SOIL COMPACTION TESTING

Most civil engineering projects require the use of soil as filling material. It is necessary for the soil to be compacted to a dense state so that satisfactory engineering properties can be acquired. Our soil division has equipment for conducting this test.

The compaction tests will shed light on the following mechanical properties of a soil:

• Relationship between dry density and moisture content for a given degree of compactive effort achievable
   
• Moisture content at which maximum dry density is achievable.
   
• Value of the maximum dry density achievable.

Proctor Test (ASTM D1557-91)

The Proctor Test, determines the maximum density of a soil needed for a specific job site. This test determines the maximum density achievable for the materials and uses this figure as a reference.  Secondly, it tests the effects of moisture on soil density. The soil reference value is expressed as a percentage of density. These values are determined before any compaction takes place to develop the compaction specifications.

Sand Cone Test (ASTM D1556-90)

A small hole (6" x 6" deep) is dug in the compacted material to be tested. The soil is removed and weighed, then dried and weighed again to determine its moisture content. A soil's moisture is figured as a percentage.  The specific volume of the hole is determined by filling it with calibrated dry sand from a jar and cone device.  The dry weight of the soil removed is divided by the volume of sand needed to fill the hole.  This gives us the density of the compacted soil in lbs per cubic foot. This density is compared to the maximum Proctor density obtained earlier, which gives us the relative density of the soil that was just compacted.

Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.