CORE CUTTER AZA0882
The AZA0882 Core Cutter Apparatus from Azalab is a robust, field-ready solution for determining the in-situ dry density of fine-grained, cohesive soils that are substantially free from aggregates. Designed in accordance with IS 2720 (Part XXIX):1966 and BS 1377-9, this apparatus is widely adopted in geotechnical investigations, construction compaction control, and civil engineering quality assurance programs.
The core cutter method is valued for its simplicity, repeatability, and direct field applicability, making AZA0882 an essential tool for routine density checks on embankments, subgrades, and backfills where soil conditions are suitable.
Description
Purpose & Test Principle
The AZA0882 operates on the core cutter method, where a cylindrical steel cutter is driven vertically into compacted soil to extract an undisturbed soil core of known volume. The recovered sample is trimmed flush, weighed, and tested for moisture content. Using these measurements, bulk density and dry density are calculated accurately.
This method is particularly effective for cohesive and fine-grained soils and is not recommended for gravelly or highly sandy materials.
Standard Set – What’s Included
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Cylindrical Core Cutter
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Internal Diameter: 100 mm
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Length: 127.3 mm (as per IS standard)
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Steel Dolly
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Height: 25 mm
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With collar lip for accurate cutter alignment and load transfer
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Rammer with Detachable Steel Rod
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Heavy-duty construction for smooth driving
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Minimizes vibration and impact losses during penetration
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All components are manufactured with precise dimensions to ensure consistent volume and reliable test results.
Optional Spares & Accessories
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Spare Core Cutter
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100 mm I.D. × 175 mm long (for larger samples)
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Additional Dolly
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Compatible with standard AZA0882 cutter
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Field Test Form Pad
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Pack of 50 sheets for recording field density and moisture data
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Applications
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Road and railway embankment compaction control
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Backfill and subgrade density verification
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Geotechnical site investigations
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Civil engineering QA/QC field testing
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Academic laboratories and field training programs
Test Procedure Overview
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Place the dolly over the core cutter
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Drive the cutter vertically into soil using the rammer
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Carefully extract the cutter containing the soil sample
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Trim excess soil flush with cutter edges
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Weigh cutter with soil
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Determine moisture content by oven drying
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Calculate bulk density and dry density
This straightforward process delivers consistent and repeatable results when used on appropriate soil types.
Technical Specifications
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | AZA0882 |
| Standard Compliance | IS 2720 (Part XXIX):1966, BS 1377-9 |
| Core Cutter Size | 100 mm I.D. × 127.3 mm long |
| Dolly Size | 25 mm high with collar lip |
| Rammer | With detachable steel rod |
| Material | Mild steel, powder-coated or galvanized |
| Optional Spare Cutter | 100 mm I.D. × 175 mm long |
| Packaging | Protective field carry case |
Key Features
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Accurate determination of in-situ dry density
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Fully compliant with IS and BS standards
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Precision-machined components
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Rugged mild-steel construction for field durability
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Simple operation and rapid testing
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Ideal for cohesive, fine-grained soils
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Optional accessories for extended field use
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Trusted Azalab build quality
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Which soil types are suitable for AZA0882?
Cohesive and fine-grained soils free from aggregates.
Q2: What is the difference between 127.3 mm and 175 mm cutters?
127.3 mm is the standard IS-specified length; 175 mm is an optional size for larger sample volumes.
Q3: Can it be used for sandy or gravelly soils?
No. For coarse-grained soils, the sand replacement or sand cone method is recommended.
Q4: Is the rammer detachable?
Yes, the rammer includes a detachable steel rod for ease of transport and field handling.
Q5: Are field test forms supplied as standard?
No. Test form pads are available as optional accessories.
AZA0882 – Core Cutter Apparatus
A dependable, standards-compliant solution for precise in-situ density determination of cohesive soils in geotechnical and construction field testing.
Related products
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- Specify target field compaction densities
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Principle of Liquid Limit Test (Casagrande Method)
The liquid limit is defined as the water content at which soil transitions from a plastic state to a liquid state. In practice, it is determined as the moisture content at which a standard groove cut in the soil sample closes over a length of 12.5 mm under 25 blows of the liquid limit apparatus.
The AZA0853 consists of a polished brass cup mounted on an adjustable bracket. The cup is repeatedly raised and dropped from a fixed height of 1 cm onto a hard rubber base by means of a manually operated cam mechanism. A built-in mechanical counter accurately records the number of blows, ensuring compliance with testing standards and reducing operator error.
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Standards Compliance
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- ASTM D427
- BS 1377
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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.
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Whether for routine site investigations or quality control of compacted layers, the AZA0870 delivers fast, dependable, and field-ready performance.
