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PLUMMET BALANCE AZA0862
The AZA0862 Plummet Balance is a specialized laboratory apparatus designed for determining the specific gravity of fine-grained soils, particularly clays and silts that are difficult to test using conventional pycnometer methods. It is widely used in geotechnical engineering, soil mechanics laboratories, and construction quality control applications.
Manufactured by Azalab, the instrument complies with ASTM D854 and IS 2720 (Part 3 / Sec 1) standards and provides rapid, repeatable, and reliable results for dispersed soil samples commonly used in sedimentation, pipette, and hydrometer analyses.
Working Principle
The plummet balance method determines the specific gravity of soil solids by measuring the apparent weight of a suspended plummet immersed in a soil–water suspension. The balance pointer directly indicates the percentage of soil in suspension via a calibrated scale, eliminating lengthy calculations.
A rack-and-pinion height adjustment allows the plummet to be positioned at the required depth. The percentage of soil in suspension is read directly from the graduated scale, making this method faster and more user-friendly than traditional sedimentation calculations.
The set is supplied with a temperature correction chart relating the constant K to suspension temperature for soils with specific gravity ranging from 2.4 to 2.8, facilitating accurate application of Stokes’ law.
Description
What’s Included
- Plummet balance assembly with graduated pointer scale
- Perspex / metal plummet (bob)
- 500 ml glass measuring jar
- Zero-adjustment rider weight
- Rider weight for 100% scale calibration
- Temperature correction chart (K vs temperature)
- Instruction manual with test procedure
Applications
- Specific gravity determination of fine-grained soils
- Soil mechanics and geotechnical investigations
- Support testing for hydrometer and pipette analysis
- Construction material quality control
- Educational and research laboratories
- Environmental and agricultural soil testing
Specifications
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Balance Type | Beam balance with pointer and graduated scale |
| Scale Graduation | 0–100% (2% divisions) |
| Plummet Weight | 100 g ±0.1 g |
| Beaker Capacity | 500 ml, borosilicate glass |
| Height Adjustment | Rack and pinion mechanism |
| Standard Compliance | ASTM D854, IS 2720 (Part 3 / Sec 1) |
| Accuracy | ±0.5% of true value |
| Construction Material | Stainless steel / corrosion-resistant alloy |
| Dimensions (Approx.) | 300 × 200 × 450 mm |
| Net Weight | 3–5 kg |
Key Features
- Rapid determination of specific gravity for fine soils
- Direct percentage reading without complex calculations
- Ideal for dispersed clay and silt samples
- Stable base with leveling adjustment
- Durable construction for laboratory and field use
- Complements hydrometer and pipette analysis methods
Standards Compliance
- ASTM D854 – Specific Gravity of Soil Solids
- IS 2720 (Part 3 / Section 1) – Determination of Specific Gravity
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the primary use of the plummet balance?
To determine the specific gravity of fine-grained soil particles suspended in water.
Q2: How does it compare to the pycnometer method?
It provides equally reliable results for fine soils and is preferred when samples are difficult to dry or disperse.
Q3: Is calibration required before use?
The unit is factory calibrated. Optional calibration certificates can be supplied on request.
Q4: Can it be used in field laboratories?
Yes. Its compact and lightweight design allows both laboratory and site use.
Q5: Is it suitable for coarse soils?
No. It is specifically intended for fine-grained soils such as clays and silts.
Additional information
| Plummet Weight |
100 grams (±0.1 g) |
|---|---|
| Standard Compliance |
ASTM D854, IS 2720 (Part 3/Sec 1) |
| Accuracy |
±0.5% of true value |
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