GTEPRA3/101/0/2017

Tutorial letter 101/0/2017

Geotechnical Engineering III (Practical)

GTEPRA3

Year Module

Department of Civil and Chemical Engineering

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
This tutorial letter contains important information
about your module.
 CONTENTS

Page

1 INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................... 3
2 PURPOSE OF AND OUTCOMES FOR THE MODULE............................................................... 3
2.1 Purpose ........................................................................................................................................ 3
2.2 Outcomes ..................................................................................................................................... 4
3 LECTURER(S) AND CONTACT DETAILS................................................................................... 4
3.1 Lecturer(s) .................................................................................................................................... 4
3.2 Department ................................................................................................................................... 5
3.3 University ...................................................................................................................................... 5
4 MODULE-RELATED RESOURCES ............................................................................................. 5
4.1 Prescribed books .......................................................................................................................... 5
4.2 Recommended books ................................................................................................................... 6
4.3. Electronic Reserves (e-Reserves)................................................................................................. 6
4.4 Library services and resources information ................................................................................... 6
5 STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES FOR THE MODULE ............................................................... 6
6 MODULE-SPECIFIC STUDY PLAN ............................................................................................. 7
7 MODULE PRACTICAL WORK AND WORK-INTEGRATED LEARNING .................................... 7
8 ASSESSMENT ............................................................................................................................. 8
8.1 Assessment criteria....................................................................................................................... 8
8.2 Assessment plan ........................................................................................................................ 10
8.3 General assignment numbers ..................................................................................................... 10
8.3.1 Unique assignment numbers ...................................................................................................... 11
8.3.2 Due dates for assignments ......................................................................................................... 11
8.4 Submission of assignments ........................................................................................................ 11
8.5 Assignments ............................................................................................................................... 12
9 OTHER ASSESSMENT METHODS ........................................................................................... 13
10 EXAMINATION ........................................................................................................................... 13
11 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ........................................................................................ 13
12 SOURCES CONSULTED ........................................................................................................... 13
13 CONCLUSION............................................................................................................................ 13
14 ADDENDUM ............................................................................................................................... 13

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 GTEPRA3/101/0/2017

1 INTRODUCTION
Dear Student
1.1 Tutorial matter

Some of this tutorial matter may not be available when you register. Tutorial matter that is not
available when you register will be posted to you as soon as possible, but is also available on
myUnisa.

2 PURPOSE OF AND OUTCOMES FOR THE MODULE

2.1 Purpose

To enable students to determine the hydraulic conductivity of different types of soil in

the laboratory or on site

To determine the seepage loss through pervious homogeneous soil volumes under
impermeable structures and through earth dam walls using flow nets.

Students will also be able to deal with sample cases of anisotropic soil, and will know
to apply basic criteria to design graded filters.

To be able to distinguish between total normal stress, effective normal stress and
neutral stress, and determine the effects of gravity, seepage, and a variety of applied
surface loads on the vertical compressive normal stress at any position in a soil profile.

To enable students to perform consolidation test on clay, interpret the results, and
determine the various compressibility coefficients of the clay.

Students will be able to calculate the primary and secondary consolidation settlement
of a foundation, and the time required for the process.

To teach the principles of a shear strength. After completion of the contents students
should know how drainage condition affects the shear behaviour of soil, how the shear
strength of coarse and fine-grained soils differs, and how stress changes influence pore
water pressure.

Students should be able to perform calculations involving shear strength and

determine the shear strength parameters of soil by means of laboratory and on-site tests.

3
 Students will be able to plan and execute a site investigation and subsurface
investigation program, including sampling of soils and coring rocks.

Students will also know how to perform a variety of in situ tests and derive
approximate soil properties from the results.

Students will be able to calculate lateral earth pressure on near vertical interfaces for
the at rest condition, as well as for the limiting active and passive condition, using the
theories by Rankine and Coulomb.

Students will also know how to evaluate the factors that have to be taken into
account in the analysis of a particular slope, decide on appropriate methods of analysis,
and to assess its stability

2.2 Outcomes

MOVEMENT OF WATER THROUGH SOIL

STRESSES IN SOIL MASS

CONSOLIDATION SETTLEMENT

SHEAR STRENGTH OF SOIL

SUB-SURFACE EXPLORATION

LATERAL EARTH PRESSURE

SLOPE STABILITY

SHALLOW FOUNDATIONS

RETAINING WALLS

DEEP FOUNDATIONS

3 LECTURER(S) AND CONTACT DETAILS

3.1 Lecturer(s)

Lecturer(s) Mr H Ndlovu Tel. O73 517 8896 Fax. 078 266 7079
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 GTEPRA3/101/0/2017

E-mail: hosanam@tswane.gov.za
Technical officer (s) Tinyiko Mathonsi Tel. 083 516 4152/ 011 670 9490
E-mail: tinyikom.donald@gmail.com / mathotd@unisa.ac.za

3.2 Department
Department of Civil and Chemical Engineering
Unisa (Florida Campus)
Private Bag x6
Florida
1710

Phone: 011 471 2048/3132

E-mail address: civil&chemical@unisa.ac.za
3.3 University
http://www.unisa.ac.za

4 MODULE-RELATED RESOURCES
4.1 Prescribed books

Fundamentals of Geotechnical Engineering, 3rd Edition

Das, BM

Chris Carson Publishers

ISBN-10:0-495-29574-4/ ISBN-13:978-0-495-29574-7

Standard Methods of Testing Road Construction Materials: TMH1

Dept. of Transport

ISBN: 0798836539

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4.2 Recommended books
There are no recommended books

4.3. Electronic Reserves (e-Reserves)

All course materials are available on myUnisa https://my.unisa.ac.za under the module course
code under Materials. Discussion forums are set up by your lecturer and available for
discussions with your peers https://my.unisa.ac.za . Some additional electronic resources are
available from the Library site (via www.unisa.ac.za).You may electronically post or upload your
assignments in line with the guidelines explained in the booklet:

4.4 Library services and resources information

For brief information go to : http://www.unisa.ac.za/contents/studies/docs/myStudies-at-
Unisa2017-brochure.pdf
For more detailed information, go to the Unisa website: http://www.unisa.ac.za/, click on Library
For research support and services of Personal Librarians, go to:
http://www.unisa.ac.za/Default.asp?Cmd=ViewContent&ContentID=7102

The Library has compiled numerous library guides:

find recommended reading in the print collection and e-reserves -

http://libguides.unisa.ac.za/request/undergrad
request material - http://libguides.unisa.ac.za/request/request
postgraduate information services - http://libguides.unisa.ac.za/request/postgrad
finding , obtaining and using library resources and tools to assist in doing research
http://libguides.unisa.ac.za/Research_Skills
how to contact the Library/find us on social media/frequently asked questions -
http://libguides.unisa.ac.za/ask

5 STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES FOR THE MODULE

Important information appears in your my Studies @ Unisa brochure.

The myUNISA system https://my.unisa.ac.za is a facility for registered UNISA students

that enable students to perform study-related functions that are normally conducted by
post, telephonically or by personal visits to the campus or via the Internet.
Currently, the following services are offered by myUNISA:

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 GTEPRA3/101/0/2017

E-mail contact with lecturers.

Submission of assignment (text and multiple-choice).
Access to assignment marks.
Access to personal information records.
Student discussion forums.
Notification of change of address or cancellation of study modules or
examination.
Downloading of tutorial letters.

6 MODULE-SPECIFIC STUDY PLAN

Use your my Studies @ Unisa brochure for general time management and planning skills.

7 MODULE PRACTICAL WORK AND WORK-INTEGRATED LEARNING

This is a practical module.

7.1 VENUE OPTIONS

Learners have a choice of two options as to where they want to attend the practicum.

OPTION 1: THE PREFERRED OPTION

UNISA FLORIDA CAMPUS, DURBAN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY OR CAPE
PENINSULA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY (CPUT).
UNISA has entered into an agreement with Durban University of Technology (DUT) and
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), whereby UNISA learners may attend
practicum at predetermined dates.
Annexure E contains a road map to the Cape University of Technology.

OPTION 2: THE NON PREFERRED OPTION

ALTERNATIVE INSTITUTION
In the event of learners not being able to attend the Practicum at the Vaal University of
Technology, the practicum may be performed at any other University of Technology or similar
institution, should facilities exist to carry out the practical work.

OPTION 2 - APPROVAL OF ALTERNATIVE INSTITUTION

Submission of documentation to alternative institution

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Should the learner choose Option 2, the following documents must be submitted to the relevant
institution for their perusal and action:

Annexure A Practical Guide and Experiments

Annexure D Registration Form for Practicum

Learners must complete the personal information section, and provide the name of the
institution where they intend to do the practicum, as well as the contact name and telephone
number of the responsible laboratory staff member.
It is the sole responsibility of the learner to verify that the alternative institution have sufficient
facilities to effect the practicum and to comply with the UNISA practicum requirements.

Approval of Institution by UNISA.

After submission of the registration form in Annexure D the learner must enquire from the
Lecturer (Practicum) whether his application is approved.
Approval of an alternative institution is given on condition that no cost implications to UNISA are
applicable.

8 ASSESSMENT
8.1 Assessment criteria
The assignments are as follows:

Assignment 1: Practical Indemnity Form (Annexure C) and Registration

Form for Practicum (Annexure D)
Assignment 2: Practical report. Practical guide and experiments are in
Annexure A.

Submission of both assignments is compulsory.

The year mark is based on all the assignment marks obtained. Credit values are allocated to
assignment. Students earn credits by submitting their assignments, duly completed. Submission
of assignment 1 is the prerequisite for you participating in the practical and the report being
assessed.

Website
Please note that the department has a web site where additional information on the department
and the modules are available.
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The address is:

http://www.unisa.ac.za/Default.asp?Cmd=ViewContent&ContentID=19740
Tutorial Letters are available from the myUnisa website. (See my Studies @ Unisa)
Should you encounter any problems in submitting an assignment on myUnisa, you may
contact the help line at myUnisaHelp@unisa.ac.za

Plagiarism
An assignment is designed to be a product of your own study and your own thought. It is not
intended to be a piece of work which merely reproduces details, information or ideas from a
study guide, from books or articles, or from the Internet.
If you do this, you commit plagiarism. Plagiarism is the act of copying word for word with or
without acknowledgment from study sources (e.g. books, articles, the Internet). In other words,
you must submit your own ideas in your own words, sometimes interspersing relevant short
quotations that are properly referenced.

Yes, simply copying a few pages from the prescribed book is plagiarism. Pasting paragraphs
from Wikipedia into your assignment is plagiarism. And it does not stop being plagiarism if you
mention the source.

Skilled scientific writers can use direct block quotations to make a specific point. They know
what they are doing. You still need to develop your own voice, your own style of arguing the
point. Do not plagiarise.

Note that you also commit plagiarism if you copy the assignment of another student. We do
encourage you to work together and form study groups, but you are expected to prepare and
submit your own assignments.

When we receive two or more identical assignments, we are not able to work out who copied
from whom. We will therefore penalize both students.

If you commit plagiarism you will be penalized and given no marks for your assignment.
This will have a serious effect on your chances to succeed in your studies because you
will have no semester mark.

Furthermore, you may be penalised or subjected to disciplinary proceedings by the University.

9
Plagiarism is also an offence in terms of the law.

A Signed Declaration
Every essay-type assignment we receive must include the following declaration along with your
name and the date:

I declare that this assignment is my own work and that all sources quoted have been
acknowledged by appropriate references.

Submit both assignments in the assignment covers provided.

8.2 Assessment plan

Formative assessment
Evidence of competence is provided through 2 individual assignments. Competence is
assessed using a marking rubric.

Assessment preparation
Students are informed of the assessment content, activities and requirement through Tutorial
Letter 101. An internal moderator provides comments on Tutorial letter 101 before it is finalised.
All assessment procedures, requirements and instructions are provided in Tutorial Letter 101.
Students with special needs as well as students who need clarification should contact the
lecturer

Reassessment
There is no reassessment for the GTEPRA3. Students who fail have to register the following
year
8.3 General assignment numbers
Assignments are numbered consecutively per module, starting from 01

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8.3.1 Unique assignment numbers

Assignment 1 815294

Assignment 2 831933

8.3.2 Due dates for assignments

Assignment 1 03 March 2017

Assignment 2 27 October 2017

8.4 Submission of assignments

OPTION 1: THE PREFERRED OPTION

UNISA FLORIDA, DURBAN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY DUT, OR CAPE
PENINSULA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY (CPUT).

On completion of the practicum, the practicum report must be submitted to the practical
lecturer or laboratory assistant for assessment. The UNISA, DUT or CPUT (depending
on where the practical was offered) lecturer/laboratory assistant will forward all
assessed practicums to UNISA. Also submit soft copy to ikegwdc@unisa.ac.za

OPTION 2: THE NON PREFERRED OPTION

ALTERNATIVE INSTITUTION
On completion of the practicum, the practicum report must be submitted to the manager or
laboratory assistant for assessment. Marked report must be submitted to UNISA.

The Learner must submit the assessed practicum by:

It is very important to consider the following points:

No late submissions will be accepted.

Keep a clear copy of the project for your own reference. This is important, as practicums
do get lost.

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 Submissions of assignments must be in accordance with my Studies @Unisa handy
guide.

8.5 Assignments
Assignment 1
This consists of returning:
The Registration Form for Practical Annexure D, and;
The Indemnity Form - Annexure C.
Ensure that both forms are duly completed and submitted together in the standard assignment
cover provided as Assignment 1.

Assignment 2
The Practical Report constitutes assignment 2. Competence is assessed using a marking
rubric. The marking sheet (Annexure G) must be submitted together with the report.

Important information

It is compulsory to submit your assignments in order to obtain examination entrance.

No late assignment submissions will be accepted.
Keep a clear copy of all the assignments for your own reference. This is important, as
assignments do get lost.
Submissions of all assignments must be in accordance to the brochure: Youre my Studies
@ Unisa.
The brochure: Your my Studies @ Unisa explains how you may submit assignments
electronically. Note: if you choose to submit your assignments electronically, make sure
that you have fixed your Excel or Word files in such a way that it will print on one page
wide and not spill over on to a second page. The assignment section just prints the file,
they no not check to see whether parts of a page are cut off
It is your responsibility to check whether UNISA has received your assignment by
contacting UNISA in two (2) weeks after submission and ask whether they have received
and recorded your assignment. Do not contact your Lecturer!!!
If you have not received stationery such as assignment covers, bar codes, envelopes, do
not contact your lecturer
you may submit the assignment typed or handwritten, even if you have not received the
stationery, using an ordinary A4 envelope.

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Non-receipt of stationery will not be deemed as reason to obtain extension of time for
submission by due dates.

9 OTHER ASSESSMENT METHODS

None

10 EXAMINATION
The mark you receive for your Practical will be your examination mark. Attendance is therefore
compulsory.

Note - if you do not return Assignment 1 (i.e. Annexure D and E) by the due date, you will not be
allowed to attend the practical session.
If required, submit a copy of this Tutorial Letter, together with proof of registration for this
module, to your employer, should proof of the need for your attendance be required. This is the
only communication UNISA offers in this instance.

11 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The my Studies @ Unisa brochure contains an A-Z guide of the most relevant study
information.

12 SOURCES CONSULTED
N/A

13 CONCLUSION
N/A

14 ADDENDUM
ANNEXURE A : PRACTICUM
ANNEXURE B : PRACTICAL LEARNING - CODE OF CONDUCT
ANNEXURE C : PRACTICAL SESSIONS INDEMNITY FORM
ANNEXURE D : REGISTRATION FORM FOR PRACTICUM ASSIGNMENT 1

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ANNEXURE A
PRACTICUM

REQUIREMENTS FOR PRACTICUM:

1. A 5 kg soil sample must be provided by you (sample bags are available from the technician).

2. Neat and legible summaries of the test procedures must be compiled by the student in his/her
own handwriting, in preparation for the practical. These summaries must be submitted to the
laboratory technician on entering the laboratory. The technician will stamp the summaries and
return them to you during the practical period. These summaries form part of the final practical
report. 50% of your practical mark will be deducted if you fail to submit your summaries on
entering the laboratory.

3. While conducting the test, all data must be recorded in pen on the worksheet provided in your
practicum. After completion of the tests, before leaving the laboratory, the completed worksheet
must be stamped by the technician.

4. If you fail to complete the test or tests in the given time, arrangements must be made with the
technician to complete it in your own time.

5. All equipment must be cleaned and packed away neatly and the laboratory must be cleaned
after completion of the test or tests. Failing to do this will cause a reduction of 10% off your
practical mark.

6. Each group must submit a laboratory report, consisting of:

(i) All test summaries
(ii) Data collected
(iii) Calculations
(iv) Graphs
(v) Conclusions

These practical must be submitted to the laboratory technician one week after the assigned
practical test date. If you fail to submit your report on time it will not be evaluated.

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7. No marks will be given to a student not involved in or attending practical.

8. Evaluations of the practical reports are as follows:

Presentation 10%
Individual summary 30%
Calculations, data, work sheets and graphs 40%
Conclusion 20%

9. Marks obtained for the practical will be

10. Always take notes during demonstrations or videos. A short random test will be set
that will count a certain percentage of your practical mark.

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PERMEABILITY OF A SOIL
(Constant-head & Falling-head method)

INTRODUCTION:
Initially it is important to realize the difference between porosity and permeability.

Porosity expresses the ratio of void (air and/or water) space of a soil to the total volume
(including solid) of the soil.

Permeability is a measure of the capacity of a soil to permit the passage of water and has the
dimensions of velocity (e.g. m/year or mm/second).

A soil with a high porosity is not necessarily highly permeable.

The permeability of a soil is affected by some of the following physical circumstances:

Shape and the arrangement of particles

Void ratio and unit weight
Properties of the permeate fluid (de-aired water)
Mineral characteristics of fine-grained soils
layering

When determining the coefficient of permeability of a soil, from site, several tests are performed
at varying heads and a mean value of permeability is taken.
It is imperative that air in the sample is reduced to an absolute minimum. Before starting the test
a vacuum can be applied in an attempt to perform the permeability test at a degree of saturation
approaching 100%.

Before taking observations it is necessary to ensure that steady state conditions of seepage
exist. This is usually done by running the test overnight.

It is difficult to ensure no sample disturbance. This is particularly so with coarse grained soils
where, because it is almost impossible to take undisturbed samples, the sample is compacted
into the Permeameter.

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The behaviour of the mass of soil on site can hardly correspond to the behaviour of a small
sample. With a large mass of soil there are permeability variations, possibly in every direction.

Consequently it is necessary to test representative samples in order to establish valid

permeability characteristics.
The use of water other than site water may affect the test and may even lead to chemical action
during the test. It may well lead to the production of air (or gas) which will influence the
measured permeability values.

BUT it is generally accepted that the coefficient of permeability of a soil varies with void ratio.

Therefore to obtain reliable data the void ratio of the material under test should correspond to
that on site. If the soil on site comprises a variety of void ratios, corresponding permeability
values should be determined and reported.

EXPERIMENT 1
Coefficient of Permeability Constant-head method

OBJECTIVE:
The Constant-head Permeameter is used to determine a coefficient of permeability for coarse
grained soils.
APPARATUS:
Permeability device, timer, thermometer and de-aired water:

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METHOD:
NOTE:

The water to be used for this test should be de-aired. This can be obtained by boiling the water.
Boiled distilled water is satisfactory for most permeability testing for some time after boiling.
1. `The required amount of soil is placed under de-aired water and agitated until all the air has
been removed.
2. Measure and record the dimensions of the cell.
3. Now a layer of approximately 50 mm thick graded gravel is placed into the cell. Wire gauze is
placed on top of the gravel, thereafter the soil sample is placed in the cell, the top wire gauze is
placed on the top of the soil. Finally a layer of about 50 mm thick graded gravel is placed in the
cell.
4. Replace the cell head making sure that the perforated plate is firmly locked against the top
layer of gravel.
5. The apparatus is set up as in figure 1 with the system being firmly locked against the
top throughout.
6. Remove any surplus air in the cell by opening tap A and releasing the bleed screw (figure 1)
once the cell is air free close the bleed screw.
7. The apparatus and sample is now ready for the test.
8. Adjust tap A so as to achieve an even flow rate.
9. The flow rate though the sample is now measured and recorded by collecting a measured
quantity of water (Q) over a known time period (t).
10. Measure and record the manometer readings on the two tubes and the temperature of the
water.
11. Repeat the procedure in 10 at least three times.
12. Record the temperature of the water for each test.
The following equation is applicable to this experiment.

19
If the water temperature is significantly different from 20C, calculated values must be adjusted
to a temperature of 20C, by using the viscosity corrections in Table 1 below.
It must always be stated if a temperature correction was used to obtain the final results.

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INSTRUCTION:
1. Complete the following data sheet; show all calculations on the calculation sheet provided.
COEFFICIENT OF PERMEABILITY (Constant Head)
Project: ________________________ Job No. ______________________
Location of Project: ______________________________________________
Description of soil: _______________________________________________
Test by: __________________________ Date of Testing: _______________
Sample Dimensions:
Diam: _______________ mm Area: ______________mm2 Length: ___________mm

CONCLUSION:

Give a complete conclusion and state the average degree of permeability for the test.

Experiment 1 Calculation Sheet

____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________

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____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________

Experiment 1 Conclusion
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________

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EXPERIMENT 2
Coefficient of Permeability Falling-head method

OBJECTIVE:
The Falling-head Permeameter is used to determine a coefficient of permeability for fine-
grained soil, such as fine sand, silt, or clay and of which the maximum grain diameter does not
exceed 2 mm.
APPARATUS:
Permeability device, timer, thermometer and de-aired water:

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METHOD:
NOTE:

The water to be used for this test should be de-aired. This can be obtained by boiling the water.
Boiled distilled water is satisfactory for most permeability testing for some time after boiling.
1. The soil sample should be trimmed so that it is about 100 mm long.
2. The apparatus is set up as in figure 2.
Measure and record the cross-sectional area of each standpipe by discharging a measured
height of water from the standpipe into a measuring cylinder.
3. Now a layer of approximately 50 mm thick graded gravel is placed into the cell. Wire gauze is
placed on top of the gravel, thereafter the trimmed soil sample is pushed down into the
permeameter cell. A wire gauze is placed on top of the soil. Finally, a layer of about 50 mm thick
graded gravel is placed in the cell.
4. Measure and record the sample length (l) and mark the head (H1) and (H2) on the standpipe.
While (H1) is limited by the height of the standpipe, (H2) should be about 20 mm above the
standpipes lower end.
5. The cap of the permeameter cell is now firmly screwed down, and the whole unit is placed in
some water in a surrounding container. Water is added to the container until it overflows.
6. Leave the sample until the water has soaked through it and appears in the short pipe in the
cap (figure 2). This should be done at least one day before commencement of the experiment,
to ensure total saturation of the sample.
7. Connect the screw down valve to a source of de-aired water, open the valve and allow the
water to fill the standpipe. Close the screw down valve.
8. The time (t) is now noted as the water level falls to each mark on the stand pipe.
9. The test should be repeated at least two times, using two standpipes each time.
10. Record the temperature for each test.

The following equation is applicable to this experiment:

Where:

k = coefficient of permeability (mm/s)

a = cross-sectional area of standpipe (mm2)
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A = cross-sectional area of soil sample (mm2)
H1, H2 = heads between which permeability is determined (mm)
l = length of sample (mm)
t = t2 tl in seconds

The calculated values must be adjusted to a temperature of 20C, by using Table 1.

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INSTRUCTION:
1. Complete the following data sheet, show all calculations on the calculation sheet provided.
COEFFICIENT OF PERMEABILITY (Constant Head)
Project: ________________________ Job No. ______________________
Location of Project: ______________________________________________
Description of soil: _______________________________________________
Test by: __________________________ Date of Testing: _______________

Sample Dimensions:
Diam: _______________ mm Area: ______________mm 2 Length: ___________mm
Area of standpipe _______________________ mm2

TEST DATA:

Test No. H1 (mm) H2 (mm) t (s) T C k (mm/s)

CONCLUSION:

1. Discuss test limitations (specifically for your test set-up) and the accuracy of the results
obtained.
2. Give a complete conclusion and state the average degree of permeability for the test.

Experiment 1 Calculation Sheet

____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
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____________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

Experiment 1 Conclusion
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________

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THE SHEAR STRENGTH OF A SOIL

Determination of shear strength parameters of a soil using:
Unconfined compression test
Shear box test
Vane test
Triaxial test

INTRODUCTION:
For investigations of the failure conditions of soils, one must know the internal resistance by the
soil to displacement, slip, deformation and volume change.
This internal resistance can be attributed to the shear strength of a soil.
The purpose of shear-strength testing of soils is twofold:
(a) to allow displacement under working loads to be predicted
(b) to evaluate the external forces required to cause shear failure of a soil
The shear strength parameters for a soil can be determined by means of laboratory tests on
specimens taken from representative samples of in-situ soil. Great care is required in the
sampling operation and in storage and handling of samples prior to testing, especially in the
case of undisturbed samples where the object is to preserve the in-situ structure and water
content of the soil A soil can be placed in two groups namely, cohesionless and cohesive. As
their names imply, cohesionless soils are soils with no attraction between individual particles
and cohesive soils are soils where the individual particles exhibit inter-attraction.

The resistance to shear of cohesionless soil is derived from friction between grains and
interlocking of grains. Interlocking occurs to a greater extent when soil grains are compacted
thus dense soils show a higher shear strength than loose soils.

EXPERIMENT 3
The Shear Box Test

OBJECTIVE:

The Shear-Box Test is used to determine the shear strength of granular soils.
The Coulomb-Mohs condition is used as the condition of failure. Accordingly, the shear strength
may be given by two parameters:
(a) the slope of the Coulombs line
29
(b) the shear strength measured at a zero normal stress.
These are called the friction angle and cohesion respectively.

APPARATUS:
Shear Box apparatus, drying oven; timer:

The essential feature of this apparatus is a rectangular box divided horizontally into two halves.
The two halves together hold a soil sample that is usually square in plan and rectangular in
cross-section.

The upper half is able to move horizontally relative to the lower half; the sample can thus be
sheared on a horizontal plane. A compressive force is applied vertically to the sample, by
means of hanger weights. The shear force is applied horizontally to the sample and is recorded
by means of dial gauge in the proving ring mounted in a horizontal plane.

The standard components of the Shear Box apparatus are as follows:

shear box carriage
two halves of the shear box fastened together complete with:
bottom plate
perforated grid
plain grid
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porous plates
top pressure plate

METHOD:
1. Measure and record the plan and cross-sectional dimensions of the shear box.
2. Trim the sample to be used to suit the plan dimensions of the box. The thickness of the
sample should be selected as small as possible, about 10 15 mm in the case of sand, since it
much easier to make the shear take place in the desired plane.
3. Screw the two halves of the shear box together. The box is now placed in the carriage (see
figure 5) and adjusted so that the top half of the shear box is in contact with the proving ring and
the bottom half is in contact with the rear of the outer carriage.
4. The bottom plate is placed into the shear box, upon which a porous plate followed by the
perforated grid is placed. The perforated grid should be placed in such a way that its serrations
are at right-angles to the direction of shear and upward.
5. The prepared sample is placed on the perforated grid and it must be ensured that the sample
is in contact with all the surfaces which enclose it.
6. The upper perforated grid is placed on top of the sample again with the serration at right-
angles to the direction of shear and is pushed down carefully and firmly until the serrations are
just buried in the sample.
7. The upper porous plate is placed on the perforated grid and finally the pressure plate is
placed on top of the porous plate. The carriage is now filled with water to prevent the sample
from drying out.
8. Carefully adjust the proving ring by means of a knob and lock nut on the screw at the
tail end of the apparatus bringing the proving ring up towards its centre support. Adjust the jack
so that the loading screw pushes against the carriage and thus also, indirectly, pushes against
the bottom half of the shear box.
9. The weight hanger applying the vertical stress to the sample is now assembled. The load
required for the test can now be placed on the hanger.
10. Now the width of the clearance between the upper half and lower half of the shear boxes
has to be set. This is done by removing the two screws holding the two halves of the shear box
together. These two screws should now be inserted in the other pair of holes at the opposite
corners and screwed down to contact the lower half of the shear box. Screw for about half a
turn; this will raise the upper box slightly. The two screws should now be loosened so that they
are withdrawn into the upper box.
The apparatus is now ready for operation.
11. The dial gauge in the proving ring is set to zero.

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NOTE:
The displacement rate of the top shear box and thus the rate of application of the horizontal
shear are determined by the speed at which the motor is turned, manually.
12. Record the values on the proving-ring dial gauge at every 1 mm of shear.
13. The test is continued until shear failure of the sample takes place.
The point of shear failure is signified by a decrease in the shear reading on the pivot-ring dial
gauge or as in the case of less dense soils by the same reading being recorded for an extended
period of time. The following equations are applicable to this experiment:

Where:
= shear stress (kPa)
F = shear force (proving-ring dial gauge reading ring calibration factor) (kN)
A = area of the shear box (m2)

Where:
= normal stress (kPa)
F = total normal load = total weight on the hanger (kN)
A = area of the shear box (m2)

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NSTRUCTION:

1. Complete the test information and test data.

SHEAR TEST (Cohesive, Cohesionless Soil)
Project: ________________________ Job No. ______________________
Location of Project: _____________Sample No:________________________
Description of soil: _______________________________________________
Tested by: __________________________ Date of Testing: ________________

Soil state: (wet/dry) Soil sample: (disturbed, undisturbed)

Sample Dimensions:
Side: _______________ mm Ht: ______________mm Length: ___________mm2
Max. Shear @ 15% _______________________

TEST RESULTS:

Shear distance (mm) Shear Force (N) Sample 2 Sample 3

Sample 1

Normal stress (N)

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2. Complete the following data sheet, show all calculations on the calculation sheet provided.

TEST DATA:

Shear distance (mm) Shear stress (kPa) Sample 2 Sample 3

Sample 1

Normal stress (kPa)

3. Draw a graph, for each sample, to show how shear stress varies with shear distance. The
three graphs
can be done on the same system of axes. (Graph paper provided).
4. Draw a graph of maximum shear stress (kPa) against normal load (kPa) and determine, from
this the
soils cohesion and angle of internal friction.
5. In your conclusion make comments on the shear-strength parameters obtained. Consider
whether you
should have used the corrected area in calculating the shear stress of whether the results are
accurate enough.

Experiment 3 Calculation Sheet

____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
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____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

Experiment 3 Conclusion
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

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EXPERIMENT 4
CONSOLIDATION

INTRODUCTION:

When a saturated soil is subjected to a pressure e.g. due to the weight of overlying soil or to the
load from a foundation, its volume will be decreased. Since both the soil particles and the water
in the voids may be considered incompressible, the change in volume can only occur if water is
forced out of the voids thus reducing their size and enabling the solid particles to become
wedged together. This process is known as consolidation.

The amount of consolidation depends on a property of the soil known as compressibility. The
rate at which consolidation takes place depends on the ease with which water can escape from
the soil and is therefore related to permeability of the soil. These two effects are combined and
are known as the coefficient of consolidation of a soil.

The Oedometer Test

OBJECTIVE:
The Consolidation test is used to determine the primary compression characteristics of a soil.
APPARATUS:
Oedometer: (which allows one-dimensional consolidation), timer, drying oven.

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METHOD:
This test must be done by using an undisturbed soil sample. The undisturbed sample is
obtained by using a sample or cutting ring which must be pushed into the soil, vertically.
Note: The sample should be kept saturated for the duration of the test.
1. Prepare the equipment. Obtain two porous stones, and place them in a beaker of
warm water to deaerate and saturate them.

2. Using the spacer disk extrudes 2mm of soil from both sides of the sample ring.
Now both faces of the sample should be approximately 2 mm below the cutting ring rim so that
the porous stones can be fitted. Record the height of the sample.

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3. Place a piece of filter paper on both soil sample faces to protect the porous stones from
excessive contamination.

4. Carefully place the cutting ring, containing the soil sample, in the saturation ring on the
consolidometer base with a saturated porous stone on each face. Be sure the top porous
stones will enter the ring so that the test can proceed satisfactorily. Add the brass load block.
Then place the consolidometer into the loading device.

5. At a convenient starting time, apply a pressure or load to (P1) and simultaneously take
deformation reading (on the dial gauge) at specified elapsed times, but due to a shortage of
time this test will be done as follows:
Pressure or load P1 is applied to the sample, and after 24 hours the sample thickness is
measured and recorded.
The pressure is then doubled to (P2) and after 24 hours the sample thickness is measured and
recorded.
This method is repeated again with load P3, where load P3 = 2 P2.
This process should be repeated until the pressure, being applied to the sample, is greater than
the pressure to which the soil on site is subjected to.

6. Now the pressure is removed gradually, (usually in 3 4 steps).]

Note: The sample is kept saturated and allowed to expand completely.

7. Measure and record the final height (hf) of the sample with pressure (Pf = 0).

8. Remove the sample form the oedometer and determine the moisture content (m f). The
sample void ratio (ef) can now be calculated, using the following equation: e f = mf Gs (Gs = 2,7)

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13.7 INSTRUCTION:

1. Complete the data sheet; show all calculations on the calculation sheet provided.
CONSOLIDATION TEST:
Project: ________________________ Job No. ______________________
Location of Project: _____________Sample No: ________________________
Description of soil: _______________________________________________
Tested by: __________________________ Date of Testing: ________________

Sample Dimensions:
Initial thickness of sample ___________________mm
Wt. of wet soil ________________________g
Oven dry wt. of soil: ___________________ g
Dial readings: __________________mm
Area of sample: _______________________mm 2
hf (final thickness of sample): ______________mm

TEST DATA:

Load (kN) P1 = P2 = P3 =

Pressure (kPa)

Thickness after 24h

(mm)

TEST RESULTS:
Final moisture content (mf) = ____________ %
Final void ratio (ef) = ___________________
Void ratio (e) and log pressure for height h.

Pressure (kPa)

Log pressure

h (mm)

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e

2. Draw a graph, of the samples void ratio (e) against the logarithm of the pressure. (Graph
paper provided).

3. What conclusion can be drawn from the shape of the curve plotted?

Experiment 4 Calculation Sheet

____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

Experiment 4 Conclusion
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

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GTEPRA3/101/0/2017

41
ANNEXURE B
PRACTICAL LEARNING - CODE OF CONDUCT

PREAMBLE

Co-operative education is an educational approach that integrates practical sessions into the
educational programme in order to ensure applied competence of graduates. Practical
sessions, whatever form they take, are an equally important component to the formal learning
components of the programme. No tuition provider can provide co-operative education on its
own. A collaborative effort between UNISA (as tuition provider); employers or community
settings (practical session providers) and learners (the learner) is necessary in order to
succeed.

UNISA will provide guidelines in order to provide for a high level of learning at the institution
where the learner undergoes practical sessions. The practical sessions form part of the overall
educational programme and offer an opportunity for learners to verify, in a practical way, what
they have learned and serve as fertile ground for sowing the seed for learning that will follow.

The objective of this code is to publicly state what conduct is expected from UNISA learners
during periods of practical sessions.

RIGHTS OF LEARNERS

Learners, like any member of a community, have both rights and obligations, for example:
A right to equal education, that does not discriminate among learners on the basis of race,
sex, colour, disability, religion or national origin. However, because practical sessions take
place at another institution, UNISA cannot be held accountable.
A right to be informed of UNISA policies and academic programme requirements.
A right to privacy of personal matters and possessions.
A right to freedom of expression, within the parameters of the law.
A right to fair disciplinary procedures, which includes the right to know what they are accused
of and the right to respond with their side of the situation.

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OBLIGATIONS OF UNISA LEARNERS

An obligation is a responsibility, which among others, ensures that the rights of others are
protected. The following obligations are not an exhaustive list, but serve as code of conduct of
what is expected from UNISA learners with regard to periods of practical sessions.

1. Registration
It is incumbent upon every learner who registers with UNISA to familiarise her/himself about the
practical session's components of the programme registered for and to comply with the
procedures and requirements of UNISA in this regard.
2. Assessment and progression
Each learner is responsible for compliance with the requirements pertaining to the practical
sessions of her/his educational programme and to follow the relevant procedures with regard to
assessment of practical sessions.
3. Compliance with employers policies, rules and regulations
Learners are required to observe and uphold the policies, procedures and rules of the institution
that provide practical session opportunities. This includes, but is not limited to, being present for
laboratory sessions as per agreement with the institution, no absence without leave, punctuality,
and respecting the person and property of the institution and fellow learners.
4. Expected to participate actively and positively UNISA expects enthusiasm from its
learners. Learners should actively engage in the practical session situation, learn from practical
work undertaken and ask questions to optimise their learning. Information necessary in order to
complete practical reports should be actively pursued. Materials necessary to complete reports
should be actively sought and legitimately obtained.
5. Intellectual property, honesty and individual work
Learners may not intentionally submit for evaluation material (plagiarism) that contains another
person's work. Another persons work may not be copied and submitted as ones own.
6. False information, forgery, alteration or misuse
False information or information furnished with the intent to deceive will not be tolerated. Neither
would forgery, alteration or misuse be tolerated. Learners will not make themselves guilty to any
form of abuse or unauthorised use of computer equipment or systems.
7. Confidentiality
Learners will respect the information of their practical session providers and will not disclose nor
permit or entitle any unauthorised person to have access to the guideline documents of the
institution in their possession or care. If need be, special arrangements may be made between
UNISA and a practical session provider to formally protect confidential or sensitive information.
8. Monitoring own progress (continuous self-assessment)

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Learners are required to progress with their practical session requirements, and ensure that
reports will be submitted on time. Should a learner experience difficulty, he/she should contact
the relevant UNISA staff for assistance or guidelines.
9. Serve as ambassadors of UNISA
Learners serve as ambassadors of UNISA and will refrain from any abusive physical contact or
any disorderly conduct. No form of harassment, sexual or other, will be tolerated. Learners will
not misrepresent or contradict UNISA; however, learners are expected at all times to act in such
a way that it demonstrates respect for the rights and privileges of others

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ANNEXURE C

PRACTICAL SESSIONS INDEMNITY FORM

I, (full names) - ______________________________________ , a student of the UNISA hereby

expressly acknowledge that part of my programme of study involves practical sessions in an
appropriate work environment.
Each signatory hereof (be it the student, the parent/guardian and/or spouse) jointly and
collectively exempts, expressly release, acquit and forever discharge UNISA and all of their
members, functionaries, officials, employees, agents, successors and voluntary workers from all
liabilities, from any and all claims for injuries (including death), loss or damages irrespective of
whether such liability, injury, loss or damage arises as result of negligence on the part of any of
the mentioned parties.
Each signatory hereof expressly agree to hold harmless, fully indemnify and exempts UNISA
and all persons herein from all claims lodged by whomsoever or whatever nature and however
resulting while the student is undergoing practical sessions.
Signed on __ day of _____________ 20__ at _____________________________
Signature of student: ______________________________
(Duly assisted by her/his parent/guardian, as may be required by law)
Signature of parent/guardian: _____________Printed name_____________
(Signed in her/his own capacity and/or as guardian of the applicant, as may be required by law)

Signature of spouse: ________________________

WITNESS: ____________________

WITNESS:_________________________

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ANNEXURE D - REGISTRATION FORM FOR PRACTICUM ASSIGNMENT 1

PLEASE COMPLETE IN CLEAR BLOCK LETTERS AND

SUBMIT AS ASSIGNMENT 1

TO: T.D Mathonsi

STUDENT INITIAL ANDSURNAME: ........................................................................................
STUDENT NO: .........................................
TEL NO: .................................................... (WORK)
CELL: ....
E-MAIL: ......................................................

OPTION 1: Practical at VUT

SUBJECT NAME & PREFERED VENUE SIGNATURE

CODE

GEOTECHNICAL
ENGINEERING III
(GTEPRA3)

OPTION 2: Practical at venue of student own arrangement

I confirm that I have discussed all aspects of the practical session with the responsible person
from .(name of institution) and that UNISA will in no way be liable for any
costs with respect to this practical session.
_______________________ ____________
SIGNATURE OF LEARNER: DATE:

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ADDRESS TO THE CPUT CAMPUS

CAPE PENINSULA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY : Bellville campus

SYMPHONY WAY
BELLVILLE SOUTH
ROOM 0.03 on the ground floor
GPS Coordinates
Latitude 3355'48.29"S
Longitude 1838'13.74"E

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