Soil Density Tester

Soil Density Tester – Compact Volumeter for Accurate Field Testing

The Soil Density Volumeter is a compact, pocket-sized device designed to measure the in-situ density of undisturbed cohesive soils. It is ideal for fast, accurate field testing and is commonly used in geotechnical investigations, construction projects, and soil research. This instrument is part of Certified MTP’s range of Soil Density Testing Equipment, providing reliable tools for soil professionals in the field. 

Overview

The Soil Density Volumeter uses a calibrated stainless steel cylinder to determine soil volume directly at the test site. With the piston stem fully retracted, the 30 cm³ capacity cylinder with a cutting edge is pushed into cohesive soil to collect an undisturbed core sample. After squaring off the base of the core, soil volume is read directly on the piston stem to 0.05 cm³ using a graduated scale and fine-reading vernier scale on the top face of the cylinder. The extracted core can then be weighed to calculate soil density quickly and accurately in the field. 

Features

• Measures in-situ density of undisturbed cohesive soils
• Stem graduated from 0 to 30 cm³
• Fine-reading vernier scale for precise volume measurement
• Stainless steel construction for durability and corrosion resistance
• Cutting-edge cylinder for easy soil penetration
• Compact, pocket-sized design for field use
• Quick results with minimal setup 

Specifications

• Volume Capacity: 30 cm³
• Measurement Resolution: 0.05 cm³
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Length: 3.75 in. (95 mm)
• Maximum Diameter: 2 in. (51 mm)

Applications

• Geotechnical site investigations
• Construction quality control
• Soil compaction verification
• Environmental and agricultural soil studies

This instrument is commonly used alongside other soil testing equipment to evaluate soil properties such as density, moisture content, and compaction levels. For example, you can pair it with tools like the Soil Pocket Penetrometer for quick estimations of soil strength in the field. 

Another useful companion for comprehensive field soil analysis is the Soil Classification Test Set — a complete kit that includes instruments for density, shear strength, and particle size evaluation. 

Operating the Soil Density Volumeter

1. Fully retract the piston stem.
2. Push the calibrated cylinder into cohesive soil using steady pressure.
3. Square off the bottom of the soil core.
4. Read the soil volume directly from the piston stem and vernier scale.
5. Screw in the piston to extract the soil core for weighing.
6. Calculate soil density using the measured volume and sample weight.

The extracted core may also be used for further laboratory or field analysis. 

Additional Information

The Soil Density Volumeter provides fast and reliable field results, making it a valuable tool for engineers, geologists, and soil scientists who need immediate density measurements without bulky equipment. Its stainless steel construction ensures long service life, even in harsh field conditions. 

For other soil testing needs — such as determining soil moisture or bulk density — Certified MTP also offers products like the Bulk Density Soil Sampling Kit with Compact Slide Hammer for deeper sampling tasks.