The tri-axial shear test is most versatile of all the
shear test testing methods for getting shear strength
of soil i.e. Cohesion (C) and Angle of Internal
Friction (Ø), though it is bit complicated. This test
can measure the total as well as effective stress
parameters both.
 Chamber Pressure Application Device
 Specimen Cap and Base
 Dial gauge
 Proving ring
 O-Ring
 Porous stones
 Axial Loading Device
 Balance, sensitive to 0.1 gm
 Tri-Axial Compression Chamber
 Rubber Impervious Membrane
 To determine the shearing strength of the
soil using the Tri-axial shear apparatus.
a at the top by rubber O-ring the membrane is used to
 To determine Cohesion (C) and internal
angle of friction (Φ) of the soil.
 Pore water pressure measurements can
be made accurately
1. Before starting the test, the air pressure
should be checked to confirm complete
removal of air voids in the specimen.
2. Before subjecting the specimen to shear, the
membrane should be properly attached to
the O-ring.
3. The rate of strain should be constant
throughout the test.
1. A saturated porous stone is placed on the pedestal and the
cylindrical soil specimen is placed on it
2. The specimen is encased in a rubber membrane and sealed
to the pedestal at the bottom as well as to the loading cap
prevent the water from penetrating in to the soil sample
3. The tri-axial cell is filled with water and pressure is
applied to the water, which in turn is transmitted to the soil
specimen all-round and at top. This pressure is called
“Cell Pressure”(Pc)
4. With the cell pressure held is constant, additional axial
stress (Pd) is applied through the ram gradually until the
sample is fails. This additional axial stress is called
“Deviator Stress” (Pd)
1. Internal angle of friction for the taken soil will be
determined
2. The Excess Pore Water Pressure will be determined
3. Proper Mohr’s Circle will be constructed which will
help in finding Cohesion(Cu)