BS 1377 : Part 4: 1990 UDC 624.131.3 : 631.4: [620.1 624.138] © eritah Standards Inettution. No part ths publication may be phonocopiad or atherwise reproduced without the pricy parmiaion in weting of BSI ee ee British Standard Methods of test for Soils for civil engineering purposes Part 4. Compaction-related tests Méthodes d’essai des sols pour le génie civil Partie 4. Essais de compactage Bodenuntersuchung fur Tiefbauzwecke Teil 4. Prifung der Verdichtung F de documentation E Tour Europe o£ cenex 07 EFL sca Pai tADEENSE British Standards InstitutionBS 1377 : Part 4: 1990 Foreword “This Part of BS 1377has been prepared unde: the direction of the Road Engineering Standards Policy Commitee. itis arevisionot clause 4 of BS 1377 : 1975 which is superseded by ‘amendment, BS 1377 was first published in 1948 and first appearedin metricform in 1975.88 1377: 1975isnowbeing revised in nine separate Parts, the complete revision ‘eventually comprising the following Part. Part 1. General requirements and sample preparation Part2. Classification tests Part 3. Chemical and electro-chemical tests, Part 4. Compaction-related tests Part. Compressipility, permeability and durability tests Part6. Consolidation and permeability tests in hydraulic, cells and with pore pressure measurement Part 7. Shear strength tests (total stress) Part&. Shear strongth tests (effective stress) Part, In-situ tests Reference should be made to Part 1 of BS 1377 for further information about each of the Farts. ‘The following methods of test, additional to those described inthe 1975 standard, have been introduced. ‘Datermination of the maximum and minimum densities of granular soils. Determination of the moisture condition value. Determination of the chalk crushing value. Inthe dey density/moisture relationship tests, and the California Bearing Ratio (CBR) test, sample preparation procedures havebeen setoutin more detail than before, with explanatory flow diagrams. {thas been assumed in the drafting of this British Standerd that the execution ofits provisions is entrusted to appropriately qualified and experienced personnel, for whose guidanes it has been prepared. Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself confer, Immunity from legal obligations.Contents Page Foreword Inside front cover Commirees responsible Backcover Methods + scope 2 2 Definitions 2 3. Determination of dry densitvimoisture contant relationship 2 34 General 2 2.2 Preparation of samples for compaction tests 2 3.3 Method using 2. kg rarmer for soils with particles up to medium-gravel 5 34 Methodusing2.5kgrammertorsolle wth some costae gravelsze panicles 7 2.5. Method using 45 kg rammer for soils with pariclos.up to mediurn-gravel size 7 3.8 Methodusing 45 kgrammer for sols with some coarse gravel-sze particles 8 3.7 Methodusing vibrating hammer 8 4 Determination of maximum and minimum dry ‘ansities for granular ecl's, " 44 General " 42 Determination of maximum density of sands 11 43, Maximum density of gravelly soila 13 44 Minimum density of sands 14 45: Minimum density of gravely soils 6 48 Derivation of density index 6 5 Determination ofthe meisture condition value (wow) 18 81. General 15 52 Apparens 16 5.3 Checking the molsture condition apparatus 7 5 Determination ofthe MCV ofa sample of sol at ite natural mofsture content ” 55 Determination of the MCVimoisture content relation of 8 8 56 Rapid ascossment of whether or not aso is stronger than a precalbrated stander 8 6 Determination of the chalk crushing value 19 81. General 19 82. Apparetus 1 {63 Checking the moisture condition apparatus 19 84 Determination ofthe chalk crushing value (CCV) 19 7 Determination ofthe California Bearing Ratio (car) 20 74 General 20 7.2 Preparation of testsarnole 2 73 Soaking 2 74 Penetration test procedure 26 7 Calculation and plotting, 2 76 Tost report 26 BS 1377 : Part 4 : 1990 Tables 1 2 3 ‘Summary of compaction procedures ‘Summary of sample preparation methods ‘Standard foree-penetration relationships for 100 % CBR 19 14 15 6 ” Grading limits relating to sample preparation procedures for compaction tests Flow chart representing samplo preparation methods for compaction tests, Mould for compaction test (1 L mould) 2.5 kg rammer for compaction test 45 kg rammer for compaction test Dry donsity/moisture content ralationship curve Tampers for vibrating hammer compaction test Moisture condition apparatus Relationship between changein penetration and number of blows Alternative type of relationship between change in penetration and number of blows Flow chart representing semple preparation ‘methods for the CBR test Cylindrical mould for the determination of the California Bearing Ratio Plug and collar extension for use with eylindrical ‘mould for the determination of the California Bearing Ratio Apparatus for measuring the swelling of a sample during soaking for the CBR test General arrangement of apparatus for the CBR test ‘Typical CBR test result curves Force-penetration curves for @ CBR value of 100 % and other CBR values 25 8 a 28 30 31 32 38 3a 35 36 36 37 38 40BS 1377 : Part 4 : 1990 Methods 1 Scope ‘This Part of BS 1377 describes methods of test for ‘determining characteristics related to the compaction of ‘oils, which can be used as 2 basis for specitving requirements for soils compacted in the field, ‘This Part also includes @ method for assessing an empirical strength criterion (the CBR value) of 2 compacted or Undisturbed soil used as a sub-grade material for pavement construction. Reference is made to some of the classification tests described in 8S 1377 Part 2. Reference is made to BS 1377 : Part 1 for general requirements that are relevant to all Parts of this standard, ‘and for methods of preliminary preparation of soilfor testing. NOTE. Tho tee ofthe publications raferredto inthis standard a Tate on the inside back cover. 2 Definitions Forthe purposes of this Partof BS 1377, the definitions given in BS 1377 : Part 1 apply. 3 Determination of dry density/moisture content relationship 3.1 General 2.1.1 Principle. Compaction of soll isthe process by which the solid particles are packed more closely together, usually by mechanical mans, thereby increasing the dry density of the soil. The dry density which can be achieved depands on ‘the degree of compaction applied and onthe amount of water presentin the soil. (The terms used in compaction tests are illustrated in igure 6.] For a given degree of compaction of a given cohesive soll there is an optimum moisture content at which the dry density obtained reaches a maximum value. For cohasionless soils an optimum moisture content might boo difficult to define. NOTE. Far some highty perme Uniformly graded andcoaree clean sands, the resuitsofthelaboratory {ompaction test may provide only a poor guide fo specfistions on Feld compaction. Tha laboratory vst mignt indicata meaningless Values of moisture content in these toa {maximum dry danity eaten tower ‘whien can be “eadty obtained int "maximum dry density tests described in clause 4 would be more appropriate, ‘The objective of the tests decribed in this clause is to obtain relationships between compacted dry density and soil moisture content, using twe magnitudes of manual ‘compactive effort, or compaction by vibration. 3.1.2. Types of test. Three types of compaction test aro ‘described, each with procedural variations related to the nature of the soil. The firstisthe ight menual compaction test in which a 2.5 kg rammer is used. The second is the heavy ‘manual compaction test which is similar but gives a much ‘areater degree of compaction by using 3 4.5 kg rammer with ‘a greater drop on thinner layers of soil losails such as cleen gravels, For both these tests a compaction mould of 1 L intern ‘volume is used for soil in which al particles pass a 20. mm teat sieve, If there isa limited amount of particles up to 37.5 mm size, equivalent tests are carried out inthe larger California Bearing Ratio (CBA) mould. NOTE 1. Specifications for eompaction by rammer inthe CBA mould Stebesedon the seme compactive fort per unit volume ofsoilasin the 1 Leompaction mould, The variable effects of sce wall friction Imightresultn ferences botwoen the densities echiovedinthetwo ‘moulds, Fora series of texts on a particular soll, one sizeof mouls shouldbe used consistent. NOTE 2.If more than 30 % of matorais retained on a 20 mm test Sieve the material ie tao cosraa tobe tested. “The third type of test mekes use ofa vibrating hammer, and is intended mainly for granular soils passing a 27.5 mm test sieve, with no more than 30 % retained on a 20. mm test siave.The soll is compacted into a CBR mould. For each type of test, alternative procedures depend on whether or not the soil contains particles susceptible to ‘rushing during compaction. Methods of sample preparation covering most possible requirements are described in 3.2. ‘Test procedures are described separately in 3.3 10 37. ‘The compaction procedures are summarized in table 1 { ‘Summary of compaction procedures Tootprocedure | Massot | Soliparcies | Typeat cue fammer | suscepubla” | mould | fetorence Toorshing | used 6 3344 25 ) }no ta) | tk 3544 45 ) 3a4z zs H dyes (o) p 1k 3842 45 ) aat ze 7 }no | car 3641 45 ) 3aaz 28 Y yes tb) | CBR 3642 45 ) a75t ‘wibrating | no Te hammer | cen 3752 yes (b) TL= 1 L compaction mould, a8 describedin 33:21. CBR - CBR mould, as described in 7.22.2. (2) and (b) refer to methods in table 2. 3.2 Preparation of samples for compaction tests 32.1. General. Tha method of preparstion of samples for these tests, and the quantity of soil required, depend on the size fthe largest particles presentandon whether or notthe soll particles are susceptibie to crushing during compaction. ‘The assessment of these factors is covered in 3.22. Forsolls containing particles not susceptible to crushing, one ‘sample only is required for test and itcan be used several times after progressively increasing the ammount of water.Relovent sample preparation mathods are described in 3.2.4 and3.25, Forsoils containing particios that are susceptible to crushing, is necessary to prepare separstebatches ot sol ataitforent ‘moisture contents, each for compacting once only, otherwise the characteristics of the material will progressively change: after each application of compaction. Consequently, a much larger samplo is required, Relevant sample preparation methods are described in 3.2.6 and 3.2.7. For stiff, cohesive soils which need to be shredded or ‘chopped into small lumps, the result of a compaction test dopends on the sizeof theresulting places. Furthermore, the densities obtained in the test will not necessarily be directiy, ‘lated to densities obtained in situ. The method used for breaking down cohesive soil, andthe siza of pioces obtained, should be recorded. Suggested methods are to shredthe sil ‘80 that it could pass through aS mm test sieve, orto chop it into pieces, e.g. to pass 20 mm test sieve, ‘The requirements of Part 1 of thie standard, where ‘sppropriate, shall apply to this test method. 3.22 Preliminary assessment. The initial soil sample for testing shall be obtained in accordance with the procedure described in 7.6.1 to 7.6.3 of BS 1377 : Part 1 : 1990. The procedures to be used for sample preparation and for carrying out the compaction test shall be solected on the basis ofthe following assessment, (a) Ascertain whether the soil particles are susceptibia to rushing during compaction. ifin doubt essume that they are susceptible, NOTE. The soi should be considered eusceptible to crushing {during compaction ifthe samp cantaine granular material of & sof nature, e.g, soft limestone, grammer. The procedure 3342,2642,3542, and 3642 or tole leo crushing during compaction should be applied to al'soils itis practicable todo eo BS 1377 : Part 4: 1990 (b) Determine the approximate parcemtages (to an accuracy of = 5 %) by mass of particles in the soil sample passing the 20 mm and37.5 mm test sieves. ifthe material used for this assessment is to be used for the compaction testit shallnotbe dried, and the dry mass of sol finer than 20 mm may be determined by measuring the moisture ‘content using a representative portion, if enough soil is available to meetthe requirements of clause 9 of BS 1377 Part 2: 1980 a saparate sample may be used for this, sieving operation. {c] On the basis of those percentages the soil can be ‘assigned to one of the grading zones {1} to (5) in table 2, ‘which are also shown diegrammaticaly in figure 1. fa ‘grading curve passes through more than one zone the hhighest-numbered zone applies, A soil with @ grading curve passing through zone X is not suitable for these tests (a) The method of sample preparation, the minimum, ‘mass ofsoilrequired, and thetype of mould to use forthe ‘compaction test are indicated in table 2, which tekes ‘account of the above factors. (6) The selection of methods is also shown in the form of 2 flow chart in figure 2. 323 Apparatus 3.23.1 Test sieves, with aporture sizes 63 mm, 37.5 mm, 20mm, with receiver. 3232 A balance readable to & g, 3233 A balancereadable to 1 9, 32.3.6 Acorrosion-resistant metal or plasties tray with sides, 2.9. about 80 mm deop, of@ size suitable for the quantity of ‘material to be used. Table 2. Summary of sample preparation methods Grading] Minimum T preperation | Minimummase | Typeat zone "| percentage | procedure, ofprepared mould passing test ‘ouse soltrequired | Used Stoves. Fotarence 20mm] 37.5 mm (e) ta |) Gy] 700% | 100% | S241 1 ka] ko yey fae fy | 95 | 100 | a242| a2621) i) [70 | 100 [aas! a274]) , | 4 | 7% | 95 |a2sz}a272/) 15/40 | cor ) 6) 70 | 9% |s2s3/3273/) | 00 [Tess | Teas than | than (Tests not applicable) 70 | 90 (a) Soit particles not susceptible to crushing during compaction, (©) Soil particles susceptible to crushing during compaction, ‘1 L= onesitre compaction mould. CBR = CBR mould. Po ee ee Eee ee eee EeeBS 1377 : Part 4: 1990 3.2.36 Alarge metal scoop. 32.3.6 A palette knife or spatula. 3.23.7 Watertight containers, e.g. strong polythene begs. 3.23.8 Apparatus for determination of moisture content as described in 3.2 of BS 1377 : Part2 : 1990. 3238 Animplement for shredding stiff, cohesive soil 3.24 Preparation of soils not susceptible to crushing for ‘compaction in| L mould. 3.2.41 Grading zone (1) for sols passing the 20 mm test sieve. 3.2.4.1.1 Prepare and subdivide the initial sample by the procedures described in 7.6 of BS 1377 : Part 1; 1990t0 produce a representative sampie of about 6 kg of the sal. 3.2.4.12 Add a suitable amount of water depending on the soil type and mix thoroughly. [NOTE t. The smount of water tobe mixed with soi atthe Sommencoment ofthe tat wil vary with the type of sei under tos. egonaraL with sandy andgravellysollsamoisurecontontof 4 % to 6 aL would be stabi, wile with eobesive soils = moisture content SeEute Soto 10 below thaplastetimitetthe sol would usually be NOTE. tis important thatthe water is mixed thoroughly and {Edoqustely win the so eince inadequate mixing gives rise ‘0 seeeblatestresuls, Tisiepericularyimportent with conesive sols Minor adding a substantial quantity of water. With clays of high Dasticty,rwhere hand mixing is used, torage ofthe mixed samoie iaseoled container for aminimum peviodof 2h before continuing \Witntho testio the mosteatistacory way of distributing the water ‘norm 3.2.4.1. Ifthe sol initially contains too much water allow it to partially irdrytotne lowest moisture content at which the soll is to be compacted, and mix thoroughly. 32.4.1.4 Ifthe soil i cohesive, seal in an airtight cont and store for atleast 24h. 32.4.2. Grading zone (2) for soils passing the 37.5mm test ‘sieve with at laast 95 % passing the 20 mm test sieve 324.21 Weigh to 0.1 % by mass the whole sample and record the mat 2.24.22 Remove and weigh to 0.1 % by mass the material retained on the 20 mm test sieve. NOTE. The removal of small smounts of stone (up to 8 %) retained na 20 min tort save key t0atfocttnedensity bezinabie only by mounts comparsble with the experimental error invalvedin ‘roaeuring tne maximum dry density 2.2.4.2. Subdivide the finer material and proceed 2 described in 32.4.1. ‘Alternatively, the whole sample can be used as described in 3.2.5.1 for compaction in a CBR mould. 3.2.5 Preparation of soils not susceptible to crushing for compaction in CBR mould 3.28.1 Grading zone (3} for soils passing the 37.5 mm test ‘sieve with 70 % 1095 % passing the 20 mm test sieve Prepare and subdivide the initial sample using the procedure described in 7.6 of BS 1977 : Part 1 ; 199010 produce 2 representative sample of about 16 kg of the soil, otherwise proceed ag described in 3.2.4.1, 3.2.5.2 Grading zone (4) for soils containing at least 95 % passing the37.5 mm test siave and at feast 70% passing the 20mm test sieve 3.2.5.2.1 Weigh the whole sample and record the mass. 3.28.22 Remove and weigh the material retained on the 237.5 mmtest sieve, NOTE. The exclusion thalarge proportion of particles coarse than Sean trom this type of sol could havea larg effcton the density 2 erredin the compaction mould compared with thet obtainable Shin tha slag ¢ whole, and the optimum moisture content would CBA mould fe herefore specified for his 3.2.5.2.3 Subdivide the finer material to produce a 25 ks ‘sample, otherwise proceed as described in3.2.4.1. 32.53 Grading zone (6) for soils with 90 % to95 % passing the37.5 mm test sieve, and at least 70 % passing the 20 mm test siove 3.2.5..1 Weigh the soil sample. 3.28.32 Remove and weigh the material retained on the 237.5 mm test sieve. 3.25.32 Replace this material by the sae quantity of ‘material of similar characteristics which passes the 37.5 mm test sieve and is retained on the 20 mm test NOTE. The substation of large paricis by smaller, similar parcles MoT salty considered to give dry densities inthe laborstory test Teach compare reasonay well with those obtained io the fac Freeh Seve the coarser material can be removed forthe test anda aaetion applies to the maximum dry denaty basad on the, Caeee oe artof tne soll matrix by sxanes of known particle donsty 325.14 Subdivide the material to produce a sample of approximately 15 kg of the soll, otherwise proceed as deseribed in 3.2.4.1. 3.2.8 Preparation of soils susceptible to crushing for compaction in 1 L moult 3.2.6. Grading zone (1) for soils passing the 20 mm test sieve 3.26.1.1 Subdivide the initial sample to produce five or more representative semples, each of about 25 kg, using the procedure described in 7.6 of BS 1977 : Part 1 : 1990 32.6.1.2 Mix each sample thoroughly with a different ‘amount of water to giveasuitable range of moisture contents {soe notes 1 and 2to 3.2.4.12), The range of moisture ‘contents shail be such that et least two values lis either side Of the optimum at which the maximum dry density occurs. NOTE. The water added to each sempeshould be such that arena ‘Birnoisture contents ‘a obteined which includes the optimum StaTaure Content general, increments of 1S t0 2 % are suitable Paar cord grovaly sole nd of 2% to 8 % for cohesive soils. TO {Resease ine accuracy ofthe test tmight be desivabie to prepare Sreeee wath smaller incremants of water in theregion ofthe Spumum moisture content3.2.6.1.3 If the soit intially contains more water than is required for the compaction at the lower moisture contents, allow these samples to partially dry to the desired moisture ‘contents, and mix thoroughly, 3.2.6.1.4 Ifthesoilis cohesive seal each samplein enairtight, container and store for atleast 24h. 32.62 Grading zone (2} for soils passing the 37.5 mm test slave with atleast 95 % passing the 20 mm test sieve 3262.1 Weigh the whole sample and record the mass. 20mm test sieve (see note t0.3.2.4.22). 32.623 Subdivide the finer material, and proceed as described in 32.6.1 Alternatively, the whole sample can be used as described 32.7.1 for compaction in a CBR mould. 3.2.7 Proparation of soils susceptible to crushing for compaction in CBR mould 3.2.7.1 Grading zone (3) for soll passing the 37.5 mm test sieve with 70 % (0 95 % passing the 20 mm test sieve ‘Subdivide the intial sample to produce five or more representative samples each of approximately 6 kgusing the procedure described in 7.6 of BS 1377 : Part 1 : 1990, ‘otherwise proceed as described in 3.2.6.1. 32.2.2 Grading zone (4) for soils containing at loast 95 % passing the 37.5 mm test sieve and atleast 70 % passing the 20mm tast sieve 3.2.7.2. Weigh the whole sample and record the mass. 2.2.22.2 Remove and weigh the material retained on the 32.5 mm test sieve (see note to 3.2.5.2.2). 827.23 Subdivide the finer mater described in 3.27.1. 32.7.3 Grading zone (5} for soils containing 90 % to 95 % passing the37.5 mm test sieve, and atleast70 % passing the 20mm test sieve 32.7.3.1 Weigh the soil sample. 32.7.3.2 Remove and weigh the material retained on the 37.5 mmtest sieve, I, and proceed as 32.7.83 Replace this material by the same quantity of ial of similar characteristics which passes the 37.5 mm ieve and ig retained on the 20 mm test sieve. (See note 103.2533), 32.7.3.4 Subdividethe material to produce five ormore6 kg, ‘samples of the soil, otherwise proceed as described in3.26.1 33 Method using 2.5 kg rammer for soils with particles up to medium-gravel size 3.3.1. General. This test covers the determination of the dry {ensity of soil passing a 20 mm test siove when itis. ‘compacted ina specified manner over a range of moisture contents. The range includes the optimum moisture content BS 1377 : Part 4 : 1990 ‘at which the maximum dry density for this degree of compaction is obtained. In this test a 2.5 kg remmer falling ‘through 8 height of 300 mm is used to compact the soil in ‘threa layers into a 1 L compaction mould. ‘The requirements of Part 1 of this standard, where appropriate, shall apply to this test method. 33.2 Apparatus 332.1 Acylindsical,corrosion-resistant metal mouldi.e.the ‘compaction mould, having a nominal internal volume of 1L. ‘The mould shall be fitted with a dotachable baseplate and 3 removable extension. The essential dimensionsare shown in figure 3 which also indicates one suitable design of mould. ‘Theinternal faces shall be smooth, clean and dry before each use, 33.22 A metal rammer having a 50 + 0.5 mm diameter circular faco, and weighing 2.5 kg = 2 g. The rammer shall be equipped with a suitable arrangement for controlling the height of drop to 300 + 3 mm. One suitable form of hand apparatusis show in figure 4. NOTE. Amotorized form ofthe apparatus may be used povided that the essential dimensions ofthe rammer ang MOU ere achered ‘and providedthatthe density achlevediswitin = 2 % of the density ‘chloved by using the hand rammer. The machina should be firmly ‘Supported on a heavy solid basa such asa concrete loor or plinth 3.3.23 Abalancoreadableto 1 9. 33.24 A palette knife or spatula. 33.25 A straightedge, e.g. a steel strip about 309 mm long, 25 mm wide, and 3 mm thick, with one bevelled edge. 33.26 Tost sieves, of aperture sizes 37.5 mm and 20mm ‘and 2 receiver. 33.27 Acorrosion-resistant metal or plastics tray with sides, ‘2.9, about 80 mm deep, of a size suitable for the quantity of material to be used. 3.32.8 Apparatus for moisture content determination, as ‘described in 3.2 of BS 1377 : Part 2: 1990. 3.3.29 Apparatus for extracting spacimens from the mould optional) 3.3.3 Preparation of sample, Prepare the test sample as described in3.2.4.1, 3.2.42, 32.6.1 or 3.26.2 es sppropriste. 3.3.4 Procedure 3.3.4.1 Compaction procedure for soll parties not ‘susceptibie to crushing 32.3.4.1.1 Weigh the mould with baseplate attached rot g (mn Measure the internal dimensions to 0.1 mm. 3.84.12 Attach the extension to the mould and place the mould assembly on a solid base, ¢.9. aconcrete floor or plinth. 3.3.6.1. Place a quantity of moist soilinthemould such that when compacted it occupies a litle over one-third of the height of the mould boay.BS 1377 : Part 4: 1990 3.34.1.4 Apply 27 blows from the rammer dropped from a height of 300 mm above the soll as controlled by the guide tube, Distribute the blows uniformly over the surface and ‘ensure that the rammer always falls freely end is not obstructed by soil in the guide tube. 334.15 Repeat 3.34.1.3 and3.3.4.1.4 twice more, so that the amount of soil used is eutficiont to fill the mould body, ‘with the surface not more than 6 mm proud ofthe upper edge ‘of the mould body. NOTE. tis necessary to corral the total volume of sil compacted, since ithe been found thet fhe ammount of soll svuck a afer removing the extension istoo greet, theteat results willbe nsccurst. 3.3.4.16 Removethe extension, strike off theexcess solland level offthe surface of the compactedsoil carefully tothetop ‘of the mould using the straightedge. Replace any coarse particles, removed in the levelling process, by finar material from the sample, well pressed in. 2.8.4.1.7 Weighthe soil and mould with baseplatetot gm). 3.3.4.1.8 Remove the compacted sail from the mould and placeit onthe metal ray. Take representative sampleofthe soil for determination of its moisture content as described in3.2.0f 8S 1377: Part2: 1990. 3.8.4.1 Break up the remainder of the soil, rub it through the 20 mm test sieve and mix with the remainder of te prepared test cample. 3.3.4.1.10 Add a suitable ineremont of water and mix thoroughly into the soil. NOTE. Tha wator added tor ach stage theteetshould be such that ‘a rangect moisturacontentsis ebtained which ncludesthe optimum ‘moisture content In ganar, increments of 1 86102 % are suitable {or sanoy ana gravely sals snd of 2 % 10 4 % for cohesive soils. Toinerease tne accuracy ofthe testis often advisabe to reduce the -nerements of water in the region ofthe optimum moisture content. B.B41.11 Repeat 3.3.4.1.3 103.3.4.1.10 0 give atotal of at least five determinations. The moisture contents shall be ‘such that the optimum moisture content, at which the maximum dry density occurs, lies near the middle of the range. 3.8.42 Compaction procedure for sil particles susceptible to crushing 3.3.42.1 Weigh, measure and prepare the mould as described in 3.3.4.1.1 and 3. 32.2.4.22 Carryout acompaction teston each ofthe prepared ‘samples as described in 33.4.1.3t03.34.1.8. 3.3.4.2 Discard the remainder of each compacted sample, 3.35 Calculations, plotting and expression of results (see form 4A of appendix A) 3.35.1 Calculate the internal volume, V(in em*), ofthe mould. 3.36.2 Calculate the bulk density, p (in Mgim), of each ‘compacted specimen from the equation = Mam Pv: where ‘mis the mass of mould and baseplate (in 9) ‘mz isthe mass of mould, baseplate and compacted soil (ing). 3.3.53 Calculate the dry density, (in Mo/m”), ‘compacted specimen from the equation feach = 109, joo+w where wis the moisture content of the soil (in %). 3.3.4 Plot the dry densities obtained from a series of determinations as ordinates against the corresponding meoisture contents es abscissa0. Drawacurveofbestfittothe plotted points and identity the pesition of the maximum on this curve, Read off the values of dry density and moisture content, tothree significant figures, corresponding to that point, (Soe figure 6) NOTE. Tha maximum may le between two observedpoints but when Craving the curve, care shouldbe taken not to exaggerate ts peak. 3.3.55 Onthesame graph, plotthe curvescorrespondingto (09,5 % and 10 % air voids, calculated from the equation % 1- ia 100 Tew % 100p, where isis the dey density (in Mgim*); by Is the particle density (in Magi’); fy isthe density of water (in Mgim), assumed equal to 1; 1, ig the volume of air voids inthe soil, expressed 2 3 percantage of thetotal volume of the soll equal to %, 5%, 10 % for the purpose of this plot); w is the moisture content (in %). (See figure 6.) 3.3.6 Test report. Thetest report shall affirm that thetest was carried outin accordance with this Part ofthis standard and shall contain the following information: (@) the method of test used: (b} the sample preparation procedure, and whether 2 single sample or separate samples were used. Inthe case of stif, cohesive sol the size of pieces to which the soil was broken down shall be stated; (c) the experimental points and the smooth curve drawn through them showing the relationship between moisture content and dry densi (2) the dry density corresponding to the maximum dry density on the moisture contentidry density curve, raported as the maximum dry density to the nearest 0.01 (in Maio’); {e} the percentage moisture content corresponding tothe ‘maximum dry density on the moisture contentidry density curve reported as the optimum moisture content to two significant figures;{(f) the amount of stone retained on the 20 mm and 37.5 mmtest sieves reported to the nearest 1 % by dry mass; (g) the particle density and whether measured (and if so the method used) or assumed; (b) the information required by 9.1 of BS 1377 : Part 1: 1990. 3.4 Method using 2.6 kg rammer for soils with some coarse gravel-size particles 3.4.1. General. This test covers the determination of the dry density of sail containing some coarse gravel when itis compacted in a specified manner over a range of moisture contents, The range includas the optimum moisture content at which the maximum dry density for thie degrae of compaction is obtained. In this test a 2.6 kg rammer falling ‘through a height of 300 mm is used to compact the soil in three layers into a CBR mould. ‘Thetestis suitable for soils containing no morethan30 % by mass of materia retained on the 20 mm testsieve, which may include some particies retained on the 37.5 mm test sieve. NOTE. This method may alo be uted for finer soit which would ‘normally bs compactedin the 1 L mould when itis requlrad to perform a COR test (e08 74}.0n the compacted soll at 2ech moter ome The requirements of Part 1 of this standard, where appropriate, shall apply to this test method. 3.4.2 Apparatus 342.1 cylindrical, corrosion-resistant, metal mould, i.e. ‘the CBR mould, with detachable baseplate andaremovable ‘extension as described in 7.2.2.2 34.22 Ahand ormotorized, metal rammer, having &50 mm diameter circular face, and weighing 2.5 kg, as described in 3.3.22, 3423 A balance readableto 59, 34.24 Alarge scoop. 34.25 Other items as specified in 3.3.2.410.3.3.29, 2.4.3 Preparation of sample. Prepare the test sample as, described in 3.25.1,3.25.2,325.3,32.7.1,3.27.2 013273 {as appropriate 344 Procedure 3.4.4.1 Compaction procedure for soil particles not susceptible to crushing 3.44.11 Weigh the CBR mould with baseplate attached, to Baim). Meas f the Internal dimensions to 0.5 mm. 3.4.4.1.2 Attach the extension to the mould and place the mould assembly ona salld basa, ¢.g. a concrete flaor or plinth. 3.4.6.13 Placoaquantity of moist soilin the mould such that when compacted it occupies alittle over one-third of the height of the mould body. BS 1377 : Part 4: 1990 34.4.1.4 Apply 62 blows from the rammer dropped from a height of 200 mm above the soil Distribute the blows uniformly over the surface and ensure that the rammar always falls frooly and is not obstructed by soil in the guide tube. so that ‘the amountof goilis euffcianttofilthe mould body, with the surface not more than 6 mm proud of the upper edge of the mould body. NOTE. It is necessary to control the total volume of soll compacted, Sines it has been found that fthe amount of sol atruck of efter remeving the extonsionis oo great, the test repults willbe inaccurate, 3.4.4.1.8 Remove the extension, strike offthe excess soil and level off the surface ofthe compacted soilcarefullytothetop ‘of the mould using the straightedge. Any coarse panic removed in tho levelling process shall be replaced by finer ‘material from the semple, well pressed in. 3441.7 Weigh the soil and mould with beseplateto gm). 3,4.4.1.8 Remove the compacted soil from the mould and place itan the metal tray. Teke a representative sample of the Soil for determination of its moisture content as described in32 of BS 197 : Part 2: 1990. 3.4.6.1.9 Break up the romaindor of the soil, rub it through the 20 mm or the 37.5 mm test sieve and mix with the remainder of the prepared tast samp 2.4.6.1.10 Add a suitable increment of water and mix thoroughly into the soi NOTE. The wator added for each stage of tetest should be such that ‘range of molsturecontemts is obcalned which includasthe optimum ‘molsture content in general, Increments of 1% to 2 % are suitable for sendy and gravely cols and of 2% to 4 % for cohesive sols ‘Toincreacethe curacy ofthatestitisoftenacvisableto reduce tho increments of water in tho agion ofthe optimum moisture content BA41.11 Ropoat3.4.4.1.3t0.3.4.4.1.10t0 give a total of at least five determinations. The moisture contents shall be such that the optimum moisture content, at which the the middle of the 34.62 Compaction procedure for soil particles susceptible to crushing 34.42. Weigh, measure and prepere the CBR mould as described in 3.4.8.1.1 and 3.44.1.2. 34.822 Carryouta compactiontest oneach of the prepared ‘samples in tum ag described in 3.44.1.3.1034.4.1.8. 3.4.62. Discard the remainder of each compacted sample, 24.8 Calculations, plotting and expression of results. Proceed as described in 3.3.5. 3.46 Test report. The test report shall comply with 3.3.6. 3.5 Method using 4.5 kg rammer for soils with particles up ‘to medium-gravol size 35.1. General, This test covers the determination of the dry » isthe density of water (in Ma/m*), assumed equel to 1; V6 is the volume of air void in the soil expressed percentage ofthe total volumeofthe sol equal ‘00 %, 5%, 10% forthe purpose ofthis plat: w isthe moisture content fn % (See figure 6) 2.7.7 Testreport Theteattepor shall affirm thatthe test was ‘aried out in accordance with this Par of tis standard ane shall contain the following information: {a} the method of et used: BS 1377: Part 4 ; 1990 (0) the sample preparation procedure, and whethor @ single sample or separate samples were used; (6) the experimental points and the smooth curve drawn ‘through them showing the relationship between moisture content and dry der (a) the dry density corresponding to the maximum dry donsity on the moisture contentidry density curve reported as the maximum dry density to the nearest 0.01 fin Mgt’), (6) thepercentage moisture contentcorresponding tothe maximum dry density on the moisture contenvidry density ‘curve reported as the optimum moisture content to two significant figures; (fh the amount of stone retained on the 7.5 mm test sieve reported to the nearest 1 % by dry mass; {g) the particle density and whether measured (and if so the method used) or assumed; {h) the information required by 9.1 of BS 137; 1990. 4 Determination of maximum and minimum dry densities for granular soils arth: 4.1 Goneral 4:11 Principio. An indication of the state of compaction of 2 cohesioniess (free-draining) soll is obtained by relating its dry density to its maximum and minimum possible densities (the limiting densities). The tests described in tis section ‘enable these parameters to be determined for cohesionless soils. 4.1.2 Types of tosis. Two tests are described for the determination of maximum density, one for sands and one for gravelly soils, in both tests the soil is compacted under ‘water with a vibrating hammer. The test on sands is cerried out ina 1 L mould. Gravelly soils are compacted in 8 CBR mould using procedure similar to that described ing. Two tests are described for determination of minimum density. One is a simple dry shaking test for sands and the other is a dropping test for gravelly soils. The in-situ density can be related to the limiting densities by moans of the density indox. 42 Determination of maximum density of sands 42.1 General, This test covers the determination of the maximum density to which a clean sand can be compacted. ‘The method is suitable for sands conteining a small amount of material passing 263 umtest sieve, andup to 10 % offine gravel passing 26.3 mmtest sieve. The sailis compacted into 21 Lmould under water using an electric vibrating hammer. [NOTE 1. Use of vibrating hammer is aporopriate fr free-daining sols containing only a small proportion usuelly not exceeding 10%. by mace) of material narthan 63um, since soma ine matril i lkaly ‘@ aseape rom the sample ding vibration, NOTE 2. This testis not applicable to soils containing particles susceptible to erushing wien compacted by the vibrating hermmer. "8S 1377 : Part 4: 1990 ‘The requirements of Par 1 of this standard, where appropriate, shall apply to this test method. 422 Apparatus 42.2.1 Acylindsical.corrosion-resistant metal mould, .e.the 1 L mould, with baseplate and extension, as described in 33.21. 42.2.2 An electric vibrating hammer es specified in 3.7.2.2, [NOTE For safety reasons the vibrating hammer should operate on 110 V, and an earth leakage cicult breaker shouldbe inci ‘batween the hammer and the malns SUDBIy 42.23 Astoe! tamper or attachment to the vibrating ‘hammer. Essential dimensions are shown in figure 7(a) which also indicates one suitable design of tamper. 42.24 Supporting guide frame tor vibrating hammer optional). 42.2.5 A watertight container largo enough to hold the compaction mould, 4226 Abolance readable to 1 4 4227 A straightedge, 0.9. a steel strip about 300 mm long, 25 mm wide, and 3 mm thick, with one bevelled edge. 42.28 Test sieves of aperture sizes 2 mm and 6.3 mm, and 42.29 A palette knifeor spatula. 42.210 Large mate! ray with sides about 80 mm deep, 422.11 Small metal tray with sides about 50 mm deep. 42.212 A bucket or similar watertight container. 42.2.3 Asmail scoop. 4.22.14 Adrying ovencapable of maint of 105 °C to 100°C. 422.5 A stopcock readable to 1s. ing atemperature 4.22.16 Apparatus for extracting compacted specimens from the mould optional. 422.17 A water container of about § L capacity. 4.23 Calibration of vibrating hammer. The vibrating hammar shall be checkedand calibrated as specified in3.7.3. 4.24 Preperation of sample 4.2.4.1 Toke enough matorial from the soil prepared as describedin 7.6.40f8S 1377 Part 1: 1990to enableat east ‘wo test samples to be prepared. 4.242 Sieve the soil on 28.3 mm test sieve. The retained ‘material may be broken down to sizes between 2 mm and 6.3 mm provided thet he total proportion by mass inthis size range does not exceed 10 %. 4.24.3 Mix the soil thoroughly on the large metal tay and ivide Into atleast two representative portions of about 3 kg each. 4.2.4.4 Pour each prepared sample into warm water in a bucket or suitable container, and stir thoroughly to remove air bubbles, 12 42.45 Cover the container and allow to stand for several hours, eg. overnight, to cool 4.25 Procedure 4.2.5.1. Measure the internal dimensions of the compaction mould to 0.1 mn, 5.2. Attach the extension to the mould and place the ‘mould assembly in the watertight container on a solid base, e.g. concrete floor or plinth. Pour water to about 60 mm depth in the mould body, and to the same level in the surrounding container. 5.3. Add a portion ofthe soll-water mixture to the mould with the scoop, plecing it carefully under the water surface without loss of fines and without segregation of coarse particles. The quantity of sample should be such thet the ‘mould is about one-third filed when compacted. Adé water to the surrounding container up to the same level asin the ‘mould. Make the soil surface approximately evel 4.2.54 Placethe circular tamper on the soil and compactwith the vibrating hammer for at least 2 min or until there is no further significant decrease in semple height. During this period applya steady downward force on the hammerso that the total downward force on the sample (including that from the mags of the hammer) is botween 300 N and 400 N. NOTE 1.Forsafetyreazone the vibrating hsmmer should be protected fom tear splashing up from the mould ané ts container. NOTE 2. The operator ean usually judge the required pressure to ‘nly with sufficient seeuracy after ist carrying outthe calibration Spoctind in 37.34. NOTE 3. cise of plyothylone sheet may be placed immediately Beneath the tarmper plate Yo prevent sand panicles moving uP ‘hrough the annul gap. 4255 Repeat 425.3 and 4.25.4 twice more, ensuring thet the surface of te sample is always under water. After ‘compaction ofthe third layer its surface shall be atleast evel ‘with, But nat more than 6 mm proud of, the mould body. NOTE. The tamper should be removed with csteto eval disturbance ofthe snd surface by creating suction. 428.6 Remove the mould containing the soil from the container, clean off any adhering soll from the outside and allow free water to drain from the sample. 428.7 Remove the extension carefully and trim off the compacted soil level with the top of the mould, using the straightedge. Refill cavities, eft by removal of any coarse 4.25.8 Extract the compacted soil from the mould into the small weighed metal tray, without lass of any soil particles. 425.9 Drythesoilin anovenat 105 “Cto 110°C, waigh when, C00! and determine the mass of soil, (in g), 01g. 425.0 Repeat 4.2.5.2 to 4.2.5.9 using the second batch of prepared sample, 4.28.11 Ifthe dry massos from the two tests differ by more than 50 9, repeat the procedure using fresh samples of the soll.