compaction and CBR

California Bearing Ratio

The California Bearing Ratio test, or CBR test as it is usually termed, is an empirical test first developed in California, USA, for estimating the bearing value of highway sub-bases and subgrades.The test follows a standardised procedure and there is little difference between BS/EN and ASTM tests. However, there are numerous ways of preparing samples and in this respect American practice differs in detail from British practice. This test can be performed in the laboratory on prepared samples or in-situ on location. It is important to appreciate that this test, being of an empirical nature, is valid only for the application for which it was developed, i.e. the design of highway base thicknesses.

Load and Penetration

A number of options are available to to collect and analyse data with the ELE CBR-Test 50. 1 2 Mechanical, using standard Load Rings and Penetration Dial Gauges. Electronic, Load Transducers and Displacement Transducers in conjunction with the ELE Electronic Control and Readout Unit supplied with download software. Electronic, using Electronic measuring devices as above in conjunction with the ELE DataSystem that provides full analysis of CBR Test data.

CBR-Test 50 Machine
BS 1377, 1924; EN 13286-47;ASTM D1883; AASHTO T193 s s s s s Two speed machine (BS/EN and ASTM) Rapid platen adjustment Complete with stabilising bar Compact, bench-mounting design Options for mechanical or electronic measurement

EL24-9150 series CBR-Test 50 with Accessories

Designed for performing laboratory CBR tests to BS 1377 and ASTM D1883, this bench mounting machine comprises a twin column frame incorporating a motorised drive system.Two speeds are provided, 1.0 mm/min for BS and 1.27 mm/min for ASTM tests. Rapid adjustment of the platen is provided which enables daylight to be taken up quickly and also close control of application of a seating load. Specification Dimensions (l x w x h) Maximum vertical clearance Horizontal clearance Platen diameter Platen travel Weight 550 x 400 x 1 220 mm 800 mm 255 mm 133 mm 105 mm 80 kg

Ordering Information
EL24-9150 series CBR-Test 50. A 50 kN Load frame complete with stabilising bar EL24-9150/01 for 220 V AC, 50 Hz, 1ph EL24-9150/02 for 110 V AC, 60 Hz, 1ph Electronic Control and Readout Unit see EL27-1200/09

Spare
EL24-9170
Mechanism of Failure

Stabilising Bar

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Soil Testing Compaction and CBR

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MultiPlex 50 Machines
BS598, 1377, 1924; EN 12697-23, 24, 13286-47; ASTM D1883; AASHTO T193
A versatile 50 kN capacity machine for performing laboratory CBR, Marshall and Quick Undrained Triaxial tests.

Ordering Information
MultiPlex 50 Electronic Control and Readout Unit
EL25-3700 series MultiPlex 50 with Accessories

see EL25-3700 see EL27-1200/09

Penetration Piston and Dial Gauge Assembly

Penetration and Measurement

Ordering Information
EL24-9182 Penetration Piston with 1.935 mm2 (3 in2) area foot of casehardened steel. Designed to fit all ELE load rings. Weight 3.7 kg EL24-9183 Penetration Piston as EL24-9182 but with a coarse stem adjustment.This piston is particularly useful for in-situ testing. Weight 4.0 kg

Force Measurement
A range of load rings will be required depending upon the type of material being tested. Detailed below is a selected range of load rings which are suitable for differing values of CBR. Model no. EL78-0060 EL78-0460 EL78-0760 EL78-0860 Capacity 2 kN 10 kN 28 kN 50 kN Value of CBR Up to 8% 8% to 40% Average range of CBR Above 40%

EL24-9184 Penetration/Swell Dial Gauge, ASTM 1 in travel x 0.0005 in divisions. Complete with rack extensions and chisel edge anvil. Weight 220 g EL24-9186 Penetration Dial Gauge BS 25 mm travel x 0.01 mm divisions. Complete with rack extensions and chisel edge anvil. Weight 220 g EL24-9188 Bracket and Adaptor dual purpose mounting bracket for CBR penetration dial gauges. Allows gauge to be fixed to penetration piston or load ring. Weight 300 g

Full details on the range of available load rings are in Section 78, Load Measurement.

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Soil Testing Compaction and CBR

CBR Moulds and Accessories

A range of moulds and accessories specifically designed to meet the requirements of the relevant standards.The equipment is manufactured from high quality, long-lasting material and with regular maintenance will give years of satisfactory performance.

CBR Mould
ASTM D1883; AASHTO T193
Specification Mould Collar Base plate Construction Weight 152.4 x 177.8 mm (inside diameter x height) 50.8 mm height, fits both ends of mould Perforated All steel, plated 9 kg

CBR Mould
BS 1377, 1924; EN 13286-4, EN DD ENV 1997-2
Specification Mould Collar Base plate Construction Weight 152 x 127 mm (inside diameter x height) 51 mm height, fits both ends of mould Solid, fits both ends of mould All steel, plated 7.3 kg

Ordering Information
EL24-9228 ASTM CBR Mould with collar and perforated baseplate

Accessories
EL24-9236 ASTM CBR Cutting Collar to fit ASTM CBR mould body, manufactured with a cutting edge to enable undisturbed samples to be taken in the field. Weight 1.5 kg ASTM CBR Spacing Disc 150.8 mm diameter x 61.4 mm deep. Weight 6.8 kg Filter Screen 150 mm dia, 150 m mesh. For use with ASTM mould 4.5 kg Annular Surcharge Weight, ASTM 5 lb Split Surcharge Weight, ASTM 5 lb Annular Surcharge Weight,ASTM Filter Papers, 150 mm dia. Box of 100.

Ordering Information
EL24-9198 BS/EN CBR Mould Body EL24-9200 BS/EN CBR Extension Collar EL24-9204 BS/EN CBR Solid Base/Top Plate

EL24-9238

EL24-9240 EL24-9243 EL24-9244 EL24-9245 EL24-9250

Accessories
EL24-9202 EL24-9206 EL24-9208 EL24-9210 BS/EN CBR Perforated Base Plate. To fit mould body. Weight 1.8 kg CBR Cutting Collar to fit BS/EN mould body. Weight 1.4 kg C-spanner to fit BS/EN CBR moulds and collars.Two required. Weight 1.7 kg each Base Plate Tool to fit into base plate to assist removal from mould body. Weight 700 g Static Compaction Plug Steel, 150 mm dia x 51 mm thick. Complete with removable handle. Weight 7.3 kg 2 kg Annular Surcharge Weight, BS/EN 2 kg Split Surcharge Weight, BS/EN Tamping Rod EL24-9220 see EL34-0130 Filter Papers, 150 mm diameter. Box of 100

EL24-9212

EL24-9214 EL24-9216

ASTM Mould and Accessories

Expansion (swell) Test Equipment

Ordering Information
EL24-9260 Swell Plate. With adjustable stem. Weight 540 g EL24-9262 Swell Tripod for mounting Swell Dial Gauge in position on CBR mould collar. Weight 700 g EL24-9268 Soaking Tank galvanised steel, 610 x 610 x 380 mm deep. Complete with removable perforated tray and tank stand. Weight 37 kg EL24-9275 Swell Dial Gauge, BS/EN. 25 mm travel x 0.01 mm Swell Dial Gauge, ASTM see EL24-9184

BS/EN Mould and Accessories

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Soil Testing Compaction and CBR

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In-situ CBR
The use of in-situ CBR apparatus on road construction contracts enables the bearing capacity of soils to be determined quickly and efficiently with minimum delay to contracting plant. BS 1377, BS 1924 and ASTM D4429 describe in-situ test procedures.

Conversion of In-situ to Laboratory CBR

The In-situ CBR jack assembly can be mounted in a simple conversion frame to measure CBR values in the laboratory.The frame is used with the jack, a suitable load ring, CBR mould and penetration piston.

Ordering Information
EL24-9341 50 kN Conversion Frame to adapt the mechanical jack for laboratory CBR tests.The frame is of a two-column construction with an overhead beam to accept the mechanical jack EL24-9290 and is supplied complete with stabilising bar. Weight 53 kg

Accessories
EL24-9290 45 kN capacity Mechanical Jack 28 kN Load Ring see EL78-0760 Penetration Piston see EL24-9183 Bracket and Adaptor see EL24-9188
In-situ CBR test in progress

Penetration Dial Gauge ASTM see EL24-9184 Penetration Dial Gauge BS see EL24-9186
EL24-9290 45 kN Mechanical Jack

Ordering Information
EL24-9290 45 kN Capacity Mechanical Jack. The body is corrosion protected and houses an enclosed worm and wheel gear.The gear ratio has been carefully selected to provide a handwheel speed that can be comfortably maintained, particularly with soils of high CBR value. A quick-release device in the screwjack allows the plunger to be rapidly adjusted prior to the test. Weight 8.2 kg EL24-9298 Land Rover Bracket Fits all models in Land Rover series 90 and 110 EL24-9300 Ball Seating Attachment for fitting between the mechanical jack and reaction point.The ball seating is used when testing over undulating ground to ensure that the jack, load measuring ring and penetration piston are truly vertical. Non-axial loading of the load ring will give false results and will eventually damage the ring itself. Weight 1.8 kg EL24-9308 Set of Extension Rods made from high-quality steel with largesection thread for quick assembly EL24-9312 Datum Bar Assembly comprising 2 tripod stands and a datum bar. Weight 5.7 kg EL24-9320 4.5 kg Annular Surcharge Weight EL24-9322 4.5 kg Slotted Surcharge Weight EL24-9248 9.1 kg Slotted Surcharge Weight Penetration Piston Penetration Dial Gauge ASTM Penetration Dial Gauge BS Bracket and Adaptor Load Rings see see see see see EL24-9183 EL24-9184 EL24-9186 EL24-9188 Section 78

EL24-9341 Conversion Frame for Laboratory CBR Test, with Accessories

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