Durham Geo Torvane Test: Shear Tester
Simple! Turn the dial until the soil gives. Then read the shear strength on the dial. Dial reads in kg/sq. cm (tons/sq. ft.) with 0.05 subdivisions. The pocket shear vane is a specialized device for measuring the undrained shear strength of cohesive soils in both field and laboratory settings. Set includes three interchangeable three 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. 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.
The Durham Geo Torvane Test is a widely recognized method for determining the undrained shear strength of cohesive soils. Utilizing a Torvane shear tester, this test is both quick and efficient, making it indispensable for geotechnical engineers and soil testing professionals on field site. The Torvane shear tester is a handheld device featuring a cylindrical body with a torsional spring and three interchangeable three vanes of varying sizes. These three vanes allow for precise measurement of shear strength across different soil samples, ensuring accurate and reliable results. By providing a straightforward approach to assessing soil stability, the Durham Geo Torvane Test has become a staple in the field of geotechnical engineering.
The Torvane shear tester works on a simple yet effective principle: measuring the undrained shear strength of cohesive soils. This device has a cylindrical body with a torsional spring and three interchangeable vanes. To use the tester, insert the appropriate vane into the soil sample. As you turn the torsional spring, it applies a force until the soil fails, and that’s the shear strength. You can read directly the shear strength value from the dial, ensuring accurate and reliable measurements of the undrained shear strength. That’s why the Torvane shear tester is a must-have for testing cohesive soils.
Conducting the Durham Geo Torvane Test involves a series of straightforward steps designed to ensure accurate measurement of soil shear strength:
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Select the Appropriate Vane: Choose the vane size that corresponds to the expected shear strength of the soil. The device includes three interchangeable vanes to accommodate various soil strengths.
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Insert the Vane: Carefully insert the selected vane into the soil sample, ensuring it is properly seated.
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Turn the Dial: Rotate the dial until the soil fails, indicating the point of shear strength.
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Read the Measurement: Read directly the shear strength value from the dial, which is calibrated to display measurements in kg/sq. cm (tons/sq. ft.).
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Repeat for Accuracy: Perform the test at multiple locations to obtain a representative value of the soil’s shear strength.
This methodical approach ensures that the shear strength readings are both accurate and reliable, making the Torvane shear tester an essential tool for field and laboratory use.
Built to be tough and user friendly, the high capacity Torvane shear tester is made of high quality materials. The device has a metal driver and three interchangeable vanes to test different soil strengths, and a plastic case for protection and portability. With its three vanes, the Torvane shear tester is the perfect tool for geotechnical engineers and technicians who need a rugged and portable tool for their field work.
The high capacity Torvane shear tester is a multi-purpose instrument used in geotechnical engineering. It’s great for measuring the undrained shear 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.
The high capacity Torvane shear tester has many advantages and benefits in test pits. Easy to use for quick and simple measurement of undrained shear strength in cohesive soils. Durable to withstand harsh environment, three interchangeable vanes to test different soil strengths. Portable with its compact design and carrying case to take anywhere for field work.
The Durham Geo Torvane Test offers several notable advantages:
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Quick and Easy: The test is simple to perform, making it ideal for rapid field assessments.
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Portable: Lightweight and compact, the Torvane shear tester can be easily transported to remote testing sites.
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Accurate Results: Provides reliable measurements of undrained shear strength, making it a trusted method in geotechnical engineering.
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Versatile: Suitable for a variety of soil types, particularly cohesive soils.
However, there are some limitations to consider:
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Soil Type Specific: The test is primarily designed for cohesive soils and may not be suitable for other soil types.
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Vane Selection: Accurate results depend on the careful selection of the appropriate vane size.
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Comprehensive Analysis: While the test provides valuable strength data, additional testing may be required to fully characterize the soil’s properties.
Despite these limitations, the Durham Geo Torvane Test remains a valuable tool for geotechnical engineers and soil testing professionals, offering a quick and reliable method for determining the undrained strength of cohesive soils.
The Torvane 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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Vane sizes: 1˝ dia. (standard), 1-7/8˝ dia. (sensitive), 3/4˝ dia. (high-capacity)
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Plastic case size: 2˝H x 6˝W x 4˝D
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Carrying case size: 2˝H x 6˝W x 4˝D
Calibration is required before use. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for calibration and calibrate regularly to maintain accuracy. That’s why the Torvane shear tester is a reliable tool for measuring strength of cohesive soils.
Set includes Carrying Case