STANDARD COMPACTION TEST AZA0863
The AZA0863 Standard Compaction Test Apparatus from Azalab is designed to perform the Standard Proctor Compaction Test, a fundamental geotechnical laboratory procedure used to determine the Maximum Dry Density (MDD) and Optimum Moisture Content (OMC) of soils. These parameters are essential for ensuring proper soil compaction in the construction of roads, embankments, foundations, and other earth structures.
This apparatus simulates light compaction effort typically applied in the field and provides reliable, repeatable results for laboratory quality control and design verification.
Purpose & Principle
The Standard Compaction Test establishes the relationship between soil moisture content and dry density under a standard compactive effort. Soil samples are compacted in layers within a cylindrical mould using a specified hammer weight and drop height. By testing at varying moisture contents and plotting a compaction curve, the MDD and OMC are obtained.
Description
Main Components
- Compaction Mould with Collar & Base Plate
Heavy-duty steel mould designed to hold a defined soil volume for compaction. - Standard Compaction Rammer (Hammer)
Precisely machined rammer with controlled weight and drop height to ensure uniform compactive effort. - Accessories (Optional)
Sample extruder, mixing tray, trimming tools.
Standards Compliance
- ASTM D698 – Standard Proctor Compaction Test
- IS 2720 (Part VII) – Light Compaction Method
- BS 1377 – Part 4 – Compaction-related tests
Applications
- Road and highway construction quality control
- Earth embankments and dams
- Building foundations and subgrades
- Geotechnical investigation laboratories
- Academic and research institutions
Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | AZA0863 |
| Test Type | Standard Compaction (Standard Proctor) |
| Compaction Mould – ASTM | 101.6 mm dia × 116.4 mm height, ~944 cm³ |
| Compaction Mould – IS | 100 mm dia × 127.3 mm height, 1000 cm³ |
| Rammer – ASTM | 2.49 kg, 304.8 mm drop, 50.8 mm face dia |
| Rammer – IS | 2.6 kg, 310 mm drop, 50 mm face dia |
| Compaction Layers | 3 layers |
| Blows per Layer | 25 (4-inch mould) |
| Construction | Heavy-duty steel, corrosion-resistant finish |
| Compliance | ASTM D698, IS 2720 (Part VII), BS 1377-4 |
What’s Included
- Compaction mould with detachable collar and base plate
- Standard compaction rammer (as per selected standard)
- Trimming collar
- User instruction manual
Key Advantages
- Accurate determination of MDD and OMC
- Robust construction for long laboratory life
- Fully compliant with international standards
- Simple, reliable, and widely accepted test method
- Essential apparatus for earthwork quality assurance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What does the AZA0863 determine?
It determines the Maximum Dry Density (MDD) and Optimum Moisture Content (OMC) of soils.
Q2: Which standards are supported?
ASTM D698, IS 2720 (Part VII), and BS 1377-4.
Q3: Is this suitable for all soils?
It is suitable for most fine-grained and granular soils used in earthworks.
Q4: Is this a manual or automatic system?
AZA0863 is a manual compaction apparatus. Automatic compactors are available separately.
Q5: Can both ASTM and IS moulds be supplied?
Yes, moulds and rammers can be supplied as per ASTM, IS, or both upon request.
Additional information
| Model Number |
AZA 0863 |
|---|---|
| Test Method |
Standard Compaction Test (Standard Proctor Compaction Test) |
| Application |
Geotechnical testing laboratories |
| Purpose |
To determine the Maximum Dry Density |
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Linear shrinkage testing measures the reduction in length of a soil specimen upon drying, expressed as a percentage of its original length. The results provide valuable insight into soil expansiveness, volume stability, and suitability for foundations, pavements, and earthworks.
Manufactured from high-quality brass or stainless steel, the AZA0850 mould offers precise internal dimensions, excellent corrosion resistance, and a smooth polished finish for easy sample preparation and removal. Its robust construction ensures repeatable, reliable results even under high-frequency laboratory use.
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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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- Soil classification (Atterberg limits)
- Assessing workability and consistency
- Evaluating shrink–swell characteristics
- Supporting foundation, pavement, and earthwork design
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- Pre-construction soil stability checks
- Trench safety and shallow foundation planning
- Geotechnical education and field research
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Principle of Operation
A soil paste prepared at known moisture content is placed in the sample cup. The standardized cone, attached to a calibrated weight, is released using the semi-automatic clutch mechanism, allowing free fall penetration into the soil. After the specified time (typically 5 seconds), the penetration depth is measured using a high-precision dial gauge. The moisture content corresponding to a penetration of 20 mm is considered the liquid limit of the soil, as defined in IS and BS standards.
