Appendix-C Specifications of Geosynthetic Products

APPENDIX-C
Specifications of Geosynthetic Products
1.0 Specification of Non-woven Geotextile to be used as separator/filtration in

Railway Formation Specification No. RDSO/2018/GE: IRS-0004-Part-I (March
2019)
A) Properties of Nonwoven Geotextile :

The Non-woven geotextile to be used as separator/filtration layer (Primary role as
separator and secondary role as filtration), shall have following properties, when tested
as per the latest edition of the test method indicated therein, for Railway application:
Sl. Property Test Method Value

No.
I Polymer and Type
Polypropylene/ Polyethylene/
1 Material/Polymer - Polyamide, Polyester or any
combination thereof
Non-woven
Needle Punched and
2 Type/Structure -
Mechanically or Thermally
bonded type or equivalent
II Mechanical Properties
1 Elongation at Failure (*) >50% in both direction
2 Grab Strength (*):
(i) On top of subgrade or 700 N
prepared subgrade before
laying blanket or anywhere ASTM D4632 -
within the embankment 2015
(ii) Below the ballast and above
the Blanket Layer 1750 N
III Hydraulic Properties
ASTM D4751-
1 Apparent Opening size ≤ 85 micron
2016
Water Flow Rate normal to ASTM D4491-
2 20 lit/m2/Sec
the Plane 2017
IV Survivability Properties
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Trapezoidal Tear Strength
(*):
(i) On top of subgrade or 250 N
prepared subgrade before ASTM D4533-
1
laying blanket or anywhere 2018
within the embankment
(ii) Below the ballast and above
the Blanket Layer 800 N
2 Puncture Strength–CBR
(*): 1800 N
(i) On top of subgrade or
prepared subgrade before ASTM D6241-
laying blanket or anywhere 2014
within the embankment.
(ii) Below the ballast and above 5800 N
the Blanket Layer
V Durability Properties
Abrasion Strength (%
ASTM D4886 -
1 strength retained in breaking 80%
2018
load) (*)
Resistance to U.V. Light Not less than 70%
Weathering (After unwrapping, the
(% strength retained in ASTM D4355-
2 geotextile should be installed
breaking strength) after 500 2018
and covered within a
hrs. of exposure maximum of 14 days)
EN:12447-2001 50%
Minimum retained Ultimate and (tested as per Clause B.4 of
3
Tensile Strength(*) EN ISO: 13438- EN: 13250-2016, for 100
2004 year service life)
* is Minimum Average Roll Value (MARV), which is derived statistically as average value
minus two standard deviations.
Note:
1. The adherence to above listed specification should be checked by testing the samples at
IIT, NIT, Government labs or any other NABL accredited lab.
2. Manufacturing of non-woven geotextile shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s
QAP for quality control.
3. The product being supplied by the manufacturer should have been successfully used for
similar application (separator /filtration-Primary role as separator and secondary role as
filtration) at minimum 3 locations, with minimum 3 years’ experience at one of the
locations, with supporting documents as an evidence for satisfactory performance.
4. To ensure proper quality assurance and reproducibility of the product, following
stipulations are as under:
i) The manufacturer of non-woven geotextile should have ISO: 9001/CE Certification for
the product being supplied. The manufacturer of Geo-synthetics should have a well-
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documented Quality Assurance Procedure (QAP)/Factory Production Control (FPC)
Manual, covering every specific product produced on specific production site, which
shall be referred/stipulated in the ISO: 9001/CE Certification. The QAP/FPC Manual
shall consist of a permanent internal production control system to ensure that
product being manufactured conforms to the requisite properties and it addresses
following items:
a) Produce design requirement and criteria.
b) Acceptance criteria of raw/incoming material and procedures to ensure that these
are met.
c) Relevant features of the plant and production process; giving frequency of
inspections, checks & tests, together with values/criteria required on equipment
and action(s) to be taken when control values or criteria are not obtained.
d) Tests on finished products – Size of the samples and frequency of sampling with
results obtained.
e) Details of alternative tests and procedures, if any, and their correlation with
reference tests.
f) Calibration of equipment having influence on test results.
g) Records to be maintained for various inspections, checks and tests carried out
during factory production.
h) Assessment of results of various inspections, checks and tests carried out during
factory production; where possible and applicable.
i) System of traceability and control of designs, incoming materials and use of
materials.
j) Corrective action for non-conforming materials and finished products.
k) Training, job description and responsibility of the personnel involved in the
manufacturing process.
ii) Any subsequent changes in raw materials, manufacturing procedures or the control
scheme that affects the properties of a product shall be recorded/revised in the
QAP/FPC Manual and certified by the ISO: 9001/CE Certification.
iii) Surveillance of QAP/FPC Manual shall be undertaken at least once per year. The
surveillance shall include a review of the test plan(s) and production processes for
each product to determine if any changes have been made since the last assessment
or surveillance. The significance of changes shall be assessed.
iv) Records of all in-house test results, as per QAP/FPC Manual, shall be shown to the
purchaser; whenever requested by the purchaser
(B) Packing, Handling, Storage and Laying of Geotextiles

i) A tag or other method of identification shall be attached to each roll of non –woven
geotextile indicating following:
a) Manufacturer or Supplier Name

b) Product or Style Name
c) Roll Number
d) Lot or Batch Number
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ii) Rolls of non –woven geotextiles should not be dragged on the ground and they
must be lifted off the ground before moving them.
iii) Non –woven Geotextiles slowly degrade in the presence of Ultra Violet (UV) rays
which are present in sunlight. Hence, they should be wrapped with a material that
will protect them from damage due to shipment, sunlight (UV exposure) and
contaminates. The protective wrapping, in which the non –woven geotextiles come
wrapped from factory, should be kept on till their storage and installation. After
unwrapping, the geotextile should be installed and covered within a maximum of
14 days.
iv) If stored outside, they should be elevated from the ground surface and adequately
covered to protect them from site construction damage, precipitation, UV radiation
including sun light, chemicals that are strong acids/bases, flames including welding
sparks, temperatures in excess of 710C etc.
v) If the protective wrapping of the non –woven geotextile roll is damaged, the rolls
must be elevated off the ground surface and covered with a tarpaulin or opaque
plastic sheet. If the outer layer of the geotextile itself is damaged, the outermost
wraps of the geotextile must be removed and discarded. This is also required when
the roll is exposed to sunlight for a period beyond that permitted by the project
specifications.
vi) If the non –woven geotextiles is exposed to moisture or water, prior to installation,
it absorbs water up to three times their weight. This can lead to serious handling
problems due to extra weight and installation problem because it is nearly
impossible to unroll wet rolls. In addition, the strength of wet non –woven
geotextile may also diminish to the point that it may not support the required load
during installation/construction.
vii) If the non –woven geotextile becomes wet, it is permissible to remove the
waterproof cover to allow for a few days of exposure to wind in order to dry the
fabric.
viii) In trenches, after placing the backfill material, the non –woven geotextile shall be
folded over the top of the filter material to produce a minimum overlap of 300mm
for trenches greater than 300mm wide. In trenches, less than 300mm wide, the
overlap shall be equal to the width of the trench. The non –woven geotextile shall
then be covered with the subsequent course.
ix) Damages to non –woven geotextile, if any during installation, shall be repaired by
placing a non –woven geotextile patch over the damaged area and extending it 1m
beyond the perimeter of the tear or damage.
x) For laying of Non-woven geotextile:
a) Major protrusions on the surface on which non –woven geotextile is to be laid,

such as rocks & bush stamps, shall be removed and local depressions etc. shall
be filled with approved soil before laying the geotextile. The geotextile shall be
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rolled out smoothly. The non –woven geotextile should not be dragged across
the subgrade. The entire roll should be placed and rolled out as smoothly as
possible. Wrinkles and folds in the fabric shall be removed by stretching as
required.
b) Adjacent rolls of non –woven geotextiles shall be overlapped, sewn or joined
as required. Overlaps can be used to provide continuity between adjacent non
–woven geotextile rolls through frictional resistance between the overlaps. The
amount of overlap depends primarily on the soil conditions as given in the
Table below:
Soil CBR Minimum Overlap

Greater than 3 300- 450 mm
1–3 600 – 1000 mm
Less than 1 Sewn
c) For curves, the non –woven geotextile shall be folded or cut and overlapped in
the direction of construction. Folds in the non –woven geotextile shall be
stapled or pinned approximately 0.6m centre-to-centre. Before covering, the
condition of the non –woven geotextile shall be checked for damage (i.e.
holes, nips, tears etc.).
xi) Before laying the first lift of granular subgrade on the non –woven geotextile, a
trial stretch of 100m shall be laid to establish a proper construction methodology
of placing and compacting the sub-grade in a manner that no damages are caused
to the separation layer of non-woven geotextile.
(C) Measurement for Payment of Geotextiles
The geotextiles for separation / filter layer shall be measured in square metres, with
no allowance for overlapping at transverse & longitudinal joints. The contract unit
rate for the accepted quantities of geotextile shall be in full compensation for
furnishing, preparing, hauling and placing geotextiles including all labour, freight,
tools, equipment and incidentals to complete the work as per specifications.
2.0 Specifications for Geogrid to be used as reinforcement/stabilisation for Railway
Formation (Specification No. RDSO/2018/GE: IRS-0004- Part-III) February
2020.
A) Properties of Geogrid
The geogrid used as reinforcement/stabilisation layer shall have following properties,
when tested as per the latest edition of the test method indicated therein, for Railway
application:
Sl. Property Test Value

No. Method
I Material/Polymer
1 Material/Polymer - Polypropylene
II Mechanical Properties
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Tensile Strength at 2%
Strain (**)
(i) For use below ISO 10319- 10 KN/m x 10 KN/m*
1.
ballast in existing line 2015
(ii) For use below 9 KN/m x 9 KN/m*
blanket in new line
Strain at Ultimate ISO 10319- 6-15 %
2.
Tensile Strength (**) 2015
Aperture
Stability/Torsional Average Torsional Stiffness
Rigidity Modulus (**) ASTM-
3. (i) For use below D7864 ≥0.33 N-m/deg
ballast in existing line -2015
(ii) For use below
blanket in new line ≥0.40 N-m/deg
Junction Efficiency (**) ASTM- 90%
4. D7737
-2015
III Durability Characteristics
Resistance to
ASTM-
Installation damage(% 90%
1. D5818
tensile strength at 2%
-2018
strain) (**)
Resistance to Chemical
Degradation ASTM D6213
2. 100%
(% Average Ultimate rib -2017
Tensile Strength) (**)
Resistance to U.V. Light
Weathering ASTM-
3. (% strength retained in D4355
95%
breaking strength) after -2018
500 hrs of exposure (**)
EN ISO- 50%
Minimum retained
(tested as per Clause B.4.2
4. Ultimate Tensile 13438
of EN:13250-2016, for 100
Strength (**) -2004
Year Service Life)
*
MD: Machine Direction (Longitudinal to the roll) X CD (90o of Machine Direction):
Transverse Direction (Across the roll width)
**
Values marked are Minimum Average Roll Value (MARV), which is derived
statistically as average value minus two standard deviations.
Note:
1. The adherence to above listed specification should be checked by testing the samples at
IIT, NIT, Government labs or any other NABL accredited lab.
2. Aperture Opening of Geogrid:

a) For use below ballast in existing line, the distance between parallel ribs of the
geogrid should be 60mm ± 5mm.
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b) For use below blanket in new line, the distance between parallel ribs of the geogrid
should be 30mm ± 5mm.
Aperture size/opening specified above is the clear distance between inner faces of ribs.
Reference diagrams are as given below for illustrations.
(Ref. ISO 10319-2015)
3. The particle grading for the installation damage test result determined in accordance
with ASTM D5818 shall use Ballast grading as defined in IRS-GE-1 June 2016, for use
below bottom of ballast in existing line and Blanket grading as defined in table 3.7 of
chapter 3, for use below in blanket layer in new line.
4. The product being supplied by the manufacturer should have been successfully used as
per functional requirement for similar Railway application (reinforcement / stabilization)
at minimum 3 locations, with minimum 3 years India/International experience at one of
the locations, and certificate duly certified by client/executive which is a government
agency/PSU, should be submitted as an evidence for satisfactory performance.
5. Manufacturing of geogrid shall be performed in accordance with the manufacturer’s QAP

for quality control.

a) The manufacturer of the Geogrid should have ISO: 9001 and CE Certification of the
product being supplied. The manufacturer of Geo-synthetics should have a well-
shall be referred/stipulated in the ISO: 9001 and CE Certification. The QAP/FPC
Manual shall consist of a permanent internal production control system to ensure
that product being manufactured conforms to the requisite properties and it
addresses following items:
i) Produce design requirement and criteria.

ii) Acceptance criteria of raw/incoming material and procedures to ensure that
these are met.
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iii) Relevant features of the plant and production process; giving frequency of
inspections, checks & tests, together with values/criteria required on
equipment and action(s) to be taken when control values or criteria are not
obtained.
iv) Tests on finished products – Size of the samples and frequency of sampling
with results obtained.
v) Details of alternative tests and procedures, if any, and their correlation with
reference tests.
vi) Calibration of equipment having influence on test results.
vii) Records to be maintained for various inspections, checks and tests carried out
viii) Assessment of results of various inspections, checks and tests carried out
during factory production; where possible and applicable.
ix) System of traceability and control of designs, incoming materials and use of
materials.
x) Corrective action for non-conforming materials and finished products.
xi) Training, job description and responsibility of the personnel involved in the
b) Any subsequent changes in raw materials, manufacturing procedures or the control

scheme that effects the properties of a product shall be recorded/revised in the
QAP/FPC Manual and certified by the ISO: 9001 and CE Certification.
c) Surveillance of QAP/FPC Manual shall be undertaken at least once per year. The
each product to determine if any changes have been made since the last
assessment or surveillance. The significance of changes shall be assessed.
d) Records of all in-house test results, as per QAP/FPC Manual, shall be shown to the
purchaser; whenever requested by the purchaser.
B) Packing, Handling, Storage and Laying of Geogrid
i) A tag or other method of identification shall be attached to each roll indicating the
following:
b) Product name and Style
c) Roll Number
ii) Geogrids shall be stored in a manner that prevents excessive mud, wet concrete,
epoxy or other deleterious materials from coming in contact with and affixing to
the geogrid.
iii) If the geogrid comes in the protective wrapping, it should be kept in wrapped
condition till their storage and installation. After unwrapping, the geogrid should be
installed and covered within a maximum period of 1 month.
If the Geogrid is supplied in unwrapped condition, it should be installed and
covered within a maximum period of 1 month from the date of manufacturing. In
case Geogrid is supplied after more than a month’s period to the site it should be
ensured that it conforms to Resistance to UV light weathering criteria before laying.
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iv) Prior to laying of geogrid as reinforcement layer, the surface shall be properly
prepared, ruts should be made good and dressed to the specified lines and levels.
v) Geogrid reinforcement shall be placed flat, pulled tight and held in position by pins
or suitable means until the subsequent layer is placed. Geogrid should be rolled
out on the compacted surface parallel to the centre line of track.
vi) The minimum overlap shall be of
CBR (%) Overlap

Greater than 3 300 mm
1-3 600 mm
Overlaps must be maintained during the filling operation. This is generally

achieved by placing small heaps of fill locally over the overlaps ahead of main
filling operation.
vii) No vehicle shall be allowed on geogrid unless it is covered by at least 150mm thick
overlying material.
C) Measurement for Payment of Geogrid

The geogrid shall be measured in square metres, with no allowance for overlapping
at transverse & longitudinal joints. The contract unit rate for the accepted quantities
of geogrid shall be in full compensation for furnishing, preparing, hauling and placing
geogrid including all labour, freight, tools, equipment and incidentals to complete the
work as per specifications.
D) Acceptance Criteria
Conformance testing on the geogrid delivered to the site shall be undertaken by the
Contractor in accordance with the requirements of Clause.
i) General
The Chief Engineer (open line/Construction) or equivalent in PSU’s shall be the

accepting authority and shall accept test certificates, verifying compliance with
Clause (A), for tests carried out, in accordance with this Technical Specification,
on the materials to be used for the specific project. In addition, Contractor’s
quality system shall demonstrate that the specified minimum frequency of
testing has been maintained and ensuring traceability of the material.
Presently Tests Aperture Stability/Torsional Rigidity Modulus are not
carried out in India, therefore upto one year, Manufacturer certificate is
required for the procurement of Geogrid. All manufacturers should develop
Testing facilities in one year time and this should be carried out as routine
testing of Geogrid. The test certificates shall not be older than 12 months on
the date of the supply to the site.
ii) Site sampling

a) Frequency for test other than durability tests
Where the total required batch size for the Contract is less than 5000 m²,
sampling and testing need not be undertaken. If the material supplied is
higher than 5000 m2 on-site sampling shall be carried out in accordance with
ASTM D4354 at the frequency stated in Table D.2.
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Table D.2 – On Site sampling frequency
Batch or order size defined as the Number of rolls to be sampled

lot size representing the lot
The initial 10,000 m² or part thereof 1
Each subsequent 20,000 m² or part 1
thereof
The representative sample shall be no less than four linear metres along the
roll for the full production width but not within two metres of the start or end
of the roll.
Identification information including the geogrid supplier, type, batch
identification, and details of the order represented by sample, sample date
and roll directional markings shall be shown on or attached to the test
reports.
b) Frequency for Durability Tests
Random checks on material supplied to project sites once every 5,00,000
sqm. or once in a 3 year whichever is earlier for each manufacturer.
iii) Acceptance
A lot shall be deemed to achieve conformance, if all samples tested comply with
the Technical Specification. If a lot fails to achieve conformance, the lot may be
re-sampled in accordance with Clause D.2 to verify whether the lot conforms or
not. If it still does not conform to the technical specifications, the lot should be
rejected.
The geogrid shall not be placed prior to the acceptance as per para D (i) above.
iv) Audit testing During audit testing, samples may be selected from the site and
accordingly arrangement for audit testing has to be done, regardless of the
quantity of geogrid supplied.
3.0 Specification of Geocomposite Drain to be used behind Bridge Abutment/

Retaining Wall for Railway Bridge- For height up to 10 m. (Specification No.
RDSO/2018/GE: IRS-0006 -March 2019)
A) Properties of Geocomposite Drain (Vertical)

The Geocomposite Drain (or Drainage Composite) consisting of a geonet core
sandwiched between non-woven geotextile filters on both sides, to be used behind
Bridge Abutment/Retaining Wall of Height up to 10m, shall have following properties,
when tested as per the latest edition of the test method indicated therein:
Sl. Property Test Proposed value
No. Method
I Composite Drain (Non-woven geotextile on both sides)

ASTM 20 KN/m in both MD & CD (± 10%)
1 Tensile Strength
D4595-2017
120
In-plane Water
Flow
(For i=1, 1.5 lit/m.sec.
ASTM
Rigid/Soft
2 D4716-2014
Contacts)
At 100 kPa
(To be tested in
lab)
Static Puncture
ASTM D
3 Resistance 3000 N
6241-2014
CBR(*)
Resistance to
U.V. Light
Weathering Not less than 70%
(% strength ASTM (After unwrapping, the Geocomposite
4
retained in D4355-2018 should be installed and covered within
breaking strength) a maximum of 14 days)
after 500 hrs of
exposure
Minimum retained EN:12447-
50%
Ultimate Tensile 2001 and
5 (tested as per Clause B.4 of EN:
Strength(*) EN ISO:
13250-2016, for 100 year service life)
13438-2004
II Core
HDPE/Polypropylene/ Polyethylene or
1 Material -
combination thereof
III Filter (Non-woven Geotextile)
Polypropylene/Polyamide/Polyethylene,
1 Material -
Polyester or combination thereof
Non-woven
2 Type/Structure - Needle Punched & Mechanically or
Thermally bonded type or equivalent
Permeability
ASTM
3 (Perpendicular 70 lit./m2.s (Min.)
D4491-2016
to Plane)
Apparent ASTM
4 150 Micron (Max.)
Opening Size D4751-2016
Puncture
ASTM
5 Strength – CBR 1400 N
D6241-2014
(*)
Resistance to
U.V. Light
Weathering Not less than 70%
(% strength ASTM (After unwrapping, the Geocomposite
6
retained in D4355-2018 should be installed and covered within
breaking strength) a maximum of 14 days)
after 500 hrs of
exposure
● MD: Machine Direction (Longitudinal to the roll)
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● CD: Transverse Direction i.e., 900 to MD, (Across the roll width)
* Is Minimum Average Roll Value (MARV), which is derived statistically as average
value minus two standard deviations.
Note:
1. The adherence to above listed specification should be checked by testing the samples
at IIT, NIT, Government labs or any other NABL accredited lab.
2. Manufacturing of Geosynthetics shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s QAP for

quality control.
3. The product being supplied by the manufacturer should have been successfully used
for similar application (i.e. for drainage behind bridge abutment/retaining wall) at
minimum 3 locations, with minimum 3 years’ experience at one of the locations, with
supporting documents as an evidence for satisfactory performance.

a) The manufacturer of Geocomposite drain should have ISO: 9001/CE Certification for
the product being supplied. The manufacturer of Geo-synthetics should have a well-
shall be referred/stipulated in the ISO: 9001/CE Certification. The QAP/FPC Manual
shall consist of a permanent internal production control system to ensure that
product being manufactured conforms to the requisite properties and it addresses
following items:
these are met.
inspections, checks & tests, together with values/criteria required on
equipment and action(s) to be taken when control values or criteria are not
obtained.
iv) Tests on finished products – Size of the samples and frequency of sampling
with results obtained.
reference tests.
materials.
b) Any subsequent changes in raw materials, manufacturing procedures or the control
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c) Surveillance of QAP/FPC Manual shall be undertaken at least once per year. The
d) Records of all in-house test results, as per QAP/FPC Manual, shall be shown to the
e) Geo-composite Drain shall be manufactured by thermal bonding of filter and core.
Melt temperature of the bonding materials must be compatible so that the
properties of each material are retained. Adhesion of filter & core using
glue/adhesive tape shall not be permitted particularly for this application.
f) In-plane water flow as per item I (2) of Specification is 1.5 lit/m.sec which is to be
tested in lab. For calculating the value of short term flow creep factor is taken as
1.3. Manufactures have to give the test certificate indicating the value of creep
factor for their product tested accordingly to ASTM D7931-2018. The value of creep
factor of the product should be less than or equal to 1.3 for 100 years design life
under 100 kPa pressure. In case the creep factor of a product is greater than 1.3
then in-plane water flow to be tested in lab i.e., 1.5 lit/m.sec as mentioned in
specification at I(2) should be increased proportionally.
g) Geocomposite drain consisting of cuspated core shall not be used.
B) Packing, Handling and Installation of Geo-composite Drains (Vertical)
i) The Geocomposite drain shall be provided in wraps with a protective covering. A

tag or other method of identification shall be attached to each wrapped package
indicating the following:
b) Product Name and Style
c) Roll Identification Number
ii) Rolls of Geocomposite drain should not be dragged on the ground and they must be
lifted off the ground before moving them.
iii) Geocomposite drain should be adequately protected from Ultraviolet (UV) exposure
during storage at site. The protective wrapping, in which the Geo-composite drain
come wrapped from factory, should be kept on till their installation. After
unwrapping, the Geo-composite drain should be installed and covered within a
maximum of 14 days.
covered to protect them from site construction damage, precipitation, UV radiation,
chemicals that are strong acids/bases, flames including welding sparks,
temperatures in excess of 710C etc.
v) When Geo-composite drains are assembled on site, the assembly area shall be
clean and dry.
vi) Geocomposite drains shall be capable of being connected longitudinally or laterally
into pipe systems or chambers for outflow purpose. Joint parallel to the direction of
flow and any exposed edge shall be protected from the ingress of soil by wrapping
with a minimum overlap of 150mm or other measures.
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Overlap of Geocomposite drains
(vii) Care must be taken to ensure that large stones are not allowed in the soil & large
projections abutment surface to damage the surface of the geotextile filter.
(viii) In case of use behind Bridge Abutment or Retaining Wall, slotted pipe can be
provided for horizontal drainage at bottom, by placing Geonet inside slot and both
layers of geotextile to be wrapped around the slotted pipe & pasted at the overlap
with suitable tape. Or perforated pipe can be provided for horizontal drainage at
bottom, by placing Geonet is terminated at the top of perforated pipe and both
layers of geotextile to be wrapped around the perforated pipe & pasted at the
overlap with suitable tape.
(ix) A diagram showing GeoComposite Drain behind bridge abutment is shown below.
C) Measurement for Payment of Geo-composite Drain (Vertical)

The Geocomposite drain shall be measured in square metres, with no allowance for
overlapping at transverse & longitudinal joints. The contract unit rate for the accepted
quantities of Geo-composite drain shall be in full compensation for furnishing,
preparing, hauling and placing Geo-composite drain including all labour, freight, tools,
equipment and incidentals to complete the work as per specifications.
124
Use of Geocomposite drains behind bridge abutment
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4.0 Specification for Geo-composite drain to be used at the base of the
Embankment”- for height of embankment upto 8m, for Railway Formation
(Specification No. RDSO/2018/GE: IRS-0004 Part-II)
A) Properties of Geocomposite Drain (Horizontal)

In case of embankments over weak/fine grained sub-soils (which are mostly soft clays)
and having water table at higher level, it is a good practice to provide a “separator-
cum-drainage layer” of sand at the ground level to provide adequate drainage path for
the water coming from sub-soil (reducing excess pore water pressure in embankment
and thereby increasing its’ stability) and to prevent fouling of subgrade by the fine
grained subsoil.
For reducing the thickness of “drainage-cum-separator layer of sand” at the base of
embankment, Geo-composite Drain (or Drainage Composite) consisting of a geonet
core sandwiched between non-woven geotextile filters on both sides can be laid with
cross slope of 1 in 30. Such geo-composite drain is sandwiched between two sand
layers of thickness 75mm each.
The specification of geo-composite Drain shall be as listed below when tested as per
the latest edition of the test method indicated therein. These specifications are for
embankments of height up to 8m when laid over weak/fine grained sub-soils.
S. No Property Test Method Value
I Composite Drain (Non-woven geotextile on both sides)
20 KN/m in both MD &
1 Tensile Strength ASTM D4595-
CD (± 10%)
2017
In-plane Water Flow
(Min.) ASTM D4716 -
2 (For i=1.0, Soft/Soft 2014 0.45 lit/m.sec.
Contacts)
At 200 kPa (To be tested
in lab)
Static Puncture ASTM D6241-
3
2014 3000 N
Resistance CBR(*)
Not less than 70%
Resistance to U.V. (After unwrapping, the
Light Weathering ASTM D4355- Geocomposite should be
4
(% strength retained in 2018 installed and covered
breaking strength) after within a maximum of 14
500 hrs of exposure days)
Minimum retained EN:12447-2001 50%

5 Ultimate Tensile and (tested as per Clause
Strength(*) EN ISO: 13438- B.4 of EN: 13250-2016,
2004 for 100 year service life)
Resistance to
6 Installation damage ASTM- D5818-
90%
{% retained of In-plane 2018
Water Flow (Min.) (For
126
i=1.0, Soft/Soft
Contacts) At 200 kPa (To
be tested in lab)}
II Core
HDPE/Polypropylene/
1 Material - Polyethylene or
combination thereof
III Filter (Non-woven Geotextile)
Polypropylene/Polyamide/
1 Material - Polyethylene, Polyester or
combination thereof
Non-woven
Needle Punched &
2 Type/Structure -
Mechanically or Thermally
bonded type or equivalent
3 Permeability ASTM D4491-
70 lit./m2.s (Min.)
(Perpendicular to Plane) 2016
4 ASTM D4751-
Apparent Opening Size 150 Micron (Max.)
2016
5 Puncture Strength – ASTM D6241 –
1400 N
CBR (*) 2014
Not less than 70%
Resistance to U.V.
(After unwrapping, the
Light Weathering
6 ASTM D4355- Geocomposite should be
(% strength retained in
2018 installed and covered
breaking strength) after
within a maximum of 14
500 hrs of exposure
days)
● MD: Machine Direction (Longitudinal to the roll)
● CD: Transverse Direction i.e., 900 to MD, (Across the roll width)
* Is Minimum Average Roll Value (MARV), which is derived statistically as average
value minus two standard deviations.
Note:
1. The adherence to above listed specification should be checked by testing the samples
at IIT, NIT, Government labs or any other NABL accredited lab.
2. Manufacturing of Geosynthetics shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s QAP for

quality control.
3. The product being supplied by the manufacturer should have been successfully used
for similar application (i.e., Geo-composite Drain at base of the Embankment) at
minimum 3 locations, with minimum 3 years’ experience at one of the locations, with
supporting documents as an evidence for satisfactory performance.

i) The manufacturer of the Geo-composite Drain should have ISO: 9001/CE
Certification for the product being supplied. The manufacturer of Geo-synthetics
should have a well-documented Quality Assurance Procedure (QAP)/Factory
Production Control (FPC) Manual, covering every specific product produced on
127
specific production site, which shall be referred/ stipulated in the ISO: 9001/CE
Certification. The QAP/FPC Manual shall consist of a permanent internal production
control system to ensure that product being manufactured conforms to the
requisite properties and it addresses following items:
these are met.
inspections, checks & tests, together with values/criteria required on equipment
and action(s) to be taken when control values or criteria are not obtained.
iv) Tests on finished products – Size of the samples and frequency of sampling with
results obtained.
reference tests.
materials.
ii) Any subsequent changes in raw materials, manufacturing procedures or the control
iii) Surveillance of QAP/FPC Manual shall be undertaken at least once per year. The
iv) Records of all in-house test results, as per QAP/FPC Manual, shall be shown to the
v) Geo-composite Drain shall be manufactured by thermal bonding of filter and core.

Melt temperature of the bonding materials must be compatible so that the
properties of each material are retained. Adhesion of filter & core using
glue/adhesive tape shall not be permitted particularly for this application.
vi) In-plane water flow as per item I (2) of Specification is 0.45 lit/m.sec which is to
be tested in lab. For calculating the value of short term flow creep factor is taken
as 1.3. Manufactures have to give the test certificate indicating the value of creep
factor for their product tested accordingly to ASTM D7931-2018. The value of creep
factor of the product should be less than or equal to 1.3 for 100 years design life
under 200 kPa pressure. In case the creep factor of a product is greater than 1.3
then in-plane water flow to be tested in lab i.e., 0.45 lit/m.sec as mentioned in
specification at I(2) should be increased proportionally.
vii) Geocomposite drain consisting of cuspated core shall not be used.
128
B) Packing, Handling and Installation of Geo-composite Drains (Horizontal)
i) The Geo-composite drain shall be provided in wraps with a protective covering. A

tag or other method of identification shall be attached to each wrapped package
indicating the following:
b) Product Name and Style
c) Roll Identification Number
ii) Rolls of Geo-composite drain should not be dragged on the ground and they must
be lifted off the ground before moving them.
iii) Geo-composite drain should be adequately protected from Ultraviolet (UV) exposure
during storage at site. The protective wrapping, in which the Geo-composite drain
come wrapped from factory, should be kept on till their installation. After
unwrapping, the Geo-composite drain should be installed and covered within a
maximum of 14 days.
covered to protect them from site construction damage, precipitation, UV radiation,
chemicals that are strong acids/bases, flames including welding sparks,
temperatures in excess of 710C etc.
v) When Geo-composite drains are assembled on site, the assembly area shall be
clean and dry.
vi) Geo-composite drains shall be capable of being connected longitudinally or laterally
into pipe systems or chambers for outflow purpose. Joint parallel to the direction of
flow and any exposed edge shall be protected from the ingress of soil by wrapping
with a minimum overlap of 150mm or other measures.
Showing overlap of Geo-Composite Drain

vii) Care must be taken to ensure that large stones are not allowed in sub soil &
subgrade soil to damage the surface of the geotextile filter.
viii) The water coming from the Geo-Composite Drain can be disposed off by providing
side drain along the embankment.
ix) A diagram showing Use of Geo-Composite Drain in bank over soft subsoil is shown
below.
C) Measurement for Payment of Geo-composite Drain (Horizontal)

The Geo-composite drain shall be measured in square metres, with no allowance for
overlapping at transverse & longitudinal joints. The contract unit rate for the accepted
quantities of Geo-composite drain shall be in full compensation for furnishing,
129
preparing, hauling and placing Geo-composite drain including all labour, freight, tools,
equipment and incidentals to complete the work as per specifications.
Use of Geo-Composite Drain in bank over soft subsoil
130
APPENDIX-D
FIELD COMPACTION TRIAL OBSERVATIONS & COMPUTATION SHEETS

COMPACTION EQUIPMENT DATA
TABLE –D-1
Project……………………. Location………………………….. Date……………………..
Item Roller - 1 Roller -2 Roller -3

Type of Roller
Gross weight (tonnes)
Drum Dimension Width (mm)
(Roller Type) Diameter (mm)
Type
Foot Number
(Sheep foot Type) Length (mm)
Area (mm2)
2
Contact Area (cm )
(Sheep foot/Pneumatic Tyred/Vibratory Plate
Type)
Tyre Inflation Pressure(Kg/cm2)
Nominal Amplitude(mm)
Frequency(Hz)
Dynamic Force(Kg)
Operational Speed(Kmph)
Static Linear Loads(Kg/cm)
Contact Pressure(Kg/cm2)
LIST OF EQUIPMENT FOR FIELD TRIALS/MONITORING
S.No. Equipment No. Reqd. No. available
1. Field density apparatus complete:
a) Sand replacement 4 Sets
b) Core cutter with dolly and hammer 4 Sets
2. Balance:
a) Electronic balance – 20 kg capacity 1 Set
(with 2.0 gm Least Count )
b) Electronic balance – 500 gm capacity 1 Set
3. Straight edge 300mm long 4 Nos.
4. Frying Pan 1 No.
5. Containers plastic (about 500g capacity) 8 Nos.
6. Enamel plates: 6 inch dia. 10 Nos.
8 inch dia. 3 Nos.
10 inch dia. 3 Nos.
7. Uniform clean sand (Ottawa Sand) (bags of 50 Kg) 10 Bags
8. Measuring tape (3M/5M) 1 No.
9. Measuring tape (15 M/30M) 1 No.
10. Kerosene oil stove 1 No.
Signature of Signature of
Monitoring Official ______________ Project Official ____________________
Name____________________ Name_____________________________
Designation _________ Designation __________________
Date ________________________ Date ________________________
131
FIELD COMPACTION TRIAL OBSERVATION
TABLE- D-2
Project ________________________________ Date ________________________
Location ______________________________________
Strip No. Location on Moisture content before watering Moisture content after adding the water
the ramp Container Weight of Weight of Moisture Containe Weight of Weight of Moisture
No. wet dry content r No. wet dry content
soil.(gms) soil.(gms) (%) soil.(gms) soil.(gms) (%)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1
2
J 3
4
1
2
K 3
4
1
2
L 3
4
1
2
M 3
4
Signature of Monitoring official___________________ Signature of Project Official__________________

Name_________________________________________ Name_______________________
Designation___________________________________ Designation______________________
Date ________________________ Date ________________________
132
TABLE- D-3
Project ________________________________ Location: ________________________Date____________

STRIP No. ______________OMC___________________% MDD________________gms/cc Volume of core cutters:__________C.C.
No. of Location In-situ bulk density Moisture content Dry Percent Remark
roller of the Core Wt. Of Wt. of Wt. of Bulk Contain Wt. of Wt. of Moisture density of MDD
passes Ramp cutter empty wet soil wet soil density er No. wet dry soil content of soil
No. core with (gm) of soil soil (gms) (%)
cutter core (gm/cc) (gms)
(gm) cutter
(gm)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
4 1
2
3
4
6 1
2
3
4
8 1
2
3
4
10 1
2
3
4
12 1
2
3
4
14 1
2
3
4
Signature of monitoring official________________ Signature of project official ____________________
Name ________________________ Name _________________________________
Designation ___________ Designation _____________________________
Date _______________________ Date ____________________________________
133
FIELD COMPACTION TRIAL-COMPUTATION SHEET
TABLE- D-4
Project______________ Location_________________________
S. Lift Moisture Dry density of soil(gm/cc) Remarks

No thickness content Nos. of the roller passes
(mm) % 4 6 8 10 12 14
1. 225
2. 300
3. 375
4. 450
Computed by_______________________ Checked by ________________
Name ____________________________ Name______________________
Designation________________________ Designation_________________
Date _____________________ Date ______________________
134
Fig -D-1
135
Fig – D-2
136
Fig– D-3
137
APPENDIX-E
Modern Equipment’s for Earth Work
The details given below are based on the information available in the public domain and
the list is not exhaustive. There may be many manufactures / suppliers of these
equipment’s and many such similar equipment’s.
1.0 Compactors/Rollers
1.1 Slope Compactors
(a) Slope Compactor Vibratory Roller (Double Drum) Rope Start
Slope compactor vibratory roller (Double drum) with Hydraulic drive can work
on slope of 1:2 to 1:1.5, a pair of compactors works on Counter Balance
Principle have to be linked via wire rope pulley (i.e. two compactors (One at the
top and other at bottom of the slope), supported on loaded truck at the top.
The two compactors with individual operator have to operate Single lever
simultaneously in downward and upward direction from two ends of slope. One
of the Slope Compactor Vibratory Roller (Double Drum) Rope Start in operation
is given below for illustration.
Fig-E1: Slope Compactor Working with counter balance Method
(b) Slope Vibratory Roller
Slope Vibratory Compactor is a unique attachment which can be attached to

any Excavators/Backhoes/Long Reach. This attachment is specially designed for
various applications like Railway track extension /Canal / Dam Slope
Compaction and sloping surface where compaction is required. This attachment
is capable of reaching surfaces where normal compactors cannot reach and
can-do deep compaction than an ordinary compactor.
138
On Steep Slopes, slushy and most difficult terrains, where the normal Roller
would easily swamp down, Slope Vibratory Compactors can easily work. These
rollers work on the double vibratory principle that provides superior
compaction.
Fig-E2: Slope Vibratory Roller Fig-E3: Working of Slope Vibratory Roller
(c) Slope Vibratory Compactor
Slope Vibratory Compactor is an attachment to normal excavators. The major

advantage of this compactor is that it can compact 360 degrees for a height of
2m to 17m depending on size of excavator and attachment length.
Fig-E4: Slope Vibratory Compactor
1.2 Vibrating Plate Compactors:
The vibratory plate compactor is power-engines, walk-behind equipment that

imparts powerful vibratory compaction effort to loose materials, by transmitting
vibration through the vibrating plate which generates power from the single rotor
in vibration case. A plate compactor works by vibrating or driving a flat metal plate
against the ground over and over. This flat plate helps to compress and smoothen
out the rough and uneven dirt. Plate compactors work best on granular soil, such
as sand and gravel. These vary in weight from 100 kg to 2 tonne with plate areas
between 0.16 sqm and 1.6 sq cm. Smaller versions are manually guided and
therefore suitable for compacting small or awkwardly shaped areas. They usually
139
travel at about 0.7 km/h. They are classified in terms of mass divided by the area
of the base in contact with the ground.
.
Fig-E5: Vibrating Plate Compactor
1.3 Small Width Vibratory Roller for Compaction of Earthwork in Gauge

Conversion Work and Narrow Width Portion
Proper compaction in the widened portion of embankment is difficult to achieve

with conventional means of compaction like ramming & hand rollers. The small
width vibratory roller is to achieve the desired compaction in widening of
embankment in narrow width portion, from MG to BG in Gauge Conversion Works.
Fig-E6: Small Width Vibratory Roller (Drum width 90 cm)
1.4 Walk behind Vibratory Roller
Walk behind Double Drum Vibratory Roller is modern compact design for use in a
wide range of compaction application. Hydraulic with integrated travel control
eases the operating effort required for movement. Walk behind Roller has the
vibratory source located in the drum which provides maximum compaction and
traction performance.
140
Fig-E7: Walk behind Roller
1.5 Vibratory Rollers with Latest Techniques:
Even some latest techniques have been developed in World Railways, where
vibratory roller includes the machine to directly determine the vibration modulus as
parameter for the dynamic stiffness of the soil. There is continuous optimization of
amplitude and compaction energy which reduces loosening in upper layers on
uniform and granular material types.
1.6 Double Drum Vibratory Roller:
Double Drum Vibratory rollers are used primarily to compact paving materials &
their surface layer. It can also be used for the compaction of small and medium-
sized foundations, sub-foundations and filling materials. These machines have two
steel drums that vibrate via an internal, eccentric mechanism, which often can be
adjusted to vary the frequency and amplitude of the vibratory action.
Fig-E8: Double Drum Vibratory Roller
141
Few Models Of The Double Drum Vibratory Rollers Manufactured In India
Fig-E8.1 Delivers excellent mat density, good Fig-E8.2

visibility and comfort, fuel efficiency with (Solid drum type & excels on a variety of
Eco-mode & good water spray system asphalt mix designs
as well as other granular materials)
1.7 Single Drum Vibratory Roller:
Single Drum Vibratory Roller which is widely used in the construction to compact
the granular layer. It ensure smooth surface after the application and therefore,
used for the bridges, patching, footpath and landscaping applications. These
machines have one steel drum that vibrates via an internal, eccentric mechanism,
which often can be adjusted to vary the frequency and amplitude of the vibratory
action.
Fig-E9: Single Drum Vibratory Roller
142
Few Models Of The Single Drum Vibratory Rollers Manufactured In India
Fig-E9.1: (Drum Type & used for Fig-E9.2: (Available in Standard, Drum
better gradeability) & Pads + Drum type & used for better
gradeability & breaking clods)
Fig-E9.3: Vibratory Rollers(Drum Type & used for better gradeability)
2.0 Heavy Machinery for Railway Embankment Construction: Rail Road

construction equipment’s are found in a wide variety ranging from the very heavy
equipment to portable and lighter equipment. This modern and heavy construction
equipment makes the construction job easier and quicker. Also the work done by
heavy machinery is of good quality. The heavy machines make possible a lot of
tasks to be completed safely reliably and time saving that cannot be carried out
manually properly.
2.1 Backhoe:
Backhoe comprises a bucket on the end of an articulated boom, set on a
pneumatic tyred or crawler tractor unit. The boom, bucket arm and bucket are
usually controlled by hydraulic rams. Back-acters operate by digging towards the
machine in an arc from a small distance above the surface on which the machine
stands to a position vertically below the outer edge of the machine. The maximum
depth of excavation is related to the length of the boom and machines with depth
capacities between 2.6 and 6 m are in common use. Long reach machines with
nominal reach and depth capacities up to 18 to 14m respectively are also
available. Buckets are available for back-acters in different sizes up to 3cum,
143
depending on the power of the machine and the use. Loading is generally carried
out by lifting the bucket and swinging the boom away from the working face to the
awaiting haulage vehicle. Alternatively, material can be dumped adjacent to the
machine.
Fig-E 10: Backhoe
2.2 Face, Front or Loading Shovel:

Face, front or loading shovel is constructed in a similar manner to a back-acter
except the boom; bucket arm and bucket operate in the opposite direction, i.e. up
and away from the machine. Generally used for excavating faces upto about 8m
high and stockpiles. Buckets are available in different sizes upto 4cum (heaped)
depending on the power of the machine. Loading is carried out in a similar manner
to the back-acter, although some machines have bottom dump buckets to increase
the speed of loading. It is useful in excavating soils, weak rocks and blasted rocks
from faces in cutting etc. some larger excavators can be converted from back-
acters to face shovels.
Fig-E 11: Shovel Fig-E 12: Crawler Hydraulic

Excavator with Face Shovel
144
2.3 Forward Loader:
Forward loader consists of a pneumatic tyred or crawler tractor at the front of
which is mounted a wide bucket that can be moved in a vertical plane. Excavation
is carried out by driving the machine towards and the bucket into the material; the
bucket is then turned and lifted upwards, thus catching and excavating the
material. The hauling vehicle is loaded by driving the loader to and emptying the
bucket into the body of a vehicle. Loaders are generally used to excavate the
materials at and for a distance above ground level and can be used to push or haul
material in the bucket over a short distance. Modern loaders have hydrostatically
powered buckets and the smaller units may be equipped with back-acters (i.e.
backhoe loader)
Fig-E 13: Forward Loader
2.4 Excavator:
Excavators are heavy construction equipment consisting of a boom, dipper, bucket
and cab on a rotating platform known as the "house". The house sits atop an
undercarriage with tracks or wheels. They are a natural progression from the
steam shovels and often mistakenly called power shovels. These machineries are
used for various earthwork purposes such as excavation of earth and
loading etc.
Fig-E14: Excavator
2.5 Graders:
Graders are used for levelling the surface during earthwork in embankments and
providing blanket surface before spreading ballast and laying track. Graders are
145
used to spread fill and finely trim the subgrade. They consists of a blade which can
rotate in a circular arc about a sub horizontal axis and which is supported beneath
a longitudinal frame joining the front steering wheels and the rear drive wheels.
The front wheels are generally articulated whilst the rear wheels are set in tandem
beneath the motor and control units. The blade is used to trim and redistribute soil
and therefore graders usually operate in the forward direction.
Fig-E15: Grader
2.6 Dumpers:
Dump trucks or dumpers generally vary in size from 1 to about 80 tonne capacity.
Large capacity machines are also available but are generally used in mines,
quaries or open cast sites. In recent years articulated dump trucks with capacities
upto 35 tonne have become popular as they are versatile and are especially
suitable for hauling on softer sub grades. The speed of tipping in increased over a
road lorry by the absence of a tailgate. Small dumper units are available for work
on small sites and mounted dump trucks are also available with load capacities
upto about 20 tonne.
Fig-E 16: Dumper
2.7 Dozers:
Bulldozer also called Dozer, powerful machine for pushing earth or rocks, used in
road building, farming, construction, and wrecking, is a tractor equipped with
affront pusher blade, which can be raised and lowered by hydraulic rams. An angle
146
dozer has a blade that is capable of being set an angle to push material sideways
whilst the tractor moves forward. The tractor unit is usually mounted on crawler
tracks thus allowing it to travel over and push off a wide variety of ground
conditions although wheel mounted units is available. Blades are manufactured in
a variety of styles but are all of heavy duty construction with a hardened steel
basal leading edge driven into the ground to cut and push the material to be
excavated. Dozers have a wide variety of roles including excavating soils and weak
rocks, ripping moving excavated material over short distances spreading materials,
trimming earthworks and acting as a pusher to boost the effective power of
scrapers and other plants. Wide ranges of crawler units are available ranging from
45 to 575 kW.
Fig-E 17: Dozer

2.8 Scraper:
A scraper is a machine used for moving or removing dirt, gravel and any other
unnecessary material from the surface. Scraper can excavate load and deposit
material in one cycle and may be towed or self-propelled. It consists of a centrally
mounted bowl, the bottom, leading edge of which can be controlled. Both towed
and self-propelled scrapers are effectively articulated between the front motorized
or towing unit and the bowl and larger self-propelled scraper may second engine
mounted on the rear.
Fig-E 18: Scraper
147
APPENDIX – F
Typical Compaction Characteristics for natural soils & rocks (Ref: BS: 6031
(latest version)
Materia Major Sub groups Suitable type Maximum Maximum Remarks
l division (3) of number of thickness of (7)
s compaction passes for compacted
(1) (2) plant satisfactory layer (mm)
(4) compaction (6)
(5)
Rock- Natural All rock fill (except Heavy If well
like rocks chalk) vibratory 4 to 12 500 to 1500 graded or
material roller not less depending easily
s than 180 kg on plant broken down
per 100 mm used then this can
of roll be classified
as a coarse-
Grid roller not
grained soil
less 180 kg
for the
per 100 mm
purpose of
of roll
compaction.
Self- propelled
The
tamping
maximum
rollers
diameter of
the rock
fragment
should not
exceed two
third of the
layer
thickness.
Gravel Well graded gravel Grid roller
Coarse- sand, and gravel/sand over 540 kg 3 to 12 75 to 275
grained gravelly mixture: little or per 100mm of depending depending
soils soils no fines roll on type of on type of
Well graded Pneumatic plant plant
gravel/ sand tired over
mixtures with 2000 kg per
excellent clay wheel
binder Vibratory plate
compactor
Uniform gravel:
over 1100
little or no fines
kg/sq.m. of
Poorly graded base plate
gravel and
Smooth wheel
gravel/sand
roller
mixtures: little or
Vibratory
no fines
roller
Gravel with excess Vibro-rammer
fines, silty gravel, Self-propelled
clayey temping roller
gravel,poorly
graded gravel/
sand/clay mixtures
148
Sand and Well graded sands
sandy and gravelly
soils sands; little or no
fines
Well graded sands
with excellent clay
binder
1 2 4 5 6 7
3
Uniform Uniform gravels; Smooth 3 to 16 75 to 300
sands little or no fines wheeled roller depending depending
and Uniform sands; below 500kg on type of on type of
gravels little or no fines per 100mm plant plant
Poorly graded of roll
sands; little or no
Grid roller
fines
below 540kg
Sands with fines,
per 100mm of
silty sands, clayey
rolling
sands, poorly
graded sand/clay Pneumatic
mixtures tired roller
below 1500kg
per wheel
Vibratory
roller
Vibrating plate
compactor
Vibro-tamper
Fines Soils Silts (inorganic) Sheep foot 4 to 8 100 to 450 If water
soils having and very fine roller depending depending content is
low sands, rock flour, Smooth on type of on type of low, it may
plasticity silty or clayey fine wheeled roller plant plant be
sands with slight Pneumatic preferable to
plasticity tired roller use
Clayey silts Vibratory vibratory
(inorganic) roller over 70 roller.
Organic silts of low kg per 100 Sheep foot
plasticity mm of roll rollers are
Vibratory plate best suited
compactor to soils at
over 1400 water
kg/sq.m of contents
base plate below their
Vibro-tamper plastic limit.
Soils Silty and sandy Power rammer
having clays (inorganic) of
medium medium plasticity
plasticity Clays (inorganic)
of medium
plasticity
Note: The information in this table should be taken only as a general guide. Field trials for
compaction should be conducted for working out optimum layer thickness and number of
roller passes for the type of compaction equipment being used. Compaction of mixed soils
should be based on that subgrade requiring most compactive effort.
149
APPENDIX- G
QUALITY CHECKS PROFORMA
Proforma No. G-1
Details of Borrow soil/ Formation subgrade/Prepared Subgrade
S. Date of Location Soil type Soil LL PL PI

no taking layer classification
sample Ch./Km Gravel Sand Silt Clay
% % % %
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
CBR Whether of Suitable/ Signature and Signature and Remarks

value dispersive Non name of name of
nature suitable Engineer’s contractor
representative representative
11 12 13 14 15 16
150
Proforma No. G-2
QUALITY OF BLANKET MATERIAL
1. Type of material: Manufactured/Naturally available

2. Source location:
S.no Date of Location Soil type CU CC Abrasion

taking of laying Value
sample Gravel Sand Fines
% % passing 75
micron
sieve %
1 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 10
CBR value Signature and Signature and Remarks

name of Rly name of
official contractor
11 12 13 14
151
Proforma No. G-3
PROFORMA FOR FIELD COMPACTION RECORD
Chainage / km from …… to……….

Soil Classification: Height of embankment:
OMC:
Type of roller being used: Lab. MDD/ Field Trial MDD:
CORE CUTTER METHOD
Date of Layer no. location Placeme No. of Wt. of Wt. of Wt of wet Vol. of Bulk
Laying coordina nt passes core core soil core density,
te for moistur cutter+ cutter (Ws - Wc) cutter b =
check e wet soil (Wc) (g) (Vc) (Ws - Wc)
content (Ws) (g) (cc) Vc
(%) (g) (g/cc)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Moisture Dry Density(d) Degree of Sig. and Sig. and Remarks

content of = b / 1+w *100 compaction name of name of
compacted (g/cc) (%) Rly officer contractor
layer (w) (%)
11 12 13 14 15 16
Note: 1. In case of compaction of blanket material, percentage of fines should also be

mentioned in a column.
2. Determination of Dry Density, (d) of soil in above table is done as per IS:
2720 Pt 29 – 1975 (latest version) titled as Determination of Dry Density of
Soils In-Place By The Core-Cutter Method
152
Proforma No. G-4
PROFORMA FOR FIELD COMPACTION RECORD
Chainage /km from …… to……….

Soil Classification:
Height of embankment:
SAND REPLACEMENT METHOD
Bulk Wt of wet Wt of Wt of sand Mean Wt of sand in Bulk

Location density of soil from Cylinder + + Cylinder weight of hole Density of
sand, hole, Sand, after sand in Wb = W1 - soil
(s) Ww (g) before pouring cone W2-W3 b= (Ww
g/cum pouring W2 (g) W3 (g) /Wb) * s
W1 (g)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Moisture Dry Density of Relative Sign. and Sign and Remarks

content of soil soil Density name of Rly name of
(w), % d = b/1+w ID Official contractor
9 10 11 12 13 14
Ref: IS: 2720 (Pt 28)1974 (latest version)

(Determination of dry density (d) of soils in-place, by the sand Replacement method)
Note: 1. Density Index (Relative Density) shall be find out as per IS 2720 (Part 14) -
1963 – (latest version).
2. The density index, Id (relative density) expressed as a percentage should be
calculated as follows:
Relative density (ID) = max (d -  min)/ d (max - min) x 100
max (from lab as per IS 2720 (Part 14) ………………..

min (from lab as per IS 2720 (Part 14) ……………….
d determined in field as shown in above table by the sand Replacement method.
153
APPENDIX-H
QUALITY ASSURANCE TESTS (STANDARD TEST PROCEDURES)
1.0 California Bearing Ratio (Laboratory Method)
(Ref: IS: 2720 (part 16)–Laboratory Determination of CBR (latest version)
1.1 California Bearing Ratio
California Bearing Ratio (CBR) test is a penetration test developed by the California
State Highway Department of USA for the evaluation of subgrade strengths for roads
and pavements.
California Bearing Ratio (CBR) is defined as the Ratio of Force per unit Area required to
penetrate a soil mass with a circular plunger of 50 mm diameter at the rate of 1.25
mm/minute to that required for corresponding penetration of a standard material. The
test results may not be directly related to fundamental properties governing the
strength of soils such as cohesion, angle of internal friction etc. Schematic of CBR Test
shown below:
Fig-H 1
1.2 Apparatus:
i) CBR mould 150 mm diameter and 175 mm high with detachable perforated base
plate. (Net capacity is 2250 ml).
ii) Collar 50 mm high.
iii) Penetration plunger - 50 mm diameter.
iv) One annular and a few slotted surcharge masses 2.5 kg each.
v) Rammer 2.6 kg with 310 mm drop and 4.89 kg with 450 mm drop.
vi) Steel rod 15-20 mm in dia and 400 mm long.
vii) Cutting edge.
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viii) Loading machine of approximately 5000 kg capacity, fitted with a calibrated
proving ring giving a constant rate of penetration of about 1.25 mm/minute.
ix) Penetration measuring 2 dial gauges accurate to 0.01 mm.
x) Soaking tank of pan, drying oven, dishes and calibrated measuring jar.
xi) Swelling gauge consisting of a perforated plate with an adjustable extension
stem.
xii) I.S. Sieves 4.75 mm and 19 mm.
xiii) Straight edge, mixing basin.
xiv) Filter paper
xv) Weights
1.3 Preparation of test specimen:
The test may be conducted on undisturbed as well as disturbed (remoulded) soil

specimen which may be compacted statically or dynamically.
i) Undisturbed soil specimen
Undisturbed soil specimen shall be obtained from the field in natural condition.
For this, use 127.3 mm high mould and attach the steel cutting edge to its one
end. Push the mould gently into the ground. When the mould is full of soil, it
shall be taken out carefully. The top and bottom surfaces are then trimmed flat
so as to achieve the correct length of specimen for testing. The specimen is
then sealed with paraffin wax on both sides of the mould so as to preserve it
with the natural moisture content.
ii) Remoulded specimen (From disturbed sample) :(As per para 4.3 of IS
2720- Part-16)
The dry density for a remoulding shall be either the field density or the value of
the maximum dry density estimated by the compaction test (IS: 2720 part.7 &
part.8) or any other density at which bearing ratio is desired. The water content
used for compaction should be at optimum moisture content or the field
moisture as the case may be.
Remoulded specimens are prepared in the laboratory by compaction. The

material used in the remoulded specimen shall pass 19 mm I.S. sieve.
Allowance for large material shall be made by replacing it by an equal amount
of material which passes a 19mm I.S.Sieve but is retained on 4.75 mm sieve.
1.4 Test Procedure:
i) Soaking of remoulded specimen:

Weight the mould with base plate and the specimen. Keep the filter paper on the
specimen and place the perforated top plate with adjustable stem over the
specimen. Keep the mould in a tank in which water is filled for soaking. Apply
weights to produce a surcharge equal to the weight of base material and
pavement to the nearest 2.5 kg on the compacted soil specimen. The whole
mould and weights shall be immersed in a tank of water allowing free access of
water to top and bottom of the specimen. The tripod for the expansion
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measuring device shall be mounted on the edge of the mould and the initial dial
gauge reading recorded. This set up shall be kept as such undisturbed for 96
hours and noting down the readings every day against the time of reading. A
constant water level shall be maintained in the tank throughout the period.
At the end of the soaking period, the final reading of the dial gauge shall be
noted, the tripod removed and the mould is taken out of the water tank.
The free water collected in the mould shall be removed and the specimen allowed
to draining downward for 15 minutes. After draining out water, the weights, the
perforated plate and the top filter paper shall be removed and the mould with the
soaked soil sample shall be weighed and the mass recorded.
ii) Penetration Test:
The mould containing the test specimen is placed on the lower plate of the
testing machine with the base plate in position and the top surface exposed.
Surcharge mass is placed on the specimen. If the specimen has been soaked
previously, the surcharge shall be equal to that use during the soaking period. To
prevent upheaval of soil into the hole of the surcharge weights, 2.5 kg annular
weight shall be placed on the soil surface. The plunger shall be seated under a
load of 4 kg so that full contact is established between the surface of the
specimen and the plunger. Load shall be applied to the penetration plunger so
that the penetration is approximately 1.25 mm per minute. Reading of the load
shall be taken at penetrations of 0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 2.5, 4.0, 5.0, 7.5, 10.0 and
12.5 mm.
After the completion of the test, the plunger is raised and the mould is detached
from the loading equipment. About 20 to 50 g of soil shall be collected from the
top 30 mm layer of specimen for water content determination.
iii) Load Penetration Curve
The load penetration curve is drawn as shown in Fig-H 2. The curve is generally
convex upwards, although the initial portion of the curve may be concave
upwards due to surface irregularities. A correction shall then be applied by
drawing a tangent to the upper curve at the point of contra flexure. The
corrected curve shall then be taken to be this tangent plus the convex portion of
the original curve with the origin of strains shifted to the point where the tangent
cuts the horizontal strain axis as illustrated in Fig-H 2 below:
Fig-H 2: Load Penetration Curve for a CBR Test
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iv) Determination of CBR
Corrected load value shall then be taken from the load penetration curve
corresponding to the penetration value at which CBR is desired. The CBR is then
determined as follows:-
CBR= PT/Psx100
Where, PT= Corrected load corresponding to the chosen penetration from the
load penetration curve,
Ps =Standard load for the same depth of penetration as for Ps
The CBR values are usually calculated for penetration of 2.5mm and 5mm.
Generally, the CBR value at 2.5 mm penetration will be greater than that at 5mm
penetration and in such a case; the former shall be taken as the CBR value for
design purpose. If the CBR value corresponding to a penetration of 5mm exceeds
that for 2.5mm, the test shall be repeated. If identical results follow, the bearing
ratio corresponding to 5mm penetration shall be taken for design.
Table-H-1 Standard Loads for CBR test
Penetration Depth Unit Standard Total Standard Load

(mm) Load (kg)
(kg/cm2)
2.5 70 1370
5.0 105 2055
7.5 134 2630
10.0 162 3180
12.5 183 3600
Test Observations are recorded in the table as given in the code.
5.0 Report:
The CBR value shall then be reported correct to the first decimal place. The
details shall be reported in prescribed proforma:-
CBR of specimen at 2.5 mm penetration -
CBR of specimen at 5 mm penetration -
CBR of specimen at …….Penetration -
Results of repeat test, if conducted:
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2.0 Field determination of Ev2
(Ref.: DIN 18134 – April 2012)
2.1 Introduction:
Deformation Modulus (Ev2) is a parameter which gives the deformation characteristics

of a finished layer of soil and it is determined from the second cycle of loading in the
Plate Load Test. It is to be determined on top of compacted Blanket layer, prepared
sub-grade layer and Subgrade layer.
2.2 Test Procedure
a) Apparatus
i) Reaction Loading System
The reaction loading system shall produce a reaction load which is at least 10
kN greater than the maximum test load required. It may be a loaded truck or
roller or any other object of sufficient mass.
Loading plate
The 300mm dia loading plate shall have two handles (Fig-H 3) and minimum
thickness of 25 mm.
Fig-H 3: 300mm Dia Loading Plate
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ii) Loading system
The loading system consists of a hydraulic jack, capable of applying and
releasing the load in stages. The hydraulic jack shall be hinged on both
sides and secured against tilting. The pressure piston shall act through at
least 150mm.
The height of the plate loading apparatus during operation should not
exceed 600 mm. In order to compensate for differences in the heights of
the vehicles used as reaction loads, elements shall be provided that allow
the initial length of the hydraulic jack to be increased to at least 1000 mm.
Suitable means shall be provided to prevent buckling of these elements.
iii) Force-measuring apparatus

A mechanical or electrical force transducer shall be fitted between the
loading plate and the hydraulic jack. It shall measure the load on the plate
with a maximum permissible error of 1 % of the maximum test load. The
stress shall be indicated at a resolution of at least 0.001 MN/m2.
iv) Settlement-measuring device

The settlement-measuring device can be with a rotatable contact arm (Fig-
H 4) or with a contact arm capable of being moved horizontally in axial
direction (i.e. with a slide bearing, see Fig-H 4).
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Fig-H 4: Settlement Measuring Device
The settlement-measuring device consists of:
(i) A frame supported at three points (see “2” in Fig-H4),
(ii) A vertically adjustable, torsion-proof, rigid contact arm (see “4” in Fig-H4),
(iii) A displacement transducer or dial gauge (see “1” in Fig-H 4).
The distance from the center of the loading plate to the Centre line of the
support shall be at least1.5 m and shall not be greater than 1.6 m (see Fig-H
4).
The hP:hM ratio (Fig-H 4 a) shall not exceed 2.0. The setting of the
assembly shall be capable of being locked so that the hp/hM ratio does not
change during measurement.
The settlement-measuring device shall be capable of measuring the

settlement of the loading plate with a maximum permissible error of 0.04
mm in the measuring range up to 10mm. The indication shall have a
resolution of at least 0.01 mm.
Measurement of settlement with alternative measuring devices is permitted
if these have at least the same resolution and measure to the same
accuracy and are recognized as remaining unaffected by soil deformation
occurring as a result of testing.
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2.3 Test conditions
In the case of soil which has formed a surface crust, has been softened or has been
otherwise disturbed in its upper zone, this disturbed soil shall be removed before
the plate load test is carried out. The density of the soil under test shall remain as
unchanged as possible.
For fine-grained soil (e.g. silt, clay), the plate load test can only be carried out and
evaluated satisfactorily if the soil is stiff to firm in consistency. In case of doubt,
the consistency of the soil under test shall be determined at various depths up to a
depth “d” below ground level (d= diameter of loading plate).
2.4 Procedure for Plate Load Test
2.4.1 Test area preparation

An area sufficiently large to receive the loading plate shall be leveled using
suitable tools (e.g. steel straightedge or trowel) or by turning or working the
loading plate back and forth. Any loose material shall be removed.
2.4.2 Setting up the plate loading apparatus

The loading plate shall lie on, and be in full contact with, the test surface. If
necessary, a thin bed (i.e. only a few millimeters in thickness) of dry medium-
grained sand or gypsum plaster paste shall be prepared to obtain a level
surface. The plate shall be bedded on this surface by turning and slightly
tapping on its upper face. When using gypsum plaster as bedding material, the
plate shall be greased on its underside. Any excess plaster shall be removed
with the spatula before it sets. Testing shall not begin until the plaster has set.
The hydraulic jack shall be placed onto the middle of, and at right angles to,
the loading plate beneath the reaction loading system and secured against
tilting. The minimum clearance between loading plate and contact area of the
reaction load shall be 0.75 m. The reaction load shall be secured against
displacement at right angles to the direction of loading.
2.4.3 Arrangement of settlement-measuring device

In order to measure settlement, the stylus shall be placed in the center of the
loading plate. The distance between the support for the supporting frame and
the area taken up by the reaction load shall be at least 1.25 m. The dial gauge
or transducer shall be set up so as to be vertical.
When placing the loading plate, care shall be taken to ensure that the stylus of
the contact arm can be passed without hindrance into the measuring tunnel in
the plinth of the loading plate and positioned centrally on the plate.
The settlement-measuring device shall be protected from sunlight and wind.
Care shall be taken to ensure that the device and the reaction loading system
are not subjected to vibration during the test.
2.4.4 Preloading
Prior to starting the test, the force transducer and dial gauge or displacement
transducer shall be set to zero, after which a load shall be applied
corresponding to a stress of 0.01 MN/m2. The reading of the gauge or
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transducer shall not be reset to zero until at least 30 s after the preload has
been applied.
2.4.5 Loading and unloading
To determine the strain modulus, Ev, the load shall be applied in not less than
six stages, in approximately equal increments, until the required maximum
stress is reached. Each change in load (from stage to stage) shall be completed
within one minute. The load shall be released in 3 stages, to 50%, 25% and
approximately 2 % of the maximum load. Following unloading, a further (2nd)
loading cycle shall be carried out, in which; however, the load is to be
increased only to the penultimate stage of the first cycle (so that the full load is
not reached).
When increasing and decreasing the load, 60 s after the previous loading stage
has been reached shall elapse before beginning the next stage. The load shall
be held constant during this period. The reading shall be recorded at the
termination of each loading stage (see Table H-2 & H-3).
To determine the strain modulus, a 300 mm loading plate shall be used and
load is increased until a settlement of 5 mm or a normal average stress below
the plate of 0.5 MN/m2 is reached. If the required settlement is reached first,
the normal average stress measured at this stage shall be taken as maximum
stress.
Table H-2: Measured values for first loading and unloading cycle
Loading Load Normal Dial gauge Settlement of

stage Stress reading Sm (mm) loading plate
no. F (kN) σ0 (MN/m2) S (mm)
0 0.71 0.01 0 0
1 5.65 0.080 0.86 1.15
2 11.31 0.160 1.57 2.09
3 17.67 0.250 2.15 2.87
4 23.33 0.330 2.44 3.25
5 29.69 0.420 2.85 3.80
6 35.34 0.500 3.16 4.21
7 17.67 0.250 2.97 3.96
8 8.84 0.125 2.78 3.71
9 0.71 0.01 1.94 2.59
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Table H-3: Measured values for second loading test
Loading Load Normal Dial gauge Settlement of

stage Stress σ0 reading loading plate
no. F (kN) (MN/m2) Sm (mm) S (mm)
9 0.71 0.01 1.94 2.59
10 5.65 0.080 2.42 3.23
11 11.31 0.160 2.65 3.53
12 17.67 0.250 2.84 3.79
13 23.33 0.330 2.99 3.99
14 29.69 0.420 3.10 4.13
If any local inhomogeneity is encountered (e.g. stones, or soil of varying

consistency), this shall be recorded.
If, during the loading cycle, a higher load than intended is inadvertently applied,
this load shall be maintained and a note made in the test report.
2.5 Evaluation and representation of results
2.5.1 Load-settlement curve

For each load increment, the average normal stress (σ0) and the associated
settlement reading (M) shall be recorded on the dial gauge or displacement
transducer. For the assembly shown in Fig. 2b, M shall be taken as the
settlement (s) of the plate. For the assembly shown in Fig-H 4, s is to be
obtained by multiplying the settlement reading (SM) by the lever ratio hP: hM, in
accordance with Equation (1):
A load (mean stress below the plate)-settlement fitting curve shall be drawn
for the first loading cycle and second loading cycle as shown in Fig-H 5.
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CYCLE 2
S
Key
o Measurement points from the first loading cycle
Measurement points from the unloading cycle
Measurement points from the second loading cycle
1. Line connecting point (0.01MN/m2; 0 mm) and the first point from the first loading cycle
2. First point from the first loading cycle.
3. Secant between 0.3σ0max and 0.7σ0max.
4. Quadratic parabola between the first and the last point from the first loading cycle.
5. Quadratic parabola between the first and the last point from the second loading cycle
6. First point from the second loading cycle.
s Settlement in mm
σ0 Normal stress in MN/m2
Fig–H 5: Load (Stress)-Settlement curve

2.5.2 Calculation of strain modulus, Ev
Calculation of the strain modulus (Ev) from the first and of the second loading
cycle shall be based on load-settlement curves, by using following equation:
Ev = 1.5 * r * (Δσ)
(Δs)
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Where: Ev is the strain modulus, in MN/m2;
r is the radius of loading plate, in mm;
Δσ is the change in stress between 0.7σmax and 0.3σmax; and
Δs is the change in settlement corresponding to stress values of 0.7σmax and
0.3σmax, from the load settlement curve, in mm.
The subscript 1 shall be used after Ev to denote the first loading cycle, and the
subscript 2 to denote the second loading cycle. σ0max from the first loading
cycle shall also be used to determine the parameters of the second loading
cycle also.
2.6 Examples for determination of Ev
A typical load (stress) – settlement curve is plotted in Fig-H 5 and using this curve,
values of Ev are calculated as under:
(i) For First loading cycle:
Ev1 = 1.5 * 150 * (0.7σ0max - 0.3σ0max)/(S at 0.7σ0max – S at 0.3σ0max)

= 1.5 * 150 * (0.4 * 0.500)/(3.5 - 1.95)
= 29.03 MN/m2
(ii) For Second loading cycle:
Ev2 = 1.5 * 150 * (0.7σ0max - 0.3σ0max)/(S at 0.7σ0max – S at 0.3σ0max)
= 1.5 * 150 * (0.4 * 0.500)/(4.08 – 3.50)
= 77.58 MN/m2
Fig-H 6: Ev2 Measuring Equipment
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3.0 Measuring in-situ Density and Water Content by Nuclear Moisture Density
Gauge
1.0 Apparatus:
1.1 Nuclear Density/Moisture Gauge:

While exact details of construction of the apparatus may vary, the system shall
consist of:
Fig.H-7 : Nuclear Gauge Fig.H-8 : Parts of a Nuclear Gauge
(a) Gamma Source: A sealed source of high-energy gamma radiation, such as

cesium or radium.
(b) Gamma Detector: Any type of gamma detector such as a Geiger-Mueller
tube(s).
(c) Fast Neutron Source: A sealed mixture of a radioactive material such as
americium, radium and a target material such as beryllium, or a neutron
emitter such as californium-252.
(d) Slow Neutron Detector: Any type of slow neutron detector such as boron
trifluoride or helium-3proportional counters.
1.2 Reference Standard: A block of material used for checking instrument operation,
correction of source decay, and to establish conditions for a reproducible
reference count rate.
1.3 Site PreparationDevice: Aplate or straight edge or other suitable leveling tool used
for levelling the test site to the required smoothness, and in the Direct
Transmission Method, guiding the drive pin to prepare a perpendicular hole.
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1.4 Drive Pin: A pin of slightly larger diameter than the probe, used to prepare a hole
in the test site for inserting the probe:
Fig. H-9 :
Site preparation
Device with Drive
Pin and Hammer
etc.
(a) Drive Pin Guide: A fixture that keeps the drive pin perpendicular to the test
site.Generally part of the site preparation device.
(b) Drive Pin Extractor: A tool that is used to remove the drive pin in a vertica
ldirection so that the pin will not distort the hole in the extraction process.
1.5 Hammer: Heavy enough to drive the pin to the required depth without undue
distortion of the hole.
2.0 General
2.1 This procedure covers determination of in-situ density and water content of soil by
means of a Nuclear Gauge designed to operate on the ground surface. Most of the
gauges normally have combined facilities for determination of density and moisture
content both.
2.2 The quality of the result produced is dependent on the competence of the personnel
using the gauge and the suitability of the equipment and facilities used.
2.3 Two alternative modes are provided in the gauges:
a) Direct Transmission Mode in which the gamma source rod extends through the
base of the gauge in to a pre-formed hole to a desired depth. This is preferred
mode for Density Measurement and should be used where possible because of
its deeper zone of influence.
b) Backscatter Mode in which the gamma and neutronsource sand the detectors are
kept at the surface. Moisture Density can be determined only by using the
backscatter mode.
2.4 The presence of moisture inside the gauge cavity will cause malfunctioning of the
gauge. Hence, they should be stored in a warm and dry place and not used in the
rain.
2.5 Gravel particles or large voids in the source-detector path may be cause higher or
lower density measurements. Where lack of uniformity in the soil due to layering,
aggregate or voids is suspected, the test site should be excavated and visually
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examined to determine whether the test material is representative of the in-situ
material in general and whether an oversize correction is required, in accordance
with practice ASTM D4718.
3.0 Calibration of the Gauge
3.1 Calibration of the gauge should be done by an Accredited Agency or by the

Manufacturer of the gauge, in accordance with procedure given in Annex A1and Annex
A2 of ASTM:D-6938.
3.2 Gauges shall be calibrated initially and after any repairs that can affect the gauge
geometry or the existing calibration. To be within specified tolerances, calibration
curves, tables, or equivalent coefficients shall be verified, at periods not to exceed 12
months. If the tolerances cannot be met at any time, the gauge shall be calibrated to
establish new calibration curves, tables, or equivalent coefficients. If the owner does
not establish a verification procedure, the gauge shall be calibrated at a period not to
exceed 12 months.
3.3 Record of calibration shall be maintained, in conformity with procedure given in

Annexure- A1 and Annexure- A2 of ASTM:D-6938 and before use of any gauge it
should be ensured that the gauge is having valid calibration certificate issued in
conformity with stipulated standard.
4.0 Standardization of the Gauge
4.1 Nuclear moisture density gauges are subject to long-term aging of the radioactive
sources, which may change the relationship between count rates and the material
density and water content. To correct for this aging effect, Standardization of the
gauge shall be performed at the start of each day’s work and a record of this data
should be retained. This procedure shall also be repeated after 8 Hours of continuous
use.
4.2 Standardization should be done with the gauge located at least 9 m away from other
nuclear moisture density gauges and clear of large masses of water or other items
which can affect the reference count rates.
4.3 Standardization Process
(a) Turn on the gauge and allow for stabilization according to the manufacturer’s
recommendations.
(b) Using the reference standard block, whose serial number matches with the serial
number on the gauge, take a reading that is at least four times the duration of a
normal measurement period (typically one minute). Use the procedure
recommended by the gauge manufacturer to establish the compliance of the
standard measurement to the accepted range. Without specific recommendations
from the gauge manufacturer, use the procedure given in Para (c) below.
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(c) If the values of the current standardization counts are outside the limits set by
Eq.1 and Eq.2, repeat the standardization check. If the second standardization
check satisfies Eq. 1 and Eq.2,the gauge is considered insatisfactory operating
condition.
Where:
Td (1/2) = the half-life of the isotope that is used for the density determination in the
gauge.
Tm (1/2) = the half-life of the isotope that is used for the water content determination
in the gauge.
Ndc = the density system standardization count acquired at the time of the last
calibration or verification.
Nmc = the moisture system standardization count acquired at the time of the last
calibration or verification,
Nd0 = the current density system standardization count,
Nm0 = the current moisture system standardization count,
t = the time that has elapsed between the current standardization test and the date
of the last calibration or verification.
ln (2)= the natural logarithm of 2, which has a value of approximately 0.69315,
e = the inverse of the natural logarithm function, which has a value of approximately
2.71828.
4.4 If for any reason,the measured density or moisture becomes suspect during the day’s
use, another standardization check should be performed.
5.0 Procedure for measurement
5.1 Select a test location where the gauge will be placed at least 600 mm away from any
object sitting on or projecting above the surface of the test location. If measurement
is to be made at a specific location and the aforementioned clearance cannot be
achieved, such as in a trench, follow the gauge manufacturer’s correction procedure(s).
Keep all other radioactive sources at least 9 m away from the gauge to avoid any effect
on the measurement.
5.2 Prepare the test site in the following manner:
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(a) Remove all loose and disturbed material and additional material as necessary to
expose the true surface of the material to be tested.
(b) Prepare an area to accommodate the gauge by grading or scraping the area to a
smooth condition so as to obtain maximum contact between the gauge and
material being tested.
(c) The depth of the maximum void beneath the gauge shall not exceed 3 mm. Use
native fines or fine sand to fill the voids and smooth the surface with a rigid
straight edge or other suitable tool. The depth of the filler should not exceed
approximately 3 mm.
(d) The placement of the gauge on the surface of the material to be tested is critical to
accurate density measurements. The optimum condition is total contact between
the bottom surface of the gauge and the surface of the material being tested. The
total area filled should not exceed approximately 10% of the bottom area of the
gauge.
5.3 Turn on and allow the gauge to stabilize (warmup) according to the manufacturer’s
recommendations.
5.4 Direct Transmission Mode
a) Make a hole perpendicular to the prepared surface using the rod guide and drive
pin. The hole should be a minimum of 50mm deeper than the desired
measurement depth and of an alignment that insertion of the probe will not cause
the gauge to tilt from the plane of the prepared area. Care must be taken in the
preparation of the access hole in uniform cohesionless granular soils.
Measurements can be affected by damage to the density of surrounding materials
when forming the hole.
b) Remove the hole-forming device carefully to prevent the distortion of the hole,
damage to the surface or loose material to fall in to the hole.
c) Place the gauge on the material to be tested. Lower the probe in to the hole to
desired test depth. As safety measure, it is recommended that the probe not be
extended out of its shielded position prior to placing it in to the test site.
d) Secure and record one or more sets(s) of one-minute bulk density and water
content readings. Read the in-situ bulk density and water content directly.
e) Retract the probe into the housing and check that the radioactive source is safely
housed.
5.5 Backscatter Mode:
a) Seat the gauge firmly. Set the gauge in to the Backscatter position.
b) Secure and record one or more set(s) of one-minute density and water content
readings.
c) Read the in-situ bulk density and water content.
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5.6 Water Content Correction and Oversize Particle Correction:
a) For getting accurate values of water content and bulk density, both of these
corrections need to be made when applicable.
b) Prior to using the gauge-derived water content on any new material, the value
should be verified. As part of a user developed procedure, occasional samples
should be taken from beneath the gauge and comparison testing done to
confirm gauge-derived water content values. All gauge manufacturers have a
procedure for correcting the gauge-derived water content values.
c) When oversize particles are present, the gauge can be rotated about the axis of
the probe to obtain additional readings as a check. When there is any
uncertainty as to the presence of these particles it is advisable to sample the
material beneath the gauge to verify the presence and the relative proportion of
the oversize particles.
d) When sampling for water content correction or oversize particle correction, the
sample should be taken from a zone directly under the gauge. The size of the
zone is approximately 200 mm in diameter and a depth equal to the depth
setting of the probe when using the direct transmission mode; or approximately
75 mm in depth when using the backscatter mode.
6.0 Calculation and expression of Results
In most of the gauges, the Bulk Density, Water Content and Dry Density are calculated
and displayed directly. Otherwise, calculate the Dry Density (ρd) as under:
ρd= (100 x ρ)/ (100 + w)
where:
ρ = Bulk Density of the soil determined by Nuclear Gauge
w = Moisture Content of the soil (in %)
If the Nuclear Gauge determines the Water Content of the soil per unit volume of the
soil, then the Dry Density is calculated as under:
ρd = ρ – W
Where,
ρ = wet density
W= Moisture Density i.e. water mass per unit volume of soil
The Moisture Content (in %) “W” can be calculated as: w = (W x 100)/ (ρ – W)
7.0 Reporting of Results
The Field Data Records shall include, as a minimum, the following:

(i) Make, model and serial number of the Nuclear Gauge.
(ii) Validity date of Gauge calibration.
(iii) Data for Standardization of the gauge.
(iv) Data/details about daily Verification of gauge Results (see Para 8.0)
(v) Location of test (e.g. Chainage and Lift/Layer No.).
(vi) Visual description of material tested.
(vii) Name of the operator(s).
171
(viii) Test mode (i.e. Direct transmission or Backscatter) and depth of test.
(ix) Any corrections made in the reported values and reasons for these corrections
(i.e. over-sized particles, water content).
(x) Maximum Laboratory Density value.
(xi) Bulk Density measured.
(xii) Water Content in percent.
(xiii) Dry Density Calculated/measured.
(xiv) Degree of Compaction/Percent Compaction.
8.0 Daily Verification of Gauge Results
8.1 At the start of each day’s work, the Degree of Compaction (% compaction) should be
measured at minimum 3 locations by the Nuclear Gauge and compared with the results
given by the conventional methods like Sand Replacement Method or Core Cutter
Method at the same locations.
8.2 If the difference in Degree of Compaction (%) at any of the location is more than 6%,
the reason for the difference should be examined in detail.
8.3 If the difference in average Degree of compaction (%) of all the locations, ignoring its’
sign, is more than 4%, the standardization of the gauge shall be repeated.
8.4 After standardization, the procedure given in Para 8.1 to 8.3 shall be repeated again.
If the difference in average Degree of compaction (%) of all the locations, ignoring its’
sign, is still more than 4%, the nuclear gauge shall be re-calibrated, to bring the
difference in average Degree of compaction (%) of all the locations within 4%.
9.0 Safety Precautions
9.1 These gauges utilize radioactive materials that may be hazardous to the health of the
users unless proper precautions are taken. Users of these gauges must become
familiar with applicable safety procedures and government regulations.
9.2 Effective user instructions, together with routine safety procedures and knowledge of
and compliance with Regulatory Requirements, are a mandatory part of the operation
and storage of these gauges.
9.3 This procedure does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any,
associated with its use. The user of this standard should establish appropriate safety
and health practices and ensure compliance to all regulatory limitations.
172
4.0 COMPACTION TEST (Laboratory Method)
[As per IS: 2720 (Part 8)-1983]
Compaction is the process of densification of soil by reducing air voids. The degree of
compaction of a given soil is measured in terms of its dry density. The dry density is
maximum at the optimum water content. A curve is drawn between the water
content and dry density to obtain the maximum dry density and optimum water
content. Dry density = M / V (1+w)
Where,
M = total mass of soil
V = volume of soil
w = water content
APPARATUS
1. Cylindrical metal compaction mould
Capacity: 1000 cc with dia 100 mm + 0.1,
2250 cc with dia 150 mm + 0.1
Internal diameter: 100 mm + 0.1, 150 mm + 0.1
Internal effective height of mould: 127.3 + 0.1 mm
Collar: 60 mm high
Detachable base plate
2. Rammer Mass: For Heavy compaction = 4.9 kg, Dia: 50 mm
3. IS sieve: 19 mm & 4.75 mm
4. Oven: Thermostatically controlled to maintain a temperature of 105 0 to 1100 C
5. Weighing Balance: sensitivity - 1 g for capacity 10 kg,
0.01g for capacity 200 g
6. Steel straight edge of about 300 mm in length with one edge levelled.
7. Gradation jar
8. Large mixing pan
9. Spatula
Preparation of Sample
1. Break the clods of soil sample as received from the field and remove the organic
matter like tree roots, pieces of bark etc. from the sample.
2. Dry the sample in the air. In wet weather, use drying oven but the temperature of the
sample should not exceed 600 C.
3. Take a representative portion of air-dried soil material and large enough to provide
about 6 kg of material passing a 19-mm IS sieve (for soils not susceptible to crushing
during compaction, or about 15 kg of material passing a 19-mm IS sieve (for soils
susceptible to crushing during compaction)
4. Sieve above material through 19 mm & 4.75 mm IS sieve.
5. Sieve above material through 19-mm IS sieve and if soil retained on this sieve is more
than 5%, use mould of 2250 cm3 and reject soil retained on 19-mm sieve after its
proportion of the total sample has been recorded.
6. If percentage retained on 4.75 mm IS sieve is greater than 20, then use mould of
2250 cm3 otherwise use small mould of 1000 cm3.
7. Determine the ratio of fraction retained and that passing 4.75 mm IS sieve to to
access the density of the soil.
173
8. Mix the soil sample retained on 4.75 mm sieve and that passing 4.75 mm sieve for
further testing.
9. The amount of water to be mixed with air-dried soil at the commencement of the test
will vary with the type of soil under test.
(a) Sandy and gravely soil: a moisture content of 3 to 5 % would be suitable.
(b) Cohesive soil: Moisture content about 12 to 16% below the plastic limit of the
soil should be suitable.
10. With clay of high plasticity or where hand mixing is employed, it may be difficult to
distribute the water uniformly through the air dried soil by mixing alone, and it may be
necessary to store the mixed sample in a sealed container for a minimum period of
about 16 hours before continuing with the test.
PROCEDURE
1. Clean and dry the mould and base plate and apply a thin layer of grease on the inside
the mould.
2. Weigh the mould to the nearest 1 gram. Attach the collar to the mould and place on a
solid base.
3. Compact the moist soil in to the mould in five layers of approximately equal mass,
each layer being given 25 blows from 4.9 kg rammer dropped from a height of 450
mm above the soil. The blows should be distributed uniformly over the surface of each
layer.
4. Remove the collar and trim off the excess soil projecting above the mould by using
straight edge. Take the weight of mould with compacted soil in it.
5. Remove 100 g of compacted soil specimen for the water content determination.
6. Add water in increment of 1 to 2 % for sandy and gravely soils and 2 to 4 % for
cohesive soils
7. Above procedure will be repeated for each increment of water added. The total number
of determinations shall be at least four and moisture content should be such that the
OMC at which MDD occurs, is within that range.
PRECAUTIONS
1. Ramming should be done continuously taking care of height of 450 mm free fall
accurately.
2. The amount of soil taken for compaction should be in such a way that after compacting
the last layer, the soil surface is not more than 5 mm above the top rim of the mould.
3. Weighing should be done accurately.
Moisture Content (%)

Fig-H 10: Curve for Dry Density v/s Moisture Content
174
5.0 LOS ANGELES ABRASION TEST FOR BLANKET MATERIAL
(Based on IS: 2386-Part-4)
Purpose: - To determine the Los Angeles abrasion value of Blanket Material.
Apparatus:- -Los-Angeles Machine, Drying Oven, IS sieves of size 10 mm, 6.3 mm, 4.75
mm, 2.36 mm and 1.70 mm.
Preparation of Test sample:-
i) The sample shall be dried in oven at 105-1100C to a constant weight.
ii) The sample shall be sieved through 4.75 mm IS sieve and grading of test sample shall
be decided based on percentage passing through it.
Sample passing 4.75 mm IS Grading to be adopted for preparation of test
sieve sample
Less than 50% C
Equal to or more than 50% D
iii) The sample shall be prepared for the grading ‘C’ or ‘D’ [as decided in (ii) above]
Grading IS Sieve Size Weight of Sample taken for testing (g)

Passing Retained
on
C 10 mm 6.3 mm 2500
Weight ‘A’
6.3 mm 4.75 mm 2500
D 4.75 mm 2.36 mm 5000 Weight ‘A’
iv) The abrasive charge shall consist of cast iron or steel spheres approx. 48mm diameter and
each weighing between 390 and 445g.
The abrasive charge, depending upon the grading of the test sample as follows:
Grading Number of Spheres Weight of Abrasive Charges (g)
C 8 3330±20
D 6 2500±15
Testing Procedure: -
1. The test sample and the abrasive charge shall be placed in the Los Angles Abrasion
Machine and the machine rotated at a speed of 20 to 33 revolution / minute. For
grading C & D, the machine shall be rotated for 500 revolutions.
2. At the completion of test, the material shall be discharged and sieved through 1.70
mm IS Sieve.
3. The material coarser than 1.70 mm IS Sieve shall be washed, dried in oven at 105-
1100C to a constant weight and weighed (Weight ‘B’).
Calculation:-
1. The proportion of loss between Weight ‘A’ and ‘B’ of the test sample shall be expressed
as a percentage of the original weight of the test sample.
2. This value shall be reported as:
Aggregate Abrasion Value (%) = (A-B) x 100/A
A= Original weight of the Sample
B= Final weight of the Sample
Precautions:-
1. Avoid loss of any part of sample.
2. Ensure revolutions according to grading.
3. Separate material on completion of test, on appropriate sieve coarser than 1.70mm.
175
APPENDIX-I
Fitment of Existing Railway Formation

1.0 Introduction
The methodology to assess the fitment of existing formation & requirement for
22.9T/25T axle load operation at 100 kmph & passenger train operations at 160 kmph,
is covered in this Appendix.
2.0 Methodology:
The adopted methodology involves determination of induced stress at top of subgrade

due to design axle load including dynamic augment for different speeds and makes an
arrangement by providing a suitable thickness of blanket layer so that the induced stress
at top of subgrade should not exceed the threshold stress of the subgrade soil.
2.1 Assumptions:
i) The induced stress on top of subgrade is calculated by Empirical formula on the basis
of various assumptions. References have been taken from IIT/Kanpur Research
report no. 1/93, April-1993, “Modern Railway Track” book by C. Esveld. However, the
actual stresses may vary, which are measured by instrumentation in the field.
ii) Dynamic Augment (for live load) to be considered for different speed has been
calculated assuming an average condition of Track i.e. ‘Good’ condition.
iii) The permissible stress on the formation has also been calculated using empirical
formula. References have been taken from “Modern Railway Track” book by C.
Esveld, ORE Report No. D-117, RP-28 and ORE Report No. D-71, RP-12.
iv) Ev2 value wherever used for calculations, corresponds to the lower limits of different
soil quality class and approximate correlation to the different CBR values from ORE
report D 117 RP 28 has been used.
v) The CBR of the subgrade soil which is considered in calculation is assumed as
minimum CBR value for soil available in top 1.5 - 2.0 m depth of the formation,
below the bottom of the ballast.
vi) The thickness of ballast (ballast cushion) used in calculations is total clean ballast
cushion of 350 mm.
vii) As per IPWE technical diary 2019-20, passenger locomotive WAP5 has maximum
speed of 160 kmph and its axle load is 19.5 T. This is considered for calculation for
assessment of requirement for Passenger train operations at 160Kmph.
viii) It is assumed that 30% reduction in blanket thickness requirement can be achieved
with application of two layers of geo-grid.
ix) In fitment calculations, it is presumed that there are no persisting problems in sub-
soil/subgrade like ground settlement, slope failure etc. in existing formation.
176
x) In case of stretches where weak/unstable formation exists - Formation rehabilitation
measures should be adopted first in pursuance to Para 291 to 295 of IRPWM, before
implementation of the recommendations mentioned in Para 4.0.
xi) Other considerations like cess width, slope of embankment etc. for railway formation
as per extant policies shall also have to be ensured.
2.2 Calculation of blanket layer thickness:
On the basis of methodology described above & various assumptions, requirement of

blanket layer thickness for 22.9T/25 T (Heavy Axle Load) operation upto 100 Kmph and
Passenger Train operations upto 160 Kmph has been calculated for different speed and
CBR values of soil & are presented below:
2.2.1 22.9 T Axle load:
Table-I 1
Speed → Thickness of Blanket Layer (mm)

Assuming Ballast cushion - 350 mm
(kmph)
CBR ↓ 40 60 75 100
2 550 550 550 600
3 450 450 450 500
4 300 300 300 350
5 150 150 150 200
6 50 50 100 100
7 0 0 0 50
2.2.2 25 T Axle Load:

Table-I 2

Assuming Ballast cushion - 350 mm
(kmph)
40 60 75 100
CBR ↓
2 600 600 650 650
3 500 500 550 550
4 350 350 400 400
5 200 200 250 250
6 150 150 150 200
7 50 50 100 100
177
2.2.3 Passenger Trains (for 17T Axle Load/Train 18):
Table-I 3

(kmph) Assuming Ballast cushion - 350 mm
100 130 140 160
CBR ↓
2 300 300 300 350
3 200 250 250 250
4 50 100 100 100
2.2.4 Passenger Trains (for 19.5 T Axle Load/WAP-5 loco.):
Table-I 4
(kmph) Assuming Ballast cushion - 350 mm
60 75 100 130 140 160
CBR ↓
2 400 400 450 450 450 500
3 300 300 350 350 350 400
4 150 150 200 200 200 250
5 0 0 50 50 100 100
3.0 Determination of CBR of Subgrade Soil (Sampling & Testing):
i) The soil samples should be collected @ of 4 to 5 locations in a block section. The

testing shall be done on a few samples based on the visual examination.
ii) Take out the three soil samples from a location at the depth of 50-100 cm (50 cm
depth where embankment height is 1-2 m, assuming ballast penetration if any is less
than 30cm) according to sketch-I.(i).
a) One sample below ballast in the line of rail seat between two sleepers.
b) One sample on each side of the Cess near the toe of ballast.
c) Soil samples should not contain pulverised ballast, grass roots etc.
iii) Determine CBR value of soil samples in the Geo-tech lab/soil testing laboratory.
iv) Take the average value of all three CBR values of a location.
v) Based on the determined average value of the CBR of subgrade soil, provision of
blanket layer (if required) shall be made, as per the recommendations given in Para
4.0.
178
4.0 Recommendations for Fitment of Existing Formation:
For operations of 22.9T / 25T axle load at 100 Kmph and Passenger Train (for 19.5T
axle load) at 160 Kmph, in existing Railway Formation, the recommendations are as
given below (assuming 350 mm ballast cushion and 60 kg Rail Section): -
4.1 Recommendations for 22.9T/25T axle load operation at 100 Kmph:
CBR of Recommendation Remarks

Subgrade
soil
<2 A minimum 1000 mm thick blanket However, as CBR is low,
layer should be provided. detailed geotechnical
investigation shall also be
Alternatively, thickness of blanket conducted & if necessary
layer can be reduced to 700 mm by suitable additional
provisions of two layers of geogrid measures required as per
one at bottom and another in middle site conditions/soil
of blanket layer (sketch-I.(ii)). investigation should be
taken for fitment of
existing formation.
≥2 and <4 A 650 mm thick blanket layer should
be provided along with a 350 mm
thick layer of better quality soil i.e.
soil having CBR ≥ 4.
Alternatively, thickness of blanket

layer can be reduced to 450 mm by
provisions of two layers of geogrid
one at bottom and another in middle
of blanket layer (sketch-I.(ii)).
be provided.
be provided.
≥8 No blanket layer is required.
4.2 Recommendations for Passenger train operations (assuming 19.5 T Axle Load
for passenger train/ WAP-5 loco) at 160 Kmph :
CBR of Recommendation Remarks

Subgrade
soil
<2 A minimum 1000 mm thick blanket However, as CBR is low,
layer should be provided. detailed geotechnical
investigation shall also be
Alternatively, thickness of blanket conducted & if necessary
layer can be reduced to 700 mm by suitable additional
provisions of two layers of geogrid measures required as per
179
one at bottom and another in middle site conditions/soil
of blanket layer (sketch-I.(ii)). investigation should be
taken for fitment of
existing formation.
≥ 2 and <4 A 600 mm thick blanket layer should
be provided along with a 350 mm
thick layer of better quality soil i.e.
soil having CBR ≥ 4.
Alternatively, thickness of blanket

layer can be reduced to 400 mm by
provisions of two layers of geogrid
one at bottom and another in middle
of blanket layer (sketch-I.(ii)).
≥4 to <6 A 300 mm thick blanket layer should
be provided.
≥6 No blanket layer is required.
4.3 Wherever the blanket layer is to be provided; a suitable non-woven geo-textile layer
should be provided below the blanket layer as a separator layer to prevent upward
migration of fines from subgrade to blanket layer and penetration of coarse particles of
blanket into subgrade.
4.4 The above recommendations are on the basis of 350 mm clean ballast cushion.
Wherever it is less, full clean ballast cushion of 350 mm shall be ensured in the section,
even where no blanket layer requirement is recommended based on CBR of subgrade.
4.5 Geo-grid and Geo-textile to be used as per RDSO specification no. RDSO/2018/GE: IRS-
0004 Pt.-III (Feb 2020) and RDSO/2018/GE: IRS-0004 Pt-I (March 2019) respectively
mentioned in Appendix - C.
4.6 The above recommendations cover formation related aspects only.
4.7 The formation stretches where the above recommendations are implemented, should be
monitored for a period of two year and feedback/suggestions are to be given to RDSO.
Based on the feedback of Railways, the above guidelines will be reviewed and
improvement suggested (if any) will be incorporated for finalisation accordingly.
4.8 After implementation of above-mentioned recommendations, if any problem arises in the

formation the same shall be referred to RDSO. Even otherwise also, subgrade soils with
higher CBR values where no blanket requirement has been stated as per para 4.1 & 4.2
above, if any problem is reported in the formation after heavy axle load operation and
passenger train at 160 kmph same shall also be reported.
180
Sketch- I - (i)
Sketch- I-(ii)
Illustrative diagram for Geo-grid and Geo-textile Application
181
APPENDIX-J
PROFORMA FOR REPORTING UNSTABLE FORMATION
1. General Details:
Affected Km. From:……………… ……………….. To………………………………………
Station between ……………………………………………………………………………………………………..
Section………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Division……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
Railway……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
Officer Name HQ Telephone Nos.

1. CE Construction or
concerned CE (Open line)
2. CTE
3. Sr.DEN (CO)
4. Dy. CE or concerned
Sr.DEN/DEN
5. ADEN/AXEN
6. PWI/IOW In-charge
Reference: By:……………..Letter No…………………………… Dated:…………………...

2. Sectional Details:
Gauge No. of lines Max. Axle Load GMT per Construction Open to
Permissible year Year traffic/Year
Speed
3. Track Particulars:
Km. Strength/Curved Degree Cant (in mm) Gradient
4. Track Structure :
Km Rail Sleeper Ballast Cushion mm
Section Year Single/SWR/ Type Density Year Clean Caked
laid LWR laid
182
5. Condition of rails
Type Percentage
Roaring Scabbed Wheel Burnt
6. Condition of sleepers/fastenings (Tick √ any one)

Good Fair Bad
7. Specific deficiencies of track structure:
8. Last deep screening done on:

Month Year
9. Track Quality Index Values of Previous Three Years:

Date of Track Quality Index Date of Oscillation monitoring
TRC Run (TQI)/Composite Track Quality OMS Run System(OMS) data
index
10. Formation/Cutting Details:

Km Bank/ Max. Condition of Condition of Cess and
Cutting height/ adequacy of width
Catch Water Side drain
depth (in
drain
m)
11. Details of ballast penetration (Attach Cross section of problematic location with ballast
penetration profile)
Depth of Ballast Penetration (cm)
Under left rail Under right rail At Centre
12. Details of Erosion control measure, if any
183
13. Hydrological Characteristics
Average annual Erosion of slope during Position of water table below RL
rainfall rain (Yes/No)
Highest Lowest
14. Important incidents/problems faced with brief details:
Year of occurrence Km Kind of incident Remarks
Slips/Breach/Raising/Conversion etc.
(Enclose Sketch & brief description)
15. Details of past rehabilitation measures (km-wise)
Km Type of Year of Approx. Comments on
treatment execution cost performance
From To
(Enclose separate annexure, if necessary)
16. Details of track attentions in past years, Km-wise (With details)

Year/Km No. of attentions/year Remarks
Km Km Km Km Km Km Km Km
17. Speed Restrictions imposed due to unstable formations:

Year/Km Restriction Imposed
1 2 3 4
18. Any proposals for renewals/LWR/CWR: Give brief details
19. Blanket provided: Yes/No

If blanket provided (test results of blanket material to be provided)
184
20. Type of ground/Formation soil (if not available, relevant tests shall be got done and
test reports generated for further analysis as required):
Bank soil/ Type of soil CBR Remarks
Cutting
Ground soil
Formation Soil
21. Bore log details/report of problematic stretch for sub soil (if not available, bore log
should be conducted and report generated for problem analysis, as required):
(Type of Soil & other parameters etc.)
22. Slope stability analysis carried out: Yes/No

If yes, attach the report
23. Maintenance efforts during summers & monsoons, along with brief description
of the problem being faced:
24. Any settlement problem of track being faced: Yes/No

If yes, give details
25. Geological details of site (should be made available especially for cuttings related
problem & in hilly areas):
26. Details of minor/ major bridge near the problematic location
27. Any rehabilitation carried out using Geosynthetics such as Non-woven

Geotextile/Geogrid in past: Yes/No
If yes, give details
28. Any other relevant data/information: Such as consultancy reports rendered by

other parties etc.
Signature of Railway Officer

Name:
Designation:
185
APPENDIX- K
LIST OF EQUIPMENTS FOR FIELD LAB

Table-K.1
S N. Description of Equipment Reference Of I.S. UNIT

Code (latest version to
be used)
1 IS set of sieves with base & top lid IS-460
20mm,19mm,10mm, 4.75mm, 2mm 1 sets
600mic, 425mic, 212mic, 75mic,.
2 Hand operated sieve shaker for above 1 no.
sieves.
3 BALANCE
i) Pan balance/Electronic weighing machine - 1 no.
10 kg capacity (with 1.0 gm Least
Count) 1 no.
ii) Electronic balance - 500 gm capacity
4 iii) Electronic weighing machine 2 sets
200grm(LC-0.01g) 5 sets
Field density apparatus complete. 2720-1974 part-XXVIII 2 sets
5 a) sand replacement 2720-1975 part-XXIX
b) core cutter with dolly 2720 part-8-1983 1 set
6 Heavy Compaction Test apparatus full 2 sets
unit. 2720 part-16-1987
7 Laboratory California Bearing Ratio(CBR) 1 no.
Test Apparatus & it’s required accessories 2386 part-4
8 Abrasion Test Apparatus IS 2720 Part-5-1985 1 no.
9 Liquid Limit apparatus hand operated with 3 no.
counter & grooving tools. IS 2720 Part-6-1972
10 Shrinkage limit apparatus 4 no.
11 Stainless steel spatula - 25cm long 6 no.
12 Porcelain bowl for LL - 15cm dia.
13 Aluminium dish with lid – 5cm dia. 2 no.
Wash bottle - 1 lit. capacity 2 no.
14 500ml capacity 3 no.
15 Glass plate 10mm thick 50x50 cm 3 no.
16 Ground glass 5mm thick 50x50 cm 10 no.
Enameled trays 45x30cm 10 no.
20x20cm 10 no.
&
Enameled plates 6inch dia 3 no.
8 inch dia. 2 no.
17 10 inch dia. 3 no.
18 Frying pans 3 no.
19 Stove janta 1 no.
20 Straight edge 300mm long 2 no.
21 Sample Tube (Size Dia-150mm, 5 no.
Length-450mm)
186
LIST OF EQUIPMENT FOR FIELD LAB
Table-K.2
S. NO. DESCRIPTION OF EQUIPMENT REFERENCE OF I.S. CODE UNIT

(latest version to be used)
22 Grain size analyser of fines
a)Hydrometer IS-2720 part-4-1985 2 no.
b)Thermometer 0 to 50 c 2 no.
c) Glass cylinder 1000cc capacity 5 no.
with 60mm dia.
d) Nomogram chart 1no.
e) Stop Watch 1no.
22 Desiccators as IS –6128 2 no.
23 Gallon of 10 litter capacity for 3 no.
distilled water
24 Wooden mortar and pestle. 1 no.
25 Specific gravity test apparatus. 2 no.
26 Density bottle-50ml capacity 2 no.
27 Glass cylinder 100 cc capacity (for
Free Swell index test) 1 no.
28 Oven- thermostatically controlled to
maintain a temperature 105-110c
29 Relative Density test Apparatus IS-2720 Part-14-1983 1 no.
30 Standard Penetration Test (SPT) IS- 2131- 1981(Reffeed- 1 no.
Appratus 1997)
31 Nuclear Moisture Density Gauge
(NMDG) Apparatus
32 Note-Preparation of dry soil samples Follow IS–2720 Part-1-
for various test 1983
33 Consumable Item
34 Sieve brush
35 Wire brush
36 Sodium carbonate
37 Sodium hexa meta phosphate.
38 Kerosene
39 Mercury
40 Additional Equipment
Hand auger 150mm dia with
extension rod
Sampling tube 100mm dia. And
450mm length
41 All machines and equipments should
have Calibration Certificate.
187
APPENDIX - L
1.0 Soil Classification
(Ref: IS: 1498 – 1970, Reaffirmed 2016)
1.1 Background and Basis of Classification:
The Geotechnical Engineers/Agencies had evolved many soil classification systems, over the
world. The soil classification system developed by Casegrande was subsequently modified
and named as 'Unified Classification’ system. In 1959, Bureau of Indian Standards adopted
the Unified classification system as a standard, which was revised in 1970. According to BIS
classification system, soils are primarily classified based on dominant particle sizes and its
plasticity characteristics. A soil particle mainly consists of following four size fractions:
● Gravel : 80 – 4.75 mm
● Sand : 4.75mm – 0.075mm (75 micron)
● Silt : 75 – 2 micron
● Clay : less than 2 micron
Particle size distribution of a soil is determined by a combination of sieving and sedimentation
analysis as per procedure detailed in IS: 2720 (Part 4) – 1985 (Reaffirmed 2015) and its
plasticity characteristics are determined by Liquid Limit and Plastic Limit as per procedure
detailed in IS:2720 (Part 5) –1985 (Reaffirmed 2015).
1.2 Symbols used in Soil Classification:
Symbols and other soil properties used for soil classification are given below:
Primary Letter Secondary Letter
G: Gravel W: well-graded
S: Sand P: poorly graded
M: Silt M: with non-plastic fines
C: Clay C: with plastic fines
O: Organic soil L: of low plasticity
P: Peat I: of medium plasticity
H: of high plasticity
Other soil parameters required for soil classification:
●CU : Coefficient of Uniformity = D60 / D10
●CC : Coefficient of Curvature = (D30)2 / (D60 * D10)
●D60, D30& D10 are particle sizes, below which 60,30 and 10 percent soil particles by
weight are finer than these sizes.
● Plasticity Index (PI) = Liquid Limit (LL) - Plastic Limit ( PL)
● Coarse-grained soils: Soils having fines ( particles of size less than 75 micron) upto
50%
● Fine grained soils: Soils having fines( particles of size less than 75 micron) more
than 50%
1.3 Based on above, soils encountered in India are classified as under (as per IS
Code):
1.3.1 Coarse grained soils:
GW-Well graded gravels, gravel-sand mixtures; little or no fines
GP-Poorly graded gravels or gravel-sand mixtures; little or no fines
GM-Silty gravels, poorly graded gravel-sand-silt mixtures
188
GC-Clayey gravels, poorly graded gravel-sand-clay mixtures
SW-Well graded sands, gravelly sands; little or no fines
SP – Poorly Graded Sands or gravelly sands; little or no fines
SM-Silty sands, poorly graded sand-silt mixtures
SC-Clayey sands, poorly graded sand-clay mixtures
1.3.2 Fine grained soils:
ML-Inorganic silts and very fine sands rock flour, silty or clayey fine sands or clayey
silts with none to low plasticity
CL-inorganic clays, gravelly clays, sandy clays, silty clays, lean clays of low
plasticity
OL-Organic silts and organic silty clays of low plasticity
MI-Inorganic silts, silty or clayey fine sands or clayey silts of medium plasticity
CI-Inorganic clays, gravelly clays, sandy clays, silty clays, lean clays of medium
plasticity
OI-organic silts and organic silty clays of medium plasticity
MH-Inorganic silts of high compressibility, micaceous or diatomaceous fine sandy or
silty soils, elastic silts
CH-Inorganic clays of high plasticity, fat clays
OH- Organic clay of medium to high plasticity
Pt-Peat and other highly organic soils with very high compressibility.
Table-L.1 Coarse grained soils
Gradation Mixed Soils(s)
Soil Particle
Well Graded Poorly Graded Silt & Clay
Sand SW SP SM, SC
Gravel GW GP GM, GC
Table – L.2 Fine grained soils
Plasticity/compressibility
Soil Particle Low Medium High
Clay CL CI CH
Silt ML MI MH
Organic OL OI OH & Peat
Soils having dual symbol: GW-GM, GW-GC, GP-GM, GP-GC, SW-SM, SP-SM, SP-SC &
CL-ML
1.4 Limiting gradation curve for separating liquefiable and non-liquefiable soil is as
given below for reference:
Poorly graded sand and gravel with Cu < 2.0, should not be used in earthwork for the
banks to safeguard against liquefaction. Generally, most liquefiable soils as falling in
gradation zone as indicated in the Fig-L1 & having coefficient of uniformity, Cu < 2 shall
not be used. Potentially liquefiable soils as falling in gradation zone as shown in Fig-L1
should be specifically examined and designed to prevent possibility of any liquefaction.
189
Fig-L1: Limiting Gradation Curves Separating Liquefiable and Non-Liquefiable Soils
190
APPENDIX- M
CHECKLIST FOR CERTIFICATION OF QUALITY OF EARTHWORK IN RAILWAY
PROJECTS
(NEW LINES/ DOUBLING/ GAUGE CONVERSION PROJECTS)
(As per Guideline & Specification for Railway Formation No. RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004, June
2020)
1.0 GENERAL INFORMATION:
i) Name of the Project :
ii) Length of the Project :
iii) New Line/Doubling/Gauge Conversion :
iv) Section & Length being certified :
2.0 SOIL EXPLORATION:

(As per Chapter 1 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
(i) Is soil survey carried out as per para 1.2 of Chapter 1 :

of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004.
(ii) Reference of record/report of soil exploration :
(iii) Any problematic soils encountered in soil exploration :

such as soft soil, Organic clays & silts etc.
(iv) Whether results of soil exploration taken into account :

in project formulation and alternatives explored.
(v) Whether geological investigations carried out in case :

of hilly terrain.
(vi) Reference of record/report of geological investigation :
(vii) Reference if any, to RDSO for proof checking & :

consultancy report submitted by private agencies.
3. FIELD COMPACTION TRIALS

(As per para 6.2.3 (c), Chapter 6 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
(i) Whether field trials conducted :
(ii) Details of field trial (indicate) :
(a) Classification of soil :
(b) Type of roller used and its weight :
(c) Optimum thickness of layer achieved :
DY.CE/
191
(d) Optimum number of passes of the roller used :
(e) Field moisture content :
(f) Maximum attainable field dry density :
(iii) Whether field compaction trial taken into account in :

execution.
(iv) Reference of record of field trials :
(v) Reference of record of field compaction trails :

(maintained as given in Annexure III, IV, V & VI)
4. QUALITY CHECK OF EARTH WORK

(As per Para 6.2.8, Chapter 6 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
(i) Whether GE Field Laboratory has been set up at site :

for quality check.
(ii) Whether equipment available in the GE Lab is as per :

Annexure –VIII (attached).
(iii) Dates of inspection of GE Lab by CE/Con based on :

which item Nos (i) & (ii) above is certified.
4.1 BORROW MATERIAL

(As per para 7.3.1, Chapter 7 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
(i) Type of fill material (indicate classification as per IS-1498):

used in the earth work.
(ii) Is soil suitable for embankment (As per Para 3.7 of :

Chapter 3 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
(iii) Frequency of testing at site to assess the suitability of :

fill materials (As per Table 7.2 Chapter 7 of
RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
(a) Total quantum of earthwork involved :
(b) Minimum number of test required :

(at least one test at every change of subgrade/
Prepared subgrade material subjected to minimum
of one test per 5000 cum)
(c) Number of tests actually done :
(iv) Maximum size of materials used in the bank :

in case of cobbles/boulders/rock etc.
DY.CE/
192
(v) Is it certified that record of quality of fill material has :
been maintained as given in format in Annexure VII (A),
attached record of testing is preserved in the reference
4.2 BLANKET MATERIALS

(As per para 7.3.2, Chapter 7 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
(i) Source of blanket material :
(ii) Type of blanket material used :

(Natural/Mechanically Crushed/ Blended)
(iii) Whether quality of blanket material selected in conforming :

to specification as given in para (As per table 3.3,
3.4, 3.5 & 3.6, Chapter 3 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
(iv) Thickness of blanket layer

(a) Type of sub-grade (in top 1m) :
(b) Thickness required (As per table 3.3, 3.4, 3.5 & :
3.6, Chapter 3 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
(c) Thickness actually provided :
(d) Deviation from prescribed thickness, if any :
(v) Frequency of testing to assess the suitability of blanket :

material (As per Table 7.2, Chapter 7 of
RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
(a) Total quantum of blanket material involved in cum :
(b) Minimum number of test required :

(at least one test per 5000 cum)
(c) Number of tests actually done :
(vi) Reference of record of testing where quality of blanket :

material has been maintained as given in format in
Annexure VII (B) attached.
4.3 QUALITY CONTROL CHECKS ON FINISHED EARTHWORK

(As per Para 7.4, Chapter 7 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
4.3.1. For Soil

(i) Frequency of tests for degree of compaction (As per :
Table 7.2, Chapter 7 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
(a) Total area of earth work involved (Cumulative for :

every layer in Sqm.)
DY.CE/
193
(b) Minimum number of density test required :
(at least one per 200 sqm for top one metre of
subgrade and one per 500 sqm for balance)
(c) Number of density test check actually done :
(d) Number of test where degree of compaction :

is less than 98% of MDD
(e) Action taken in case of (d) :
(ii) Reference of record where report of checking of :

degree of compaction has been preserved as given
in format in Annexure VII (C) (enclosed)
(iii) Soil used as subgrade (SQ1/SQ2/SQ3) :
(iv) Ev2 Value on top of subgrade (As per Table 7.2, :

(v) Compaction at top layer of subgrade(As per :

4.3.2 For Ballast

Ballast Cushion Thickness :
4.3.3 For Blanket

(i) Frequency of tests for degree of compaction / :
Relative Density done (As per Table 7.2, Chapter 7 of
RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
a) Total area of blanket involved :
b) Minimum number of density test required :
(at least one par 200 sqm for every blanket layers)
c) Number of density check actually done :
d) Number of test where degree of compaction is less :

than 98% of MDD or 70% of Relative Density (Relative
Density should be calculated if fines in the soil are less
than 5%)
e) Action taken in case of (d) :
(ii) Reference of record where report of checking of degree :

of compaction has been maintained as given in format in
Annexure VII (D) attached.
(iii) Compaction of blanket layer (100% of MDD(As per :
(iv) Blanket material specification test Report : Y/N
(v) Blanket thickness (Single layer/ Two layer) :
(vi) Ev2 Value on top of blanket layer (As per Table 7.2, :
DY.CE/
194
4.3.4. Prepared Subgrade (As per table 3.4 &3.6 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
(For Two Layer Formation system only)
(i) Prepared sub grade specification and test report : Y/N
(ii) Soil used as prepared sub grade (SQ2/SQ3) :
(iii) Prepared sub grade thickness :
(iv) Compaction of Prepared Sub-grade :
(v) EV2 Value on top of Prepared Sub-grade :
4.3.5. Formation level (As per para 7.6, Chapter 7 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
(i) Has it been ensured that finished top sub grade level is :
within ± 25 mm of designed level and finished top of
blanket layer is within +25 mm from designed level
and top of formation is level without ruts of low pocket.
(ii) Reference of level book maintained to ensured item (i) :
above
4.3.6 Cross Slope (As per para 7.7 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004) :
4.3.7. Side Slope (As per para 7.8 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004) :
4.3.8. Formation System (As per para 3.1 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)

Single layer/ Two layer :
4.3.9. Formation width (As per IRSOD latest version) :
4.3.10 Cess Width (90cm Min.) :

(As per Para 3.3 (a) of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
4.3.11 a) Provision of Berm (for more than 6m High embankment): Y/N
b) Berm Width (2.0m Min.)

(As per Para 5.1.2 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004 :
5.0 SLOPE STABILITY FOR EMBANKMENT/ CUTTING

(As per chapter 5 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
(i) Maximum height of bank (at chainage) :
(ii) Maximum depth of cutting (at chainage) :
(iii) Designed side slope in bank/cutting as per slope stability :
analysis (attach profile duly approved)
(iv) Agency which carried out slope stability analysis :
(v) Actual side slope provided in bank/cutting at site :
(attach profile duly approved)
6.0 EROSION CONTROL MEASURES

(As per para 8.3, Chapter 8 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
(i) Type of soil used in earth work :
(ii) Chainage where erosion control measures required : Y/N
DY.CE/
195
(iii) Chainage where erosion control measures planned :
(iv) Type of erosion control measures provided chainage wise:
7.0 Slope Protection Measures
(Ref: RDSO Guidelines for Cuttings in Railway Formations, GE: G-2)
(i) Slope protection measures required : Y/N
(ii) Slope protection planned :
(iii) Slope protection provided :
8.0 Drainage system (As per para 6.2.6, Chapter 6 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
(i) Drainage system required : Y/N
(ii) Catch water Drain System Planned :
(iii) Catch water Drain System Provided :
(iv) Side drain planned :
(v) Side drain Provided :
9.0 CUTTINGS (Ref: Para 8.4, Chapter 8 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004 & GE: G-2)
(i) Details of cutting as per Annexure –1 enclosed :
(ii) Attach copy of designed & approved cutting profiles :
(iii) Details of deviation, if any, to recommendation :
of Geologist investigation.
10.0 BACKFILL BEHIND BRIDGE ABUTMENT/WING WALLS/ RETURN WALL
(As per Para 6.2.5, Chapter 6 of RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
(i) Details of backfill behind bridge approach Annexure –II :
enclosed.
11.0 GE LAB AT SITE (Para 6.2.8, Chapter 6 RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
(i) Organization
a) In Charge :
b) Total Staff strength with particular :
c) Qualification and training of personnel :
(ii) Period for which lab at site was in operation :
(iii) Total number of tests carried out at site :
(iv) Reference of record of tests :
(v) Equipments (As per Annexure VIII attached) :
12.0 GENERAL SITE DETAILS
(i) Pond/Ditches/ Borrow pits along the Alignment (distance :
from toe of bank) (As per para. 3.6, Chapter 3 of
RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004)
DY.CE/
196
(ii) Rain cuts on slope : Y/N (if Y chainage)
(iii) Cracks on formation and slope : Y/N (if Y chainage)
(iv) Details of benching in case of doubling :
(v) Minimum center to center distance between tracks :
DYCE/
13.0 BRIEF DETAILS OF DEVIATIONS
S. No. Nature of Deviations Approved by Reference of approval.
1.
2.
3.
4.
It is certified that the earthwork and blanketing from chainage ------ to chainage ------ i.e.
------km have been done strictly as per prescribed specification, stipulated in (as per RDSO
Guideline & Specification No. RDSO/2020/GE: IRS-0004) under my active administrative and
technical control except minor deviations as stated in para. 13.0 above for which approval of the
component authority has been obtained and necessary precautions for ensuring safety on the
account of deviation have been taken.
Chief Engineer (Con)
197
ANNEXURE-I
DETAILS OF CUTTING
Location Max Geological Details of Type Side slope Side Drain Catch Water Drains Other
Depth investigation Beam of measures
Chainage/Km
of carried out provided Rock/ taken
Cutting ( Not soil like
less than strata Designed Actual Designed Provided Requ Desi Prov Katcha gabions,
4-5m) (Y/S) at site ired gned ided /Lined R/walls,
etc.
198
ANNEXURE-II
BACK FILL BEHIND BRIDGE ABUTMENT
Bridge No. Boulder Boulder Packing of Thickness IS Weep Any special

Shape Size Boulders of Boulder classification holes treatment like
packing of back fill in toe pitching,
triangular toe wall etc.
zone
199
ANNEXURE- III
FIELD COMPACTION TRIAL OBSERVATIONS & COMPUTATION SHEETS
COMPACTION EQUIPMENT DATA
Project……………………. Location………………………….. Date……………………..
Item Roller - 1 Roller -2 Roller -3

Type of Roller
Gross weight (tonnes)
Drum Dimension Width (mm)
(Roller Type) Diameter (mm)
Type
Foot Number
(Sheep foot Type) Length (mm)
Area (mm2)
Contact Area (cm2)
(Sheep foot/Pneumatic Tyred/Vibratory
Plate Type)
Tyre Inflation Pressure(Kg/cm2)
Nominal Amplitude(mm)
Frequency(Hz)
Dynamic Force(Kg)
Operational Speed(Kmph)
Static Linear Loads(Kg/cm)
Contact Pressure(Kg/cm2)
LIST OF EQUIPMENT FOR FIELD TRIALS/MONITORING
S. No. Equipment No. Reqd. No. available

1. Field density apparatus complete:
a)Sand replacement 4 Sets
b) Core cutter with dolly and hammer 4 Sets
2. Balance:
a)Electronic balance – 20 kg capacity (with 2.0 gm 1 Set
Least Count )
b)Electronic balance – 500 gm capacity 1 Set
3. Straight edge 300mm long 4 Nos.
4. Frying Pan 1 No.
5. Containers plastic (about 500g capacity) 8 Nos.
6. Enamel plates: 6 inch dia. 10 Nos.
8 inch dia. 3 Nos.
10 inch dia. 3 Nos.
7. Uniform clean sand (Ottawa Sand) (bags of 50 Kg) 10 Bags
8. Measuring tape (3M/5M) 1 No.
9. Measuring tape (15 M/30M) 1 No.
10. Kerosene oil stove 1 No.
Signature of Signature of
Monitoring Official ______________ Project Official ____________________
Name____________________ Name__________________________
Designation _________ Designation __________________
Date ________________________ Date ________________________
200
ANNEXURE- IV

TABLE- 1
Project ________________________________ Date ________________________
Location ______________________________________
Strip No. Location on Moisture content before watering Moisture content after adding the water
the ramp Container Weight of Weight of Moisture Container Weight of Weight of Moisture
No. wet dry content No. wet dry content (%)
soil.(gms) soil.(gms) (%) soil.(gms) soil.(gms)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1
2
J 3
4
1
2
K 3
4
1
2
L 3
4
1
2
M 3
4
Signature of Monitoring official___________________ Signature of Project Official_______________________
Name_________________________________________ Name_______________________
Designation___________________________________ Designation___________________________________
Date ________________________ Date ________________________
201
ANNEXURE- V
TABLE- 2
Project ________________________________ Location: ________________________Date____________
STRIP No. ______________OMC___________________% MDD________________gms/cc Volume of core cutters:__________C.C.
No.of Location In-situ bulk density Moisture content Dry Percent of Remark
roller of the Core Wt. Of Wt. of Wt. of Bulk Containe Wt. of Wt. of Moisture density MDD
passes Ramp cutter empty wet soil wet soil density r No. wet soil dry soil content of soil
No. core with (gm) of soil (gms) (gms) (%)
cutter core (gm/cc)
(gm) cutter
(gm)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
4 1
2
3
4
6 1
2
3
4
8 1
2
3
4
10 1
2
3
4
12 1
2
3
4
14 1
2
3
4
Signature of monitoring official________________ Signature of project official ____________________
Name ________________________ Name _________________________________
Designation ___________ Designation _____________________________
Date _______________________ Date ____________________________________
202
ANNEXURE- VI
FIELD COMPACTION TRIAL-COMPUTATION SHEET
TABLE- 3
Project______________ Location_________________________
S. Lift Moisture Dry density of soil(gm/cc) Remarks

No thickness content Nos. of the roller passes
(mm) % 4 6 8 10 12 14
1. 225
2. 300
3. 375
4. 450
Computed by_______________________ Checked by ________________
Name ____________________________ Name______________________
Designation________________________ Designation_________________
Date _____________________ Date ______________________
203
ANNEXURE- VII
A) DETAILS OF BORROW SOIL/ FORMATION SUBGRADE/PREPARED SUBGRADE
S. Date of Location Soil type Soil LL PL PI

no taking layer classification
sample Ch./Km Gravel Sand Silt Clay
% % % %
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
CBR Whether of Suitable/ Signature and Signature and Remarks

value dispersive Non suitable name of name of
nature Engineer’s contractor
representative representative
11 12 13 14 15 16
B) QUALITY OF BLANKET MATERIAL
1. Type of material: Manufactured/Naturally available

2. Source location:
S.no Date of Location Soil type CU CC Abrasion

taking of laying Value
sample Gravel % Sand Fines
% passing 75
micron sieve
%
1 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 10
CBR value Signature and Signature and Remarks

name of Rly official name of contractor
11 12 13 14
204
(C) PROFORMA FOR FIELD COMPACTION RECORD
Chainage / km from …… to ……….

Soil Classification:
Height of bank: OMC:
Type of roller being used: Lab. MDD/ Field Trial MDD:
CORE CUTTER METHOD
Date of Layer no. location Placement No. of Wt. of Wt. of Wt of wet Vol. of Bulk
Laying coordinate moisture passes core core soil core density,
for check content cutter+ cutter (Ws - Wc) cutter b =
(%) wet soil (Wc) (g) (Vc) (Ws - Wc)
(Ws) (g) (cc) Vc
(g) (g/cc)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Moisture Dry Density(d) Degree of Sig. and Sig. and Remarks

content of = b / 1+w *100 compaction name of name of
compacted (g/cc) (%) Rly officer contractor
layer (w) (%)
11 12 13 14 15 16
Note: 1. In case of compaction of blanket material, percentage of fines should also be

mentioned in a column.
2. Determination of Dry Density, (d) of soil in above table is done as per IS: 2720 Pt
29 – 1975 (latest version) titled as Determination of Dry Density of Soils In-Place By
The Core-Cutter Method
205
(D) PROFORMA FOR FIELD COMPACTION RECORD
Chainage /km from …… to……….

Soil Classification: Height of embankment:
SAND REPLACEMENT METHOD
Location Bulk Wt of wet Wt of Wt of Mean Wt of sand Bulk

density of soil from Cylinder sand + weight in hole Density of
sand, hole, + Sand, Cylinder of sand Wb = W1 - soil
(s) Ww (g) before after in cone W2-W3 b= (Ww
g/cum pouring pouring W3 (g) /Wb) * s
W1 (g) W2 (g)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Moisture Dry Density Relative Sign. and Sign and Remarks

content of of soil Density name of name of
soil d = b/1+w ID Rly Official contractor
(w), %
9 10 11 12 13 14
Ref: IS: 2720 (Pt 28)1974 (latest version)

(Determination of dry density (d) of soils in-place, by the sand Replacement method)
Note: 1. Density Index (Relative Density) shall be find out as per IS 2720 (Part 14) -
1963 – (latest version).
2. The density index, Id (relative density) expressed as a percentage should be
calculated as follows:
Relative density (ID) = max (d -  min)/ d (max - min) x 100
max (from lab as per IS 2720 (Part 14) ………………..

min (from lab as per IS 2720 (Part 14) ……………….
d determined in field as shown in above table by the sand Replacement
method.
206
ANNEXURE – VIII
LIST OF EQUIPMENTS FOR FIELD LAB

Table-1
S N. Description of Equipment Reference of I.S. Code UNIT

(latest version to be
used)
1 IS set of sieves with base & top lid IS-460
20mm,19mm,10mm, 4.75mm, 2mm 2 sets
600mic, 425mic, 212mic, 75mic,.
2 Hand operated sieve shaker for above 1 no.
sieves.
3 BALANCE
i) Pan balance/Electronic weighing machine - 1 no.
10 kg capacity (with 1.0 gm Least
Count) 1 no.
ii) Electronic balance - 500 gm capacity
4 iii) Electronic weighing machine 2 sets
200grm(LC-0.01g) 5 sets
Field density apparatus complete. 2720-1974 part-XXVIII 2 sets
5 c) sand replacement 2720-1975 part-XXIX
d) core cutter with dolly 2720 part-8-1983 1 set
6 Heavy Compaction Test apparatus full 2 sets
unit. 2720 part-16-1987
7 Laboratory California Bearing Ratio(CBR) 1 no.
Test Apparatus & it’s required accessories 2386 part-4
8 Abrasion Test Apparatus IS 2720 Part-5-1985 1 no.
9 Liquid Limit apparatus hand operated with 3 no.
counter & grooving tools. IS 2720 Part-6-1972
10 Shrinkage limit apparatus 4 no.
11 Stainless steel spatula - 25cm long 6 no.
12 Porcelain bowl for LL - 15cm dia.
13 Aluminium dish with lid – 5cm dia. 2 no.
Wash bottle - 1 lit. capacity 2 no.
14 500ml capacity 3 no.
15 Glass plate 10mm thick 50x50 cm 3 no.
16 Ground glass 5mm thick 50x50 cm 10 no.
Enameled trays 45x30cm 10 no.
20x20cm 10 no.
&
Enameled plates 6inch dia 3 no.
8 inch dia. 2 no.
17 10 inch dia. 3 no.
18 Frying pans 3 no.
19 Stove janta 1 no.
20 Straight edge 300mm long 2 no.
21 Sample Tube (Size Dia-150mm, 5 no.
Length-450mm)
207
LIST OF EQUIPMENT FOR FIELD LAB
Table-2
S. NO. DESCRIPTION OF EQUIPMENT REFERENCE OF I.S. CODE UNIT

(latest version to be used)
22 Grain size analyser of fines
a)Hydrometer IS-2720 part-4-1985 2 no.
b)Thermometer 0 to 50 c 2 no.
c) Glass cylinder 1000cc capacity 5 no.
with 60mm dia.
d) Nomogram chart 1no.
e) Stop Watch 1no.
22 Desiccators as IS –6128 2 no.
23 Gallon of 10 litter capacity for 3 no.
distilled water
24 Wooden mortar and pestle. 1 no.
25 Specific gravity test apparatus. 2 no.
26 Density bottle-50ml capacity 2 no.
27 Glass cylinder 100 cc capacity (for
Free Swell index test) 1 no.
28 Oven- thermostatically controlled to
maintain a temperature 105-110c
29 Relative Density test Apparatus IS-2720 Part-14-1983 1 no.
30 Standard Penetration Test (SPT) IS- 2131- 1981(Reffeed- 1 no.
Appratus 1997)
31 Nuclear Moisture Density Gauge
(NMDG) Apparatus
32 Note-Preparation of dry soil samples Follow IS–2720 Part-1-
for various test 1983
33 Consumable Item
34 Sieve brush
35 Wire brush
36 Sodium carbonate
37 Sodium hexa meta phosphate.
38 Kerosene
39 Mercury
40 Additional Equipment
Hand auger 150mm dia with
extension rod
Sampling tube 100mm dia. And
450mm length
41 All machines and equipments should
have Calibration Certificate.
208
APPENDIX- N
LIST OF RELEVANT I.S. CODES

Table-L.1
SN I.S. CODE NO. DISCRIPTION

1. IS: 2720 -1983 Part-1 Methods of test for soils.
(Reaffirmed 2010) Preparation of dry soil samples for various tests.
2. IS: 2720-1973 Part-2 Determination of water content
(Reaffirmed 2015) Methods of test for soils.
3. IS: 2720-1980 Part-3 Methods of test for soils.
Determination of specific gravity.
Section 1 (Reaffirmed
Fined grained soils
2011)
Determination of specific gravity.
Section 2 (Reaffirmed
Section 2 Fine, Medium and coarse-grained soils.
2011)
(Reaffirmed 2015) Grain size analysis.
(Reaffirmed 2015) Determination of liquid and plastic limits.
7. IS: 2720-1972 Part –6 Methods of test for soils.
(Reaffirmed 2011) Determination of shrinkage factors.
(Reaffirmed 2011) Determination of water content-dry density relation
using light compaction.
(Reaffirmed 2015) Determination of water content-dry density relation
using heavy compaction.
10. IS: 2720-1992 Part-9 Methods of test for soils
(Reaffirmed 2011) Determination of dry density –moisture content
relation by constant weight of soil method.
(Reaffirmed 2010) Determination of unconfined compressive strength.
(Reaffirmed 2011) Determination of the shear strength parameters of
a specimen tested in unconsolidated
undrainedtriaxial compression without the
measurement of pore water pressure.
(Reaffirmed 2011) Determination of shear strength parameters of soil
from consolidated undrainedtriaxial compression
test with measurement of pore water pressure.
(Reaffirmed 2011) Direct shear test
(Reaffirmed 2015) Determination of density index (Relative density) of
cohesionless soils.
209
(Reaffirmed 2011) Determination of consolidation properties.
(Reaffirmed 2011) Methods of test for soil. Laboratory determination of
CBR.
(Reaffirmed 2011) Laboratory determination of permeability.
(Reaffirmed 2011) Determination of field moisture equivalent.
(Reaffirmed 2011) Determination of centrifuge moisture equivalent.
(Reaffirmed 2011) Determination of linear shrinkage. (with
amendment No. 1)
(Reaffirmed 2016) Determination total soluble solids.
(Reaffirmed 2015) Determination of organic matter.
(Reaffirmed 2010) Determination of calcium carbonate.
(Reaffirmed 2015) Determination of cation exchange capacity.
(Reaffirmed 2015) Determination of silica sesquioxide ratio.
(Reaffirmed 2011) Determination of pH value.
(Reaffirmed 2015) Determination of total soluble sulphate.
(Reaffirmed 2015) Determination of dry density of soils in -place by
the sand replacement method.
30. IS: 2720-1975 Part29 Methods of test for soils.
(Reaffirmed 2015) Determination of dry density of soils in- place by
the core cutter method.
(Reaffirmed 2011) Laboratory vane shear test.
(Reaffirmed 2010) Field determination of california bearing ratio.
(Reaffirmed 2010) Determination of the density in- place by the ring
and water replacement method.
(Reaffirmed 2010) Determination of dry density of soil in- place by
rubber balloon method.
(Reaffirmed 2010) Part-35 Measurement of negative pore water
pressure.
(Reaffirmed 2010) Part-36 Laboratory determination of permeability of
granular soils (constant head).
210
(Reaffirmed 2011) Part-37 Determination of sand equivalent value of
soils and fine aggregates.
(Reaffirmed 2011) Part-38 Compaction control test (Hilf method).
Section 1 (Reaffirmed Direct shear test for soils containing gravel.
2011) Section 1 Laboratory test.
Section 2 (Reaffirmed Direct shear test for soils containing gravel.
2011) Section 2 in-situ shear test.
(Reaffirmed 2011) Determination of free swell index of soils.
(Reaffirmed 2011) Measurement of swelling pressure of soils.
43. IS: 2810-1979 Glossary of terms relating to soil dynamics.
(Reaffirmed 2011)
44. IS: 4434-1978 Code of practice for in-situ vane shear test for soils.
(Reaffirmed 2011)
45. IS: 4968-1976 Part 1 Method of subsurface sounding for soils.
(Reaffirmed 2011) Part I Dynamic method using 50mm cone without
bentonite slurry.
(Reaffirmed 2011) Part II Dynamic method using cone and bentonite
slurry.
(Reaffirmed 2011) Part III Static cone penetration test.
48. IS: 5249-1992 Method of test for determination of in-situ dynamic
(Reaffirmed 2015) properties of soils.
49. IS: 460-1985 Part 1 Specification of test sieves.
(Reaffirmed 2013) Wire cloth test sieves.
(Reaffirmed 2013) Perforated plate test sieve.
(Reaffirmed 2011) Part III Methods of examination of apertures of test
sieves.
52. IS: 1498-1970 Classification and identification of soils for general
(Reaffirmed 2011) engineering purposes.
53. IS: 1607-2013 Methods for test sieving.
54. IS: 4616-1968 Specification for Sheep Foot roller.
(Reaffirmed 2017)
55. IS: 5421-2013 Glossary of terms relating to test sieves and tests
sieving.
56. IS: 5500-2004 Vibratory Roller - General Requirements
(Reaffirmed 2015)
57. IS: 5501-1969 Specification for pneumatic tyred roller.
(Reaffirmed 2017)
58. IS: 5502-1988 Specification for smooth-wheeled diesel road roller.
(Reaffirmed 2017)
211
59. IS: 1888-1982 Method of load test on soils.
(Reaffirmed 2011)
60. IS: 1892-1979 Code of practice for site investigations for
(Reaffirmed 2011) foundations. (With amendment no. 1)
61. IS: 2131-1981 Method for standard penetration test for soils.
(Reaffirmed 2011)
62. IS: 2132-1986 Code of practice for thin walled tube sampling of
(Reaffirmed 2011) soils.
63. IS: 10074-1982 Specification for compaction mould assembly for
(Reaffirmed 2010) light and heavy compaction test for soils.
64. IS: 10077-1982 Specification for equipment for determination of
(Reaffirmed 2010) shrinkage factors.
65. IS: 10379-1982 Code of practice for field control of moisture and
(Reaffirmed 2010) compaction of soils for Embankment and sub-grade.
66. IS: 10837-1984 Specification for moulds and accessories for
(Reaffirmed 2010) determination of density index (relative density) of
cohesionless soils.
67. IS: 11196-1985 Specification for equipment for determination of
(Reaffirmed 2010) liquid limit of soils-cone penetration method.
68. IS: 11229-1985 Specification for shear box for testing of soils.
(Reaffirmed 2010)
69. IS: 11209-1985 Specification for mould assembly for determination
(Reaffirmed 2010) of permeability of soils.
70. IS: 4081-2013 Code of Safety for Blasting and Related Drilling
Operations
71. IS: 3764-1992 Code of Safety for Excavation Work
(Reaffirmed 2012)
72. IS: 2386 Part 4 – 1963 Methods of test for aggregates for concrete –
(Reaffirmed 2016) Mechanical Properties
73. IS: 15869 Open weave Coir Bhoovastra specification
74. IS: 15872 Application of Coir Geotextile
75. IS: 14986 Guidelines for Application of Jute Geotextile for Rain
(Reaffirmed 2018) Water Erosion Control in Road and Railway
Embankments and Hill Slopes
Note: Latest version of IS codes shall be referred to.
212
APPENDIX- O
213
214

Appendix-C Specifications of Geosynthetic Products

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Appendix-C Specifications of Geosynthetic Products

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APPENDIX-C

Specifications of Geosynthetic Products

1.0 Specification of Non-woven Geotextile to be used as separator/filtration in

A) Properties of Nonwoven Geotextile :

Sl. Property Test Method Value

(B) Packing, Handling, Storage and Laying of Geotextiles

a) Manufacturer or Supplier Name

x) For laying of Non-woven geotextile:

a) Major protrusions on the surface on which non –woven geotextile is to be laid,

Soil CBR Minimum Overlap

Sl. Property Test Value

2. Aperture Opening of Geogrid:

(Ref. ISO 10319-2015)

5. Manufacturing of geogrid shall be performed in accordance with the manufacturer’s QAP

6. To ensure proper quality assurance and reproducibility of the product, following

i) Produce design requirement and criteria.

b) Any subsequent changes in raw materials, manufacturing procedures or the control

B) Packing, Handling, Storage and Laying of Geogrid

CBR (%) Overlap

Overlaps must be maintained during the filling operation. This is generally

C) Measurement for Payment of Geogrid

The Chief Engineer (open line/Construction) or equivalent in PSU’s shall be the

ii) Site sampling

Batch or order size defined as the Number of rolls to be sampled

3.0 Specification of Geocomposite Drain to be used behind Bridge Abutment/

A) Properties of Geocomposite Drain (Vertical)

I Composite Drain (Non-woven geotextile on both sides)

2. Manufacturing of Geosynthetics shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s QAP for

4. To ensure proper quality assurance and reproducibility of the product, following

B) Packing, Handling and Installation of Geo-composite Drains (Vertical)

i) The Geocomposite drain shall be provided in wraps with a protective covering. A

C) Measurement for Payment of Geo-composite Drain (Vertical)

A) Properties of Geocomposite Drain (Horizontal)

Minimum retained EN:12447-2001 50%

2. Manufacturing of Geosynthetics shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s QAP for

4. To ensure proper quality assurance and reproducibility of the product, following

v) Geo-composite Drain shall be manufactured by thermal bonding of filter and core.

i) The Geo-composite drain shall be provided in wraps with a protective covering. A

Showing overlap of Geo-Composite Drain

C) Measurement for Payment of Geo-composite Drain (Horizontal)

Use of Geo-Composite Drain in bank over soft subsoil

FIELD COMPACTION TRIAL OBSERVATIONS & COMPUTATION SHEETS

Project……………………. Location………………………….. Date……………………..

Item Roller - 1 Roller -2 Roller -3

Project ________________________________ Date ________________________

Signature of Monitoring official___________________ Signature of Project Official__________________

Project ________________________________ Location: ________________________Date____________

S. Lift Moisture Dry density of soil(gm/cc) Remarks

Computed by_______________________ Checked by ________________

Name ____________________________ Name______________________

Date _____________________ Date ______________________

Modern Equipment’s for Earth Work

1.1 Slope Compactors

(a) Slope Compactor Vibratory Roller (Double Drum) Rope Start

Fig-E1: Slope Compactor Working with counter balance Method

(b) Slope Vibratory Roller

Slope Vibratory Compactor is a unique attachment which can be attached to

Fig-E2: Slope Vibratory Roller Fig-E3: Working of Slope Vibratory Roller

(c) Slope Vibratory Compactor

Slope Vibratory Compactor is an attachment to normal excavators. The major

Fig-E4: Slope Vibratory Compactor

1.2 Vibrating Plate Compactors:

The vibratory plate compactor is power-engines, walk-behind equipment that

1.3 Small Width Vibratory Roller for Compaction of Earthwork in Gauge

Proper compaction in the widened portion of embankment is difficult to achieve

Fig-E6: Small Width Vibratory Roller (Drum width 90 cm)

1.4 Walk behind Vibratory Roller

1.5 Vibratory Rollers with Latest Techniques:

1.6 Double Drum Vibratory Roller:

Fig-E8: Double Drum Vibratory Roller

Fig-E8.1 Delivers excellent mat density, good Fig-E8.2

1.7 Single Drum Vibratory Roller:

Fig-E9: Single Drum Vibratory Roller

Fig-E9.3: Vibratory Rollers(Drum Type & used for better gradeability)

2.0 Heavy Machinery for Railway Embankment Construction: Rail Road

Fig-E 10: Backhoe

Project ________ Date

Signature of Monitoring official_ Signature of Project Official

Project ____________________ Location: Date

Computed by_______ Checked by

Name ______ Name

Date _ Date __