POCKET PENTROMETER AZA0869
The AZA0869 Compact Pocket Penetrometer from Azalab is a field-ready instrument designed for rapid estimation of unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and shear strength of cohesive soils. Fully compliant with ASTM D1558 and ASTM D2573, it enables engineers, geologists, and site inspectors to quickly assess soil consistency and short-term stability without the need for laboratory equipment.
Widely used in foundation evaluation, trench wall inspection, and field soil classification, the AZA0869 delivers immediate, reliable results for clays and silts during preliminary geotechnical assessments.
Applications
- Estimation of UCS and shear strength of soft to stiff cohesive soils
- Field classification of soil consistency
- Pre-construction soil stability checks
- Trench safety and shallow foundation planning
- Geotechnical education and field research
Description
Operating Principle
- Press the loading piston vertically into a freshly exposed soil surface.
- The engraved barrel scale displays the applied pressure directly in kg/cm².
- A sliding maximum load indicator ring retains the peak reading achieved.
- The measured value is used to estimate UCS or corresponding shear strength.
This simple, mechanical method provides instant results and is widely accepted for preliminary and comparative field evaluations.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | AZA0869 |
| Standard Compliance | ASTM D1558, ASTM D2573 |
| Measurement Range | 0 to 4.5 kg/cm² (typical) |
| Barrel Diameter | 20 mm |
| Barrel Length | 150 mm |
| Scale Type | Engraved, direct reading |
| Spring | Heat-treated, corrosion-resistant plated spring |
| Plunger Tip | Polished, ground steel |
| Max Load Indicator | Sliding ring on plunger |
| Weight | < 0.5 kg |
| Carrying Case | Protective case included |
What’s Included
- Compact pocket penetrometer with calibrated spring
- Maximum load indicator ring
- Protective carrying case
- Instruction leaflet
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What soil types is the AZA0869 suitable for?
It is designed for cohesive soils such as clays and silts. It is not suitable for gravelly or dry, non-cohesive sandy soils.
Q2: What does the scale measure?
The scale directly measures penetration resistance in kg/cm², correlating to unconfined compressive strength.
Q3: Does the penetrometer require calibration?
The instrument is factory-calibrated. Periodic verification using known loads is recommended for critical applications.
Q4: Is it suitable for outdoor and site conditions?
Yes. The plated spring and robust construction provide good resistance to corrosion and rough field handling.
Q5: Is it portable?
Yes. The AZA0869 is lightweight, compact, and supplied with a protective carrying case for easy transport.
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Principle of Operation
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Concrete
Soil
Steel
Bitumen/Asphalt
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