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General Items
UNCONFINED COMPRESSION TESTER (MOTORISED) AZA0902
The AZA0902 Motorised Unconfined Compression Tester from Azalab is a fundamental geotechnical testing instrument designed for accurate determination of the unconfined compressive strength (qᵤ) of cohesive soils. This parameter is critical for evaluating the undrained shear strength of clays and silts and is widely used in foundation design, slope stability assessment, and preliminary geotechnical investigations.
Unlike manual systems, the motorised operation of the AZA0902 ensures a constant and controlled rate of strain, which is essential for achieving repeatable and standards-compliant test results. The apparatus is designed in accordance with internationally recognized standards such as ASTM D2166 and IS 2720 (Part 10).
Description
Test Principle
In the unconfined compression test, a cylindrical soil specimen is subjected to an increasing axial compressive load without lateral confinement until failure occurs. The maximum axial stress at failure is recorded as the unconfined compressive strength (qᵤ). For saturated cohesive soils, the undrained shear strength (cᵤ) is derived as:
cᵤ = qᵤ / 2
The AZA0902 applies load through a gear-driven, motorised screw jack, ensuring smooth, uniform deformation throughout the test and minimizing operator-dependent variability.
Applications
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Determination of unconfined compressive strength (qᵤ)
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Evaluation of undrained shear strength of cohesive soils
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Foundation and bearing capacity assessment
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Slope stability and embankment analysis
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Educational demonstrations and routine laboratory testing
Construction & Features
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Motorised loading system with constant strain rate
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Gear-driven screw jack for smooth axial loading
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Heavy-duty rigid frame for stability and durability
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Compatible with proving ring or electronic load cell
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Provision for axial deformation measurement via dial gauge or LVDT
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Designed for standard cylindrical soil specimens (L/D ≈ 2:1)
Standards & Compliance
Manufactured to comply with:
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ASTM D2166 – Unconfined Compressive Strength of Cohesive Soil
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IS 2720 (Part 10) – Determination of Unconfined Compressive Strength
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | AZA0902 |
| Test Type | Unconfined Compression Test |
| Operation | Motorised, Constant Rate of Strain |
| Loading Mechanism | Gear-driven Screw Jack |
| Load Capacity | 50 kg / 100 kg / 200 kg (as per proving ring or load cell) |
| Rate of Strain | Typically 1.25 mm/min (or as per standards) |
| Sample Size | 38 mm or 50 mm diameter (standard) |
| Load Measurement | Proving Ring or Electronic Load Cell |
| Deformation Measurement | Dial Gauge (0.01 mm) or LVDT |
| Power Supply | 230 V AC, 50 Hz |
| Construction | Steel Frame with Precision-Machined Components |
| Mounting | Benchtop Design |
Key Benefits
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Motorised operation ensures uniform strain rate
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Accurate and repeatable strength measurements
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Simple setup and intuitive operation
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Suitable for routine, academic, and commercial testing
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Durable construction for long-term laboratory use
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the primary use of AZA0902?
It is used to determine the unconfined compressive strength (qᵤ) of cohesive soils such as clays and silts.
Q2: Why is a motorised system important?
Motorisation ensures a constant rate of strain, which is critical for accurate, repeatable, and standard-compliant results.
Q3: What soils are suitable for this test?
Cohesive soils that can stand unsupported, typically clays and silts.
Q4: How is undrained shear strength obtained?
For saturated cohesive soils, undrained shear strength is calculated as cᵤ = qᵤ / 2.
Q5: Is AZA0902 suitable for educational use?
Yes, it is ideal for teaching soil mechanics concepts and standard laboratory procedures.
AZA0902 – Motorised Unconfined Compression Tester
A reliable Azalab solution for precise, repeatable, and standards-compliant evaluation of cohesive soil strength in modern geotechnical laboratories.
Additional information
| Model Number |
AZA 0902 |
|---|---|
| Test Type |
Unconfined Compressive Strength of Cohesive Soils |
| Operation |
Motorised, constant rate of strain |
| Loading Mechanism |
Gear-driven screw jack |
| Material Construction |
Robust frame (steel), precision-machined components |
| Safety Features |
Overload protection, emergency stop (depending on specific model) |
| Dimensions |
Varies, designed for laboratory benchtop use. |
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