AZA 1005 SLAKE DURABILITY APPARATUS

Description

The AZA 1005 Slake Durability Apparatus from Azalab is a precision-engineered testing device used to determine the slake durability index of rocks that are prone to mechanical breakdown or disintegration when subjected to cycles of wetting and drying. This type of test is essential in geotechnical engineering, particularly for assessing weak sedimentary rocks like shales, mudstones, claystones, and marls that can significantly deteriorate under environmental weathering.

Designed for laboratory use but rugged enough for field-based setups, the AZA 1005 provides engineers, researchers, and academic institutions with a reliable method of predicting long-term rock stability, especially for construction projects involving slopes, dams, tunnels, and road cuts.

🌍 Why Slake Durability Testing Matters

Rocks exposed to atmospheric agents like rain, moisture, and temperature variations can degrade rapidly if they are composed of weak minerals or have internal structural flaws. The slake durability test replicates these environmental changes in a controlled lab environment. It helps predict whether a rock will:

• Retain structural integrity

• Break into fragments

• Disintegrate into fine particles over time

The test is particularly useful when evaluating cut slopes, embankments, tunnels, and hydroelectric projects where rock weatherability plays a key role in long-term safety and maintenance.

Evaluates slake durability index of weak rocks

Twin drum configuration for high accuracy

Built per ISRM & ASTM D4644 standards

Ideal for geotechnical labs and universities

Stainless steel drums and drive motor included

⚙️ Key Features of AZA 1005

• Rotating Drum Assembly: Consists of two stainless steel mesh drums that rotate in a water bath, simulating wet/dry cycles.

• Variable Speed Motor: Maintains consistent drum rotation speed (typically 20 RPM), ensuring uniform testing.

• Corrosion-Resistant Frame: All contact parts are made of stainless steel, ensuring long-lasting durability in wet environments.

• Digital Timer: Allows for precise control over rotation duration (usually 10 minutes per cycle).

• High Capacity: Suitable for testing two rock samples simultaneously, saving time and enhancing repeatability.

🔬 How It Works

1. Preparation: Rock samples are oven-dried and weighed (W1).

2. Mounting: Placed in mesh drums and immersed partially in distilled water.

3. Rotation: Drums are rotated for 10 minutes in water, then samples are oven-dried again.

4. Repeat Cycle: The process is repeated for a second 10-minute cycle.

5. Final Weighing: Remaining rock fragments are weighed (W2).

6. Slake Durability Index Calculation:

   SDI=(W2W1)×100SDI = \left( \frac{W2}{W1} \right) \times 100SDI=(W1W2​)×100

A high slake durability index indicates better rock resistance to environmental degradation.

🧾 Specifications

📚 External Resources & Standards

• ASTM D4644 Standard

• ISRM Suggested Method for Slake Durability:

• Overview of Rock Weathering Tests

These references highlight the global acceptance of slake durability tests in geotechnical analysis.

Slake Durability Apparatus, AZA 1005, rock testing equipment, durability test, disintegration test, geotechnical apparatus, Azalab, soil testing

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What types of rocks can be tested with this apparatus?
It is best suited for weak rocks like shale, marl, claystone, and mudstone.

Q2: How many samples can I test at once?
The AZA 1005 allows simultaneous testing of two samples using twin drums.

Q3: Does it comply with ASTM standards?
Yes, the apparatus conforms to ASTM D4644 and ISRM recommendations.

Q4: Is the equipment supplied with a water tank?
Yes, a corrosion-resistant stainless steel tank is included for water immersion.

Q5: Is the test fully automatic?
While rotation and timing are automatic, weighing must be done manually.