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SAND POURING CYLINDER AZA0880
SAND POURING CYLINDER AZA0880
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CORE CUTTER AZA0882

SAND DENSITY CONE APPARATUS AZA0881

The AZA0881 Sand Density Cone Apparatus from Azalab is a precision field-testing solution for determining the in-situ density (dry unit weight) of soils using the Sand Density Cone Method. It is widely used by civil engineers, geotechnical consultants, and construction quality teams to verify soil compaction directly at site conditions, providing a realistic and reliable assessment compared to laboratory-based methods on disturbed samples.

This apparatus is essential for earthworks, road construction, pavement layers, embankments, and foundation backfills, where achieving and confirming specified compaction levels is critical to long-term structural performance and safety.

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Description

Description

Purpose & Principle

The AZA0881 operates on the sand cone method principle. A small test pit is excavated at the prepared site, and the removed soil is collected and weighed. The pit volume is then precisely determined by filling it with calibrated standard sand released through a controlled double-cone assembly. By correlating the mass of sand used with its known density, the pit volume is calculated. This, combined with the soil mass and moisture content, allows accurate determination of bulk density and dry density of the soil in place.

Apparatus Description

A complete AZA0881 set typically includes:

  • Double-Cone Assembly

    • Upper cone for holding calibrated sand

    • Lower inverted cone positioned over the test hole

    • Precision valve for controlled sand flow

  • Calibrated Container

    • Used to determine the bulk density of the reference sand

    • Available capacities: 3 L or 6 L (to be specified at order stage)

  • Base Plate

    • Provides a stable, level reference surface over the test pit

  • Excavation & Preparation Tools

    • Trowel, spoon, and surface preparation accessories

All components are designed for easy assembly, disassembly, and transport, making the apparatus highly suitable for routine field use.

Standards & Compliance

  • ASTM D1556 – Standard Test Method for Density and Unit Weight of Soil in Place by the Sand-Cone Method

  • Compatible with international geotechnical field testing practices

Applications

  • In-situ density determination of compacted soils

  • Compaction control for earthworks and embankments

  • Road subgrade and pavement layer verification

  • Foundation and backfill quality assurance

  • Routine geotechnical field investigations

Technical Specifications

Model Number: AZA0881
Test Type: Field Density Test
Method: Sand Density Cone Method

Double Cone Assembly:

  • Upper cone (sand reservoir)

  • Lower inverted cone (test hole interface)

  • Flow control valve

Calibrated Container Capacity:

  • 3 liters or 6 liters (optional)

Material:

  • Durable metal construction suitable for rugged field conditions

Base Plate:

  • Rigid, flat plate for stable test setup

Portability:

  • Optimized weight and compact design for site mobility

Compliance:

  • ASTM D1556

Key Features

  • Accurate determination of in-situ soil density

  • Reliable for fine-grained and granular soils

  • Controlled sand flow for precise volume measurement

  • Complete field-ready testing kit

  • Robust construction for long service life

  • Fully compliant with recognized international standards

  • Backed by Azalab quality and reliability

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the primary use of the AZA0881?
It is used to determine the in-situ dry density of compacted soils directly in the field for construction quality control.

Q2: How does the sand density cone method work?
A test pit is excavated, and its volume is measured by filling it with calibrated sand using the cone apparatus. Soil density is calculated from measured weights and volumes.

Q3: What is included in a standard AZA0881 set?
The double-cone assembly, calibrated container (3 L or 6 L), base plate, and excavation tools.

Q4: Is it suitable for all soil types?
It is suitable for most fine-grained and granular soils. Very coarse, rocky soils may require alternative methods.

Q5: Which standard does the AZA0881 comply with?
The apparatus conforms to ASTM D1556 for sand cone field density testing.

AZA0881 – Sand Density Cone Apparatus
A dependable, field-proven solution for accurate in-situ soil density measurement in geotechnical and construction quality control applications.

Additional information

Additional information

Model Number

AZA 0881
Test Type

Field Density Test ( In-Situ Density Measurement)
Method

Sand Density Cone Method
Leveling Equipment

For preparing a smooth test surface.
Material

Durable metal construction for field use.
Weight

Designed for portability.

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