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SAND EQUIVALENT TEST SET AZA0859
The AZA0859 Sand Equivalent Test Set from AZA Lab is a standardized laboratory and field testing apparatus used to determine the relative proportion of sand versus clay-like or plastic fines in fine aggregates and granular soils. This test is critical in construction quality control where aggregate cleanliness directly affects the performance of asphalt pavements, concrete mixes, and base course layers.
The test set conforms to ASTM D2419, IS 2720 (Part 37), and AASHTO T176, ensuring accurate, repeatable, and specification-compliant results. The Sand Equivalent Value (SEV) provides a simple numerical indication of aggregate quality by comparing the height of settled sand to the height of clay suspension after sedimentation.
Working Principle
A prepared fine aggregate sample is placed in a graduated cylinder and mixed with a standard calcium chloride-based solution. After agitation and a controlled settling period, heavier sand particles settle at the bottom while lighter clay and silt particles remain in suspension.
The Sand Equivalent Value (SEV) is calculated as:
SEV = (Height of Sand / Height of Clay Suspension) × 100
Higher SEV values indicate cleaner aggregates with lower clay contamination, which are preferred for structural and pavement applications.
Description
Applications
- Construction material quality control
- Highway, road, and pavement testing laboratories
- Soil mechanics and geotechnical laboratories
- Ready-mix concrete and asphalt plants
- On-site field testing for aggregate acceptance
Standards Compliance
- ASTM D2419 – Sand Equivalent Test for Soils and Fine Aggregates
- IS 2720 (Part 37) – Determination of Sand Equivalent Value
- AASHTO T176 – Plastic Fines in Graded Aggregates and Soils
System Components (Standard Supply)
- Acrylic Graduated Cylinders – 4 Nos.
- Rubber Stoppers for Cylinders – 4 Nos.
- Graduated Steel Rule – 450 mm
- Plastic Funnel – 100 mm diameter
- Aspirator Bottle – 5 litres, plastic, with rubber cock
- Stand for Aspirator Bottle with siphon assembly
- Irrigation Tube with stop pinch cock and weighted foot assembly
Technical Specifications
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | AZA0859 |
| Graduated Cylinder | 1.06 L capacity, 0–380 mm graduation, plastic |
| Siphon Assembly | Flexible tubing with control valve |
| Irrigator Tube | Calibrated tube with flow regulator |
| Weighted Foot | Standard aluminium / brass |
| Test Solution | Calcium chloride-based solution (not included) |
| Operation | Manual, portable |
| Compliance | ASTM D2419, IS 2720 (Part 37), AASHTO T176 |
What’s Included
- Complete Sand Equivalent Test Set (AZA0859)
- Graduated cylinders with stoppers
- Irrigator tube and weighted foot assembly
- Aspirator bottle with stand and siphon assembly
- Steel rule and funnel
Optional Accessories
- Prepared stock solution (calcium chloride-based) – available at extra cost
- Carrying case for field portability
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the purpose of the Sand Equivalent Test?
It measures the cleanliness of fine aggregates by determining the proportion of sand relative to clay and silt-sized particles.
Q2: Which standards does AZA0859 comply with?
The test set conforms to ASTM D2419, IS 2720 (Part 37), and AASHTO T176.
Q3: Can this test be conducted on-site?
Yes. The AZA0859 is portable and suitable for both laboratory and field testing.
Q4: Is the test solution supplied with the set?
No. The calcium chloride-based solution is not included. Prepared stock solution can be supplied optionally at extra cost.
Q5: What is an acceptable Sand Equivalent Value (SEV)?
Typically, values above 75 indicate clean aggregates; however, acceptance criteria depend on project specifications.
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