Durham Geo Test: Vane Test: Shear Tester
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Durham Vane Test: Shear Tester
So, you turn the dial until the soil gives. Then read the shear strength off the dial. Dial reads in kg/sq. cm (tons/sq. ft.) with 0.05 subdivisions. The pocket shear vane is a specialized tool for measuring the undrained shear strength of cohesive soils in field and lab. Includes three interchangeable vanes for testing different planes of soil samples: Standard Vane, 1˝ dia. for 0 to 1.0 kg/sq. cm range; Sensitive Vane, 1-7/8˝ dia. for 0 to 0.2 kg/sq. cm range; High-Capacity Vane, 3/4˝ dia. for 0 to 2.5 kg/sq. cm range. Using large sensitive vanes can multiply readings by a specific factor. Includes plastic case.
Stress Range: 0 to 2.5 kg/sq. cm (tons/sq. ft.)
Sample Size: 2˝ dia. Vane Driver Size: 1.6˝ dia. x 3-1/2˝L with vane attached
Plastic Case Size: 2˝H x 6˝W x 4˝D.
What is Shear Testing?
Shear testing is important to determine the strength and stability of cohesive soils. One of the most popular tool for this purpose is the Torvane shear tester which measures the undrained shear strength of soil. The device comes with three interchangeable vanes for flexibility and accuracy in testing different types of soil. Standard vane is used for most tests, pocket shear vane is used for testing in test pits, trenches and excavations. For thorough sample preparation, consider using a Blade Mixer in Dispersion for Soil which is designed to mix thoroughly. Another comprehensive tool is the AMS 59020 Field Vane Shear Tester Kit that also features a range of pocket shear vane sizes and precise measurement capabilities.
The Torvane shear tester is designed to give accurate and reliable readings of shear strength which is a key parameter in geotechnical engineering. The device is housed in plastic case or carrying case so it’s easy to transport and store. High capacity of the device can test a wide range of soil types from soft to hard. The pocket shear vane is the critical part of the device and the three vanes provided with the Torvane shear tester can test different soil strengths.
In lab or field, the Torvane shear tester is a useful tool to determine the shear strength of soil. It’s easy to use with a simple dial that can be read directly to get the reading. The set comes with various tools and items such as driver and instruction manual to ensure accurate and reliable testing. The device is sensitive enough to detect small changes in soil strength making it a must have for geotechnical engineers and researchers.
How the Shear Tester Works
The shear tester works on a simple principle: measuring the undrained strength of cohesive soils. It has a cylindrical body with a torsional spring and three interchangeable vanes. To use the tester, insert the right vane into the soil sample. As you turn the torsional spring it applies a force until the soil fails and that’s the strength. You can read directly the strength value, get accurate and reliable measurements of the undrained strength. You can find the right Torvane shear test set for your specific soil testing needs by understanding the different models and their characteristics. That’s why the Torvane shear tester is a must have for testing cohesive soils.
Test Procedure
Conducting the Durham Geo Torvane Test involves a series of simple steps to ensure accurate measurement of strength: Adding a feature to allow users to add products to a saved cart can enhance the user experience by enabling them to track and manage their selected items, often requiring them to sign in or create an account.
This methodical approach ensures the strength readings are accurate and reliable, making the Torvane tester a must have for field testing results and lab use.
Geotechnical Applications
The Torvane tester is a multi-purpose instrument for geotechnical engineering. It’s great for measuring the undrained strength of cohesive soils in test pits, trenches, excavations and in laboratory for soil samples. Reliable and accurate, it’s a must-have tool for geotechnical engineers and technicians to get the data they need for their projects. For non-destructive testing of concrete strength, consider the Concrete Test Hammer, ASTM C805.
Advantages and Limitations
The Durham Geo Torvane has:
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Quick: Simple to do, ideal for rapid field assessments.
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Portable: Lightweight and compact, can be taken to remote testing sites.
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Accurate: Provides reliable measurements of undrained strength, a trusted method in geotechnical engineering.
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Versatile: Suitable for various types, soils.
But:
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Type Specific: Designed for soils only, may not be suitable for other types.
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Selection: Accurate results depends on correct size selection.
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Comprehensive Analysis: While the test gives valuable strength data, additional testing may be required to fully characterize the soil’s properties.
Despite the limitations, the Durham Geo Torvane is a valuable tool for geotechnical engineers and testing professionals, a quick and reliable method to determine the undrained strength of soils.
Technical Specs and Calibration
The shear tester has:
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Range: 0-2.5 kg/sq. cm (tons/sq. ft.)
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Accuracy: ± 0.05 kg/sq. cm (tons/sq. ft.)
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Resolution: 0.05 kg/sq. cm (tons/sq. ft.)
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Sizes: 1˝ dia. (standard), 1-7/8˝ dia. (sensitive), 3/4˝ dia. (high-capacity)
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Case size: 2˝H x 6˝W x 4˝D
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For related tools, check out the Digital Field Scale, 220lb for accurate unit weight measurements.
Calibration is required before use. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for calibration and calibrate regularly. That’s why the shear tester is a must have.
