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DIGITAL DIRECT / RESIDUAL/ SHEAR APPARATUS AZA0900
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UNCONFINED COMPRESSION TESTER (MOTORISED) AZA0902

DIRECT SHEAR (MOTORISED TWELVE SPEED) AZA0901

The AZA0901 Motorised Twelve-Speed Direct Shear Apparatus from Azalab is a high-performance geotechnical testing instrument designed for accurate determination of soil shear strength parameters, namely cohesion (c) and angle of internal friction (φ). Engineered for precision, repeatability, and versatility, this apparatus is widely used in foundation engineering, slope stability analysis, retaining structure design, and academic research.

The AZA0901 is distinguished by its motorised twelve-speed drive system, offering exceptional control over shear displacement rates. This feature enables compliance with multiple international standards and allows laboratories to evaluate soil behavior under varying strain rates—an essential requirement for both routine testing and advanced research applications.

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Description

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

Feature Specification
Model AZA0901
Test Type Direct Shear Test
Operation Motorised, Constant Rate of Strain
Speed Control Twelve selectable speeds
Typical Speed Range ~0.001 to 2.0 mm/min
Normal Load Application Dead Weights with Lever Arm
Maximum Normal Stress Typically up to 8 kg/cm² or higher
Shear Box Sizes 60 × 60 mm, 100 × 100 mm, or circular
Shear Load Measurement Proving Ring or Electronic Load Cell
Horizontal Displacement Dial Gauge or LVDT
Vertical Displacement Dial Gauge or LVDT
Power Supply 230 V AC, 50 Hz
Construction Steel Frame, Brass / Stainless Steel Components
Mounting Stable Benchtop Design

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.

Additional information

Additional information

Model Number

AZA 0901
Test Type

Direct Shear Test (for soil shear strength)
Operation

Motorised, constant rate of strain
Shear Box Size

Standard sizes (e.g., 60×60 mm, 100×100 mm, or circular samples)
Power Supply

Standard electrical supply (e.g., 230V AC, 50Hz)
Material Construction

Heavy-duty steel frame, precision-machined brass or stainless steel shear box and components.

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