Expansion Index Consolidometer

Expansion Index Consolidometer is used to perform the Expansion Index test, a simple and effective method for predicting swelling potential of compacted soils. A soil sample is compacted into a mold containing a 4 x 1in (101.6 x 25.4mm) ID x H stainless steel ring. After a confining load is applied, the sample is immersed in water, and volumetric swell is recorded for up to 24 hours. A high expansion index indicates a need to design structures and pavements for expansive soils.

The self-contained design does not require a separate consolidation loading device for testing. After compaction, the sample is placed in the Consolidometer with a porous stone at each end and loaded with the stainless steel weight. After consolidating for ten minutes, the assembly is immersed in water to initiate the test. The loading weight and top porous stone are a combined weight of 12.6lb (5.7kg), which generates a total pressure of 1lbf/in² (6.9kPa) on the sample.

Immersed parts are stainless steel or anodized aluminum for durability and corrosion resistance. Included are an anodized aluminum base and collar with stainless steel hold-down rods, dial indicator bracket, stainless steel specimen ring, loading weight, and porous stones. A 5102 Dial Indicator - 0.5in Range x 0.0001in Divisions or 6820 Digital Dial Indicator - 0.6 x 0.0001in (Range x Resolution) is required for the test (both purchased separately). Additional Porous Stones, Stainless Steel Specimen Rings and Loading Weights are available for more efficient sample preparation. The device conforms to ASTM D4829.

Features:

• Simple, compact design
• Corrosion resistant, durable anodized aluminum and stainless steel construction
• Quick test results

Included Items:

• Expansion Index Consolidometer
• Anodized Aluminum Base and Collar
• Stainless Steel Specimen Ring
• Dial Indicator Bracket
• Loading Weight
• Porous Stones

Accessories:

• Mechanical Dial Indicator - 0.5 x .0001in (Range x Divisions) is an analog device used to measure volumetric swell. An indicator is required for testing
• Digital Dial Indicator - 0.6 x 0.0001in (Range x Resolution) is a digital device used to measure volumetric swell. An indicator is required for testing
• 3.995in Diameter Porous Stone, 0.50in Thick allows two-way flow of fluids and supports both ends of the soil sample during consolidation testing
• Stainless Steel Specimen Ring for holding specimens in testing and preparing additional samples to test
• Stainless Steel Loading Weight used in creating confining load on soil sample