ECHELON INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Faridabad
DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

Subject- Geotechnical Engineering Lab

S.no. Experiments Name

1 Field Density using Core Cutter method.
2 Field Density using Sand replacement method.
3 Natural moisture content using Oven Drying method
4 Field identification of Fine Grained soils.
5 Specific gravity of Soils
6 Grain size distribution by Sieve Analysis.
7 Grain size distribution by Hydrometer Analysis.
8 Consistency limits by Liquid limit
9 Consistency limits by Plastic limit
10 Consistency limits by Shrinkage limit.
11 Permeability test using Constant-head test method
12 Permeability test using Falling-head method.
13 Compaction test: Standard Proctor test
14 Compaction test: Modified Proctor test
15 Relative density
16 Consolidation Test.
17 Triaxial Test (UU)
18 Vane shear test
19 Direct Shear Test
20 Unconfined Compression Strength Test.
 Experiment-1
Aim: To Determine the field density of Soil Using Core Cutter Method.

Apparatus Required:
1. A steel rammer of mass 9kg and the overall length including the foot and staff of about 900mm.
2. A cylindrical core cutter with 100mm internal diameter and 130mm long.
3. Weighing balance with an accuracy of 1 gram.
4. Steel dolly with 100mm internal diameter and 25mm high.
5. Pallete Knife
6. Straight edge, ruler of steel etc.

Procedure:
1. The experimental setup of the cylindrical core cutter along with the dolly is first made.
2. The steel dolly is then placed over the cutter to prevent the damage to the edges of the core cutter.
3. The cylinder is then embedded into the ground up to its full height with the help of rammer and is
taken out by excavating its sides without disturbing the sample.
4. The surplus soil at both the ends is trimmed and the weight of the cylinder with soil is determined.
5. Then, from the known dimension of the cutter, the volume and the moisture content of the soil is
determined.
6. The dry density of the soil is then computed using the following formula:
Bulk Density (γ t ) = (W 2 – W 1 ) / V
Dry Density (γ d ) = γ t / ( 1 + W)
Where,
W 1 = Weight of cutter
W 2 = Weight of the soil + cutter
W 2 – W 1 = Weight of soil
V = Volume of the cutter

Observation and calculations:

Sl. Determination No.

Observations and Calculations
No. 1 2 3
Observations
1 Core cutter No.
2 Internal diameter
3 Internal height
4 Mass of empty core cutter (M1)

5 Mass of core cutter with soils (M2)

Calculations
6 M=M2 – M1
7 The volume of cutter V
8 Water content
9 Dry density using formula
Results of Core Cutter Method:

Dry density of the soil= ________g/ml.

 Experiment-2
Aim: To Determine the Density of Soil sample by Sand replacement Method.

Apparatus Required:
1. Sand Cone Apparatus or Sand Pouring Cylinder.
2. Soil excavation and cutting equipment such as scrapper.
3. A plane surface such as square glass plate with a thickness of 9mm or larger.
4. A metal container for the collection of the excavated soil.
5. A square metal tray about 40 mm deep consisting of a hole of about 100mm in diameter at the
centre of the tray.
6. Weighing balance with an accuracy of up to 1 gram.
7. A ventilated oven.

Procedure:
The procedure for the determination of dry density by the sand replacement method involves the
following series of steps:
i. Initially, the apparatus is set up as shown in the figure below.
ii. The square tray is then taken and is placed on the levelled ground.
iii. A small quantity of soil is then excavated from the hole.
iv. The excavated soil is duly weighed and the water content of the excavated soil is determined.
v. The hole is then filled by the sand of known density from a sand bottle.
vi. Then, the weight of the sand filling the cone of the sand bottle is taken separately.
vii. The dry density is computed as follows:

Weight of sand filling the hole = W 2 – W 3 – W 4

Unit weight of sand = γ
Volume of sand = (W 2 – W 3 – W 4 ) / γ = Volume of hole (V)
Bulk density (γ t ) = W 1 / V

Where,
W 1 = Weight of soil in the hole
W 2 = Weight of the sand bottle before pouring
W 3 = Weight of sand bottle after pouring
W 4 = Weight of sand filling conical funnel
W = Water Content
 Sl
Data (Calibration of Unit Weight of Sand) Trial-1
no

1 Volume of the calibrating container, V (cm3)

2 Weight of SPC + sand, W1 (g)

Weight of sand required to fill the conical portion on a flat

3
surface, W2 (g)

4 Weight of SPC + sand (after filling calibrating can), W3 (g)

Weight of sand required to fill the calibrating container,

5
Wc = (W1-W2 –W3) (g)

Unit weight of sand,

6 γsand = (Wc)/V (g/cm3)

Observation and calculations:

 Sl.
Data (Determination of Density of Soil) Trial-1
no

1 Weight of the excavated from the pit (W) (g)

2 Weight of sand + SPC, before pouring, W1 (g)

3 Weight of SPC after filling the hole & conical portion, W4 (g)

4
Weight of sand in the pit
Wp = (W1-W4-W2) (g)

Volume of sand required to fill the pit

5 Vp=Wp/γsand (cm3)

Wet unit weight of the soil

6 γwet=W/Vp (g/cm3)

Dry unit weight of the soil γdry=γwet/(1+m) (g/cm3) (where ‘m’ is the
7
moisture content of soil)

Results:
 Experiment-3
Aim: To Determine Natural moisture content using Oven Drying method

Apparatus Required: 1. Non-corrodible air-tight container.

2. Electric oven, maintain the temperature between 1050 C to 1100 C.
3. Desiccator.
4. Balance of sufficient sensitivity.

Definition:
The natural water content also called the natural moisture content is the ratio of the
weight of water to the weight of the solids in a given mass of soil. This ratio is usually
expressed as percentage.

Procedure:
1. Clean the container with lid dry it and weigh it (W1).
2. Take a specimen of the sample in the container and weigh with lid (W2).
3. Keep the container in the oven with lid removed. Dry the specimen to constant
weight maintaining the temperature between 1050 C to 1100 C for a period varying
with the type of soil but usually 16 to 24 hours.
4. Record the final constant weight (W3) of the container with dried soil sample. Peat
and other organic soils are to be dried at lower temperature (say 600 ) possibly for a
longer period.
Certain soils contain gypsum which on heating loses its water if crystallization. If itb is
suspected that gypsum is present in the soil sample used for moisture content determination it
shall be dried at not more than 800 C and possibly for a longer time.

Observation and recordings:

Data and observation sheet for water content determination

S.N Sample No. 1 2 3

o.
1 Weight of container
with lid W1
gm
2 Weight of container with
lid +wet
soil W2 gm
3 Weight of container with
lid +dry soil W3
gm
4 Water/Moisture
content

W = [(W2W3)/(W3W1)]100
RESULT
The natural moisture content of the soil sample is ________

Experiment-4
Aim: Field identification of Fine Grained soils.

Apparatus Required: To Determination and identification of Fine Grained

soils.

Apparatus:
1. Spatula
2. Wooden hammer
3. Beaker
4. Glass rod / Stirrer
5. 1/8 inch dia steel rod

Procedure:

1. Dry Strength Test

A small briquet of the soil is molded and allowed to dry in the air. It is then broken by pressing
between the thumb and the fore-finger.

2. Dilatancy or Shaking Test

A small amount of soil is mixed with water to a very soft consistency (firmness) in the palm of the
hand. The back of the hand is lightly tapped. The sample is also squeezed within the palm.

3. Plasticity Test (also named as Toughness of Plastic Thread Test)

A sample of moist soil is manipulated between the palms of the hand and fingers and rolled into a
long thread.

4. Dispersion Test
A small quantity of the soil is dispersed with water in a glass cylinder and then allowed to settle.

Result:
1. Dry Strength Test

2. Di-latancy or Shaking Test

3. Plasticity Test (also named as Toughness of Plastic Thread Test)

4. Dispersion Test

Experiment-5
Aim: To Determine the Specific Gravity of Soil Sample
Definition
Specific gravity G is defined as the ratio of the weight of an equal volume of
distilled water at that temperature both weights taken in air.

Apparatus Required:
1. Density bottle of 50 ml with stopper having capillary hole.
2. Balance to weigh the materials (accuracy 10gm).
3. Wash bottle with distilled water.
4. Alcohol and ether.

Procedure:
1. Clean and dry the density bottle
a. wash the bottle with water and allow it to drain.
b. Wash it with alcohol and drain it to remove water.
c. Wash it with ether, to remove alcohol and drain ether.
2. Weigh the empty bottle with stopper (W1)
3. Take about 10 to 20 gm of oven soil sample which is cooled in a
desiccator. Transfer it to the bottle. Find the weight of the bottle and soil
(W2).
4. Put 10ml of distilled water in the bottle to allow the soil to soak
completely. Leave it for about 2 hours.
5. Again fill the bottle completely with distilled water put the stopper
and keep the bottle under constant
x temperature water baths (T
0
).
6. Take the bottle outside and wipe it clean and dry note. Now determine
the weight of the bottle and the contents (W3).
7. Now empty the bottle and thoroughly clean it. Fill the bottle with only
disttiled water and weigh it. Letx it be W 4 at temperature (T 0 C).
8. Repeat the same process for 2 to 3 times, to take the average reading of it.
Observations:

S. Observation Number 1 2 3
No.
1 Weight of density bottle
(W1 g)
2 Weight of density bottle +
dry soil
(W2g)

Weight of bottle + dry soil

+ water
3 (W3 g)

4 Weight of bottle + water

(W4 g)

Calculations:

Result: specific gravity of soil -------------

 Experiment-6
Aim: To Determine the Grain size distribution by Sieve Analysis of a given Soil
sample.

Apparatus required:
1. Balance
2. I.S sieves
3. Rubber pestle and mortar
4. mechanical Sieve Shaker

The grain size analysis is an attempt to determine the relative proportions of different grain sizes which
make up a given soil mass.

KNOWLEDGE OF EQUIPMENT

1.The balance to be used must be sensitive to the extent of 0.1% of total weight of sample taken.

2.I.S 460-1962 are to used. The sieves for soil tests: 4.75 mm to 75 microns.

Procedure:
1. For soil samples of soil retained on 75 micron I.S sieve
a. The proportion of soil sample retained on 75 micron I.S sieve is weighed and recorded weight of
soil sample is as per I.S 2720.

b. I.S sieves are selected and arranged in the order as shown in the table.

c. The soil sample is separated into various fractions by sieving through above sieves placed in the
above mentioned order.

d. The weight of soil retained on each sieve is recorded.

e. moisture content of soil if above 5% it is to be measured and recorded.

2. No particle of soil sample shall be pushed through the sieves.

Observations and recording:
Weight of soil sample:

Moisture content:

I.S sieve Cumulative

Percentage on
number or size Wt. Retained in %age retained % finer Remarks
each sieve
in mm each sieve (gm) on each sieve

4.75

4.00

3.36

2.40

1.46

1.20

0.60

0.30

0.15

0.075
GRAPH

Draw graph between log sieve size vs % finer. The graph is known as grading curve. Corresponding to
10%, 30% and 60% finer, obtain diameters from graph are designated as D10, D30, D60.

Calculation and results:

1. The percentage of soil retained on each sieve shall be calculated on the basis of total weight of
soil sample taken.
2. Cumulative percentage of soil retained on successive sieve is found.
 Experiment-7
Aim: To Identify Grain size distribution by Hydrometer Analysis.

Scope of this Experiment in Engineering:

For determining the grain size distribution of soil sample, usually mechanical
analysis (sieve analysis) is carried out in which the finer sieve used is 63 micron
or the nearer opening. If a soil contains, appreciable quantities of fine fractions
in (less than 63 micron) wet analysis is done. One form of the analysis is
hydrometer analysis. It is very much helpful to classify the soil as per ISI
classification. The properties of the soil are very much influenced by the
amount of clay and other fractions.

Apparatus Required:
1. Hydrometer
2. Glass measuring cylinder-Two of 1000 ml capacity with ground glass or rubber stoppers
about 7 cm diameter and 33 cm high marked at 1000 ml volume.
3. Thermometer- To cover the range 0 to 50o C with an accuracy of 0.5 o C.
4. Water bath.
5. Stirring apparatus.
6. I.S sieves apparatus.
7. Balance-accurate to 0.01 gm.
8. Oven-105 to 110.
9. Stop watch.
10. Desiccators
11. Centimeter scale.
12. Porcelain evaporating dish.
13. Wide mouth conical flask or conical beaker of 1000 ml capacity.
14. Thick funnel-about 10 cm in diameter.
15. Filter flask-to take the funnel.
16. Measuring cylinder-100 ml capacity.
17. Wash bottle-containing distilled water.
18. Filter papers.
19. Glass rod-about 15 to 20 cm long and 4 to 5 mm in diameter.
20. Hydrogen peroxide-20 volume solution.
21. Hydrochloric acid N solution-89 ml of concentrated hydrochloric acid.(specific gravity
1.18) diluted with distilled water one litre of solution.
22. Sodium hexametaphosphate solution-dissolve 33 g of sodium hexametaphosphate and 7 gms
of sodium carbonate in distilled water to make one litre of solution.
Calibration of hydrometer:

Volume
(a) Volume of water displaced: Approximately 800 ml of water shall be poured in the 1000 ml measuring
cylinder. The reading of the water level shall be observed and recorded.

The hydrometer shall be immersed in the water and the level shall again be observed and recorded as
the volume of the hydrometer bulb in ml plus volume of that part of the stem that is submerged. For
practical purposes the error to the inclusion of this stem volume may be neglected.

(b) From the weight of the hydrometer: The hydrometer shall be weighed to the nearest 0.1 gm.

The weight in gm shall be recorded as the volume of the bulb plus the volume of the stem below the
1000 ml graduation mark. For practical purposes the error due to the inclusion of this stem may be
neglected.

Calibration

(a ) The sectional area of the 1000 ml measuring cylinder in which the hydrometer is to used shall be
determined by measuring the distance between the graduations. The sectional area is equal to the
volume include between the two graduations divided by the measured distance between them.
Place the hydrometer on the paper and sketch it. On the sketch note the lowest and highest readings
which are on the hydrometer and also mark the neck of the bulb. Mark the center of the bulb which is
half of the distance between neck of the bulb and tip of the bulb.

(b) The distance from the lowest reading to the center of the bulb is (R h) shall be recorded

(Rh =HL + L/2).

(c) The distance from the highest hydrometer reading to the center of the bulb shall be measured and
recorded.

(d) Draw a graph hydrometer readings vs H H and RH. A straight line is obtained. This calibration curve is
used to calibrate the hydrometer readings which are taken with in 2 minutes.

(e) From 4 minutes onwards the readings are to be taken by immersing the hydrometer each time. This
makes the soil solution to rise, there by rising distance of free fall of the particle. So correction is applied
to the hydrometer readings.
(f) Correction applied to the Rh and HH

Vh= Volume of hydrometer bulb in ml.

A=Area of measuring cylinder in cm2.

From these two corrected readings draw graph (straight line)

Calculation:

Total weight of dry soil taken, W =

Specific Gravity of soil, G =

Hydrometer No. Wt. Of soil gone into solution ,Ws =

Meniscus correction, Cn =Dispersion agent correction =

Reading in water RW =

Temperature correction =

% finer for wt. Of soil Ws gone into solution N= [(100G)/ {Ws x (G)}] x R
 Corrected
Hydrometer Velocity
hydrometer Zr
reading Cms/sec Equivalent N(%finer
Elapsed Reading
upper dia. Of
Time in Thanfor
Date Time Meniscus V=Zr/K Particle R REMARKS
(1- lower soil)
Sec Dmm
meniscus orZl r/ t
Rh 1000
Cm)
 Experiment-8
Aim: To Determine the Consistency limits by Liquid limit.

Need and scope:

Liquid limit is significant to know the stress history and general properties of the soil met with
construction. From the results of liquid limit the compression index may be estimated. The
compression index value will help us in settlement analysis. If the natural moisture content of soil
is closer to liquid limit, the soil can be considered as soft if the moisture content is lesser than
liquids limit, the soil can be considered as soft if the moisture content is lesser than liquid limit.
The soil is brittle and stiffer.

Apparatus required:
1. Balance
2. Liquid limit device (Casagrendes)
3. Grooving tool
4. Mixing dishes
5. Spatula
6. Electrical Oven

Procedure:
1. About 120 gm of air-dried soil from thoroughly mixed portion of material passing 425 micron
I.S sieve is to be obtained.
2. Distilled water is mixed to the soil thus obtained in a mixing disc to form uniform paste. The
paste shall have a consistency that would require 30 to 35 drops of cup to cause closer of
standard groove for sufficient length.
3. A portion of the paste is placed in the cup of LIQUID LIMIT device and spread into portion with
few strokes of spatula.
4. Trim it to a depth of 1cm at the point of maximum thickness and return
excess of soil tothe dish.
5. The soil in the cup shall be divided by the firm strokes of the grooving tool
along the diameter through the Centre-line of the follower so that clean sharp
groove of proper dimension is formed.
6. Lift and drop the cup by turning crank at the rate of two revolutions per
second until the two halves of soil cake come in contact with each other for a
length of about 1 cm by flow only.
7. The number of blows required to cause the groove close for about 1 cm shall
be recorded.
8. A representative portion of soil is taken from the cup for water content
determination.
9. Repeat the test with different moisture contents at least three more times for
blows between 10 and 40.
 Observations:

Determination Number 1 2 3 4

Container number

Weight of container

Weight of container + wet

soil

Weight of container + dry

soil

Weight of water

Weight of dry soil

Moisture content (%)

No. of blows

Calculation:
Draw a graph showing the relationship between water content (on y-axis) and number of blows (on x-
axis) on semi-log graph. The curve obtained is called flow curve. The moisture content corresponding to
25 drops (blows) as read from the represents liquid limit. It is usually expressed to the nearest whole
number.

Result: Liquid limit = ---------------------------

 Experiment-9
Aim: To Determine Consistency limits by Plastic limit

Apparatus Required:

1. Porcelain dish.
2. Glass plate for rolling the specimen.
3. Air tight containers to determine the moisture content.
4.Balance of capacity 200gm and sensitive to 0.01gm
5.Oven thermostatically controlled with interior of non-corroding material to maintain the
temperature around 1050 and 1100C.

Procedure:
1.Take about 20gm of thoroughly mixed portion of the material passing through
425 micron I.S. sieve obtained in accordance with I.S. 2720 (part 1).
2.Mix it thoroughly with distilled water in the evaporating dish till the soil mass
becomes plastic enough to be easily molded with fingers.
3.Allow it to season for sufficient time (for 24 hrs) to allow water to permeate
throughout the soil mass
4.Take about 10gms of this plastic soil mass and roll it between fingers and
glass plate with just sufficient pressure to roll the mass into a threaded of
uniform diameter throughout its length. The rate of rolling shall be between
60 and 90 strokes per minute.
5.Continue rolling till you get a threaded of 3 mm diameter.
6.Kneed the soil together to a uniform mass and re-roll.
7.Continue the process until the thread crumbles when the diameter is 3 mm.
8.Collect the pieces of the crumbled thread in air tight container for moisture
content determination.
9.Repeat the test to atleast 3 times and take the average of the results
calculated to the neares whole numbe
Observation and reading:

Compare the diameter of thread at intervals with the rod. When the diameter reduces to 3 mm,
note the surface of the thread for cracks.

Container No.

Wt. of container + lid,W1

Wt. of container + lid +

wet sample,W2

Wt. of container + lid +

dry sample,W3

Wt. of dry sample = W3 - W1

Wt. of water in the soil = W3 - W2

Water content (%) = (W3 - W2) /

(W3 - W1)  100

Results:
Average Plastic Limit=...............

Plasticity Index(Ip) = (LL - PL)=............ Toughness Index =Ip/IF

 Experiment-10
Aim: To Determine Consistency limits by Shrinkage limit.

Theory:
As the soil loses moisture, either in its natural environment, or by artificial
means in laboratory it changes from liquid state to plastic state, from plastic
state to semi-solid state and then to solid state. Volume changes also occur
with changes in water content. But there is particular limit at which any
moisture change does not cause soil any volume change.

Apparatus Required:
1.Evaporating Dish. Porcelain, about 12cm diameter with flat bottom.
2.Spatula
3.Shrinkage Dish. Circular, porcelain or non-corroding metal dish (3 nos)
having a flat bottom and 45 mm in diameter and 15 mm in height
internally.
4.Straight Edge. Steel, 15 cm in length.
5.Glass cup. 50 to 55 mm in diameter and 25 mm in height , the top rim of
which is ground smooth and level.
6.Glass plates. Two, each 75  75 mm one plate shall be of plain glass and the
other shall have prongs.
7.Sieves. 2mm and 425- micron IS sieves.
8.Oven-thermostatically controlled.
9.Graduate-Glass, having a capacity of 25 ml and graduated to 0.2 ml and 100
cc one mark flask.
10. Balance-Sensitive to 0.01 g minimum.
11. Mercury. Clean, sufficient to fill the glass cup to over flowing. 12. Wash
bottle containing distilled water.
Procedure:
Preparation of soil paste

1. Take about 100 gm of soil sample from a thoroughly mixed

portion of the material passing through 425-micron I.S. sieve.

2. Place about 30 gm the above soil sample in the evaporating dish

and thoroughly mixed with distilled water and make a creamy
paste.

Use water content some where around the liquid limit.

Filling the shrinkage dish

3. Coat the inside of the shrinkage dish with a thin layer of Vaseline to
prevent the soil sticking to the dish.
4. Fill the dish in three layers by placing approximately 1/3 rd of the amount
of wet soil with the help of spatula. Tap the dish gently on a firm base until
the soil flows over the edges and no apparent air bubbles exist. Repeat this
process for 2nd and 3rd
layers also till the dish is completely filled with the wet soil. Strike off the
excess soil and make the top of the dish smooth. Wipe off all the soil
adhering to the outside of the dish.
5. Weigh immediately, the dish with wet soil and record the weight.
6. Air- dry the wet soil cake for 6 to 8hrs, until the colour of the pat turns
from dark to light. Then oven-dry the to constant weight at 105 0C to 1100C
say about 12 to 16 hrs.
7. Remove the dried disk of the soil from oven. Cool it in a desiccator. Then
obtain the weight of the dish with dry sample.
8. Determine the weight of the empty dish and record.
9. Determine the volume of shrinkage dish which is evidently equal to
volume of the wet soil as follows. Place the shrinkage dish in an evaporating
dish and fill the dish with mercury till it overflows slightly. Press it with plain
glass plate firmly on its top to remove excess mercury. Pour the mercury from
the shrinkage dish into a measuring jar and find the volume of the shrinkage
dish directly. Record this volume as the volume of the wet soil pat.
 Volume of the Dry Soil Pat

7. Determine the volume of dry soil pat by removing the pat from the
shrinkage dish and immersing it in the glass cup full of mercury in the
following manner.
Place the glass cup in a larger one and fill the glass cup to overflowing with
mercury. Remove the excess mercury by covering the cup with glass plate
with prongs and pressing it. See that no air bubbles are entrapped. Wipe
out the outside of the glass cup to remove the adhering mercury. Then,
place it in another larger dish, which is, clean and empty carefully.

Place the dry soil pat on the mercury. It floats submerge it with the
pronged glass plate which is again made flush with top of the cup. The
mercury spills over into the larger plate. Pour the mercury that is displayed
by the soil pat into the measuring jar and find the volume of the soil pat
directly.

Calculation:

Do not touch the mercury with gold rings.

 Do not touch the mercury with gold rings.

Tabulation and results

S.No Determination No. 1 2 3

1
2

Wt. of container in gm,W1

3 Wt. of container + wet soil pat in gm,W2
Wt. of container + dry soil pat in gm,W3
Wt. of oven dry soil pat, W0 in gm Wt. of water in gm
Moisture content (%), W
4 Volume of wet soil pat (V), in cm Volume of dry soil pat (V0) in cm3 By mercury disp
Weight of displaced mercury
5 Specific gravity of the mercury
6
7
8

Shrinkage limit (WS)

9
Shrinkage ratio (R)
10

Results:
 Experiment-11
Aim: To Perform Permeability test using Constant-head test method.

Apparatus required:
a) Permeameter mould
(b) Compacting equipment (A vibrating Tamper or a Sliding tamper with a
tampoing foot of 50 mm in diamter) and
(c) A porous disc or suitable reinforced screen with spring attached to the top,
(d)A suitable water reservoir capable of supplying water to the Permeameter
under constant head,
(e) Large Funnels: These shall be fitted with special cylindrical spout, 25 mm in
diameter for 10.00 mm maximum size particles, and 13 mm in diameter for 2.00
mm maximum size particles. The length of the spout should be greater than the
full length of the permeability chamber at least by 160 mm.

Procedure:
Preparation of specimen for testing
A. Undisturbed soil sample
1.Note down the sample number, bore hole number and its depth at which the
sample was taken.
2.Remove the protective cover (paraffin wax) from the sampling tube.
3.Place the sampling tube in the sample extraction frame, and push the plunger
to get a cylindrical form sample not longer than 35 mm in diameter and having
height equal to that of mould.
4.The specimen shall be placed centrally over the porous disc to the drainage
base.
5.The angular space shall be filled with an impervious material such as cement
slurry or wax, to provide sealing between the soil specimen and the mould
against leakage from the sides.
6.The drainage cap shall then be fixed over the top of the mould.
7.Now the specimen is ready for the test.

Disturbed soil sample

1.A 2.5 kg sample shall be taken from a thoroughly mixed air dried or oven
dried material.
2.The initial moisture content of the 2.5 kg sample shall be determined. Then
the soil shall be placed in the air tight container.
3.Add required quantity of water to get the desired moisture content.
4.Mix the soil thoroughly.
5.Weigh the empty permeameter mould.
6.After greasing the inside slightly, clamp it between the compaction base plate
and extension collar.
7.Place the assembly on a solid base and fill it with sample and compact it.
8.After completion of a compaction the collar and excess soil are removed.
9.Find the weight of mould with sample.
10.Place the mould with sample in the permeameter, with drainage base and
cap having discs that are properly saturated.

Test procedure
1.For the constant head arrangement, the specimen shall be connected through
the top inlet to the constant head reservoir.
2.Open the bottom outlet.
3.Establish steady flow of water.
4.The quantity of flow for a convenient time interval may be collected.
5.Repeat three times for the same interval.
Observation and recording
The flow is very low at the beginning, gradually increases and then stands
constant. Constant head permeability test is suitable for cohesionless soils. For
cohesive soils falling head method is suitable.
Computation
Coefficient of permeability for a constant head test is given by

Presentation of data
Records
Length of
L(cm)
specimen
Area of
A(cm2)
specimen
Time t (sec)
Discharge q(cm3)
Height of water h(cm)
 Temperature (o C)

Results:

Experiment-12
Aim: To Perform Permeability test using Falling-head method.

Apparatus Required:
1. Permeameter with its accessories.
2. Standrd soil specimen.
3. Deaires water.
4. Balance to weigh up to 1 gm.
5. I.S sieves 4.75 mm and 2 mm.
6. Mixing pan.
7. Stop watch.
8. Measuring jar.
9. Meter scale.
10. Thermometer.
11. Container for water.
12. Trimming knife etc.

Procedure:

A. Undisturbed soil specimen

It is prepared as follows:
1. Note down-sample no., borehole no., depth at which sample is taken.
2.remove the protective cover (wax) from the sampling tube.
3.place the sampling tube in the sample extract or and push the plunger to get a cylindrical shaped
specimen not larger than 85 mm diameter and height equal to that of the mould.
4.this specimen is placed centrally over the drainage disc of base plate.
5.the annular space in between the mould and specimen is filled with an impervious material like
cement slurry to block the side leakage of the specimen.
6.protect the porous disc when cement slurry is poured.
7.compact the slurry with a small tamper.
8.the drainage cap is also fixed over the top of the mould.
9.the specimen is now ready for test.

B. Disturbed specimen
The disturbed specimen can be prepared by static compaction or by dynamic compaction.
(a)preparation of statically compacted (disturbed) specimen.
1.take 800 to 1000 gms of representative soil and mix with water to o.m.c determined by i.s light
compaction test. Then leave the mix for 24 hours in an airtight container.
2.find weight �w� of soil mix for the given volume of the mould and hence find the
dry
3.now, assemble the permeameter for static compaction. Attach the 3 cm collar to the bottom end of
0.3 liters mould and the 2 cm collar to the top end. Support the mould assembly over 2.5 cm end plug,
with 2.5 cm collar resting on the split collar kept around the 2.5 cm- end plug. The inside of the 0.3
lit. Mould is lightly greased.
4.put the weighed soil into the mould. Insert the top 3 cm �end plug into the top collar, tamping the
soil with hand.
5.keep, now the entire assembly on a compressive machine and remove the split collar. Apply the
compressive force till the flange of both end plugs touch the corresponding collars. Maintain this load
for 1 mt and then release it.
6.then remove the top 3 cm plug and collar place a filter paper on fine wire mesh on the top of the
specimen and fix the perforated base plate.
7.turn the mould assembly upside down and remove the 2.5 cm end plug and collar. Place the top
perforated plate on the top of the soil specimen and fix the top cap on it, after inserting the seating
gasket.
8.now the specimen is ready for test.

(b) preparation of dynamically compacted disturbed sample:

1.take 800 to 1000 gms of representative soil and mix it with water to get o.m.c, if necessary. Have
the mix in airtight container for 24 hours.
2.assemble the permeameter for dynamic compaction. Grease the inside of the mould and place it
upside down on the dynamic compaction base. Weigh the assembly correct to a gram (w). Put the 3
cm collar to the other end.
3.now, compact the wet soil in 2 layers with 15 blows to each layer with a 2.5 kg dynamic tool.
Remove the collar and then trim off the excess. Weigh the mould assembly with the soil (w2).
4.place the filter paper or fine wore mesh on the top of the soil specimen and fix the perforated base
plate on it.
5.turn the assembly upside down and remove the compaction plate. Insert the sealing gasket and
place the top perforated plate on the top of soil specimen. And fix the top cap.
6.now, the specimen is ready for test.

Experimental procedure
1.prepare the soil specimen as specified.
2.sturate it. Deaired water is preferred.
3.assemble the permeameter in the bottom tank and fill the tank with water.
4.inlet nozzle of the mould is connected to the stand pipe. Allow some water to flow until steady flow
is obtained.
5.note down the time interval for a fall of head in the stand pipe.
6.repeat step 5 three times to determine for the same head.
7.find by collecting for the stand pipe. Weigh it correct to 1 gm and find from q/h=a.
Therefore the coefficient of permeability

Observation and recording:

 1st set 2nd set
1.area of stand pipe (dia. 5 cm)
2.cross sectional area of soil specimen
3.length of soil specimen
4.initial reading of stand pipe
5.final reading of stand pipe
6.time
7.test temperature
8.coefficient of permeability at t
9.coefficient of permeability at 27o c k27

Results:
 Experiment-13
Aim: To Perform Compaction test Using Standard Proctor test.

Apparatus Required:
1. Proctor mould having a capacity of 944 cc with an internal diameter of 10.2 cm and a height of
11.6 cm. The mould shall have a detachable collar assembly and a detachable base plate.
2. Rammer: A mechanical operated metal rammer having a 5.08 cm diameter face and a weight of
2.5 kg. The rammer shall be equipped with a suitable arrangement to control
the height of drop to a free fall of 30 cm.
3. Sample extruder.
4. A balance of 15 kg capacity.
5. Sensitive balance.
6. Straight edge.
7. Graduated cylinder.
8. Mixing tools such as mixing pan, spoon, towel, spatula etc.
9. Moisture tins.

Procedure:
1. Take a representative oven-dried sample, approximately 5 kg in the given pan. Thoroughly
mix the sample with sufficient water to dampen it to approximately four to six percentage
points below optimum moisture content
2. Weigh the proctor mould without base plate and collar. Fix the collar and base plate. Place the
soil in the Proctor mould and compact it in 3 layers giving 25 blows per layer with the 2.5 kg
rammer falling through.
3. Remove the collar, trim the compacted soil even with the top of the mould by means of the
straight edge and weigh.
4. Divide the weight of the compacted specimen by 944 cc and record the result as the wet
weight wet in grams per cubic centimeter of the compacted soil.
5. Remove the sample from the mould and slice vertically through and obtain a small sample for
moisture determination.
6. Thoroughly break up the remainder of the material until it will pass a no.4 sieve as judged by
the eye. Add water in sufficient amounts to increase the moisture content of the soil sample by
one or two percentage points and repeat the above procedure for each increment of water
added. Continue this series of determination until there is either a decrease or no change in the
wet unit weight of the compacted soil.
Calculation

Wet density gm/cc =weight of compacted soil / 944. Dry density = wet density/(1+w)
Where w is the moisture content of the soil.
Plot the dry density against moisture content and find out the maximum dry density and optimum
moisture for the soil.

Observations:

Cylinder diameter cm.

Height cm.
Volume cc
Weight of cylinder gm

Density
Determination No.
Water to be added (percent)
Weightof water to
be added (gm)
Weightof cylinder
+ compacted soil
Weight of compacted soil
(gms)
Average moisture content
(percent)
Wet density

(gm /cc)
Dry density (gm/cc)
Water content
Container No.
Wt. Of container + wet soil
gms.
Wt. Of container + dry soil
Gms
Wt of container alone gms.
Wt. Of water gm
Wt. Of dry soil gms.
Percentage of water

Content
Result:

Maximum dry density=

Optimum moisture content =
 Experiment-14
Aim: To Perform Compaction test: Modified Proctor test.

Apparatus Required:
1. Cylindrical Metal Mould, internal diameter 4″ (10.16 cm) or 6″ (15.24 cm),internal effective height
of 4.6”(11.7 cm); and the mould should have detachable base plate & color 2″ (5.08 cm).
2. Rammer; weighing 4.5 kg& having fall of 18 inches (45.7 cm).
3. Sensitive Balance; ranging from 1 gram to 0.I gram.
4. Thermostatically controlled oven (105°C – 110°C).
5. Steel straightedge.
6. Moisture containers.
7. Sieve No.4.
8. Tray & scoop.
9. Graduated cylinder.
10. Mixing Tools (spoon, trowel, Spatula).

Procedure:
1. Take about 4 kg of air-dried soil passing No. 4 sieve and mix it with an optimum quantity of water.
2. Weigh the empty mould without a collar, with base plate attached.
3. Place the mould With the collar attached on a solid base and compact the soil mass into the mold
using standard compaction in five layers with 25 blows per layer; and with a 4.5 kg rammer dropping
from a height of 45 cm. Take care to distribute the blows uniformly over the surface of each layer,
and to let the rammer fall freely.
4. Remove the collar carefully strike off the projected part of the compacted soil by steel straight
edge. Then weigh the mould + soil.
5. Extrude the compacted soil specimen from the mold and split it on a large tray.
Take a sample for moisture content determination.
6. Break-up the specimen to No.4 sieve size, and mix it with the remainder of the original sample.
Add suitable increments of water, and mix thoroughly for at least six trials.
Then repeat 3 to 5 steps for each trial.
7. Draw compaction curve on a graph with dry density on ordinate and
moisture contents on the x-axis.

Maximum dry density shall be at the apex of the curve and optimum moisture
content (OMC) at which maximum dry density is obtained.
Observation and Calculations:

Moisture Content Determination.

1. wt. = weight.
2. cont: = container

Sample # Value
Moisture Can No.
Wt. of Cont: + Wet Soil.
Wt. of Cont: + Dry Soil.
Wt. of Water.
Wt. of Empty Container.

Density Determination:

Moisture Content. (%) Values

Wt. of Soil + Mold. (gm)
Wt. of Mold. (gm)
Wt. of soil in Mold. (gm)
Wet Density, r. (gm/cc)
Dry Density, rd (gm/cc)

Result:
 Experiment-15
Aim: To Determine the Relative density of Given Sample of Soil

Apparatus Required: Cushioned steel vibrating deck 75*75 cm size, R.P.M :

3600 ; under a 115 kg load, 440V, 3 phase supply. Two cylindrical metallic
moulds, 3000 cc and 15000 cc. 10 mm thick surcharge base plate with handle.
Surcharge weights, Dial gauge holder, w. Guide sleeves . Calibration bar of
75300*3 mm Size.

Theory: Relative density or density index is the ratio of the difference between
the void ratios of a cohesion less soil in its loosest state and existing natural
state to the difference between its void ratio in the loosest and densest states.

Procedure:
(1) Fill the mold with the soil (approximately 0.5 inch to 1 inch above the top of the mold) as loosely
as possible by pouring the soil using a scoop or pouring device (funnel). Spiraling motion should be
just sufficient to minimize particle segregation.
(2) Trim off the excess soil level with the top by carefully trimming the soil surface with a
straightedge.
(3) Determine and record the mass of the mold and soil. Then empty the mold (M1). See Photograph
on Page 35.
(4) Again fill the mold with soil (do not use the same soil used in step 1) and level the surface of the
soil by using a scoop or pouring device (funnel) in order to minimize the soil segregation. The sides
of the mold may be struck a few times using a metal bar or rubber hammer to settle the soil so that the
surcharge base-plate can be easily placed into position and there is no surge of air from the mold
when vibration is initiated.
(5) Place the surcharge base plate on the surface of the soil and twist it slightly several times so that it
is placed firmly and uniformly in contact with the surface of the soil. Remove the surcharge base-
plate handle.
(6) Attach the mold to the vibrating table.
(7) Determine the initial dial reading by inserting the dial indicator gauge holder in each of the guide
brackets with the dial gage stem in contact with the rim of the mold (at its center) on the both sides of
the guide brackets. Obtain six sets of dial indicator readings, three on each side of each guide bracket.
The average of these twelve readings is the initial dial gage reading, Ri. Record Ri to the nearest
0.001 in. (0.025 mm). See Photograph on Page 35.
(8) Firmly attach the guide sleeve to the mold and lower the appropriate surcharge weight onto the
surcharge base plate.
(9) Vibrate the mold assembly and soil specimen for 8 min.
(10) Determine and record the dial indicator gage readings as in step (7). The average of these
readings is the final dial gage reading.
(11) Remove the surcharge base-plate from the mold and detach the mold from the vibrating table.
(12) Determine and record the mass of the mold and soil (M2)
(13) Empty the mold and determine the weight of the mold.
(14) Determine and record the dimensions of the mold (i.e., diameter and height) in order to calculate
the calibrated volume of the mold, Vc. Also, determine the thickness of the surcharge base-plate, Tp

Analysis:
(1) Calculate the minimum index density (ρd min) as follows: Ms1
VC
Where, Ms1= mass of tested-dry soil = Mass of mold with soil placed loose – mass of mold
Vc= Calibrated volume of the mold
(2) Calculate the maximum index density (ρd max) as follows: = Ms2
VC
Ms2 = mass of tested-dry soil = Mass of mold with soil after vibration – Mass of mold
V = Volume of tested-dry soil = Vc – (Ac*H)
Where, Ac = the calibrated cross sectional area of the mold
H = [Rf –Ri]+Tp

Observation and Calculation:

Sample Description:

Mass of empty mold: __ ______________

Diameter of empty mold: __ ______________
Height of empty mold: __ ______________
Mass of mold and soil (M1): __ ______________
Average initial dial gauge reading (Ri): __ ______________
Average final dial gauge reading (Rf): __ ______________
Thickness of surcharge base plate (TP): __ ______________
Mass of mold and soil (M2): __ ______________

Result:
 Experiment-16
Aim: To Perform Consolidation Test.

Apparatus required:
1. Consolido-meter Consisting Essentially
a) A ring of diameter = 60mm and height = 20mm
b) Two porous plates or stones of silicon carbide, Aluminium oxide or porous
metal.
c) Guide ring.
d) Outer ring.
e) Water jacket with base.
f) Pressure pad.
g) Rubber basket.
2. 2 Loading devices consisting of frame, lever system, loading yoke dial gauge
fixing device and weights.
3. Dial gauge to read to an accuracy of 0.002mm.
4 Thermostatically controlled oven.
5. Stopwatch to read seconds.
6. Sample extractor.
7. Miscellaneous items like balance, soil trimming tools, spatula, filter papers,
sample containers.

Procedure:
1. Saturate two porous stones either by boiling in distilled water about 15
minute or by keeping them submerged in the distilled water for 4 to 8 hrs. Wipe
away excess water. Fittings of the consolidometer which is to be enclosed shall
be moistened.
2. Assemble the consolidometer, with the soil specimen and porous stones at
top and bottom of specimen, providing a filter paper between the soil specimen
and porous stone. Position the pressure pad centrally on the top porous stone.
3. Mount the mould assembly on the loading frame, and center it such that the
load applied is axial.
4. Position the dial gauge to measure the vertical compression of the specimen.
The dial gauge holder should be set so that the dial gauge is in the begging of
its releases run, allowing sufficient margin for the swelling of the soil, if any.
5. Connect the mould assembly to the water reservoir and the sample is
allowed to saturate. The level of the water in the reservoir should be at about
the same level as the soil specimen.
6. Apply an initial load to the assembly. The magnitude of this load should be
chosen by trial, such that there is no swelling. It should be not less than 50
g/cm3 for ordinary soils & 25 g/cm2 for very soft soils. The load should be
allowed to stand until there is no change in dial gauge readings for two
consecutive hours or for a maximum of 24 hours.
7.Note the final dial reading under the initial load. Apply first load of intensity 0.1 kg/cm 2 start the
stop watch simultaneously. Record the dial gauge readings at various time intervals. The dial gauge
readings are taken until 90% consolidation is reached. Primary consolidation is gradually reached
within 24 hrs.
8. At the end of the period, specified above take the dial reading and time reading. Double the load
intensity and take the dial readings at various time intervals. Repeat this procedure fir successive load
increments. The usual loading intensity are as follows :

a. 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, 4 and 8 kg/cm2.

9. After the last loading is completed, reduce the load of the value of the last
load and allow it to stand for 24 hrs. Reduce the load further in steps of the
previous intensity till an intensity of 0.1 kg/cm 2 is reached. Take the final
reading of the dial gauge.
10. Reduce the load to the initial load, keep it for 24 hrs and note the final
readings of the dial gauge.
11. Quickly dismantle the specimen assembly and remove the excess water on
the soil specimen in oven, note the dry weight of it.

Observation and reading:

Table 

Data and observation sheet for consolidation test pressure, compression and time.

Project : Name of the project Borehole no. : 1

Depth of the sample : 2m Description of soil :

Empty weight of ring : 635 gm Area of ring : 4560

2 2
mm (45.60 cm )

Diameter of ring : 76.2 mm (7.62 cm) Volume of ring : 115.82 cm3

Height of ring : 25.4 (2.54 cm) Specific gravity of soil sample No:

Dial Gauge = 0.0127 mm (least count)

Pressure 0.1 0.2 0.5 1 2

Intensity 4 8

(Kg/cm2)
Elapsed
Time

0.25

1
2.5

6.25

16

25

30

1 hr

2 hrs

4 hrs

8 hrs

24 hrs
Observation Sheet for Consolidation Test : Pressure Voids Ratio

Applied Final dial Dial Specimen Height Height of Void ration

pressure reading change hieght solids voids
0

0.1

0.2

0.5

1.0

2.0

4.0

8.0

4.0

2.0

1.0
0.5

0.2

0.1

Calculations:

1. Height of solids (HS) is calculated from the equation

HS = WS/G A

2. Void ratio. Voids ratio at the end of various pressures are calculated from equation

e = (H+HS)/HS

3. Coefficient of consolidation. The Coefficient of consolidation at each pressures increment is

calculated by using the following equations :

i. Cv = 0.197 d2/t50 (Log fitting method)

ii. Cv = 0.848 d2/t90 (Square fitting method)

In the log fitting method, a plot is made between dial reading and logarithmic of time, the time
corresponding to 50% consolidation is determined.

In the square root fitting method, a plot is made between dial readings and square root of time and
the time corresponding to 90% consolidation is determined. The values of Cv are recorded in table II.

4. Compression Index. To determine the compression index, a plot of voids ratio (e) V s logt is made.
The initial compression curve would be a straight line and the slope of this line would give the
compression index Cc.

5. Coefficient of compressibility. It is calculated as follows

av = 0.435 Cc/Avg. pressure for the increment

where Cc = Coefficient of compressibility

6. Coefficient of permeability. It is calculated as follows

K = Cv.av *(unit weight of water)/(1+e).

Results:

1. Dial reading VS log of time or

Dial reading VS square root of time.

2. Voids ratio VS logs (average pressure for the increment).

Experiment-17
Aim: To Perform the Tri-axial Test (UU) on a Given Soil Sample

Apparatus Required:
1. 3.8 cm (1.5 inch) internal diameter 12.5 cm (5 inches) long sample tubes
2. Rubber O-rings, Stop clock
3. An open ended cylindrical section former, 3.8 cm inside diameter fitted with
a small rubber tube on its side
4. Moisture content test apparatus, and
5. Balance of 250 gm capacity and accurate to 0.01 gm
6. Latex membrane
7. Glass platens

Procedure:
1. The sample is placed in the compression machine and a pressure plate is
placed on the top. Care must be taken to prevent any part of the machine or
cell from jogging the sample while it is being setup, for example, by knocking
against this bottom of the loading piston. The probable strength of the sample
is estimated and a suitable proving ring selected and fitted to the machine.
2. The cell must be properly set up and uniformly clamped down to prevent
leakage of pressure during the test, making sure first that the sample is
properly sealed with its end caps and rings (rubber) in position and that the
sealing rings for the cell are also correctly placed.
3. When the sample is setup water is admitted and the cell is filled until water
escapes from the bleed valve, at the top, which is then closed. If the sample is
to be tested at zero lateral pressure water is not required.
4. The air pressure in the reservoir is then increased to raise the hydrostatic
pressure in the required amount (say 100 kPa, 200 kPa and 300 kPa or as per
the depth where the sample is brought and the application requirements). The
pressure gauge must be watched during the test and any necessary
adjustments must be made to keep the pressure constant.
5. The handle wheel of the screw jack is rotated until the underside of the
 hemispherical seating of the proving ring, through which the loading is applied,
just touches the cell piston.
6. The piston is then moved down by handle until it is just in touch with the
pressure plate on the top of the sample, and the proving ring seating is again
brought into contact for the beginning of the test.

Observation & recording:

The machine is set in motion (or if hand operated the hand wheel is turned at a
constant rate) to give a rate of strain 0.1% to 1% per minute. At particular
intervals of strain, dial gauge readings and the corresponding proving ring
readings are taken, and the corresponding load is determined using proving
ring constant. The experiment is stopped at the strain dial gauge reading for
20% of length of the sample or 20% strain.

Data Sheet for Triaxial Test (UU) Sample No:

Length of specimen: m
Diameter of specimen: m
Initial area of specimen (A0): m²
Initial Volume: Strain rate : %/minute Proving ring constant: N Strain dial least
count (const.): mm

Deformation Strain (%), ξ Load Deviator

Cell Dial Proving Corrected
mm = taken Stress, (σd) kPa (=
pressu gauge ring area
(divisions*le (deformation (N) load
re kPa reading reading (m2)
ast count) /ht. of (divisions*provi taken*corrected
(σ3) (divisions) (divisions =
specimen*10 ng ring (A0/{1-ξ/100) area)/1000
)
0) constant)
25
50
75
10
0
12
5
15
0
17
5
20
0
22
5
25
0
27
5
30
 0
32
5
35
100 0
37
5
40
0
42
5
45
0
47
5
50
0
52
5
55
0
57
5
60
0
62
5
65
0
67
5
70
0

Draw this table for 3 Samples

Compressiv Angle of
Wet bulk Cell Strain Moistur Shear
SampleN e stress at shearing
o. density pressur at e content, strengt
failure resistance,
(gm/cc) e (kPa) failure, (%) h (kPa)
(kPa) (0 )
(%)
1.
2.
 3.

Results:
1. It is assumed that the volume of the sample remains constant and that the
area of the sample increases uniformly as the length decreases. The calculation
of the stress is based on this new area at failure, by direct calculation, using the
proving ring constant and the new area of the sample. By constructing a chart
relating strain readings, from the proving ring, directly to the corresponding
stress.
2. The strain and corresponding stress is plotted with stress abscissa and curve
is drawn. The maximum compressive stress at failure and the corresponding
strain and cell pressure are found out.
3. The stress results of the series of triaxial tests at increasing cell pressure are
plotted as a Modified failure envelope using p=(σ1+σ3)/2 as abscissa and q
=(σ1-σ3)/2 as ordinate. In this diagram a best fit line is plotted with in which the
slope represents the value of ψ while the intercept represents the value of a.
4. From the relation, sinφ = tan ψ, a = c* cosφ;

The value of cohesion, c and the angle of shearing resistance, φ will be determined as the
soil shear strength parameters.

Experiments-18
Aim: To Perform Vane shear test on Given Sample of Soil.
Apparatus Required:
1.Vane shear apparatus.
2.Specimen.
3.Specimen container.
4.Callipers.

Need and scope:

The structural strength of soil is basically a problem of shear strength.
Vane shear test is a useful method of measuring the shear strength of clay. It is
a cheaper and quicker method. The test can also be conducted in the
laboratory. The laboratory vane shear test for the measurement of shear
strength of cohesive soils, is useful for soils of low shear strength (less than 0.3
kg/cm2) for which triaxial or unconfined tests can not be performed. The test
gives the undrained strength of the soil. The undisturbed and remoulded
strength obtained are useful for evaluating the sensitivity of soil.

Experimental procedure:
1. Prepare two or three specimens of the soil sample of dimensions of at least
37.5 mm diameter and 75 mm length in specimen.(L/D ratio 2 or 3).
2. Mount the specimen container with the specimen on the base of the vane
shear apparatus. If the specimen container is closed at one end, it should be
provided with a hole of about 1 mm diameter at the bottom.
3. Gently lower the shear vanes into the specimen to their full length without
disturbing the soil specimen. The top of the vanes should be atleast 10 mm
below the top of the specimen. Note the readings of the angle of twist.
4. Rotate the vanes at an uniform rate say 0.1o/s by suitable operating the
torque application handle until the specimen fails.
5. Note the final reading of the angle of twist.
6. Find the value of blade height in cm.
7. Find the value of blade width in cm.

Calculations:

Observations:
S. Init Fin Diffe T=Spri S= Ave Spri
N
o ial al renc ng TxG rag ng
Rea Rea e Consta Kg/ e Con
din din (Deg nt/180 cm2 'S' stan
g g .) x Kg/ t
(De (De Differe cm2 Kg-
g) g.) nce cm
Kg-cm

Results:

Remarks:
This test is useful when the soil is soft and its water content is nearer
to liquid limit.

Experiment-19
Aim: To Perform the Direct Shear Test on a given Sample of Soil.

Apparatus Required:
1. Direct shear box apparatus
2. Loading frame (motor attached).
3. Dial gauge.
4. Proving ring.
5. Tamper.
6. Straight edge.
7. Balance to weigh upto 200 mg.
8. Aluminum container.
9. Spatula.

Procedure:
1. Check the inner dimension of the soil container.
2. Put the parts of the soil container together.
3. Calculate the volume of the container. Weigh the container.
4. Place the soil in smooth layers (approximately 10 mm thick). If a dense
sample is desired tamp the soil.
5. Weigh the soil container, the difference of these two is the weight of the soil.
Calculate the density of the soil.
6. Make the surface of the soil plane.
7. Put the upper grating on stone and loading block on top of soil.
8. Measure the thickness of soil specimen.
9. Apply the desired normal load.
10. Remove the shear pin.
11. Attach the dial gauge which measures the change of volume.
12. Record the initial reading of the dial gauge and calibration values.
13. Before proceeding to test check all adjustments to see that there is no
connection between two parts except sand/soil.
14. Start the motor. Take the reading of the shear force and record the reading.
15. Take volume change readings till failure.
16. Add 5 kg normal stress 0.5 kg/cm2 and continue the experiment till failure
17. Record carefully all the readings. Set the dial gauges zero, before starting
the experiment

Data calculation sheet for direct shear test:

Normal stress 0.5 kg/cm2 L.C=....... P.R.C=.........
Horizo Verti Provi Hori. Shear Verti Vertical Prov Shear
ntal cal ng Dial deform cal deforma ing stress =
Gauge Dial ring gaug ation gaug tion= read div.col.(8)x
Readi gaug Read e Col.(4) e div.in ing proving
ng e ing Readi x readi col.6 Initi ring
(1) Read (3) ng Leastco ng xL.C of al constant
ing Initial unt of Initi dial read Area of the
(2) readi dial al gauge ing specimen(k
ng (5) Read (7) (8) g/cm2)
div. ing (9)
gaug (6)
e
(4)
0

25

50

75

100

125

150

175

200

250

300

400

500

600

700

800

900
Normal stress 1.0 kg/cm2 L.C=....... P.R.C=........
Horizo Verti Provi Hori. Shear Verti Vertical Prov Shear
ntal cal ng Dial deform cal deforma ing stress =
Gauge Dial ring gaug ation gaug tion= read div.col.(8)x
Readi gaug Read e Col.(4) e div.in ing proving
ng e ing Readi x readi col.6 Initi ring
(1) Read (3) ng Leastco ng xL.C of al constant
ing Initial unt of Initi dial read Area of the
(2) readi dial al gauge ing specimen(k
ng (5) Read (7) (8) g/cm2)
div. ing (9)
gaug (6)
e
(4)
0

25

50

75

100

125

150

175

200

250

300

400

500

600

700

800

900
Normal stress 1.5 kg/cm2 L.C=....... P.R.C=........
Horizo Verti Provi Hori. Shear Verti Vertical Prov Shear
ntal cal ng Dial deform cal deforma ing stress =
Gauge Dial ring gaug ation gaug tion= read div.col.(8)x
Readi gaug Read e Col.(4) e div.in ing proving
ng e ing Readi x readi col.6 Initi ring
(1) Read (3) ng Leastco ng xL.C of al constant
ing Initial unt of Initi dial read Area of the
(2) readi dial al gauge ing specimen(k
ng (5) Read (7) (8) g/cm2)
div. ing (9)
gaug (6)
e
(4)
0

25

50

75

100

125

150

175

200

250

300

400

500

600

700
 800

900

Observation and recording:

Proving Ring constant....... Least count of the dial........
Calibration factor.......
Leverage factor........
Dimensions of shear box 60 x 60 mm
Empty weight of shear box........
Least count of dial gauge.........
Volume change.......
S.No Normal Normal Normal Shear
load (kg) stress(kg/c stress(kg/c stress
m2) m)2
proving
load x load x Ring
leverage/A leverage/A reading x
rea rea calibration
/ Area of
container

Results:
Remarks:
1. In the shear box test, the specimen is not failing along its weakest plane but along a
predetermined or induced failure plane i.e. horizontal plane separating the two halves of the
shear box. This is the main draw back of this test. Moreover, during loading, the state of stress
cannot be evaluated. It can be evaluated only at failure condition i.e Mohr�s circle can be
drawn at the failure condition only. Also failure is progressive.
2. Direct shear test is simple and faster to operate. As thinner specimens are used in shear box,
they facilitate drainage of pore water from a saturated sample in less time. This test is also
useful to study friction between two materials � one material in lower half of box and
another material in the upper half of box.
3. The angle of shearing resistance of sands depends on state of compaction, coarseness of
grains, particle shape and roughness of grain surface and grading. It varies between
28o(uniformly graded sands with round grains in very loose state) to 46 o(well graded sand
with angular grains in dense state).
4. The volume change in sandy soil is a complex phenomenon depending on gradation,
particle shape, state and type of packing, orientation of principal planes, principal stress ratio,
stress history, magnitude of minor principal stress, type of apparatus, test procedure, method
of preparing specimen etc. In general loose sands expand and dense sands contract in volume
on shearing. There is a void ratio at which either expansion contraction in volume takes place.
This void ratio is called critical void ratio. Expansion or contraction can be inferred from the
movement of vertical dial gauge during shearing.
5. The friction between sand particle is due to sliding and rolling friction and interlocking
action.
 Experiment-20
Aim: To Perform Unconfined Compression Strength Test on a given Sample of
Soil.

Apparatus Required:
1. Loading frame of capacity of 2 t, with constant rate of movement. What is the
least count of the dial gauge attached to the proving ring!
2. Proving ring of 0.01 kg sensitivity for soft soils; 0.05 kg for stiff soils.
3. Soil trimmer.
4. Frictionless end plates of 75 mm diameter (Perspex plate with silicon grease
coating).
5. Evaporating dish (Aluminium container).
6. Soil sample of 75 mm length.
7. Dial gauge (0.01 mm accuracy).
8. Balance of capacity 200 g and sensitivity to weigh 0.01 g.
9. Oven, thermostatically controlled with interior of non-corroding material to
maintain the temperature at the desired level. What is the range of the
temperature used for drying the soil !
Sample extractor and split sampler.
10. Dial gauge (sensitivity 0.01mm).
11. Vernier-calipers

Procedure:
Preparation of specimen for testing
A. Undisturbed specimen
Note down the sample number, bore hole number and the depth at which the
sample was taken.
Remove the protective cover (paraffin wax) from the sampling tube.
Place the sampling tube extractor and push the plunger till a small length of
sample moves out.
Trim the projected sample using a wire saw.
Again push the plunger of the extractor till a 75 mm long sample comes out.
Cutout this sample carefully and hold it on the split sampler so that it does not
fall.
Take about 10 to 15 g of soil from the tube for water content determination.
Note the container number and take the net weight of the sample and the
container.
Measure the diameter at the top, middle, and the bottom of the sample and find
the average and record the same.
Measure the length of the sample and record.
Find the weight of the sample and record.
B. Moulded sample
For the desired water content and the dry density, calculate the weight of the
dry soil Ws required for preparing a specimen of 3.8 cm diameter and 7.5 cm
long.

Add required quantity of water Ww to this soil.

Ww = WS � W/100 gm
Mix the soil thoroughly with water.
Place the wet soil in a tight thick polythene bag in a humidity chamber and
place the soil in a constant volume mould, having an internal height of 7.5 cm
and internal diameter of 3.8 cm.
After 24 hours take the soil from the humidity chamber and place the soil in a
constant volume mould, having an internal height of 7.5 cm and internal
diameter of 3.8 cm.
Place the lubricated moulded with plungers in position in the load frame.
Apply the compressive load till the specimen is compacted to a height of 7.5
cm.
Eject the specimen from the constant volume mould.
Record the correct height, weight and diameter of the specimen.
Test procedure
Take two frictionless bearing plates of 75 mm diameter.
Place the specimen on the base plate of the load frame (sandwiched between
the end plates).
Place a hardened steel ball on the bearing plate.
Adjust the center line of the specimen such that the proving ring and the steel
ball are in the same line.
Fix a dial gauge to measure the vertical compression of the specimen.
Adjust the gear position on the load frame to give suitable vertical
displacement.
Start applying the load and record the readings of the proving ring dial and
compression dial for every 5 mm compression.
Continue loading till failure is complete.
Draw the sketch of the failure pattern in the specimen.
Project : Tested by :
Location : Boring No. :
Depth :
Sample details
Type UD/R : soil description
Specific gravity (GS) 2.71 Bulk density
Water content Degree of saturation .%
Diameter (Do) of the sample cm Area of cross-section = cm2
Initial length (Lo) of the sample = 76 mm
Elapsed ti Compres Strain L � Area Proving ri Axial lo Compr
me (minutes sion 100/Lo (%) (e A ng readin ad (kg) essive
) dial ) Ao /(1- g (Divns.) 6 stress
 reading (kg/
e) (c
(L) (mm 5 cm2)
1 3 m)2
) 7
4
2

Interpretation and Reporting

Unconfined compression strength of the soil = qu =
Shear strength of the soil = qu/2 =
Sensitivity = (qu for undisturbed sample)/ (qu for remoulded sample).