Piles are structural members that are made of steel, concrete, or timber. They are used to build pile foundations, which are deep and which cost more than shallow foundations. Despite the cost, the use of piles often is necessary to ensure structural safety. The following list identifies some of the conditions that require pile foundations: … Read more
Design Considerations for Pile Foundation The pile foundation analysis is based upon several simplifying assumptions which affect the accuracy of the results. The computed results must always be reviewed with engineering judgement by the design engineer to assure that the values are reasonable. Also, the analysis results should be compared with load test results. The … Read more
Determination of Residue of Bitumen Emulsion Purpose This test is done for the determination of residue of bituminous emulsion by sieving through 600-micron is sieve. Apparatus 600 Micron IS Sieve — A circular sieve approximately 100 mm in diameter and 40 mm height. Metal or Glass Dish — A small metal or glass dish about … Read more
Lime Reactivity Test Purpose This method of test covers the procedure for determining the reactivity of the pozzolanic material (such as fly ash) with hydrated lime, as represented by compressive strength of standard mortar test cubes prepared and tested under specific conditions. Size and Number of Test Specimens The tests specimen shall be 50 mm … Read more
A FIGHT AGAINST TRAFFIC Congested roadways are common problems that all drivers have to deal with. Whether commuting to work or enjoying a leisurely drive through the city, it is a problem that causes a great deal of stress and unnecessary frustration. However, while it is still a large problem, many engineers are dedicating their … Read more
Bitumen Content Test of a Bituminous Mix Purpose The test determines the bitumen content in the bituminous mix by cold solvent extraction. Apparatus & Solvent Centrifuge apparatus Trichloroethylene Procedure Take a representative sample of about 500 g, weigh it exactly and place it in the bowl of the extraction apparatus (W1). Cover the sample with … Read more
Test for Bitumen Emulsion: Viscosity by Saybolt Furol Viscometer Purpose Viscosity indicates the resistance to flow due to its internal friction. Higher the viscosity, lower the rate of flow. The test is conducted to see if it is in the specified range. The Test result is expressed in seconds for the flow of 60 cc … Read more
Measurement of Density of Soil in place by Nuclear Density Gauge Purpose This is a quick method of determining the in-situ density of soil which is based on the radiation. Equipment For this test special equipment which measures in place density using gamma radiation is used. Gauge usually contains a small gamma source (about 10 … Read more
Water Content Test of Soil by Alcohol Method Purpose It is a rapid method of determining the moisture content. Though less accurate, it is more suitable as a field test. The method shall not be used if the soil contains a large proportion of clay, gypsum, calcareous matter or organic matter. Apparatus Evaporating Dish– 10 … Read more
Moisture Content Determination Using Rapid Moisture Meter Purpose The purpose of this test is to determine the moisture content of soil quickly, without having to wait for the moisture to evaporate. Soil Specimen This test requires about 6 g of soil sample. Sand requires no special preparation. Coarse powders may be ground and pulverized. Cohesive … Read more