LM - Dr. Jitesh Oza

Diploma Engineering
Laboratory Manual
Course Title: Soil Engineering
(Course Code: 4340602)
Civil Engineering / Semester-IV

Enrolment No
Name
Branch Civil Engineering
Academic Term
Institute
Directorate Of Technical Education

Gandhinagar - Gujarat
Soil Engineering (4340602)
Certificate
This is to certify that Mr./Ms ………………………………………………………………….

Enrolment No. ………….……………. of Semester-IV of Diploma in Civil Engineering of
………………………………………………………………. has satisfactorily completed the
term work in course Soil Engineering (4340602) for the academic year: ……………………
Term: Even.
Place:…………………..
Date: …………………..
Signature of Course Faculty Head of the Department

SOIL ENGINEERING (4340602)
Preface
The primary aim of any laboratory/Practical/field work is enhancement of required skills as
well as creative ability amongst students to solve real time problems by developing relevant
competencies in psychomotor domain. Keeping in view, GTU has designed competency focused
outcome-based curriculum -2021 (COGC-2021) for Diploma engineering programmes. In this more
time is allotted to practical work than theory. It shows importance of enhancement of skills amongst
students and it pays attention to utilize every second of time allotted for practical amongst Students,
Instructors and Lecturers to achieve relevant outcomes by performing rather than writing practice in
study type. It is essential for effective implementation of competency focused outcome- based Green
curriculum-2021. Every practical has been keenly designed to serve as a tool to develop & enhance
relevant industry needed competency in each and every student. These psychomotor skills are very
difficult to develop through traditional chalk and board content delivery method in the classroom.
Accordingly, this lab manual has been designed to focus on the industry defined relevant outcomes,
rather than old practice of conducting practical to prove concept and theory.
By using this lab manual, students can read procedure one day in advance to actual
performance day of practical experiment which generates interest and also, they can have idea of
judgement of magnitude prior to performance. This in turn enhances predetermined outcomes amongst
students. Each and every Experiment /Practical in this manual begins by competency, industry relevant
skills, course outcomes as well as practical outcomes which serve as a key role for doing the practical.
The students will also have a clear idea of safety and necessary precautions to be taken while
performing experiment.
This manual also provides guidelines to lecturers to facilitate student-centered lab activities for
each practical/experiment by arranging and managing necessary resources in order that the students
follow the procedures with required safety and necessary precautions to achieve outcomes. It also
gives an idea that how students will be assessed by providing Rubrics.
Soil Engineering is the youngest discipline/course of Civil Engineering. This

course is involved in the study of various applications and behaviour of Soil as an engineering
material. To use soil as an engineering material requires lots of care and experience as Soil is
a very diverse and unpredicted material in nature. Without proper investigation, Soil cannot
be used in Civil works. This manual is designed to know basic and most important physical
properties of soil by testing the soil in Laboratory. All the experiments should be done in
accordance with Indian Standards codes designed by The Bureau of Indian Standards, New
2 | Page
Delhi.
Programme Outcomes (POs) :
1. Basic and Discipline specific knowledge: Apply knowledge of basic mathematics, science
and engineering fundamentals and engineering specialization to solve the engineering
problems.
2. Problem analysis: Identify and analyse well-defined engineering problems using codified
standard methods.
3. Design/ development of solutions: Design solutions for engineering well-defined technical

problems and assist with the design of systems components or processes to meet specified
needs.
4. Engineering Tools, Experimentation and Testing: Apply modern engineering tools and
appropriate technique to conduct standard tests and measurements.
5. Engineering practices for society, sustainability and environment: Apply appropriate

technology in context of society, sustainability, environment and ethical practices.
6. Project Management: Use engineering management principles individually, as a team

member or a leader to manage projects and effectively communicate about well-defined
engineering activities.
7. Life-long learning: Ability to analyze individual needs and engage in updating in the context
of technological changes in field of engineering.
3 | Page
Practical Outcome - Course Outcome matrix

Course Outcomes (COs):
CO1: Identify types of Soil according to mode of deposition and mode of transportation.
CO2: Determine the physical and index properties of soil to estimate behaviour and other important
engineering properties for given construction activities.
CO3: Classify coarse grained and fine grained soil by IS method .
CO4: Determine Coefficient of permeability and shear parameters of soil and apply results in
foundation analysis and other construction activities.
CO5: Determine O.M.C. and M.D.D. values of soil and select suitable method of soil stabilization
CO6: Compute bearing capacity of soil and earth pressure and interpret results.
CO1 CO2 CO3 CO4 CO5 CO6
S. No. Practical Outcome/Title of experiment
1. Determine moisture content of soil by √ √ √ √ √

oven drying method.
2. Determine field density and dry density of √ √ √

soil by Core cutter method.
3. Determine field density and dry density of √ √ √

soil by Sand replacement method.
4. Determine specific gravity of soil by √

pycnometer/density bottle
5. Classification of soil by sieve analysis √
method.
Determine Liquid limit, Plastic limit and √ √ √
6.
Shrinkage limit of soil
7. Determine Permeability of soil by constant √
head method
8. Determine Permeability of soil by falling √
head method
9.
Determine Shear parameters of soil by √ √
Direct Shear test
10. Determine OMC & MDD of soil by √ √
standard proctor test [Light compaction
Test.
4 | Page
Industry Relevant Skills
The following industry relevant skills are expected to be developed in the students by
performance of experiments of this course.
1. Students should be able to identify soil and its behaviour at site.

2. Students should be able to test the engineering properties of soil in laboratory to
check its suitability.
Guidelines to Course Faculty

1. Course faculty should demonstrate experiment with all necessary implementation
strategies described in curriculum.
2. Course faculty should explain industrial relevance before starting of each experiment.
3. Course faculty should Involve & give opportunity to all students for hands on experience.
4. Course faculty should ensure mentioned skills are developed in the students by asking.
5. Utilise 2 hrs of lab hours effectively and ensure completion of write up with quiz also.
6. Encourage peer to peer learning by doing same experiment through fast learners.
Instructions for Students

1. Organize the work in the group and make record of all observations.
2. Students shall develop maintenance skill as expected by industries.
3. Student shall attempt to develop related hand-on skills and build confidence.
4. Student shall develop the habits of evolving more ideas, innovations, skills etc.
5. Student shall refer technical magazines and data books.
6. Student should develop habit to submit the practical on date and time.
7. Student should well prepare while submitting write-up of exercise.
5 | Page
INDEX
List of Practical and Progressive Assessment Sheet
Name of the Student- ENROLMENT No.-____________
Assessment Dated
Sr. Page Date of Date of Marks Remarks
Title of the Practical Sign. of
No No. Performance Submission (If Any)
(25) Teacher
0. NBA related content
1. Determine moisture content of
soil by oven drying method.
2. Determine field density and dry
density of soil by Core cutter
method.
3. Determine field density and dry
density of soil by Sand
replacement method.
4. Determine specific gravity of
soil by pycnometer/density
bottle
5. Classification of soil by sieve
analysis method.
6. Determine Liquid limit, Plastic
limit and Shrinkage limit of soil
7. Determine Permeability of soil
by constant head method
8. Determine Permeability of soil
by falling head method
9. Determine Shear parameters of
soil by Direct Shear test
10. Determine OMC & MDD of
soil by standard proctor test
[Light compaction Test]
Total:
6 | Page
Practical No.0: NBA Related Content
1. Write Vision and Mission of DTE, Institute and Department.

DTE’s Vision:
● To provide globally competitive technical education.
● Remove geographical imbalances and inconsistencies.
● Develop student friendly resources with a special focus on girls’ education and support to
weaker sections.
● Develop programs relevant to industry and create a vibrant pool of technical
professionals.
DTE’s Mission:
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Institute’s Vision:
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
Institute’s Mission:
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Department’s Vision:
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Department’s Mission:
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
7 | Page
2. Write Program Outcomes as prescribed by NBA

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
3. Write PSOs and PEOs of the department.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
4. Write Course Outcomes of Soil Engineering (4340602)

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
Sign with date

8 | Page
Date: ……………
Practical No.1: DETERMINE MOISTURE CONTENT OF SOIL BY OVEN DRYING
METHOD
A. Objective: To Determine Moisture Content of Soil By Oven Drying Method
[I.S. – 2720(Part-II) (1973)]

B. Expected Program Outcomes (POs):
PO-1 Basic and Discipline specific knowledge Engineering Tools, Experimentation
and Testing,
PO-4. Engineering Tools, Experimentation and Testing: Apply modern

engineering tools and appropriate technique to conduct standard tests and
measurements.
C. Expected Skills to be developed based on competency:

This practical is expected to develop the following skills for the industry
identified competency, “Evaluate and interpret test results for selection of
proper Soil as a construction material and as a strata for foundation.”
1. Ability to collect representative Soil sample from proper location and handle
instruments.
2. Ability to perform test and interpret test results
3. Team spirit & leadership quality
D. Expected Course Outcomes(Cos)

1. Identify types of Soil according to mode of deposition and mode of
transportation.
2. Determine the physical and index properties of soil to estimate behaviour and
other important engineering properties for given construction activities.
E. Practical Outcome(PRo)
Determine moisture content of soil by oven drying method.
F. Expected Affective domain Outcome(ADos)

1. Work as a Team leader/member in laboratory.
2. Handle tools and equipment carefully with safety and necessary precautions.
3. Maintain cleanliness and good ambience in laboratory.
9 | Page
G. Prerequisite Theory:
The Water Content or Moisture Content “ω” of soil is defined as the ratio of the mass
of water(Ww)to the mass of solids(WS). It is generally expressed in percentage. It is the
fundamental parameter which affects the soil properties like Density of soil, Shear
strength of soil, Consistency of soil, Compaction and Consolidation of soil. Hence,
determination of Water Content is a must in almost all the tests carried out of soil
sample in the laboratory. Water Content of soil is the most useful property.
H. Experimental setup:
Fig-1. Thermostatically controlled oven
10 | Page
I. Resources/Equipment Required
Sr. Equipment Specification Quantity
No.
1 Container with Lid or heat Non corrodible air tight container. The 3
resistant tray depth of tray should be 5 to 7 cm deep.
2 Balance Sufficient sensitivity to weigh the soil 1

sample to an accuracy of 0.4 percent of
the mass of the soil .
3 Palette knife OR steel Spatula Blade 10 cm long and 2cm wide 1
4 Oven Thermostatically controlled oven, with -

interior of non corroding material to
maintain the temperature at 110 +or -
5oC
J. Safety and necessary Precautions followed

1. Avoid overheating. A convenient method of detecting overheating of the soil is the
use of small pieces of white paper mixed with the soil. Over heating is indicated if
the paper turns brown.
2. Oven drying at 110+- 5degree celsius does not result in reliable water content
values
for soil containing gypsum or other minerals having loosely bound water of
hydration or for soil containing significant amount of organic material.
3. Reliable water content values for above said soils i.e. soils related to 2. can be
obtained by drying an oven at approximately 60 to 80 degee celsius.
4. During heating, the specimen should be turned frequently and thoroughly with the
palette knife to assist the evaporation of water.
5. Care should be taken to see that no soil is lost in the process.
K. Procedure to be followed:
1.First of all clean and dry the containers and the lids.
2. Weigh it accurately with lid and record its mass (w1)gm.
3. Take about 50 gm of soil.
11 | Page
(Quantity of soil shall depend upon the particle size of soil sample I.S 2720(Part-II)1973)
SIZE OF PARTICLES MORE THAN 90 MINIMUM QUANTITY OF SOIL

PERCENT PASSING SPECIMEN FOR TEST IN gm
425 micron 25
2mm 50
4.75mm 200
9.5mm 300
19mm 500
37.5mm 1000
4. Weight the container with wet soil and lid(w2).

5. Keep the container containing wet soil specimen in an oven with the lid below
container. Maintain temperature of oven at 110± 50 C for 24 hours.
6. After 24 hours, take out the container, close it with lid and cool it preferably in a
desiccator.
7. Weigh the container with lid and with dried soil sample and record the final
mass(M3).
8. Calculate the moisture content.
9. Repeat the procedure for two more soil specimens from the same soil.
10. Calculate the average of three results of moisture content and report it.
12 | Page
L. Observations and Calculations:
Sr Particulars Observation
No
1 2 3
1 Mass of container with lid(W1) in gm
2 Mass of container with wet soil specimen with lid

(W2) in gm
3 Mass of container with dry soil specimen with lid

(W3) in gm(after 24 Hrs oven drying)
4 Mass of moisture (W2-W3) gm
5 Mass of dry soil (W3-W1) gm
6 Water Content =(W2-W3) * 100 %

(W3-W1)
Average Water Content (ω) % =
Interpretation of Results:
…..................................................................................................................................
The Water Content of the soil sample ___________ %
.....................................................................................................................................
M. Conclusion:
The Water Content of the soil sample ___________ %
13 | Page
N. Practical related Quiz.
1. Define ‘Moisture content of soil’.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________
2. What is the importance of moisture content of soil in the field?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________
3. List the various methods to determine the water content of soil.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________
4. Which is the quick and most accurate method of determining the moisture content of soil?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________
5. Why temperature of the oven is kept 110± 50 C?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
____________
6. Draw Two phase and Three phase diagram of soil sample.
14 | Page
O. Referencess:
1. NCTEL video series for Soil Mechanics Laboratory Tests:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2J-tvEeI4c
2. Virtual Lab by Ministry of Education, Government of India: https://smfe-iiith.vlabs.ac.in
3. NPTEL Course :-Soil Mechanics by IIT, Guwahati : https://nptel.ac.in/courses/105103097
4. NPTEL Course :-Soil Mechanics by IIT, Kharagpur :
https://archive.nptel.ac.in/courses/105/105/105105168/
P. Assessment-Rubrics:
Performance Indicators Weightage Marks out of

(%) 05
1 Identification of Instrument & Process 20 %

Experimental setup Related
(40%)
2 Recording of observation 20 %
3 Calculation and determination of Product 20 %

results Related
(60%)
4 Answer to practical related questions 20 %
5 Submission of report in time 20 %
Total Out of 25 marks 100%
Sign with Date
15 | Page
Date: ……………
Practical No.2: DETERMINE FIELD DENSITY AND DRY DENSITY OF SOIL BY
CORE CUTTER METHOD
A. Objective: To determine field density and dry density of soil by core cutter.
[IS-2720-Part-29 (1975)]
B. Expected Program Outcomes (POs)
PO1. Basic and Discipline specific knowledge: Apply knowledge of basic

mathematics, science and engineering fundamentals and engineering
specialization to solve the engineering problems.
PO 4. Engineering Tools, Experimentation and Testing: Apply modern

measurements.

1. Ability to collect Soil sample from proper location and handle instruments.
2. Ability to perform test on field and interpret test results
D. Expected Course Outcomes (Cos)
1. Identify types of Soil according to mode of deposition and mode of
transportation.
2. Determine the physical and index properties of soil to estimate behaviour and
E. Practical Outcome (PRo)
Determine Field Density And Dry Density Of Soil By Core Cutter

F. Expected Affective domain Outcome (ADos)
3. Maintain cleanliness and good ambience in laboratory
16 | Page
Field density is defined as weight per unit volume of soil mass in the field at insitu
conditions. In the spot adjacent to that where the field density by sand replacement
method has been determined or planned, drive the core cutter using the dolly over
the core cutter. Stop ramming when the dolly is just proud of the surface. Dig out
the cutter containing the soil out of the ground and trim off any solid extruding
from its ends, so that the cutter contains a volume of soil equal to its internal
volume which is determined from the dimensions of the cutter. The weight of the
contained soil is found and its moisture content determined. The relationship that
can be established between the dry densities with known moisture content is as
follows:
γd = γb/(1+ω)
γ
Where d= Dry Density of Soil in gm/cc
γb =Field density (Bulk density) of Soil in gm/cc

ω=MoistureContent
17 | Page
H. Experimental set up:
Fig-2 CORE CUTTER APPARATUS ASSEMBLY
Sr.No. Instrument/Equipment Specification Quantity
/Components/Trainer kit
1 Cylindrical core cutter 100mm internal diameter and 127.4mm 1
long.
2 Steel dolley 25mm high and 100mm internal diameter. 1
3 Steel rammer mass overall length with the foot and staff about 1
900mm.
4 Balance, accuracy of 1g. 1
5 Palette knife, Straight edge, steel rule etc. 1
6 Square metal tray 300mm x 300mm x 40mm. 1
7 Trowel. — 1
18 | Page

1 Core cutter method of determining the field density of soil is only suitable for
fine.
grained soil (Silts and clay). That is, core cutter should not be used for gravels,
boulders or any hard surface. This is because collection of undisturbed soil. sample
from a coarse-grained soil is difficult and hence the field properties, including unit
weight, cannot be maintained in a core sample.
2. Core cutter should be driven into the ground till the steel dolly penetrates into the
ground halfway only so as to avoid compaction of the soil in the core.
3. Before lifting the core cutter, soil around the cutter should be removed to
minimize the disturbances.
4. While lifting the cutter, no soil should drop down.
1) Measure the height and internal diameter of the core cutter to the nearest 0.25
mm.
2) Calculate the internal volume of the core-cutter V in cm³.
3) Determine the weight of the clean cutter accurate to 1 g (W1 in g).
4) Select the area in the field where the density is required to be found out. Clean
and level the ground where the density is to be determined.
5) Place the dolly over the top of the core cutter and press the core cutter into the
soil mass using the rammer. Stop the pressing when about 15mm of the dolly
protrudes above the soil surface.
6) Remove the soil surrounding the core cutter by digging using spade, up to the
bottom level of the cutter. Lift up the cutter and remove the dolly and trim both
sides of the cutter with knife and straight edge.
7) Clean the outside surface of the cutter and determine mass of the cutter with the
soil (W2 in g).
8) Remove the soil core from the cutter and take the representative sample in the
water content containers to determine the moisture content.
9) The field test may be repeated at other places if required.
10) The water content of sample collected is determined in the laboratory as per
Experiment no 1 (Determination of water content of soil solids by Oven
Drying Method).
11) Use the above equation, given the theory section, for determining density of
soil
γd
19 | Page

1 Diameter of Core Cutter (D) = __________ cm
2 Height of Core Cutter (H) = __________ cm
3 Volume of core cutter (V) =(D)2 (H) = __________ cm3
4. Weight of empty Core Cutter(W1) __________gm
5. Weight of Core Cutter filled with soil (W2) = __________gm
6. Weight of soil (W) = (W2 - W1 ) = __________gm
7. Bulk density of soil(γb) = W/V = __________gm/cm3
Observation Table :
Sr No. Particulars Observations
1 2 3
1 Weight of empty cutter =W1 gms
2 Weight of cutter + wet soil =W2 gms
3 Volume of core cutter=V cm³
4 Weight mass of empty container =W3 gms
5 Weight of container + wet soil =W4 gms
6 Weight of container + dry soil =W5 gms
7 Water content (ω%) =((W4-W5)/(W5-W3)) *100
8 Bulk density of soil(γb) =(W2-W1)/V= (gm/cc)
9 Dry density γd = γb/(1+ω) gm/cc
10 Average dry density, Avg γd
20 | Page
Calculations:
Dry density γd = γb/ (1 + ω) gm/cc
M. Interpretation of Results:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
N. Conclusion:
The value of dry density of the soil is__________. The type of soil is __________.
O. Practical related Quiz.

1. What are the main factors which affect in-situ density of soil?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
2. What are the other methods to calculate the field density of soil?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
3. Can we use core cutter method on stony or non-cohesive soils?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
4. Do we get undisturbed sample using core cutter?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
5. Define dry density of soil.
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
21 | Page
6. Define Bulk density of soil.

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
P. References:
1. NCTEL video series for Soil Mechanics Laboratory Tests: https://youtu.be/5rDHjZ_RJq0
Q. Assessment-Rubrics :

(%) 05

(40%)

results Related
(60%)
Sign with Date
22 | Page
Date: ................
Practical No.3: DETERMINE FIELD DENSITY AND DRY DENSITY OF SOIL BY SAND
REPLACEMENT METHOD
A. Objective: To determine field density and dry density of soil by sand replacement
method. [IS-2720-Part-28 (1975)]

PO 4. Engineering Tools, Experimentation and Testing: Apply modern

measurements.
PO 6. Project Management: Use engineering management principles

individually, as a team member or a leader to manage projects and effectively
communicate about well-defined engineering activities.

1. Ability to select proper location for test and handle instruments.

2. Ability to perform test on field and interpret test results
D. Expected Course Outcomes (Cos)
CO-1 Identify types of Soil according to mode of deposition and mode of
transportation.
CO-2 Determine the physical and index properties of soil to estimate behaviour and
E. Practical Outcome (PRo)
To determine field density and dry density of soil by sand replacement method.
23 | Page
F. Expected Affective Domain Outcome (ADos)

The in situ density of soil is needed for the determination of bearing

capacity of soil, for the purpose of stability analysis of slopes, for the determination of
pressure on underlying strata for calculation of settlement and design of underground
structures. It is very important quality control test, where compaction is required, in the
case like embankment, earth dam and pavement construction. On field the moisture
content of sand is likely to vary from time to time and hence the field density also. The
relationship that can be established between the dry density with known moisture
content is as follows:
γd = γb/(1+ω) gm/cc
γ
Where, d = dry density
γb= Bulk density
ω= water content
Sr Types of soil Total Height of Total Thickness of Internal Capacity

No. used Height cone base Hole Diameter
diameter
1 Fine & 380 mm 85 mm 200 mm 13 +/- 0.1 115 mm 3 Ltrs
Medium mm
2 Fine, Medium 610 mm 175 mm 350 mm 25 +/- 0.1 215 mm 16.5 Ltrs
& Coarse mm
24 | Page
Fig-3 Apparatus for Sand Replacement method

1 Sand pouring cylinder 3 litre capacity a) Small pouring 1
cylinder as per IS 2720 Part 28)
2 Cylindrical calibrating 10 cm internal diameter and 15 cm 1
container depth
3 Glass plate, 450 mm/600 mm square and 10mm thick 1
for determining water content
4 Metal container - 1
5 Metal tray 300mm square and 40mm deep with a 1
hole of 100mm in diameter at the centre
6 Weighing balance - 1
7 Moisture content containers - 1
8 Tools - 1
25 | Page
J. Safety and necessary Precautions followed.
1 Care should be taken in excavating the pit, so that it is not enlarged by levering, as
this will result in lower density being recorded.
2 No loose material should be left in the pit.
3 There should be no vibrations during this test.
4 It should not be forgotten to remove the tray, before placing the SPC over the pit.
1. Fill the sand pouring cylinder with sand, within about 10 mm from its top. Determine
the mass of cylinder with sand and lid (M1) gm.
2. Place the sand-pouring cylinder vertically on the calibrating container.Open the shutter
to allow the sand run out from the cylinder into the calibrating container till it fills the
cone of the cylinder and the calibrating container. When there is no further movement of
the sand in the cylinder, close the shutter.
3. Lift the pouring cylinder, weigh the sand collected in the tray used in filling the cone
as (M2).
4. Weigh the pouring cylinder with sand (M3) after -filling the cone and the calibrating
container.
5. Weight of sand in the calibrating container Ms = M1 – M2- M3
6. Obtain volume of the calibrating container.
Inside diameter of calibrating container = d
Height of calibrating container = h
Volume of calibrating container = V= π/4 x d2 x h
Density of sand = γ sand= Ms/V
26 | Page
Part-2: Determination of bulk density of soil
1. Expose an area of about 450 mm x 450 mm on the surface of the soil mass. Trim the surface
down to a level surface, using scraper tool. Place the metal tray on the leveled surface.
2. Excavate the soil through the central hole of the tray. The depth of the excavated hole should be
about 150 mm.
3. Collect all the excavated soil in a metal tray and weigh it as M4.
4. Now place the sand pouring cylinder in the metal tray over the excavated hole Remember that
weight of sand pouring cylinder with sand at this time is M3.
5. Allow the sand to run out of the cylinder by opening the shutter. Close the shutter when the
hole is completely filled and no further movement of sand is observed.
6. Weigh the sand pouring cylinder with sand and lid as M5.
7. Weight of sand in the excavated a hole M6 = M3 – M2 - M5.

8. Density of sand in hole = Mass of sand in hole
Volume of hole
9. Volume of hole = Mass of sand in hole
Density of sand in hole
10. Bulk density of soil = Weight of soil collected from hole
Volume of hole
11. Determine water content of soil collected from the hole as ω.

12. Dry density of soil,
γd = γb/(1+ω) gm/cc
27 | Page
Sr. No. Calibration of apparatus

1. Mass of cylinder with sand and lid (M1) gm
2. Mass of sand in cone(of pouring cylinder) (M2) gm
3. Mass of sand + cylinder after filling the cone (M3 ) gm
4. Mass of sand in the calibrating container

Ms = M1-M2-M3
5. Inside diameter of calibrating container (d)
6. Height of calibrating container (h)
7. Volume of calibrating container V
8. Bulk density of sand γsand = Ms/V gm/cc
Sr. No. Measurements of Density of Soil

1. Mass of colleted soil from excavated hole (W) gm.
2. Mass of sand + cylinder after pouring sand into

excavated hole and cone (M4) gm.
3. Mass of sand in hole M5 = M1 – M2- M4
4. Volume of hole V = M5/ γsand
5. Bulk density of Soil γb = W/V (gm/cc)
Water content determination

1. Water content container no.
2. W1 = Mass of clean & empty container + lid (gm)
3. W2 = Mass of container, lid, and wet soil (gm)
4. W3= Mass of container, lid, and dry soil (gm)
5. ω= Water content (%)[(W2-W3)/ (W3-W1)]x100
6. Average Water Content =ωavg(%)
7. Dry density of Soil γd = γb /(1+ ωavg) (gm/cc)
28 | Page
Calculations:
Sand replacement method is an indirect method of finding the density of soil. The
basic principle is to measure the in-situ volume of hole from which the material was
excavated from the weight of sand with known density filling in the hole. The in-situ density
of material is given by the weight of the excavated material divided by the in-situ volume.
The dry density of most soils varies within the range of 1.1-1.6 g/cm3. In sandy soils, dry
density can be as high as 1.6 g/cm3; in clayey soils and aggregated loams, it can be as low as
1.1 g/cm3.
N. Conclusion:
The dry density of the soil is ________gm/cc.
1. What is the objective of sand replacement method?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
2. Name the equipment that is needed in this test?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
3. How many samples are to be collected and why?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
4. Which method is the accurate one, core cutter or sand replacement method as per you? And
why?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
29 | Page
5. What is the relationship that can be established between the dry density with known moisture
content?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
6. What is the practical application of the test?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
P. References :
1. NCTEL video series for Soil Mechanics Laboratory Tests: https://youtu.be/C10dklH12W0
Q. Assessment-Rubrics

(%) 05

(40%)

results Related
(60%)
Sign with Date
30 | Page
Date:.................
Practical No.4: DETERMINE SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF SOIL BY PYCNOMETER/DENSITY BOTTLE
A. Objective: To determine the specific gravity of sand by pycnometer. [IS 2720:1980

PART III]
PO2. Problem analysis: Identify and analyse well-defined engineering

problems using codified standard methods.
PO4. Engineering Tools, Experimentation and Testing: Apply modern

measurements.

1. Ability to select representative soil sample and precisely handle instruments.

CO1: Determine the physical and index properties of soil to estimate behaviour
and other important engineering properties for given construction activities.
Determine specific gravity of soil by pycnometer/density bottle
F. Expected Affective domain Outcome (ADos)

31 | Page
2. Handle tools and equipments carefully with safety and necessary precautions.
(1) Specific gravity.

Specific gravity of aggregate is the ratio of the weight of oven dry aggregate to the weight of
equal volume of water disposed by the saturated surface dry aggregate. Information regarding
specific gravity of the aggregate to design concrete mix is necessary. It also indicates the void
content in aggregates. Specific gravity of aggregates (sand) generally lies between 2.6 to 2.9.
G= Mass of solid soil
Mass of distilled water
(2) Water absorption.

It is the weight difference between saturated surface dry aggregates and oven dry aggregates
expressed as present dry weight of aggregates. It is useful to calculate the extra water required to
add while making mortars and concrete for absorption of aggregates.
Fig-4 Pycnometer bottle set up for Specific Gravity of Soil
32 | Page

1. Pyrometer 500 ml capacity 3 Nos
2. weighing balance 0.002 gm accuracy 1 No
3. Oven - 1 No
4. air driers - 1 No
5. Tray. - 1 No
6. Sample of aggregates smaller then 10mm.and greater than -

4.75 mm
Since small amount of soil is used in the test, extreme care must be taken with
weighing, transferring of soil to flask and boiling so as not to lose any sample.
1. All weights should be taken very carefully. Small error in reading may cause vast
change in value of ‘G’
2. Make sure that bottle is leak proof. Stopper must be closed gently.
3. Apply temperature correction in case of greater accuracy in value of ‘G’.
4. No air allowed in water and soil.
5. When the result of ‘G' for two readings varies by more than 0.03, then the test should be
repeated.
6. If the size of soil particles is smaller than 2 mm, a density bottle is used in place of a
pycnometer bottle.
33 | Page
1. Fill the pycnometer with distilled water, remove the air bubble and weigh it.
2. Immerse the sample in the distilled water at temp. Of 220 to 320 C for 24 hours.
3. Make the sample saturated surface dry and weigh it.
4. Fill the pycnometer jar 1/3 of its depth with water and add a sample.
5. Fill the pycnometer jar full with distilled water and place the cup in it.
6. Remove the air bubbles from the pycnometer by rotating it.
7. Wipe the pycnometer from outside and weigh it.
8. Calculate specific gravity ‘G’ using formula.
L. Field Application:
The specific gravity of soil solids is useful in the determination of saturated density,
degree of saturation, lateral earth pressure, size of fine particles etc.
M. Observations:
Sr No. Particulars 1 2 3
1 Mass of empty pycnometer (M1)
2 Mass of pycnometer With dry soil

(M2)
3 Mass of pycnometer with sample and

distilled water (M3) gm.
4 Mass of pycnometer full with distilled

water (M4) gm
Specific Gravity :
5 (G) = M2-M1/ [(M4-M1) - (M3-M2)]
34 | Page
N. Interpretation of Results:
Specific gravity of soil sample = _______

…..............................................................................................................................................
.
O. Conclusion:
Specific gravity of soil sample = ________
P. Practical related Quiz.
1. Define ‘Specific gravity’.

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
2. Write the use of specific gravity

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
3. Why complete air is required to be removed from the sample?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
4. Which are the two most important precautions in the test?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
5. State Laboratory tests for specific gravity.

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
35 | Page
6. Why is the conical cap provided at the top of the pycnometer bottle?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
References:
1. NCTEL video series for Soil Mechanics Laboratory Tests:https://youtu.be/hNNilk-OKaw
2. NCTEL video series for Soil Mechanics Laboratory Tests: https://youtu.be/l6vk0EM4yPg

(%) 05

(40%)

results Related
(60%)
Sign with Date
36 | Page
Date:......................
Practical No.5: CLASSIFICATION OF SOIL BY SIEVE ANALYSIS METHOD
A. Objective: To obtain the grain size distribution curve for a given soil sample. [IS:
2720-1985 Part-IV]
B. Expected Program Outcomes (POs) :

mathematics, science and engineering fundamentals and engineering specialization to
solve the engineering problems.
PO2. Problem analysis: Identify and analyse well-defined engineering problems

using codified standard methods.
PO4. Engineering Tools, Experimentation and Testing: Apply modern engineering

tools and appropriate technique to conduct standard tests and measurements.
PO6. Project Management: Use engineering management principles individually, as

a team member or a leader to manage projects and effectively communicate about
well-defined engineering activities.

This practical is expected to develop the following skills for the industry identified
competency, “Evaluate and interpret test results for selection of proper Soil as a
construction material and as a strata for foundation.”
1. Ability to collect representative soil sample for test and measure soil fractions
accurately.
2. Ability to perform test and interpret test results from Grain size distribution curve.
CO3: Classify coarse grained and fine grained soil by IS method
E. Practical Outcome(PRo) :
Classification of soil by sieve analysis method .
F. Expected Affective domain Outcome(ADos) :
37 | Page
Soil consists of an assemblage of discrete particles of various shape and
sizes. In this experiment, the soil particles are categorized into different size ranges.
Two separate procedures, sieving and sedimentation are used for grain size analysis
to span very wide range of particle sizes. One procedure sieving, is used for gravel
and sand size particles, which can be separated into different size range with a
series of sieves of standard aperture openings. Other procedure is sedimentation
(Hydrometer Test) used for silt and clay size particles.
A sieve analysis (or gradation test) is a practice or procedure used
(commonly used in civil engineering) to assess the particle size distribution (also
called gradation) of a granular material by allowing the material to pass through a
series of sieves of progressively smaller mesh size and weighing the amount of
material that is stopped by each sieve as a fraction of the whole mass. The size
distribution is often of critical importance to the way the material performs in
use. This practical is important as grain size analysis is widely used in classification
of soils. The data obtained from grain size distribution curves is used in the design
of filters for earth dams and to determine suitability of soil for road construction, air
field etc. It can predict soil water movement although permeability tests are most
generally used.
Coefficient of Uniformity (Cu): This is the indicator of spread of the range
of the particles sizes and defined as the ratio of D60 to D10 particle sizes.
Mathematically, Cu = (D60/D10)
Coefficient of Curvature (Cc): This is the measure of the shape of curve
between D60 and D10 grain sizes and it is defined as the ratio of square of D30 to
product of D10 and D60.
distMathematically, Cc = (D30)2/ (D10 x D60)
Particle Size Distribution Curve (PSDC): It is the curve drawn to analyze
the soil sample based on its nature. It is sieve size or particle size versus
cumulative % finer of particles.
Depending upon the nature of graph, the soil tested is classified as below :
1. Well graded soil-which contains particles of all sizes in it i.e. finer to coarser. The
nature of graph is S-shaped.
2. Poorly graded soil- which contains large amount of particles of any specific size
and deficiency of other sizes in it. The nature of graph is undulating or wavy type.
3. Uniformly graded soil- which contains particles of same or equal sizes. The graph
will be approximately vertical line parallel to Y-axis.
4. Fine grained soil- which contains maximum amount of finer particles in it. The line
on PSDC will be cutting to X-axis.
38 | Page
5. Coarse grained soil- which contains maximum amount of coarse particles in it.
The line on PSDC will be cutting to Y-axis.
Criteria grading of soil as per the Unified Soil Classification System :
1. 1. For a gravel to be classified as well graded, the following criteria must be met:
Cu > 4 & 1 < Cc < 3
2. If both of these criteria are not met, the gravel is classified as poorly graded (GP). If
both of these criteria are met, the gravel is classified as well graded (GW).
H. Experimental set up :
IS Sieve Set Mechanical Sieve Shaker
39 | Page
Measurement of soil fraction after Particle Size distribution curve

sieving
Fig- 5 Sieve Analysis of Soil
I. Resources/Equipment Required :
Sr. Instrument/Equipment Specification Quantity
No. /Components/Trainer kit
10mm, 4.75mm, 2.36mm, 1.18mm, 600μ,
1 IS Sieve Set 1 No
300μ, 150μ, 75μ sizes
2 Mechanical Sieve Shaker -------------- 1 No
3 Weighing balance With minimum accuracy 0.01 gm 1 No
4 Thermostatically controlled oven Temperature of 1100Cto 1150C 1 No
5 Metal Tray 30x30cm approx.. 1 No
6 Steel brush -------------- 1 No
J. Safety and necessary Precautions followed :

1. Ensure that soil sample is completely dry without lumps before sieving.
2. Weigh the soil fraction very accurately retained on each sieve by removing all
particles using steel brush.
3. The care should be taken to clean the sieve by brush, so that it will not damage wire
fabric of sieve.
40 | Page
K. Procedure to be followed :
1. Take 500gm-1000gm Oven dried soil sample and break the lumps if available in
soil sample.
2. Arrange the set of IS sieves in the descending order with coarser sieve at top and
finer sieve at bottom.
3. Place lid and pan at top and bottom of IS sieve set respectively.
4. Keep this assembly on Mechanical/Manual Sieve Shaker for sieving. Continue
shaking the sieve set for minimum 10-15 minutes.
5. Take out the soil from each sieve using steel brush. Measure the weight of soil
fraction retained on each sieve separately. Record the same in observation table.
6. Calculate the cumulative percentage finer in tabular format given below.
7. Draw the Particle Size Distribution Curve (PSDC) on semi logarithmic graph as
particle size as abscissa (log scale) versus cumulative percentage finer as ordinate
(natural scale).
8. From nature of PSDC, classify the given soil in above mentioned categories.

Observations :
Total mass of dry soil sample taken (W1) = ………………gm
Observation Table:
Cumulative % Cumulative
Sr. Weight % Passing
Sieve Size weight weight
No. retained (gm) (100-Col(5))
retained (gm) retained (gm)
Col-1 Col-2 Col-3 Col-4 Col-5 Col-6
1 10mm
2 4.75mm
3 2.36mm
4 1.18mm
5 600μ
6 300μ
7 150μ
8 75μ
9 PAN
41 | Page
Note : More sieves of intermediate size can be added in between coarsest and finest
sieves for more accurate analysis.
Calculations:
For Observation No. 1
Coefficient of Uniformity Cu = (D60 / D10) =___________
Coefficient of Curvature Cc = (D30) 2 / (D10 x D60) =____________
M. Interpretation of Results :
1. Coefficient of Uniformity of given soil sample is ………………., hence it is
designated as …………………………soil.
2. Coefficient of Curvature of given soil sample is ………………., hence it is
designated as …………………………soil.
3. The given soil sample is classified as ………………………….soil from particle
size distribution curve
N. Conclusion :
O. Practical related Quiz :

1. What is D10, D30 & D60 from the particle size distribution curve ?
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________
2. State the application of particle size distribution curve.

____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________
3. What is well graded and poorly graded soil ?
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________
42 | Page
P. References / Suggestions:
1. NCTEL video series for Soil Mechanics Laboratory Tests:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAezS3mPzOc
Q. Graph: SEMI LOG GRAPGH
43 | Page
44 | Page
R. Assessment-Rubrics :
Weightage Marks out of

Performance Indicators
(%) 05
Identification of
1 Instrument & Process 20 %
(40%)
Calculation of Cu & Cc
and from Graph and
3 20 %
identification of type of
soil Product
Related
Answer to practical
4 (60%) 20 %
related questions
Submission of report in
5 20 %
time
Sign with Date
45 | Page
Date:.....................
Practical No.6: DETERMINE LIQUID LIMIT, PLASTIC LIMIT AND SHRINKAGE
LIMIT OF SOIL
A. Objective: To determine Atterberg’s Limits - Liquid limit, Plastic Limit and

Shrinkage Limit. [IS:2720-1985 Part-V & IS:2720-1972 Part-VI]
PO1.Basic and Discipline specific knowledge: Apply knowledge of basic
mathematics, science and engineering fundamentals and engineering specialization
to solve the engineering problems.


measurements.

competency, “Evaluate and interpret test results for selection of proper Soil as
a construction material and as a strata for foundation.”
1. Ability to understand the scale measurement on semi-log graph.
2. Ability to interpret theory aspects while performing the tests.
3. Team spirit & leadership quality.
Interpret the physical properties of soil related to given construction
activities.
To determine Atterberg’s Limits - Liquid limit, Plastic Limit and Shrinkage Limit.
2.Handle tools and equipments carefully with safety and necessary precautions.
3.Maintain cleanliness and good ambience in laboratory
Consistency of soil is a term related to the fine grained soil. It is related to water
content of the soil. Consistency describes the firmness of the soil which may be termed as
46 | Page
soft, firm, stiff or hard. Soil behaves in different way in the presence of different amount of
water in the soil. In 1911, Atterberg, a Swedish agriculturist, divided the soil into the four
stages and find the water content at every change of the stages. So it is also called
‘Atterberg’s Limit’.
In Laboratory, We find the water content at each boundary of the different stages.
The first one, Water content at boundary of Liquid stage and Plastic stage is termed as
‘Liquid Limit of the Soil’. At boundary of Plastic stage and Semi-solid stage, water content
is called ‘Plastic Limit of the Soil’. And the water amount at the boundary of Semi-solid and
Solid Stage is called ‘Shrinkage Limit of the Soil’. (Refer fig.1.1).
1. Liquid Limit: Theoretically, Liquid Limit can be defined as the amount of Water
Content at the boundary of the Liquid stage and the Plastic stage. After this limit
has achieved, the soil will start to behave like a plastic material. It can be moulded
in any shapes. Practically, the Liquid Limit is defined as the Water Content at 25
blows applied on the well prepared soil specimen, tested on Casagrande’s
apparatus. Numbers of tests are conducted on the Casagrande’s apparatus with
change in Water Content of soil. Number of blows is measured, at the groove, cut
in the soil, come in contact at bottom of sample for at least a distance of 10 mm.
Then, no. of blows verses Water Content is plotted on Semi-log graph, no. of
blows being on log scale. Water Content for 25 blows is determined from the
graph.
2. Plastic Limit: Theoretically, Plastic limit is the amount of Water Content at the
boundary of Plastic stage and the Semi-solid stage of the soil. The soil behaves like
a plastic up to this Water Content. It can not crumble during this stage. Practically,
Plastic Limit is defined as the Water Content at which a soil will just begin to
crumble when rolled into a thread of approximately 3 mm in diameter. A gentle
rolling should be done with equal force applied on it with a rate of rolling keeping
constant.
3. Shrinkage Limit: Theoretically, Shrinkage Limit is defined as the maximum
Water Content at which a reduction in water content will not cause a decrease in
the volume of a soil mass. It is the lowest Water Content at which a soil can still be
completely saturated. During shrinkage stage, there is gradual change in volume of
the soil mass with reduction in Water Content. Further reduction in Water Content
after shrinkage limit will not cause any change in volume, it means the soil is now
47 | Page
converting in the solid stage. Practically, Shrinkage Limit can be determined by the
use of mercury. The initial volume of soil can be measured equal to the volume of
mould in which it is compacted. After oven drying the reduced volume is found out
using amount of mercury displaced from an evaporating dish when the soil is
immerse in it.
Atterberg’s Limits are very much important to study the soil under effect of
compaction, consolidation, shearing force etc. Various ‘Indices’ are derived from
these limits, which help to study the types of soil, density of soil, void ratio etc.
48 | Page
Fig-6 (a) Liquid Limit Test setup
49 | Page
50 | Page
Re mark
Sr. No. Particulars Specification Quantity
General Equipment for all three tests
1 Weighing balance With accuracy 0.01 gm 1 No. Per batch
2 IS sieve 425μ size 1 No. Per batch
3 Thermostatically controlled oven Temperature 1000c - 1150c 1 No. Per batch
4 Metal tray with spatula 30 cm x 30 cm 1 No. Per batch
Equipment for Liquid Limit Test:

5 Grooving tools (Casagrande’s or 10 cm internal diameter 1 No.
ASTM grooving tool) and 15 cm internal depth Per batch
6 Casagrande’s Liquid Limit 380 mm height,100mm 1 No. Per batch
Apparatus diameter, 3-litre capacity
7 Non-corrodible air tight -- 5 Nos. Per batch
Container
Equipment for Plastic Limit Test:
8 Non-porous glass or marble 20 x 15 cm 1 No. Per batch
9 Plate
Metal rod 1 No. Per batch
3mm diameter, 10 cm long
10 Non-corrodible air tight Container -- 3 Nos. Per batch
Equipment for Shrinkage Limit Test:
11 Evaporating Dish of Porcelain about 120mm diameter 1 No. Per batch

with a pour out and flat
12 Spatula and Straight Edge 10 cm internal diameter
bottom. 1 No. Per batch
and 15 cm internal depth
Shrinkage Dish. porcelain or Circular, having flat
13 1 No. Per batch
non-corroding metal dish bottom, 45mm diameter
and 15 mm height
about 120mm diameter
14 Evaporating Dish of Porcelain 1 No. Per batch
with a pour out and flat
bottom.
15 Wash bottle containing distilled
3mm diameter, 10 cm long 1 No. Per batch
water
16 Glass plates one plain and one with 3 2 Nos. Per batch
prongs, size
75mm x 75mm x 3mm
17 Glass cup 50mm diameter and 25m 1 No. Per batch
Height
18 Mercury Dish 60mm diameter 1 No. Per batch
51 | Page

1. Soil used for liquid limit determination should not be oven dried prior to testing.
2. In liquid limit test the groove should be closed by the flow of soil and not by
slippage between the soil and the cup.
3. After mixing the water to the soil sample, sufficient time should be given to
permeate the water throughout the soil mass.
4. Wet soil taken in the container for moisture content determination should not
be left open in the air; the container with soil sample should either be placed in
desiccators or immediately be weighed.
5. The dropping height of brass cup should be maintained exactly 1cm (10mm).
Liquid Limit Test:
1. Take about 150 gm. of air-dried soil sample passing through 425 micron IS
sieve in metal tray.
2. Add distilled water to the soil sample so that it will form uniform soil paste.
3. Put the prepared soil paste sample in the brass cup of Casagrande’s apparatus
and spread horizontally into portion by applying few strokes of spatula.
4. Trim the soil up to a depth of 10 mm maximum thickness and remove excess
of soil from the brass cup.
5. Divide the soil sample in two parts by the firm strokes of the grooving tool
along the diameter through the centre of brass cup so that clean sharp
groove of proper dimension is formed.
6. Rotate the handle of Casagrande’s apparatus at a rate of 2 revolutions per
second until two parts of the soil will meet each other for a length of about 12
mm by flow only.
7. Count the number of blows required to close the groove for about 12 mm. It is
recorded as N.
8. Take some part as representative of soil for water content determination as w%.
9. Repeat all above steps by changing water in soil sample to get number of
blows between 10 to 50. Record the number of blows and corresponding water
content for at least five trials.
10. Draw the flow curve i.e. Number of blows required as abscissa (log scale)
versus water content determined as ordinate (natural scale) on semi-
logarithmic graph paper.
11. Find out the water content corresponding to 25 blows from semi-log graph
as liquid limit (WL) of given soil sample.
Plastic Limit Test:

1. Take 20-25 gm oven dried soil sample passing through 425 micron IS sieve.
2. Add distilled water in soil and mix it thoroughly for 10-15 minutes till soil
becomes plastic enough, so that it can be mouldable. (It is recommended to
keep clayey soils at least 24 hours for saturation.)
52 | Page
3. Make the balls of soil paste and roll it on non-porous glass or marble plate using
figure pressure only till it becomes soil thread of 3mm diameter.
4. Continue the rolling process till soil starts crumbling and it resembles a uniform
thread.
5. Compare the soil thread with metal rod of same diameter, then stop the
rolling; where soil thread crumbles into different parts.
6. Determine the water content of crumbled soil parts by oven drying method (w%)
7. Repeat all above steps two more times to get average water content as plastic
limit (WP) given soil sample.
Shrinkage Limit Test:
1. Take a sample of mass about 100g from a thoroughly mixed soil passing 425 μ
sieve.
2. Take about 30g of soil sample in a large evaporating dish. Mix it with distilled
water to make a creamy paste. Take care for the paste not entrapped with air
voids and can readily worked without the air bubbles.
3. Take the shrinkage dish. Clean it and determine its mass.
4. Fill the mercury in the shrinkage dish. Remove the excess mercury by pressing
the plain glass plate over the top of the shrinkage dish. The plate should be
flush with the top of the dish. And no air should be entrapped.
5. Transfer the mercury of the shrinkage dish to a mercury weighing dish and
determine the mass of the mercury to an accuracy of 0.1g. the volume of the
shrinkage dish is equal to the mass of mercury in grams divided by the specific
gravity of the mercury (i.e. 13.6).
6. Coat the inside of the shrinkage dish with a thin layer of silicon grease or
Vaseline. Place the soil specimen in the center of the shrinkage dish equal to
about one- third the volume of the shrinkage dish. Tap the shrinkage dish on a
firm cushioned surface and allow the paste to flow to the edges.
7. Add more soil and continue the tapping till the shrinkage dish is completely
filled and excess soil paste projects out about its edge. Strike out the top
surface of the plate with a straight edge. Wipe of all soil adhering to the
outside of the shrinkage dish. Determine the mass of the wet soil (M1).
8. Dry the soil in the shrinkage dish in air until the colour of the pat turns from
dark to light. Then dry the pat in the oven at 105 to 110 0C to constant mass for
24 hours.
9. Cool the dry pat in a desiccator. Remove the dry pat from the desiccator after
cooling, and weight the shrinkage dish with the dry pat to determine the dry
mass of the soil (MS).
10. Place a glass cup in a large evaporating dish and fill it with mercury. Remove
the excess mercury by pressing the glass plate with prongs firmly over the top
of the cup. Wipe off any mercury adhering to the outside of the cup. Remove the
53 | Page
glass cup full of mercury and place it in another evaporating dish taking care
not to spill any mercury from the cup.
11. Take out the dry pat of the soil from the shrinkage dish and immerse it in the
glass cup full of mercury. Take care not to entrap air under the pat. Press the
plate with prongs on the top of the cup firmly.
12. Collect the mercury displaced by the dry pat in the evaporating dish and
transfer it to the mercury weighing dish. Determine the mass of the mercury
to an accuracy of 0.1g. The volume of the dry pat (V2)is equal to the mass of
the mercury divided by the specific gravity of the mercury.
13. Repeat the test at least 3 times.
L. Observation Table:
(1) Liquid Limit
Sr. Particulars Observation Nos.

No.
1 2 3 4 5
1 No. of blows (N)
2 Container No.
3 Mass of empty container with lid (W1) gm
4 Mass of container with lid and moist soil (W2)

gm
5 Mass of container with lid and dry soil(W3)
gm
6 Mass of water (Ww) = W2 -W3
7 Mass of dry soil (Ws) = W3 -W1
8 Water content in % w = ( Ww/ Ws ) x100
54 | Page
(2) Plastic Limit:
Sr. Particulars Observations

No. 1 2 3
1 Container No.
2 Mass of empty container with lid (W1) gm
3 Mass of container with lid and moist soil (W2) gm
4 Mass of container with lid and dry soil (W3) gm
5 Mass of water (Ww) = W2 -W3
6 Mass of dry soil (Ws) = W3 -W1
7 Water content in % w = ( Ww/ Ws ) x 100
(3) Shrinkage Limit:
Sr. Particulars Observation No.

No. 1 2 3
1 Mass of empty mercury dish (M1) gm
2 Mass of mercury dish, with mercury equal to volume of the

shrinkage dish (M2) gm
3 Mass of mercury (Mm) = (M2) – (M1)gm
4 Volume of shrinkage dish V1= (Mm)/13.6
5 Mass of shrinkage dish (M3) gm
6 (Mass of shrinkage dish + wet soil) (M4) gm
7 Mass of wet soil M5 = (M4) – (M3)
8 (Mass of shrinkage dish + dry soil) (M6) gm
9 Mass of dry soil Ms= (M6) – (M5)gm
10 Mass of mercury dish + mercury equal to in volume of dry
pat (M7) gm
11 Mass of mercury displaced by dry pat
(Mmd)=(M7) – (M1) gm
12 Volume of dry pat V2= (Mmd)/13.6
13 Shrinkage Limit
WS =(((M1 - Ms) / (V1 – V2) γw ) / Ms) x 100
55 | Page
Calculations:
(1) Liquid limit test:
% w = ( Ww/ Ws ) x 100
= ……………………………………
= ………………………………….. %
(2)Plastic limit test:
% w = ( Ww/ Ws ) x 100
= ……………………………………
= …………………………………… %
Average water content in percentage of three samples = …………………………………
= …………………………………%
Plasticity Index of given soil IP = WL – WP
= ……………………..
= ………….. %
(3) Shrinkage limit test:

Shrinkage Limit WS= ((M1 - Ms) / (V1 – V2) γw ) / Ms) x 100
=………………………………………………
= ……………………………………………%
Average Shrinkage Limit in percentage of three samples = …………………………….
= ……………………………….%
a. The liquid limit of given soil sample from flow curve is ………….. %.
b. The plastic limit of given soil sample is ………….. %.
c. The plasticity index of given soil sample is ………….. %.
d. The shrinkage limit of given soil sample is ………….. %.
56 | Page
Conclusion:
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________
N. Practical related Quiz.

1. Oven dried soil is not used for liquid limit determination. Justify it.
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________
2. State the size of sieve used for taking soil sample in liquid limit test.
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________
3. Mention the suitability of grooving tools used for clayey/ peat/ silty soil.
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________
4. State the capacity and least count of measuring cylinder used during experiment.
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________
5. State the dropping height of brass cup while performing test.
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________
6. Suggest the No. of blows at which liquid limit can be determined from flow curve.
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________
7. State the diameter of evaporating dish that you used in this test.
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________
57 | Page
8. Write the density of mercury.

____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________
9. Mention the way of preventing inclusion of air bubbles in shrinkage dish.
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________
10.State the necessity of dry pat used in experiment.
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________
11. State the density of distilled water in KN/m3 and gm/cm3.
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
12. State the alternate method to determine shrinkage limit of soil.
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
O. References:
1. NCTEL video series for Soil Mechanics Laboratory Tests: https://youtu.be/pM-w_cvk1nA
P. Graph ( SEMI LOG GRAPH) [For Liquid Limit Test]
58 | Page
59 | Page

(%) 05
Identification of
(40%)
and from Graph and
3 20 %
soil Product
Related
Answer to practical
4 (60%) 20 %
related questions
5 20 %
time
Total Marks obtained out of 25 : __________________
Sign with Date
60 | Page
Date:.....................
Practical No.7: DETERMINE PERMEABILITY OF SOIL BY CONSTANT HEAD
METHOD
A. Objective: To determine Coefficient of the Permeability of the given soil samples

using Constant Head Permeability Test. [IS:2720-1986 Part-17]


measurements.

1. Ability to prepare specimen and handle instruments.

Determine Coefficient of permeability and shear parameters of soil and apply
results in foundation analysis and other construction
Determine Permeability of soil by constant head method
61 | Page
1. Darcy’s law is used for laminar flow of water through soil media. It states that the rate
of flow is directly proportional to the hydraulic gradient.
2. The constant head permeability test is used for coarse-grained soil for which a
measurable quantity of water is collected from the specimen in a small duration.
3. Permeability is the property of material to allow passing water any liquid through the
material. Permeability of soil means the permission to pass water from soil mass.
Permeability depends upon various factors. In stiff clay permeability is less. In gravel
or coarse sand permeability is more.
Fig-7 Constant Head Permeability Test set up

NOTE:
Soil Type K cm/sec
Pure Gravel > 1.0
Pure coarse Sand 1.0 to 10-2
62 | Page
Soil Type K cm/sec

Fine Sand 10-2 to 10-3
Silt Sand 10-3 to 10-4
Silt 10-4 to 10-5
Clay < 10-6
Instrument/Equipment
Sr. No. /Components/Trainer kit Specification Quantity
1. Permeability test mould assembly with porous - 1
stone, filter paper etc
2. Mixing pan - 2
3. Graduated cylinder - 1
4. Meter scale - 1
5. Stop watch - 1
6. Thermometer - 1
7. Source of distilled water - 1
8. Constant head water tank - 1
9. IS sieve 10 mm 1
10. Set of stand pipe 5 to 20 mm dia mounted 1
on stand
J. Safety and necessary Precautions followed.

1. Following precautions should be taken while performing test.
2. Soil should be saturated.
3. No air should be there in the tube and permeameter.
4. No leakage.
5. No impurities in water.
63 | Page
1. The specimen of soil may be undisturbed or remoulded. In the present case a remolded
soil sample is used which is dynamically compacted at MDD and OMC using 25 blows
in 3 layers.
2. After applying grease to the mould, fit it to the compaction base plate and cover with a
collar.
3. Take 2.5 kg of oven dried soil passing 10 mm IS sieve and add desired quantity of
water to bring the moisture content to optimum to get maximum dry density.
4. Pour this soil sample in to the mould in three layers by compacting each layer giving
25 blows.
5. Remove the collar and excess soil from the top of the mould.
6. Weight the compacted soil with mould after detaching it from the base plate.
7. Prepare the porous discs by boiling in water.
8. Transfer this cylinder to permeability meter assembly and provide porous stones, filter
paper etc. in correct sequence.
9. Then connect the bottom nozzle of the assembly to source of water for saturation, till
water comes out from the top.
10. Now connect the water inlet from Constant Head Water Tank to top of the assembly
and open the nozzle till the flow is in steady state. Adjust the inflow in the tank so that
there is no turbulence due to excessive overflow. Measure the head of water above the
out let of permeability meter to water level in the tank. . At the same time air bubbles in
the connecting tube etc. are to be removed by adjusting height and raising or lowering
the position of the mould.
11. Now collect the water in a beaker and start the stopwatch simultaneously. Run the test
for a specific duration so that a measurable quantity of water is collected in the beaker.
Take 2 to 3 readings.
12. The coefficient of permeability measured by the following equation
k = Q. L. / (h. t. A.)
64 | Page
Field Application:
1. The use of the coefficient permeability is for seepage and stability analysis of earthen
dams, retaining walls and for collection of yield from wells.
2. The concept of permeability is useful in many engineering problems.
3. In estimating the seepage and uplift pressure in case of important engineering structure
[uplift pressure under hydraulic structure]
4. Knowledge permeability is applicable to wells, tube wells, water filters, casing earth dams,
back fill of retaining walls, rock etc.
5. Settlement of building foundation
6. Drainage system, ground water lowering also need deep knowledge of permeability.
7. Permeability governs the hydraulic stability of soil masses.
8. Impermeability of soil is also useful in some cases viz. puddle, trenches, cut off, blankets
etc.
9. Knowledge of permeability is required to prevent piping in hydraulic structures.

Observation Data:
1. A = π /4 *d2 ( d= dia. of sample = ____________cm)
= _____________________ (cm2)
2. ‘L’ of soil sample = ___________ ( cm )
3. Volume of mould V = ____________ ( cm3 ) [π/4×D2 ×L]
4. Weight of soil W = __________
5. Bulk density of soil = (ρ) = M/V _____________
6. Water Content W% = _________
7. Dry density = ρd = ρ/ (1+w) = ________________________
65 | Page
Observation Table:
Time(t) Discharge Q Constant head h k (cm/s)

(s) (ml) (cm)
k = Q. L. / (h. t. A.)
Calculations:
The Coefficient of Permeability for the given soil is = ________________ cm/s
…..................................................................................................................................
.............
N. Conclusion:
66 | Page

1. Define permeability.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
2. What is Darcy’s law?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
3. Factors effecting permeability.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
4. Prove unit of co-efficient of permeability is same as velocity.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
5. Arrange soil in order of permeability: gravel, coarse sand, fine sand, silt, clay, stiff clay.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
67 | Page
P. References :
1. Virtual Lab by Ministry of Education, Government of India:https://smfe-iiith.vlabs.ac.in
Q. Assessment-Rubrics :

(%) 05
Identification of
(40%)
and from Graph and
3 20 %
soil Product
Related
Answer to practical
4 (60%) 20 %
related questions
5 20 %
time
Max 25 marks
Sign with Date
68 | Page
Date:...............
Practical No.8: DETERMINE PERMEABILITY OF SOIL BY FALLING HEAD METHOD
A. Objective: To determine Coefficient of the Permeability of the given soil sample

using Falling Head Permeability Test.


measurements.


Determine Coefficient of permeability and shear parameters of soil and apply
results in foundation analysis and other construction
Determine Permeability of soil by constant head method
69 | Page
1. Darcy’s law is used for laminar flow of water through soil media. It states that the rate
of flow is directly proportional to the hydraulic gradient.
2. For fine-grained soil it requires a large time duration to collect a measurable quantity of
water that is collected from the sample and by that time evaporation losses also would
be significant. Hence for such soil Falling Head Permeability test is used.
H. Experimental setup:
Fig-8 Variable Head Permeability setup
70 | Page
Sr.No. Instrument/Equipment Quantity
1. Permeability test mould assembly with porous 1
stone
2. Filter paper 2
3. Mixing pan 1
4. Graduated cylinder 1
5. Set of glass tube with meter scale 1
6. Stop watch 1
7. Thermometer 1
8. Source of distilled water 1
Following precautions should be taken while performing test.
1. Soil should be saturated.

2. No air should be there in the tube and permeameter.
3. No leakage.
4. No impurities in water.
1. The specimen of soil may be undisturbed or remoulded. In the present case a
remolded soil sample is used which is dynamically compacted at MDD and
OMC
using 25 blows in 3 layers.
2. Transfer this cylinder to permeability meter assembly and provide porous stones,
filter paper etc in the correct sequence.
3. Then connect the bottom nozzle of the assembly to the source of water for
saturation, till water comes out from the top.
4. Now connect the water inlet from the glass tube to the top of the assembly. The
small dia. A glass tube is used for soils with very low permeability. Measure
the
distance from outlet level to zero mark of the scale adjacent to the glass tube.
5. Now open the nozzle till the flow is in steady state.
71 | Page
6. Start the stopwatch and note water level in the tube at starting point (h1) and at
final point (h2). Take three such readings by fixing a constant time interval
based
on soil type may be 5 to 15 seconds by allowing flow through the outlet.
7. The coefficient of permeability measured by the following equation :-
K = 2.3 a. L .log10 (h1/h2) / (A.t)

Cross Section Area of the glass Tube: a=Vol. / Ht. of water column
= __________ (cm2)
2
● A = π /4 *d ( d= dia. of sample = ____________cm)
= __________( cm2 )
● ‘L’ of soil sample = ___________ (cm)
Observation Table:
Sr. No. Time Initial water Final water k (cm/s) Avg.

(t) sec head (h1) cm head (h2) cm k (cm/s)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Calculations:
72 | Page
N. Conclusion:
1. Define ‘Permeability’.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
2. Write the use of permeability in Civil Engineering.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
3. Write advantage and disadvantage of permeability in Civil Engineering,
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
4. Write down methods for finding permeability.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
5. Write down suitability of method.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
73 | Page
6. Write the type of soil for which you have found permeability.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
P. References:
1. Virtual Lab by Ministry of Education, Government of India:https://smfe-iiith.vlabs.ac.in
Q. Assessment-Rubrics:

(%) 05
Identification of
(40%)
Calculation of Cu & Cc and

from Graph and
3 20 %
soil Product
Related
Answer to practical related
4 (60%) 20 %
questions
5 20 %
time
Sign with Date
74 | Page
Date:.....................
Practical No.9: DETERMINE SHEAR PARAMETERS OF SOIL BY DIRECT SHEAR
TEST
A. Objective: To determine Shear parameters of soil by Direct Shear test. [IS: 2720-
1986 Part 13]
B. Expected Program Outcomes (POs) :





D. Expected Course Outcomes(Cos) :
CO4: Determine Coefficient of permeability and shear parameters of soil and apply
results in foundation analysis and other construction activities.
E. Practical Outcome(PRo) :
Determine Shear parameters of soil by Direct Shear test
75 | Page
IS: 2720-1986 Part 13 covers the methods for determination of shear strength of
soil with a maximum particle size of 4.75 mm in undrained, consolidated undrained
and consolidated drained conditions. The resistance of soil against its sliding or the
ability of soil to remain stable even in sloping condition is known as Shear Strength
of Soil. This test can be performed under all the preconditions of drainage. Shear
strength of a soil is its maximum resistance to shearing stresses.
Shear strength is expressed as S = c’ + σn .tanØ
Where c’ = effective cohesion, σn= effective stress, Ø= effective angle of shearing

resistance
The direct shear test is generally conducted on sandy soils as a consolidated drained
test.
H. Experimental set up :
Schematic diagram of direct shear test apparatus
76 | Page
Fig-9 Direct shear test apparatus
77 | Page
Sr.N Instrument/Equipment Specification Quantity
o. /Components/Trainer kit
1 Direct Shear Test Apparatus as Per I.S. 2720 (Part-XIII) 1 No.
divided into two halves by a horizontal
2 Shear box plane, and fitted with locking and spacing 1 No.
screws
3 Base plate having cross grooves on its top surface 1 No.
4 Grid plates perforated 2 Nos
5 Porous stones 6mm thick 2 Nos
6 Loading frame with yoke ----------------- 1 No.
7 Proving ring Capacity 2kN 2 No.
8 Dial gauges Accuracy 0.01mm 2 No.
9 Compaction devices Static or dynamic 1 No.
10 Spatula ----------------- 1 No.

1. Before starting the test, the upper half of the box should be brought in contact of the
proving ring assembly.
2. Before subjecting the specimen to shear, the fixing pins should be taken out.
3. The rate of strain should be constant throughout the test.
4. The soil sample should be compacted carefully.
5. Dial of proving ring should be adjusted properly.
1. Take 2.5 Kg air dried soil sample passing through 4.75 mm and retained on 2.36mm IS
sieve.
2. Measure the internal dimensions of the shear box. Also determine the average thickness
of the grid plates.
3. Fix the upper part of the box to the lower part using the locking screws. Attach the base
plate to the lower part.
78 | Page
4. For performing a UU test, Plain toothed grids (without perforations) are used at the top
and bottom faces of samples. Shear force is applied immediately after applying the
normal load. Place the grid plate in the shear box keeping the serrations of the grid at
right angles to the direction of shear. Place the porous stone over the grid plate.
5. Weigh the shear box with base plate, grid plate and porous stone.
6. Place the soil specimen in the box. Tamp it directly in the shear box at the required
density. When the soil in the top half of the shear box is filled.
7. Weigh the box with soil specimen.
8. Weigh the box inside the box contained and fix the loading pad on the box. Mount the
box contained on the loading frame.
9. Bring the upper half of the box in contact with the proving ring. Check the contact by
giving a slight movement.
10. Fill the container with water if the soil is to be saturated, otherwise omit this step.
11. Mount the loading yoke on the ball placed on the loading pad.
12. Mount the dial gauge on the loading yoke to record the vertical displacement and
another dial gauge on the container to record the horizontal displacement.
13. Place the weights on the loading yoke to apply a normal stress. Allow the sample to
consolidate under the applied normal stress. Note the reading of the vertical
displacement dial gauge.
14. Remove the locking screws. Using the spacing screws, raise the upper part slightly above
the lower part such that the gap is slightly larger than the maximum particle size. Remove
the spacing screws.
15. Adjust all the dial gauges to read zero. The proving ring should also read zero.
16. Apply the horizontal shear load at a constant rate of strain of 0.2mm/minute.
17. Record the reading of the proving ring, the vertical displacement dial gauge and the
horizontal displacement dial gauge at regular time intervals. Take the first few readings at
closer intervals.
18. Continue the test till the specimen fails or till a strain of 20% is reached.
19. At the end of the test, remove the specimen from the box and take a representative sample
for water content determination.
20. Repeat the test on identical specimens under the normal stresses of 50, 100, 200, 400
KN/m, etc. (The range of stresses selected should correspond to the actual field stress
conditions.)
Plot the graph by taking the value Normal Stress as abscissa and the
maximum shearing stress as ordinate.
L. Observations and Calculations :
Observations :
1. C/S area of soil specimen (A) = ……………………………cm2
2. 20% Longitudinal Displacement (d) = ………………………..cm
79 | Page
Observation Table:
Sr. Normal Load Normal Stress Shear force from Shear Stress
No. in (N) in (N/mm2) calibration chart in (N/mm2)
(N)
3
Calculations :
The shear strength parameters of the given soil sample are :
1. Cohesion ‘c’ = ………………… N/mm2 .
2. Angle of internal friction ‘Ø’ = ………………0 .
3. The shear strength of soil is s = c + σ . tan Ø
s= _________________ N/mm2
1. The shear strength of soil is = _________________ N/mm2
2. From graph, the type of soil is = ____________________
N. Conclusion :
…..................................................................................................................................
…..................................................................................................................................

1. State the dimensions of shear box assembly used in this test.
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
2. State whether the direct shear test apparatus is motorized or not.
3. ______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
4. Mention the constant of proving ring used by you.
80 | Page
5. ______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
6. State the rate of loading in horizontal direction.
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
7. Give the meaning of cohesion and angle of internal friction in case of shear strength
of soil.
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
P. References / Suggestions :
1. NCTEL Video series for Soil Mechanics laboratory Tests :
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bmpn5oNDvOs&t=17s
2. Virtual Lab by Ministry of Education, Government of India:
https://smfe-iiith.vlabs.ac.in
3. NPTEL Course :-Soil Mechanics by IIT, Guwahati :
https://nptel.ac.in/courses/105103097
Q. Graph:
81 | Page
82 | Page

(%) 05
Identification of
(40%)
Calculation of Shear
Strength from shear
3 20 %
parameter obtained from
graph Product
Related
Answer to practical
4 (60%) 20 %
related questions
5 20 %
time
Sign with Date
83 | Page
Date:......................
Practical No.10: DETERMINE OMC & MDD OF SOIL BY STANDARD PROCTOR
TEST [LIGHT COMPACTION TEST]
A. Objective: To determine OMC & MDD of Soil by Standard Proctor test.

[IS :2720-1974 (Part-VII)]





D. Expected Course Outcomes(Cos) :
CO5: Determine O.M.C. and M.D.D. values of soil and select suitable method of
soil stabilization.
E. Practical Outcome(PRo):
Determine OMC & MDD of soil by standard proctor test [Light compaction Test]
84 | Page
Compaction is the process of packing soil particles closely together thereby
reducing voids and removing air from voids by dynamic load. There is an optimum
amount of mixing water for a given soil and compaction process, which will give a
maximum weight of soil per unit volume. This process increases dry density of soil.
This test was developed by Ralph R. Proctor in 1933, therefore it is known as
Standard Proctor test. The results obtained from this test are helpful in increasing
the bearing capacity of foundations, decreasing the undesirable settlement of
structures, Controlling undesirable volume changes, reducing hydraulic
conductivity and increasing the stability of slopes.
Optimum Moisture Content (O.M.C): The water content corresponding to
maximum dry density of soil, is called as Optimum Moister Content.
Maximum Dry Density (M.D.D): The Maximum value of dry density obtained in
compaction curve, is known as Maximum Dry Density.
Compaction Curve: It is the curve plotted between water content as abscissa and
corresponding dry density as ordinate.
H. Experimental set up/ Program Logic-Flow chart (CE & IT 1st and 2nd semester
software subjects only):
Fig-10 Proctor Test Apparatus for Compaction of Soil
85 | Page
Instrument/Equipment
Sr.No. Specification Quantity
capacity 1000ml, 10 cm internal dia.,
1 Compaction mould 1 No
12.73 cm height
2 Rammer mass 2.6 kg 1 No
3 Detachable base plate ----------- 1 No
4 Collar 60mm high 1 No
5 IS Sieve 20mm 1 No
6 Hot air Oven Thermostatically controlled 1 No
7 Desiccator ----------- 1 No
8 Electronic Weighing Balance Accuracy- 1mg 1 No
9 Bucket/Pan for mixing soil ----------- 1 No
10 Spatula, trowel ----------- 1 No
11 Containers for water 8 No

Stainless steel containers
absorption
J. Safety and necessary Precautions followed :

1. Rammer should not strike the edge of collar while compacting.
2. Blows should be evenly distributed on the surface of soil in each layer.
3. Apply wax or oil inside the mould before filling the soil in layers.
1. Take about 5 Kg. of de-aired soil passing through sieve 20 mm in tray.
2. Add about 4% water (approximately 120 ml) to the soil and mix thoroughly with
trowel and cover it with moist cloth for 24 hours to ensure thorough mixing of
water with soil.
3. Note the dimension of proctor mould, collar and base plate
86 | Page
4. Take the empty weight of the mould (without collar and base plate).
5. Apply a thin film of grease on inside of the mould.
6. Fix the mould to the base plate with the help of wing nuts, place collar on the
mould.
7. Fill the soil in mould in three equal layers and give 25 blows to each layer using
standard Rammer. Scrap the top surface of compacted layer before placing the next
layer of a soil. Ensure that after compaction of the third layer, the level of
compacted soil is slightly above the top of the mould.
8. Remove the collar and trim the soil with a straight edge, disconnect the mould
from base plate and weigh it.
9. Extrude the compacted soil from the mould.
10. Collect sample from middle of the mould for water content determination.
11. Repeat step 5 to 10 taking fresh sample of same soil with addition of 3 to 4 % more
water than previously added water. Repeat these steps for no. of times till a
decrease in the weight of a soil is observed for at least two successive readings.
12. Calculate bulk density of compacted soil for each Sample
13. Draw a graph of water content v/s. dry density and determine the OMC
corresponding to MDD.
L. Observations and Calculations :

Observations :
Internal Dia of mould (d) = _______________cm
Height of mould (h) = _____________cm
Volume of mould (V) = ____________cm3
87 | Page
Observation Table:
Sr. Observations
No. Particulars
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Bulk Density Determination
1 Mass of empty mould with

base plate (W1) gm
2 Mass of compacted soil+

mass of mould with base
plate (W2) gm
3 Mass of compacted soil

M=( W2 - W1) gm
4 Bulk density γ =M/V gm/cc
Water content Determination
5 Container No.
6 Mass of empty container

with lid ( W3) gm
7 Mass of container with lid

and moist soil ( W4) gm
8 Mass of container with lid

and dry soil ( W5) gm
9 Mass of water
( Ww) = W4-W5
10 Mass of dry soil

( Ws) = W5-W3
11 Water content in %
w = ( Ww/ Ws ) x 100
Dry Density Determination
12 Dry Density of soil

γd= (100 x γ) / (100 + w)
in gm/cc.
88 | Page
M. Interpretation of Results
For given soil sample, result obtained from graph:
1. Max. Dry Density [MDD]= __________ gm/cc
2. Optimum Moisture Content {OMC}= ________ %
N. Conclusion :
_ For given soil sample, result obtained from graph:
1. Max. Dry Density [MDD]= __________ gm/cc
2. Optimum Moisture Content {OMC}= ________ %
______________________________________________________________
1. What is Compaction of soil ?
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
2. What is Zero Air void line ?
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
3. What is OMC & MDD of soil ?
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
4. Enlist factors affecting compaction of soil.
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
89 | Page
P. References :
1. Virtual Lab by Ministry of Education, Government of India:
https://smfe-iiith.vlabs.ac.in
2. NPTEL Course :-Soil Mechanics by IIT, Guwahati :
https://nptel.ac.in/courses/105103097
Q. Graph:
90 | Page
91 | Page

(%) 05
Identification of
(40%)
Calculation and
3 determination of OMC & 20 %
MDD from Graph
Product
Answer to practical Related
4 20 %
related questions (60%)
5 20 %
time
Sign with Date
92 | Page
LAB MANUAL DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE (DTE Resource Persons)
Sr. Name and Designation Institute Contact No. Email

No.
Dr. J.B.Oza, Sr. Lecturer G.P.Rajkot 9429048253 jiteshboza@gmail.com

1
Applied Mechanics
Ms. Bhruguli H. Gandhi, R C Technical 9099076555 bhruguli@gmail.com

2 Sr. Lecturer Applied Institute,
Mechanics Ahmedabad
Shri R.R. Makwana, L.E. College, 9824128087 rrm.applied@gmail.co

3 Lecturer Applied Morbi m
Mechanics (Polytechnic)
R C Technical 9099015827 aashah141@gmail.com

Smt A C Shah, Sr. Lecturer
4 Institute,
Applied Mechanics
Ahmedabad
********************************
93 | Page

LM - Dr. Jitesh Oza

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

LM - Dr. Jitesh Oza

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Diploma Engineering

Civil Engineering / Semester-IV

Directorate Of Technical Education

This is to certify that Mr./Ms ………………………………………………………………….

Signature of Course Faculty Head of the Department

Soil Engineering is the youngest discipline/course of Civil Engineering. This

Programme Outcomes (POs) :

3. Design/ development of solutions: Design solutions for engineering well-defined technical

5. Engineering practices for society, sustainability and environment: Apply appropriate

6. Project Management: Use engineering management principles individually, as a team

Practical Outcome - Course Outcome matrix

1. Determine moisture content of soil by √ √ √ √ √

2. Determine field density and dry density of √ √ √

3. Determine field density and dry density of √ √ √

4. Determine specific gravity of soil by √

Industry Relevant Skills

1. Students should be able to identify soil and its behaviour at site.

Guidelines to Course Faculty

Instructions for Students

List of Practical and Progressive Assessment Sheet

Name of the Student- ENROLMENT No.-____________

Practical No.0: NBA Related Content

1. Write Vision and Mission of DTE, Institute and Department.

2. Write Program Outcomes as prescribed by NBA

3. Write PSOs and PEOs of the department.

4. Write Course Outcomes of Soil Engineering (4340602)

Sign with date

A. Objective: To Determine Moisture Content of Soil By Oven Drying Method

[I.S. – 2720(Part-II) (1973)]

PO-4. Engineering Tools, Experimentation and Testing: Apply modern

C. Expected Skills to be developed based on competency:

D. Expected Course Outcomes(Cos)

Determine moisture content of soil by oven drying method.

F. Expected Affective domain Outcome(ADos)

Fig-1. Thermostatically controlled oven

2 Balance Sufficient sensitivity to weigh the soil 1

3 Palette knife OR steel Spatula Blade 10 cm long and 2cm wide 1

4 Oven Thermostatically controlled oven, with -

J. Safety and necessary Precautions followed

2. Weigh it accurately with lid and record its mass (w1)gm.

3. Take about 50 gm of soil.

SIZE OF PARTICLES MORE THAN 90 MINIMUM QUANTITY OF SOIL

4. Weight the container with wet soil and lid(w2).

L. Observations and Calculations:

1 Mass of container with lid(W1) in gm

2 Mass of container with wet soil specimen with lid

3 Mass of container with dry soil specimen with lid

4 Mass of moisture (W2-W3) gm

5 Mass of dry soil (W3-W1) gm

6 Water Content =(W2-W3) * 100 %

Average Water Content (ω) % =

N. Practical related Quiz.

1. Define ‘Moisture content of soil’.

2. What is the importance of moisture content of soil in the field?

Performance Indicators Weightage Marks out of

1 Identification of Instrument & Process 20 %

3 Calculation and determination of Product 20 %

5 Submission of report in time 20 %

Total Out of 25 marks 100%

Sign with Date

PO1. Basic and Discipline specific knowledge: Apply knowledge of basic

PO 4. Engineering Tools, Experimentation and Testing: Apply modern

C. Expected Skills to be developed based on competency: