10,000lbf High Capacity Geosynthetic Direct Shear Machine

10,000lbf High Capacity Geosynthetic Direct Shear Machine

High Capacity Direct Shear Machines

High Capacity Direct Shear Machines are designed to measure the total resistance of large soil or soil/geosynthetic samples to horizontal shear forces. These machines accommodate 12in (305mm) square specimens within a two-piece shear box assembly that divides horizontally. The bottom half is fixed in place while vertical confining forces are applied, and horizontal forces are directed against the upper half to shear the specimen.

Advanced Loading Mechanism

Loads are applied via pistons powered by a stepper motor and gear system. Smaller pistons provide precise control for lighter loads up to 4.4kN (1,000lbf), while larger pistons handle loads up to 45kN (10,000lbf) or 90kN (20,000lbf), depending on the model. The horizontal shear rate, adjustable from 0.0508–5.08mm (0.002–0.2in) per minute, is set using digital controls on the panel. Limit switches manage the home position and restrict horizontal displacement to 102mm (4in). Vertical loading is regulated with precision to set the required pressure using the provided calibration chart. All loads are displayed to two decimal places on a digital readout with an accuracy of ±0.25%.

Data Measurement and Export

Consolidation and shear displacement are monitored using Linear Variable Displacement Transducers (LVDTs), while shear load is measured via a load cell in the water chamber. Data is displayed on a four-channel readout and exported in ASCII format through an RS-232 serial port for use in spreadsheet programs like Excel®. Readout values can be accessed anytime during the operation.

Simplified Sample Handling

The included Compaction Table makes loading and unloading specimens into the water chamber easy. The shear ring assembly slides smoothly on table rollers for effortless specimen preparation, including compaction and geotextile placement, before being placed into the chamber.

Durable and Versatile Design

Built for harsh lab environments, the machine features powder-coated steel and hard-coat anodized aluminum components for corrosion resistance. Casters on both the machine and the Compaction Table provide easy mobility. These machines operate at 110V/60Hz and require a 120psi (827kPa) clean, dry air source. Customization options for specimen sizes and operation are available upon request.

Key Features:

• Capable of applying loads up to 45kN (10,000lbf)
• Accommodates large, 12in (305mm) square soil/geosynthetic samples
• Precision regulators for accurate loading and displacement
• Rugged, corrosion-resistant design for demanding lab environments
• Digital readout for real-time data monitoring
• Easy mobility and sample prep with the included Compaction Table

Included Items:

• High Capacity Geosynthetic Direct Shear Machine (45kN, 110V/60Hz)
• Compaction Table
• Water Chamber
• Linear Variable Displacement Transducers
• Top and Bottom Shear Rings
• Software and Data Cable
• Calibration Chart

Specifications:

• Load Capacity: 45kN (10,000lbf)
• Air Pressure Requirement: 120psi (827kPa)
• Shear Rate: 0.0508–5.08mm (0.002–0.2in) per minute
• Accuracy: ±0.25%
• Specimen Size: 12in (305mm) square
• Electrical: 110V / 60Hz / 5Amps
• Dimensions: 43 x 23 x 40in (1,090 x 584 x 1,020mm) WxDxH
• Net Weight: 840lb (381kg)

Standards Met:

• ASTM D5321/5321M

• ASTM D6243/6243M