SHRINKAGE LIMIT SET AZA0849
The AZA0849 Shrinkage Limit Set from AZALAB is a precision-engineered laboratory instrument used for determining the shrinkage limit of cohesive soils, a critical parameter within the Atterberg limits framework. This test plays a vital role in understanding the volume change characteristics of fine-grained soils when subjected to drying.
The shrinkage limit represents the maximum moisture content at which further reduction in water content does not cause any appreciable decrease in soil volume. Beyond this point, air begins to enter the soil voids, and the soil mass maintains a constant volume. Accurate determination of this parameter is essential for predicting soil behavior in foundations, embankments, earth dams, and pavement structures.
Standards Compliance
The AZA0849 Shrinkage Limit Set conforms to major national and international testing standards, ensuring reliable and universally accepted test results:
- IS 2720 (Part VII)
- ASTM D427
- BS 1377
- AASHTO T 92
Description
Purpose and Significance
The apparatus is used not only to determine the shrinkage limit, but also to calculate other important soil properties, including:
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Shrinkage Ratio
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Shrinkage Index
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Volumetric Shrinkage
These parameters are crucial for evaluating shrink–swell potential, soil stability, and suitability for construction under varying moisture conditions.
Components of AZA0849 Shrinkage Limit Set
The set is supplied as a complete, ready-to-use kit, consisting of the following components:
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Porcelain evaporating dish
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Shrinkage dish
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Glass cup
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Perspex plate with three metal prongs
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Flexible spatula – 100 mm
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Glass cylinder
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Measuring cylinder – 25 ml × 1 ml (supplied without mercury)
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Plastic wash bottle – 500 ml
Optional Accessory:
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Mercury supplied in a sealed bottle of 500 gms (available at extra cost)
All components are manufactured from laboratory-grade materials to ensure durability, dimensional stability, and consistent performance over repeated use.
Applications and Importance
Shrinkage limit data obtained using AZA0849 is widely used in:
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Soil classification of fine-grained soils
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Design of foundations and retaining structures
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Earth dams, embankments, and pavement construction
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Prediction of soil volume change and cracking behavior
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Geotechnical investigations and research studies
The apparatus is suitable for civil engineering laboratories, geotechnical testing labs, academic institutions, and research organizations.
Why Choose AZA0849 from AZALAB?
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High-Quality Construction: Durable porcelain, glass, and stainless-steel components
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Precision & Accuracy: Designed to meet strict testing tolerances
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Standards Compliant: Fully conforms to IS, ASTM, BS, and AASHTO specifications
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Complete Kit: No additional accessories required for standard testing
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Trusted Brand: Backed by AZALAB’s technical expertise and post-sale support
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | AZA0849 |
| Test Type | Shrinkage Limit of Soil |
| Standard Compliance | IS 2720 (Part VII), ASTM D427, BS 1377, AASHTO T 92 |
| Material | Porcelain, glass, stainless steel |
| Application | Cohesive soil shrinkage characteristics |
| Kit Contents | Complete set with standard accessories |
| Use Case | Laboratory soil testing |
| Country of Origin | India |
| Brand | AZALAB |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the shrinkage limit test used for?
A: It determines the moisture content at which further drying of soil does not result in volume reduction.
Q2: Is mercury mandatory for the test?
A: Traditionally mercury is used, but safer substitutes such as wax or alternative methods may be permitted depending on laboratory standards.
Q3: Does AZA0849 include all required accessories?
A: Yes, the set is supplied complete for conducting standard shrinkage limit tests.
Q4: Can the kit be used outside the laboratory?
A: It is primarily designed for laboratory use but is portable enough for field laboratory setups.
Q5: Is technical guidance available?
A: Yes, AZALAB provides manuals and technical support upon request.
Additional information
| Material |
Porcelain, glass, stainless steel |
|---|---|
| Use Case |
Laboratory soil testing |
| Kit Contents |
Full set with all accessories |
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Linear shrinkage testing measures the reduction in length of a soil specimen upon drying, expressed as a percentage of its original length. The results provide valuable insight into soil expansiveness, volume stability, and suitability for foundations, pavements, and earthworks.
Manufactured from high-quality brass or stainless steel, the AZA0850 mould offers precise internal dimensions, excellent corrosion resistance, and a smooth polished finish for easy sample preparation and removal. Its robust construction ensures repeatable, reliable results even under high-frequency laboratory use.
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- Field assessment of soil compaction
- Estimation of optimum moisture condition
- Subgrade, fill, and trench inspection
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Principle of Operation
A soil paste prepared at a known moisture content is placed in the sample cup. The stainless steel cone, of specified mass and angle, is allowed to penetrate the soil freely for 5 seconds. The depth of penetration (up to 20 mm) is measured using a precision depth gauge. The moisture content corresponding to 20 mm penetration is defined as the liquid limit of the soil.Standards Compliance
- IS 2720 (Part 5) – Determination of liquid and plastic limits
- ASTM D4318 – Liquid Limit, Plastic Limit, and Plasticity Index of Soils
STANDARD COMPACTION TEST AZA0864
The AZA0864 Standard Compaction Test Apparatus from Azalab is precision-engineered to perform the British Standard Proctor (Light Compaction) Test, as specified in BS 1377-4 and BS 1924-2. This apparatus is used to determine the Maximum Dry Density (MDD) and Optimum Moisture Content (OMC) of soils subjected to light compactive effort.
The test simulates field compaction achieved by light rollers and rammers and is essential for quality control of subgrades, embankments, road bases, and foundation soils. The AZA0864 is widely used in geotechnical laboratories, site investigation works, and academic institutions following British Standards.
