Mechanical Soil Compactor, California Method 216

Mechanical Soil Compactor, California Method 216

The California Modified Automatic Soil Compactor comes with a 2in (51mm) round 10lb hammer only with the standard round face factory installed on the hammer body. Piston and rod are included as part of the machine. Additional components or accessories, such as molds or hammers, can be ordered separately. Dimensions are 24in x 18in x 36in and weight is 150lb.

The California Modified Automatic Soil Compactor can be used with 4in (102mm) ID molds, 5.5lb (2.5kg) weight with 12in (305mm) drop. The compaction mold is required for uniform soil density and reliable test results as it holds the soil during the compaction cycle process. The standard 2in (51mm) hammer can be replaced with one of the same 3.14in2 area but with pie-shaped face to cover entire sample surface with 6in molds. The hammer lift compensates for hammer drop for soil thickness in the mold during compaction cycle. The free-fall hammer has weight concentrated at the foot and can be adjusted from 5.5-10lb by adding a surcharge weight to calibrate the compactor for different soil thicknesses, ensuring accurate and consistent results. The round base supports the compaction molds and provides uniform sample compaction, which is crucial for accurate soil testing and adherence to ASTM and AASHTO standards. The compactor also meets BS 1377 and BS 1994 standards, so you can be sure of reliability and industry compliance.

Meets Test Methods: AASHTO T134 AASHTO T135 AASHTO T136 AASHTO T180 AASHTO T220 AASHTO T99 ASTM D 1557 ASTM D 1558 ASTM D 558 ASTM D 559 ASTM D 560 ASTM D 698 AASHTO T 192 for cement fineness. For accurate calibration in cement fineness testing, consider using the NIST 114R Portland Cement Fineness, SRM No. 114R (20/Pk).

Soil Compaction

Soil compaction is an essential process in construction, engineering and geotechnical testing. It involves densification of soil to achieve the desired density which is critical for stability and durability of structures built on soil. Soil compaction can be done manually or mechanically. Mechanical compaction is the most common method as it provides more efficient and accurate results. Mechanical compactors like automatic mechanical compactor are widely used in laboratories and construction sites as they can do standard and modified compaction tests. These tests are necessary to determine the optimal moisture content and maximum dry density of soils so that construction projects meet the required specifications for stability and load bearing capacity.

Historical Development and Background

The journey of mechanical soil compactors began in early 20th century driven by the construction industry’s need for standardized soil compaction tests. Initially these mechanical compactor were manual, operators had to lift and drop a hammer to compact soil samples. This method was prone to human error, inconsistent results and operator fatigue.

The landscape of soil compaction testing changed dramatically in 1950s and 1960s with the introduction of automatic soil compactors. These early models had a rotating base and a hammer lift mechanism which improved the accuracy and efficiency of the compaction process. Calibration kits for these models included a collar which was essential for accuracy and functionality of the compactor. The hammer lift function allowed for consistent hammer drops and the rotating base ensured uniform compaction across the soil sample.

1970s and 1980s saw the introduction of advanced automatic soil compactors. These machines had electronic controls, digital counters and adjustable hammer weights which enabled more precise modified compaction tests. Users could preset the number of hammer blows so that tests were repeatable and consistent.

1990s and 2000s saw further innovations with the introduction of computerized automatic soil compactors. These models had advanced software, data logging and enhanced safety features like auto shut-off and interlocks. These improvements increased the accuracy and efficiency of soil compaction testing and ensured safe operation and minimized operator fatigue. Modern compactors are known for their reliability with solid state controls that ensure consistent operation and ease of maintenance.

Today construction industry automatic soil compactors are a must in construction industry. They are used to perform various tests including standard and modified compaction tests. Modern mechanical compactor is designed to deliver accurate and reliable results with automatic lift and drop mechanism, adjustable hammer and drop height, rotating base for uniform compaction, digital and preset number of blows. Electronic controls and data logging are also standard now which further improves the precision and efficiency of testing.

The evolution of mechanical soil compactors has been driven by the need for standardized tests which are critical for quality and safety of construction projects. Today, these are used in various industries including civil engineering, geotechnical engineering, and construction, which shows their importance in modern construction practices. Understanding the swelling potential of compacted soils is essential for ensuring the structural integrity of construction projects.

Features and Specifications

Automatic Soil Compactor compacts samples accurately and efficiently.

Features:

• Automatic Rotation: Mold rotates after each hammer blow for uniform compaction of soil sample, positioning the unit as a complete system for precise testing.

• Independent Start/Stop: Compactor has separate start/stop from counter for precise control during testing.

• Preset Number of Blows: Users can preset the number of blows for standard or modified compaction tests for consistency and repeatability.

• Adjustable Rammer Height and Weight: Rammer height and weight can be adjusted to meet test requirements. A micrometer is required for accurate measurements during this process.

• Solid State Controls: Solid state controls for durability and ease of maintenance and use. A calibration kit is used to check the compactor.

• Automatic Digital Counter: Counter resets to zero automatically at the end of the preset cycle, performing approximately 26 blows per minute. Simplifies the testing process.

Parts and Accessories

A mechanical compactor includes essential components such as the hammer, mold, base plate, surcharge weight, and counter. The hammer delivers controlled weight and drop height for standard compliance. The mold holds the soil sample, while the base plate provides stability. A surcharge weight increases compaction force, and the counter tracks hammer blows to ensure consistent and accurate compaction.

Operation and Maintenance

Mechanical compactors should be operated by trained users following manufacturer instructions. Routine maintenance includes inspecting parts, cleaning the machine, and lubricating moving components. Proper operation and regular upkeep ensure accurate test results, safe use, and extended equipment life.