EXPERIMENT NO.

Reducing Aggregate Field Samples to Test Samples

Referenced
Standard: ASTM
C702-87 AASHTO
T248-89

Introduction

Investigation of a large quantity of aggregates may sometimes become impractical,

thus, only a representative sample is obtained for specific tests. This sample, when obtained
and prepared properly, is expected to possess the average characteristics of the entire quantity
of field sample.

Sampling methods introduced in this experiment can be used to reduce a large mass
of field sample into representative samples for succeeding aggregate tests. The Splitting
Method is recommended for samples smaller than 45 mm (1¾”). Sampler splitter with 25
mm openings are for aggregates having a maximum size of 19 mm (¾”) and the sampler
splitter with 50 mm (2”) openings are for aggregates up to 45 mm (1¾”). The Quartering
Method is used for coarse aggregates larger than 45 mm (1¾”).

Objectives:

1. To be able to learn how to obtain and prepare test samples from field samples

2. To understand the significance of aggregate sampling in civil engineering projects

Apparatus/Materials:

Spade Containers Sieves (25 mm, 45 mm, 50 mm)

Sample Splitter Trowel or Scoop Aggregates Field Samples

Procedure:

1. Take a representative sample of aggregates from the field. Refer to Table 1 for the
minimum requirements for field samples. The sample must be dry and free from roots
and debris. Wash the field sample as needed then dry allow to thoroughly dry before
reducing them to test size.

2. Mix the clean and dry field samples thoroughly until it appears to be homogeneous.
3. Use the following methods (Splitting and Quartering) for reducing the field samples
to testing size:

A. Splitting Method

1. Place the two catch pans under the splitter.

2. Part by part, pour the sample into the splitter uniformly allowing the aggregates to
pass through the splitter opening to the catch pans.

3. When full, empty the catch pans unto a container. Two separate containers must
be used to store the two fractions of aggregates that passed the splitter.

4. Complete the pouring of the entire quantity of field sample into the splitter. Use a
brush to collect the samples from the splitter. Refer to Table 2 for the minimum
requirements for test samples.

5. Label the containers with which the test samples are placed.

B. Quartering Method

1. Place the field sample on a clear, smooth and hard surface.

2. Mix the samples thoroughly until it appears homogeneous then form it into a
mound.

3. Flatten the mound by pressing it down carefully at its apex by a shovel until a
uniform thickness and diameter are obtained.

4. Using the shovel, divide the flattened mass into quarters. Include the fine particles
on the surface.

5. Collect in one container the aggregates in two diagonally opposite quarters and in
another container the other two quarters. Take note of the minimum requirements
shown in Table 2. Label containers with samples appropriately for further tests.

2
 Table 1
Recommended Size/Quantity of Field Samples

Approximate Minimum Mass of Field

Nominal Maximum Size of Aggregates
Sample
Fine Aggregates
3.36 mm (#8) 10 kg (25 Lbs)
4.75 mm (#4) 10 kg (25 Lbs)
Coarse Aggregates
9.5 (3/8”) 10 kg (25 Lbs)
12.5 (1/2”) 15 kg (35 Lbs)
19.0 (3/4”) 25 kg (55 Lbs)
25.0 (1”) 50 kg (110 Lbs)
37.5 (1 ½) 75 kg (165 Lbs)
50 (2”) 100 kg (220 Lbs)
63 (2 ½) 125 kg (275 Lbs)
75 (3”) 150 kg (330 Lbs)
90 (3 ½) 175kg (385 Lbs)
Source: Marotta & Herubin (1997)

Table 2
Minimum Requirements for Test Samples

Nominal Maximum Size of Aggregates Minimum Mass of Test Sample

9.5 (3/8”) 1 kg
12.5 (1/2”) 2 kg
19.0 (3/4”) 5 kg
25.0 (1”) 10 kg
37.5 (1 ½) 15 kg
50 (2”) 20 kg
63 (2 ½) 35 kg
75 (3”) 60 kg
90 (3 ½) 100kg
Source: Marotta & Herubin (1997)
Drawing:

Observations:

Discussion of Results
Conclusion

Post-lab exercises

1. Explain the difference between: a) natural and manufactured aggregate, b) fine and
coarse aggregate

2. Weigh each of the test samples from the catch pans. Do their weights differ? By what
percentage?

3. Weigh the samples obtained by the quartering method. Does each of the two fractions
represent 50% of the total mass of field sample? Why or why not? Explain briefly.