Field Vane Shear Tester Kit

Field Vane Shear Tester Kit

The Field Van Shear Tester Complete is a great tool for taking direct readings of shear strength in various types of soil. Whether you’re working with soft or stiff clays, this is perfect for clay soils and can measure un-drained shear strength up to 10 feet (3 meters) deep. It’s especially good in sensitive clays.

With three different vane sizes (0.63” x 1.25” 16 x 32 mm, 0.79” x 1.58” 20 x 40 mm, 1” x 2” 25.4 x 50.8 mm) this complete set allows for measurements in a variety of soil conditions. The calibrated scale ring on the head assembly allows you to read the peak vane value as shown on the scale.

The cross handle serves multiple purposes, to push the vane to the desired test depth and to apply the shearing torque. This is an ergonomic design for easy use and accurate results. The depth can be extended with additional rods and the kit comes with 6 extension rods so you can adjust the number of rods as needed.

To get accurate readings the Field Van Shear Tester Complete comes with a dummy probe that replaces the vane to account for soil friction of the extension rods. By doing a skin friction test adjacent to the vane test location you can correct for any interference and get precise measurements.

Field tests are done with the tester and shear strength is measured and determined during the test. Soil properties especially in clay can affect the readings. Upon completion of a test, readings are taken and the values are used to determine soil properties.

This set includes everything you need to get started. It includes torque head assembly, 6 extension rods (rod), 3 vane sizes (diameter), skin friction probe, double-ended wrench and leather carrying pouch. All components are made of durable materials such as stainless steel and anodized aluminum so it can withstand harsh field conditions. The number of rods and vanes included is adjustable.

Note: Proper procedure is required for accurate results.

Field Vane Shear Tester – Overview

The Field Vane Shear Tester Complete is an essential tool for geotechnical engineers and soil scientists to measure undrained shear strength directly in the field. It is especially effective for soft and cohesive soils, where laboratory testing may disturb soil structure and reduce accuracy.

This tester allows quick, on-site shear strength measurement, helping engineers assess the stability of foundations, trenches, and earthworks, and make reliable design decisions.

Field Vane Shear Test – Purpose

The field vane shear test is widely used to evaluate soil strength in clays and weak soils. By measuring shear strength in situ, engineers can ensure structures are built on stable ground, reducing failure risk and improving project safety.

Principle of Vane Shear Testing

The test works by measuring the torque required to rotate a four-bladed vane embedded in the soil. As the vane rotates, soil resistance increases until failure occurs. The maximum torque recorded is directly related to the soil’s undrained shear strength, providing fast and reliable results for field analysis.

Components of the Tester Kit

A typical field vane shear tester kit includes:

• Handheld torque measuring device

• Multiple vanes for different soil strengths

• Extension rods for testing at various depths

• Cross handle for control and comfort

With a measuring range of up to 260 kPa, the kit is suitable for both soft and stiff soils.

Assembling and Using the Tester

To use the tester, select the appropriate vane, attach extension rods as needed, and insert it into the soil or borehole. Rotate at a constant rate and record the maximum torque value, which is used to calculate shear strength. This simple process allows testing at multiple depths with minimal soil disturbance.