Consolidation Load Frames (Pneumatic)

These Pneumatic Consolidation Load Frames for stress-controlled consolidation testing utilize Karol-Warner's exclusive CONBEL^® pneumatic loading system. This series is a refinement of the original design and incorporates greater sensitivity and ease of operation. Loads are applied instantaneously and maintain any determined set-point, regardless of sample compression during the loading interval. Models are available in 16tsf (1,532kPa), 32tsf (3,064kPa), and 64tsf (6,128kPa) load ranges based on a 2.5in (63.5mm) diameter sample. Load frames come with a loading ball and 15ft (4.6m) of air supply tubing.

The CONBEL^® system features a low-bleed pressure regulator to set and maintain specimen loads. Known for precision, this regulator is sensitive to 0.125in (3.2mm) variations in the water column. It requires a source of compressed air for operation. The unit is self-contained with a built-in digital readout and pressure transducer with 0.1% linearity.

The loading platform is 1in (25.4mm) thick aluminum plate and features adjustable centering pads to aid in aligning the consolidometer. It will accept any consolidometer, regardless of manufacturer, up to a maximum diameter of 7.25in (184mm). Vertical rods are made from stainless steel. Fabricated for harsh laboratory environments, the cabinets are steel and painted with durable enamel. Consolidometers and Dial Indicators are sold separately. See our main Consolidation Machine page to compare load frame types. All models operate at 120-220V/50-60Hz.

HM-356 Model: load capacity is 16tsf and requires a minimum of 62psi (4.8bar) of compressed air.

HM-356F Model: load capacity is 1,532kPa and requires a minimum of 62psi (4.8bar) of compressed air.

HM-354 Model: load capacity is 32tsf and requires a minimum of 123psi (8.5bar) of compressed air.

HM-354F Model: load capacity is 3,064kPa and requires a minimum of 123psi (8.5bar) of compressed air.

HM-355 Model: load capacity is 64tsf and requires a minimum of 188psi (13bar) of compressed air.

HM-355F Model: load capacity is 6,128kPa and requires a minimum of 188psi (13bar) of compressed air.

Features:

• Instantaneous loading without impact
• Complete flexibility in the choice of loads
• Compact size allows for tabletop operation

Included Items:

• Pneumatic Consolidation Load Frame
• Dial Indicator rod
• Dial Indicator clamping arm
• Loading Ball
• Tubing - 15ft (4.6m)

Accessories:

• Consolidation Data Acquisition Software records specimen information and real-time test data, calculate results, then prepares reports following ASTM and AASHTO requirements
• Loading Ball is a load transfer device required for use and is included, but can be ordered separately as a replacement unit
• Mechanical Dial Indicator - 0.5 x .0001in (Range x Divisions)
• Digital Dial Indicator - 0.6 x 0.0001in (Range x Resolution)
• Calibration Discs are used in Consolidometers in place of soil samples to verify performance
• Cutting Sample Rings are used to trim soil samples
• Porous Stones are placed at the ends of soil specimens during testing
• Fixed or Floating Ring Consolidometers are required for testing in Load Frames and are available in a variety of sizes
• Data Readouts display real-time data and are available in two and four-channel models
• Linear Variable Displacement Transducers are used for measurement of dynamic displacement