PYCNOMETERS AZA0883
The AZA0883 Pycnometer Apparatus from Azalab is a precision laboratory instrument designed for determining the specific gravity (particle density) of soils and aggregates smaller than 10 mm, including clay, sand, and fine gravel. Manufactured in compliance with BS 812, this apparatus delivers accurate, repeatable, and standards-compliant results essential for civil engineering, geotechnical investigations, and construction material testing.
The pycnometer method is widely recognized for its simplicity, reliability, and suitability across a broad range of fine-grained materials used in concrete mix design, pavement construction, and soil characterization.
Description
Purpose & Principle of Test
The AZA0883 operates on the pycnometer method, where the mass of a known volume of soil particles is determined using water displacement. A precision-fitted brass cone and airtight rubber seal ensure that no air is trapped or lost during weighing, maintaining volume integrity and ensuring accurate calculation of specific gravity as per BS 812 procedures.
Standard Set – What’s Included
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Glass Pycnometer Jar
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Capacity: 1 kg
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Heat-resistant, laboratory-grade glass
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Brass Cone
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Precision-machined
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Corrosion-resistant finish
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Locking Ring
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Brass construction
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Ensures firm, leak-proof assembly
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Rubber Seal
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Chemical-resistant
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Provides airtight closure during testing
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Optional Accessory
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Spare rubber seal (available separately)
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Applications
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Aggregate testing for concrete and road construction
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Soil particle density determination (sand, clay, fine gravel)
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Civil engineering mix design and compaction analysis
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Quality control in material testing laboratories
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Academic laboratories and training institutes
Test Procedure Overview
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Place dry soil sample into the glass pycnometer jar
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Add water and remove entrapped air
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Fit the rubber seal, brass cone, and locking ring
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Weigh the complete assembly
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Calculate specific gravity using BS 812 formula
The airtight sealing system ensures repeatable and reliable measurements across varying laboratory conditions.
Technical Specifications
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | AZA0883 |
| Standard Compliance | BS 812 – Aggregate Testing |
| Jar Capacity | 1 kg |
| Jar Material | Heat-resistant glass |
| Cone Material | Precision-machined brass |
| Locking Mechanism | Brass ring with threaded fit |
| Seal | Rubber, chemical-resistant |
| Applicable Particle Size | < 10 mm |
Key Features
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Fully compliant with BS 812 standard
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Accurate determination of specific gravity
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Suitable for clay, sand, and fine gravel
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Airtight sealing for high measurement accuracy
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Durable, reusable laboratory-grade components
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Simple operation with excellent repeatability
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Trusted Azalab manufacturing quality
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the primary use of the AZA0883 Pycnometer?
It is used to determine the specific gravity of soil and aggregate particles smaller than 10 mm.
Q2: Is it suitable for large aggregate samples?
No. It is designed specifically for fine materials below 10 mm particle size.
Q3: Are spare rubber seals available?
Yes. Replacement rubber seals can be ordered separately.
Q4: Does it comply with international standards?
Yes. The AZA0883 is manufactured in accordance with BS 812, which is globally recognized.
Q5: Is the apparatus reusable?
Yes. All components are made from durable, lab-grade materials suitable for repeated use.
AZA0883 – Precision Pycnometer Apparatus
A dependable, BS-compliant solution for accurate specific gravity determination in soil and aggregate testing laboratories.
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Standards Compliance
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- ASTM D427
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Principle of Operation
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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.
