DIRECT SHEAR (MOTORISED TWELVE SPEED) AZA0901

Description

Purpose and Applications

The AZA0901 is used to evaluate shear strength characteristics of soils for:

• Foundation bearing capacity analysis

• Slope stability and embankment design

• Retaining wall pressure calculations

• Pavement and subgrade investigations

• Research on rate-dependent soil behavior

Motorised Twelve-Speed Control

Unlike conventional single-speed or manually operated direct shear machines, the AZA0901 offers twelve selectable shear rates, ensuring:

• Constant and uniform rate of strain

• Reduced operator dependency and human error

• High repeatability of test results

• Flexibility for different soil types and test standards

This makes the AZA0901 particularly suitable for laboratories handling diverse soil conditions and compliance-driven testing programs.

Test Principle

The direct shear test involves placing a soil specimen in a split shear box, applying a controlled normal load, and shearing one half of the box horizontally at a constant rate. The shear force and corresponding displacement at failure are measured to determine shear strength parameters based on the Mohr–Coulomb failure criterion.

The AZA0901 ensures smooth, low-friction shear movement through precision bearings and a rigid frame, minimizing parasitic losses and ensuring accurate force transmission.

Construction & Features

• Heavy-duty steel frame with high rigidity

• Motorised constant-rate shear drive

• Twelve discrete speed settings

• Precision-machined shear box assembly

• Roller bearing system for frictionless movement

• Compatibility with mechanical or electronic measurement systems

Standards & Compliance

Designed to comply with major international standards, including:

• ASTM D3080 – Direct Shear Test of Soils

• IS 2720 (Part 13) – Direct Shear Test

• Relevant ISSMGE recommendations

Technical Specifications

Key Benefits

• Twelve-speed motorised control for versatile testing

• Constant strain rate for accurate and repeatable results

• Suitable for a wide range of soil types

• Robust, low-maintenance construction

• Compliant with international testing standards

• Ideal for both commercial and academic laboratories

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the main purpose of the AZA0901?
To determine soil shear strength parameters (c and φ) under controlled normal loads.

Q2: Why is the twelve-speed feature important?
It allows testing at different strain rates, improving accuracy and enabling compliance with multiple standards and research needs.

Q3: What soils can be tested?
Sands, silts, and clays, in remoulded or undisturbed condition, provided they can be prepared in the shear box.

Q4: Does it comply with ASTM and IS standards?
Yes, it is designed to meet ASTM D3080 and IS 2720 (Part 13).

Q5: Is it suitable for research work?
Yes, the multiple speed options make it especially suitable for advanced geotechnical research.

AZA0901 – Motorised Twelve-Speed Direct Shear Apparatus

A reliable Azalab solution delivering precise, repeatable, and standards-compliant soil shear strength data for modern geotechnical laboratories.