Consolidometers
Choose from DGSI's selection of consolidometers below.
Terraload Pneumatic Consolidation Device
Dead Weight Consolidation Load Frame
Expansion Index Consolidometer
Constant Rate of Strain Consolidometer
More Information on Consolidometer Selection
Durham Geo offers both the pneumatic loading consolidometer (S-450 Terraload) and the lever type consolidometer (S-449 dead weight Load Frame). The following may help in choosing between a pneumatic or lever type consolidation frame:
The S-450 Terraload Pneumatic Consolidation Device
- requires less space in the lab than a dead weight device.
- has a lesser chance of being bumped compared to the lever type.
- is easier to operate when it comes to adding loads to the sample. Operators tend to prefer turning a valve rather than carefully adding a weight by hand. The weight on the dead weight device can be added too fast or too slow and affect results. The weight works fine, but takes some operator experience.
- requires a source of compressed air. This is an additional expense. There is also a chance that the power will fail, thus a chance of “loosing the sample”. The lever type requires no external source of air, and is independent of electrical power or air compressor failures.
The S-449 Dead Weight Consolidation Load Frame
- is considered to be more accurate than the pneumatic frame at very low loads.
- slightly less costly to set up, but the pneumatic frame costs less when multiple units are purchased. This is because one S-45040 Digital Readout and pressure transducer can be used with multiple S-450 units.
Applicable Standards
ASTM: D 2435 D 4546
AASHTO: T-216