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THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL

CONSOLIDATION PROPERTIES OF
SOIL INCLUDING SWELLING AND
COLLAPSE CHARACTERISTICS
THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

Contents
Introduction 2
Principle
Application
Procedural stages 3
Preparation of apparatus 4
Beam ratio & pressure 5
Test environment
Calibration
Preparation of specimens 7
Test procedure 8
Calculations & plotting 10
Report 11
Curve fitting Log time 12
Curve fitting Root time 13
Temperature correction graph 14
Swelling & collapse 14
Apparatus 18
Certificate of test 20
Worksheet, specimen data 22
Worksheet, settlement data 23
Worksheet, calculations 24

Health and Safety

This test method may involve the use of hazardous materials, operations and equipment.

It is the responsibility of management and the users of this document to ensure that appropriate health and safety
practices are adopted and to comply with current local health and safety regulations in force.

Disclaimer
This document has been produced taking into account the latest published standard test method and accepted good
practice.

JT Consultant Services can accept no responsibility for any test results and their subsequent use in any design,
control or other such activity obtained when using this document.

The application of the data obtained to the design process is outside the scope of this document.

Users are advised to consult the latest standard in force at the time of use.

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THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

References
BS 1377-5 Methods of test for soils for civil engineering purposes. Compressibility, permeability
and durability tests
BS 1377-1 General requirements and sample preparation.
Manual of soil laboratory testing. Volume 2, 2nd edition by K H Head.

Introduction
The construction of buildings and structures imposes a load on the soil supporting the construction. Some degree
of settlement will occur even if the applied pressure is well within the safe bearing capacity of the soil.
The limitation of settlement to within tolerable limits may often be of greater significance in foundation design
than limitations imposed by bearing capacity.

Settlements in sands and gravels take place in a short period of time, usually as construction proceeds. In clay
soils, because of their low permeability, settlements can take place over much longer periods. In some instances
the time scale may extend into centuries.

Estimates of the rate of settlement, and of the time within which settlement will be virtually complete, are
therefore important factors in foundation design.

The method detailed in this document describes the one-dimensional consolidation test using a fixed ring cell.
Floating ring cells and their method of use are not dealt with in this procedure.

Principle
A disc of saturated or near-saturated soil is confined laterally, subjected to a vertical axial pressure, and allowed to
drain freely from the top and bottom surfaces. The method is concerned mainly with the primary consolidation
phase. It may also be used to determine secondary compression characteristics.

The soil specimen (disc), usually having a height of about one-quarter of its diameter, is subjected to a sequence
of four to eight vertical increments of applied stress (pressure). Each stress increment is held constant until
primary consolidation has ceased. This is usually within a period of 24 hours.

During the pressure increment, water drains out of the specimen leading to a reduction in height which is
measured at suitable intervals of time. The measurements are used to determine the relationship between
compression (strain) or voids ratio and effective stress, and for the calculation of the amount of compression and
the rate at which it takes place.

Application
The amount of settlement which will ultimately take place for the structure can be calculated. Variations in long-
term settlements between individual footings can be estimated. Differential settlements are usually more critical
than overall settlement and must be kept within limits to avoid structural damage.

The settlement of piled foundations due to a deep seated stratum of compressible clay can be estimated.

The approximate rate of consolidation can be estimated, from which it can be seen whether settlements will be
substantially completed during the construction period, or whether appreciable settlements will continue and for
how long. This estimate should be treated with caution.

If long-term settlements are indicated, they can be compared with the economic life of the structure.

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THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

PROCEDURAL STAGES

PREPARE EXTRUDE PREPARE


APPARATUS SPECIMEN SPECIMEN

STOP FIRST LOAD APPLY FIRST LOAD SET UP


INCREMENT INCREMENT SPECIMEN

APPLY SECOND AND APPLY FIRST SUBSEQUENT


SUBSEQUENT LOAD UNLOADING UNLOADING
INCREMENTS INCREMENT INCREMENTS

REPORT CALCULATE DISMANTLE APPARATUS AND


RESULTS AND PLOT DETERMINE MOISTURE
GRAPHS CONTENT

1. Prepare, check and calibrate apparatus 13. Stop first increment when primary
2. Measure ring and determine its mass consolidation is reached
3. Cut and trim specimen into ring 14. Support hanger and apply second load increment
4. Determine moisture content and 15. Continue with further load increments
relative density of trimmings 16. First unloading stage and plot readings
5. Determine mass of ring and specimen 17. Continue with unloading stages
6. Assemble specimen in cell 18. Drain cell and remove specimen
7. Fit cell to oedometer and set up load yoke 19. Determine mass of specimen
8. Adjust beam and set vertical 20. Determine moisture content of specimen
compression device 21. Analyse settlement graphs
9. Support hanger and add first load increment 22. Calculate the voids ratio, coefficient of
10. Zero vertical compression device consolidation and the coefficient of volume
11. Apply load to specimen and add compressibility for each loading increment
water to cell 23. Plot the voids ratio curve
12. Record and plot readings 24. Report results

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THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

Prior to testing all apparatus should be cleaned, assembled and tested for compliance.
PREPARE Essentially the apparatus can be divided into three separate parts;
APPARATUS
The oedometer (load frame) The consolidation cell The loading mass

The loading mass comprises a set


The oedometer must be securely bolted to a bench or of slotted weights ranging from 10
stand capable of supporting the total mass. The bench or kg down to 1 kg. Additional
stand should be securely fixed to its foundation smaller weights are required in the
early stages of the test. Each
loading frame should ideally be
Vertical
allocated it own set. The mass of
compression
Beam fulcrum individual weights should be
known to an accuracy of 1 %.

Zero datum
Adjustable Pan for
counter- Loading yoke small
balance weights Beam ratios
Consolidation cell 9:1 10:1 11:1
Loading beam

Note Beam
The apparatus described Yoke bearing support Weight
is a mechanical system jack hangers
employing dial gauges Beam ratio
for measurement
purposes. Other systems (a + b) / a
may use electronic
recording and data
logging apparatus. The a b
checks described apply
equally to these other
systems.

Cell body
and base

Clamping
ring

Porous
discs
Assembled cell
Consolidation Load Clamping
ring pad screws
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THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

Beam ratio and applied pressure


Usually an oedometer will provide a choice of three beam ratios, 9:1, 10:1 and 11:1. The measurements should be
verified when first bringing a new oedometer into use.

The selection of the appropriate ratio will depend on the specimen size and the stress to be applied. For a
specimen of 75 mm diameter a ratio of 9:1 is appropriate.

Load increments are usually applied by doubling the previous increment. A recommended sequence for a beam
ratio of 9:1 and a specimen diameter of 75 mm is tabulated below.

Pressure (kPa) Total mass (kg) Upper pan (g) Upper hanger (kg) Lower hanger (kg)
3 0,15 100 + 50
6 0,3 200 +100
12 0,6 500 + 100
25 1,25 200 + 50 1
50 2,5 500 2
100 5 2 + 2 +1
200 10 2 + 2 +1 5
400 20 2 + 2 +1 5 + 10
800 40 2 + 2 +1 5 + (3 x 10)
1600 80 2 + 2 +1 5 + (7 x 10)
3200 160 2 + 2 +1 5 + (15 x 10)

Test environment
The laboratory shall be maintained at an ambient temperature. In temperate climates a temperature
of 20 oC + 4 oC is usually adopted. In hotter climates a temperature of 25 oC + 4 oC may be appropriate.

Apparatus shall be protected from direct sunlight, local sources of heat and draughts.

Calibration of oedometer and consolidation ring


Consolidation ring

Clean and dry the ring making sure the cutting edge is not damaged. Determine its mass to the nearest 0,1 g.

Measure the height at 4 or more equally spaced points to the nearest 0,05 mm and calculate the mean height, Ho.

Measure the internal diameter in 2 perpendicular directions to the nearest 0,1 mm and calculate the mean diameter
and the area, A, in mm2.

It is good practice to match the ring and its associated cell, always using them together.

Oedometer

When a mass is added to the load hanger some deformation of the oedometer will occur. This is quite small but
must be taken into account during the calculation of the specimen deformation.
A calibration of each oedometer used must be performed prior to testing. This only needs to be done once and
when there are any significant changes to the oedometer and its associated apparatus.

Note. Deformation is usually only significant when testing stiff soils and may be ignored for soft soils.

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THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

Procedure

Locate a metal disc of the same dimensions as the specimen in the cutting ring and assemble the consolidation
cell. Mark the orientation of each component part relative to the assembly. This orientation should be used for
subsequent testing purposes.

If filter papers are to be used during testing, similar papers (dry or wet depending on the test procedure) should be
placed above and below the metal disc.

Do not add water to the cell during calibration.

Select the beam ratio to be used and adjust the counter-balance mass so that the beam is horizontal under no load
conditions.

Locate the cell in the oedometer and bring the loading yoke into contact with the load cap.

Support the beam with the screw jack. At the same time add a small mass to the beam hanger. This will hold the
beam in position whilst the compression device is set.

Zero the compression device.

Assuming the beam ratio has been set to 9:1, add a mass of 600 g to the load hanger. Smoothly and without
jarring, release the beam and record the reading of the compression device when it becomes steady.

Carefully wind up the support jack so that it just supports the mass of the load hanger without changing the
compression reading.

Continue adding load increments, doubling the mass each time and recording the readings of the compression
device for each increment, up to the maximum capacity of the oedometer.

After the final increment the support jack should be wound up to support the mass applied.

Gently bear down on the beam and remove the last load increment.

Release the beam and record the reading of the compression device.

Carefully wind up the support jack so that it just supports the mass of the load hanger without changing the
compression reading.

Bearing down on the beam each time, continue reducing the load increments in reverse order to 600 g recording
the readings at each stage.

Plot the compression readings as ordinates (linear scale) against the applied loads as abscissae (log scale) and
draw a smooth curve through the points. Read off and tabulate the cumulative compression readings (corrections)
for each load. The cumulative corrections (y) are applied to the measured cumulative compression of the specimen
corresponding to each applied load.

Load on hanger (kg) 0,3 0,6 1,25 2,5 5 10 20 40 80 160


Cumulative
correction (y) m

Incremental
correction () m

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THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

Preparation of specimen
The procedure is used to test undisturbed specimens of cohesive soils or re-compacted specimens. The size of the
largest particle shall not exceed 1 % of the height of the specimen, i.e. 0,2 mm

Loss or gain of moisture during preparation shall be avoided.

The test specimen should normally be orientated such that in the test the soil will be loaded in the same direction
relative to the stratum as the applied stress insitu.

Preparation from undisturbed cohesive samples

Extrude the sample from the sample tube. Avoid applying sudden shock to the sample. This may damage the
sample and increase pore pressure within the sample.

Obtain and trim the sample to size using the consolidation ring and immediately determine the mass of the ring
and specimen. Calculate the specimen mass (mo) to the nearest 0,1 g. Use the trimmings to determine the initial
moisture content (wo) and the particle density (s) of the specimen.

Great care should be taken to obtain specimens which are representative of the whole sample. Poor specimen
preparation will lead to poor results.

After preparing the specimens, break open the remainder of the sample and record a detailed description of the
soil fabric.

Preparation of compacted and remoulded cohesive specimens

The degree of compaction is related to two criteria;


Compactive effort. The soil is compacted at a specified moisture content into a mould using a
specified compactive effort.
Dry density. The soil is compacted or compressed at a specified moisture content into a mould to
achieve a specified dry density.

Prepare the soil at the desired moisture content. Seal and store for 24 h.

Compacted sample larger than test specimen

The soil is compacted into a 1 litre compaction mould from which the test specimens can be prepared.

Compaction at specified effort

Compact the soil into the mould. The degree of compaction required will determine the number of layers and the
type of rammer. Typically 3/5 layers are compacted using the 2,5 kg rammer or the 4,5 kg rammer.

Compaction to specified density

The procedure used shall be such that the mass of soil to achieve the required density just fills the mould when
uniformly compacted. The compactive effort and number of blows is determined by trial.

After compaction fill any small cavities by pressing in additional soil at the same moisture content.

If the excess or deficiency of the compacted sample is > 2 % of the volume of the mould, remove the soil from the
mould, break it up, remove the excess soil or mix with additional soil if required and re-compact.

Seal and store the sample for 24 h. Prepare the specimens as previously described.
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THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

Test procedure
Initial adjustments

Clean the porous plates and saturate by boiling in water for at least 20 min then store in de-aerated water until
ready for use.

For saturated soils or soils which do not show a high affinity for water, remove free surface water from the bottom
porous plate and place centrally in the consolidation cell. For soils that readily absorb water, allow the plate to air
dry before placing in the cell.

Place the consolidation ring and specimen centrally on the porous plate and assemble the cell components
ensuring the ring is laterally confined.

Place the top porous plate (in the same condition as the lower one) and load cap carefully on the specimen
ensuring they are clear of the consolidation ring.

When assembling the cell ensure the orientation of the components is as previously marked.

Locate the consolidation cell in the oedometer and adjust the load yoke such that it just makes contact with the
load cap when the beam is slightly above the horizontal position.

Ideally, the upward inclination should be about equal to the inclination downwards under the maximum loading.

Check that the beam support jack is in contact with the beam and add a small weight to the hanger pan to maintain
contact. The resulting seating pressure shall not exceed 2 kPa.

Secure the compression device and bring it into positive contact with the loading yoke datum. Allow for a small
amount of upward movement in case of swelling and zero the device.

Confirm the beam is supported and carefully add weights to give the required initial pressure. Remove the small
weight used earlier.

Check that the compression device is registering zero and record the reading as the initial reading (d1) for the load
stage increment.

Release the load hanger smoothly and without jolting the assembly and at the same time record the initial start
time and subsequent compression reading.

Immediately fill the cell with water to a level just above the top porous plate.

If the specimen begins to swell, or if compression virtually ceases in a short time proceed to the next increment.
Alternatively, if the swell pressure is to be determined, follow the procedure described later in this document.

Continue taking compression readings against regular intervals of elapsed time until primary compression is
complete. A period of 24 h is usually adequate.

Convenient periods of elapsed time from zero are as follows;


0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 s; 1, 2, 4, 8, 15, 30 min and 1, 2, 4, 8, 24 h.

More frequent readings may be required for soils which compress rapidly.

Plot the compression readings against log-time and/or square-root of time as the stage progresses.

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THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

Record the daily maximum and minimum temperatures adjacent to the apparatus to the nearest 1 oC at each stage.

When primary consolidation is complete, record the elapsed time and the final compression reading (df). This
becomes the initial reading for the next stage.

Support the beam using the screw jack without altering the final compression reading.

Add the weights for the next increment of loading to the load hanger and continue the test using the procedure
previously described.

Note. It is usual to load the specimen with four to six increments to obtain the necessary data.

Plotting

As each stage progresses, plot readings of the compression device as ordinates against log-time as abscissae using
five cycle semi-logarithmic paper.

A plot of readings of the compression device as ordinates against square-root of time as abscissae may also be
produced. Use the same scale for the ordinates on both plots.

Unloading

After the final loading increment at least three unloading stages shall be carried out to obtain the unloading curve.

Unloading decrements should be twice the loading increment, e.g. if the loading was 25, 50, 100, 200, 400 and
800 then the unloading decrements should be 400, 100 and 50 finishing with an applied pressure of either the
swelling pressure or the initial applied pressure.

Zero the time recording device and hold the beam down firmly on the support jack.

Carefully remove the first load decrement and start the timing device recording readings of swelling as for the
loading procedure.

When equilibrium has been reached, record the final swelling reading and proceed to the next unloading
decrement.

Continue the procedure until the final unloading stage is complete and record the final swell reading.

Plot the unloading stages on the same log-time plot as the loading stages. Square-root of time plots are not
normally produced for unloading stages.

Record the daily maximum and minimum temperatures adjacent to the apparatus to the nearest 1 oC at each stage.

Moisture content
Drain the water from the cell and allow to stand for at least 15 min to allow the porous plates to drain. Remove
any excess water remaining in the cell with a tissue.

Remove the load and remove the cell from the oedometer.

Dismantle the cell and weigh the ring with the specimen to the nearest 0,1 g.

Dry the specimen (in the ring) in an oven at 105 oC to 110 oC and determine its dry mass (md) and moisture
content.
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THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

Calculations and plotting


Calculate the initial moisture content (wo) from the trimmings as follows;

wo = (m1 m2) / m2 * 100 %


where
m1 is the initial mass of the trimmings (in g).
m2 is the final dry mass of the trimmings (in g).

Calculate the initial bulk density () in Mg/m3 from the following;

= (mo * 1000) / AHo


where
A is the area of the specimen (in mm2)
Ho is the initial height of the specimen (in mm)

Calculate the initial dry density (d) in Mg/m3 from the following;

d = (100) / (100 + wo)

If it is required to plot void ratio against pressure, calculate the initial voids ratio (eo) from the following;

eo = (s / d) 1
where
s is the particle density (in Mg/m3)

If required, calculate the initial degree of saturation (So %) from the following;

So = (wo* s) / eo

Compressibility (mv) calculations

Calculate the equivalent height of solids (Hs) in mm from the following;

Hs = Ho / (1 + eo)

Calculate the height of the specimen (H) in mm at the end of each loading or unloading stage from the following;

H = Ho ((H y)
where
H is the cumulative compression of the specimen (reduction in height) in mm from the initial height
y is the cumulative correction for deformation of the apparatus under the loading pressure

Calculate the voids ratio (e) at the end of each loading or unloading stage from the following;

e = (H Hs) / Hs

Calculate the coefficient volume compressibility (mv) in m2/MN for each loading increment from the following;

Mv = [(H1 H2) / H1) (1000 / p1 p2)]


where
H1 is the height of the specimen at the start of a loading increment in mm
H2 is the height of the specimen at the end of that loading increment in mm
p1 is the pressure applied to the specimen for the previous loading stage in kPa
p2 is the pressure applied to the specimen for the loading stage being considered in kPa
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THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

Plot values of voids ratio as ordinates against applied pressure on a logarithmic scale as abscissae.

Draw smooth curves through the points for both the loading and unloading stages. If the swelling pressure was
measured the curves will start and terminate at the swelling pressure.

Indicate the value of the initial voids ratio (eo) on the vertical axis.

Coefficient of consolidation (cv)


Two curve fitting procedures are used for evaluating (cv), the log of time (Cassagrande method) or the square-root
of time (Taylors method). One or the other may be more appropriate for the soil being evaluated.

Usually the log-time procedure is preferred, however where it is difficult to evaluate the do point it may be
possible to obtain do from the root-time plot and transfer this to the log-time plot if the d100 point is clear on the
log-time plot. Evaluation of d100 from the root-time plot is not very satisfactory as the exact position is difficult to
identify. Examples of the two procedures follow.

The procedures are regarded as standard and are used for determining values to be obtained from saturated clays.
Where other types of soil, e.g. clayey silts, silts and unsaturated soils are to be evaluated curves may depart from
the conventional shape and may require alternative methods of analysis.

Temperature correction
If the average laboratory temperature differs by more than + 2 oC from 20 oC, correct the values of cv to the 20 oC
values by multiplying by a correction factor obtained from the correction chart included in this document.

Coefficient of secondary compression


On the log-time plot, extend the linear portion of secondary compression to cover one complete cycle of log-time.
Read off the compression readings at the start and finish of the cycle and calculate the difference Hs in mm.

Calculate the coefficient of secondary compression Csec from the following;

Csec = Hs / Ho

Repeat the procedure for each loading increment.

Report
The report shall affirm that the test was carried out in accordance with BS 1377-5;
name of the testing organisation and date of test; sample identification reference or number and location;
whether undisturbed or compacted specimens, and the method of preparation of test specimens;
depth, location and orientation of test specimens within the original sample;
visual description of soil, including soil fabric and any unusual features;
comments on observed or inferred sample disturbance, including possible loss of moisture;
unavoidable variations from specified procedure, with reasons;
initial specimen dimensions; initial and final moisture content; initial bulk density and dry density;
particle density, whether measured or assumed;
if required, initial voids ratio and degree of saturation;
a plot of the voids ratio or vertical compression percentage against the log of the applied pressure for the complete
load-unload cycle;
plots of compression against time for each load increment;
the calculated values for cv and mv to two significant figures for each load increment in the form of a table;
if required, Csec for each load increment to two significant figures;
the method of time fitting used;
the laboratory temperature at which the test was carried out;

Note. Examples of suggested data sheets and report formats are included in this document.
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THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

d
c

Log-time curve fitting


Select two points on the initial convex-upward portion of the curve whose time values are in the ratio 1:4.

Measure a distance a-d equal to a-c (the vertical distance between a and b) upwards from point a to obtain the
point d.

Repeat the process twice more using other points within the ratio 1:4.

Take the average of the three readings as the corrected zero compression point do.

Draw and extend the tangents to the two linear portions of the curve, i.e. at the point of inflexion, and the
secondary compression portion.

Their intersection gives the compression corresponding to theoretical 100 % primary consolidation, d100.

From do and d100 locate the 50 % primary compression point, d50, on the curve and obtain its time, t50, in minutes.

An example of the graphical procedure is shown above.

Calculate the coefficient of consolidation, cv, in m2/year from the following;


_
cv = (0,026 H 2) / t50 (in m2/year)
where _
H is the average specimen thickness (H1 + H2) / 2 (in mm)

Repeat the procedure for each loading increment.


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THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

p
q r
B

Square-root curve fitting

Draw the straight line of best fit to the early portion of the curve (usually within the first 50 % of compression)
and extend it to intersect the ordinate of zero time. The intersection represents the corrected zero point, do.

Draw a straight line through do which at all points has abscissae 1,15 times as great as those on the best fit line.

A simple way of doing this is to find the point q on the line QB at which the t = 10.

Draw a horizontal line through q to intersect the zero time ordinate at p.

Make p r = 1,15 x p q (the point r corresponds to t = 11,5).

Join Q r which intersects the curve at C.

This point, C, is the theoretical 90 % consolidation point, d90.

An example of the graphical procedure is shown above.

Obtain the value of t90 corresponding to d90 and calculate the coefficient of consolidation (cv) from the following;
_
Cv = (0,111 H 2) / t90 (in m2/year)

Repeat the procedure for each loading increment.


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THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

Swelling and collapse characteristics


Three methods for determining swelling and collapse properties are described.

Swelling of over-consolidated clays and other soils which are susceptible to swelling when allowed free access to
water is measured. It is important to appreciate the difference between the swelling pressure test, in which the
pressure to prevent swelling is measured, and the swelling test where swelling is allowed to take place and is
measured.

The swelling pressure (s) is the vertical pressure applied to the specimen to prevent swelling and is usually the
starting and finishing points for the series of pressures to be applied in a consolidation test.

The swelling test measures the swelling characteristics of a soil when it is unloaded from the swelling pressure in
the presence of water.

The collapse (settlement) of a soil that is not completely saturated is measured in the third method described.

The same apparatus and environmental requirements as the consolidation test apply to the three methods.

Swelling pressure test

Prepare the test specimen as for a consolidation test.

Note. If the swelling pressure test is to be followed by measuring the swelling properties, then the flanged disc
shall be used to prepare the specimen. Refer to the procedure in the next method.

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Locate the consolidation cell in the oedometer and adjust the load yoke such that it just makes contact with the
load cap when the beam is slightly above the horizontal position.

Check that the beam support jack is in contact with the beam and add a small weight to the hanger pan to maintain
contact. The resulting seating pressure shall not exceed 2 kPa.

Secure the compression device and bring it into positive contact with the loading yoke datum. Allow for upward
movement and zero the device.

Check that the compression device is registering zero and record the reading as the initial reading.

Add water to the cell and start the timer.

When swelling is observed, add weights to the hanger to maintain the compression device within 0,01 mm of the
corrected zero reading.

Note. The corrected zero reading is the initial device reading minus the correction factor, y.

Record the mass of each weight added and the corresponding time.

Continue to adjust the mass on the hanger until equilibrium is established with a compression device reading
within 0,01 mm of the relevant corrected zero reading.

Note. The procedure may take several hours for the specimen to reach equilibrium. The approach to equilibrium
can be observed by plotting a graph of cumulative mass on the hanger against square-root of elapsed time at
which each adjustment was made.

If the test is to be left unattended for any length of time before equilibrium is established, prevent further
swelling by loading the hanger with excess mass with the beam supported and maintaining the existing
corrected zero reading.

When equilibrium is established calculate the pressure, s, (in kPa), applied to the specimen including the initial
seating load, reporting this as the swelling pressure to two significant figures.

Continue with the consolidation test or the swelling test depending upon the requirement.

Note. Do not re-set the compression device.

Swelling test

Prepare the test specimen as for a consolidation test but modified as follows;

Determine the thickness of the upstand of the flanged disc to 0,01 mm.

Place the flanged disc on a flat surface with a filter paper on the upper face.

Place the specimen in its ring with the cutting edge face down on the upstand.

Push the ring firmly downwards without tilting until the cutting edge is firmly in contact with the flange.

Trim off the extruded portion of the specimen flat and flush with the ring and remove the flanged disc and filter
paper.

Determine the mass of the specimen and ring and calculate the mass of the specimen to the nearest 0,1 g.

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THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

Calculate the specimen height, Ho, in mm from the difference in thickness of the ring and the upstand of the
flanged disc.

Locate the consolidation cell in the oedometer and adjust the load yoke such that it just makes contact with the
load cap when the beam is slightly above the horizontal position.

Check that the beam support jack is in contact with the beam and add a small weight to the hanger pan to maintain
contact. The resulting seating pressure shall not exceed 2 kPa.

Secure the compression device and bring it into positive contact with the loading yoke datum. Allow for swelling
over a range at least equal to the thickness of specimen displaced by the upstand.

Check that the compression device is registering zero and record the reading as the initial reading.

Add water to the cell and start the timer.

When swelling is observed, add weights to the hanger to maintain the compression device within 0,01 mm of the
corrected zero reading.

Note. The corrected zero reading is the initial device reading minus the correction factor, y.

Record the mass of each weight added and the corresponding time.

Continue to adjust the mass on the hanger until equilibrium is established with a compression device reading
within 0,01 mm of the relevant corrected zero reading.

Note. The procedure may take several hours for the specimen to reach equilibrium. The approach to equilibrium
can be observed by plotting a graph of cumulative mass on the hanger against square-root of elapsed time at
which each adjustment was made.

If the test is to be left unattended for any length of time before equilibrium is established, prevent further
swelling by loading the hanger with excess mass with the beam supported and maintaining the existing
corrected zero reading.

Record the compression device reading. Do not re-set it to zero.

Reduce the pressure on the specimen to a suitable value. This may be values used for consolidation increments or
values related to the swelling pressure. The sequence should be related to a constant ratio, e.g. 1, 0,5, 0,25 etc.

Carefully remove the first load decrement and start the timing device recording readings of swelling.

When equilibrium has been reached, record the final swelling reading and proceed to the next unloading
decrement.

Continue the procedure until the final selected minimum pressure is complete and record the final swell reading.

Note. The total height of the specimen shall not be allowed to exceed the height of the ring.

Plot the unloading stages on a log-time plot and record the daily maximum and minimum temperatures adjacent to
the apparatus to the nearest 1 oC at each stage.

Re-load the specimen back to the swelling pressure using the same sequence of pressures in reverse order.

If a consolidation test is required, follow the normal procedure as previously described. If no consolidation test is
required, drain the cell and dismantle as previously described and take final measurements.
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THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

Calculations and plotting


Calculations and plotting shall be as previously described. Values of mv and cv shall be calculated only for the re-
loading stages.

Plot the relationship between voids ratio or swelling and the log of pressure for the swelling/re-loading cycle.

Report
Report data as appropriate from the requirements defined for reporting a consolidation test.

Collapse due to saturation


For soils that are not completely saturated, the effect of inundation can sometimes be significant with a sudden
decrease in volume occurring when water is introduced.

The procedure to determine this effect is to load the specimen, in suitable stages up to a pressure equal to the
overburden pressure without adding water. When equilibrium is reached, water is added so that the specimen
becomes totally submerged while the pressure remains constant.

Saturate the porous plates then bring to an air-dried condition.

Prepare the specimen and apparatus as for a normal consolidation test covering the specimen with a damp cloth to
avoid drying out.

Apply a suitable series of load increments up to the overburden pressure or the selected relevant value without
adding water to the cell.

Record compression readings against elapsed time for each load increment plotting these as previously described.

When equilibrium under the selected load is established, add water to the cell so that the specimen is completely
submerged and record the time.

Record compression readings against elapsed time until equilibrium is re-established.

Continue with loading and unloading increments as appropriate for a consolidation test.

Calculations and plotting


Calculations and plotting shall be as previously described for a consolidation test
.
On the plot of compression or voids ratio against log pressure the decrease in height due to saturation shall be
indicated by a vertical line at the constant applied pressure.

Calculate the decrease in height due to saturation as a percentage of the specimen height under the same pressure
prior to saturation.

Report
Report data as appropriate from the requirements defined for reporting a consolidation test.

Report the corresponding change in height as a percentage of the specimen height immediately before saturation,
to the nearest 0,1 %.

Page 17 of 24
THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

Apparatus
Loading frame (Oedometer)
With a rigid bed to support the consolidation cell. It shall enable vertical force to be applied axially, in increments
through a loading yoke. Each increment of force shall be maintained constant by a stress controlled method while
permitting vertical compression of the test specimen. The force shall be applied centrally to the loading cap of the
consolidation cell. Counter-balanced lever loading devices are suitable.

Consolidation cell
The cell shall be leak-free and capable of maintaining a level of water above the upper porous plate when
assembled. The consolidation ring shall have a height not less than 18 mm and not more than 0,4 times the
internal diameter. The internal surface of the ring shall be smooth and a sharp cutting edge shall be incorporated.
A ring 75 mm diameter x 20 mm in height is suitable.

Porous plates
Two are required. They shall be of negligible compressibility and thick enough to withstand the applied pressure.
The upper and lower surfaces shall be plane, clean and undamaged. The porosity shall allow free drainage of
water throughout the test.

Weight set
A set of weights for applying the vertical force to the test specimen. The applied pressure shall be known to an
accuracy of 1 % or 1 kPa, whichever is the greater. A suitable range of weights includes 10 kg, 5 kg, 2 kg, 1 kg,
500 g, and 250 g weights. Smaller weights may also be required.

Vertical compression device


A means of measuring the vertical compression or swelling such as a dial gauge readable to 0,002 mm with a
travel of 10 mm.

Other apparatus

A metal disc for calibration purposes. It shall be the same height as the consolidation ring with a diameter about 1
mm smaller than the internal diameter of the ring. The end faces shall be flat, smooth and parallel.

Sample extruder.
Trimming tools, trays and containers.
Depth gauge, internal/external calipers, straightedge, stop clock etc.
Moisture content apparatus.
A maximum-minimum thermometer.

Additional apparatus required for swelling and collapse tests includes;

Weight set
A set of small weights to enable pressures upwards from 2 kPa at intervals of 1 kPa to be applied to the specimen.

Flanged disc
A metal disc with flat and parallel faces about 1 mm diameter less than the consolidation ring. The upstand above
the flange shall displace a thickness of specimen from the ring to give a height of specimen about 3 mm to 5 mm
less than the rings height.

Damp cloth
For protecting a non-inundated specimen from drying. Plastic cling film may also be required.

Page 18 of 24
THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

Notes
Quality assurance requirements specify that the equipment used shall be recorded and be within its valid
calibration period.

All apparatus should be clean, in good condition and comply with the dimensions specified.

Where a dimension or other specified requirement has a tolerance applied, this should be checked regularly for
compliance and a record maintained.

Where a dimension is specified with manufacturing tolerances or limits, it shall be an essential dimension.

Dimensions stated without tolerances are given for guidance.

For mass, the manufacturing tolerance shall be within + 1 % of the specified mass unless otherwise stated.

Working tolerances apply to apparatus after being subjected to wear in use, and shall not exceed twice the
manufacturing tolerance unless other requirements are specified.

Page 19 of 24
THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

Certificate No.
CERTIFICATE OF ONE-DIMENSIONAL
CONSOLIDATION TEST
Date of Test Testing Organisation Name of Project

Sample Identification Sample Type Sketch of specimen location in


Undisturbed/Compacted * original sample
Sample Description

Comments

Initial Data Pressure stage Laboratory coefficients


Diameter kPa Compressibility (mv) m2/MN Consolidation (cv) m2/yr
mm
Height
mm
Bulk density
Mg/m3
Moisture content
%
Dry density
Mg/m3
Particle density
Mg/m3
Measured/assumed *

Voids ratio

Saturation
%
Depth below surface
m
Swelling pressure
kPa

Name of Tester
Signature of Tester

The tester certifies that the test was carried out in accordance with BS 1377-5:1990

Name of person responsible for testing Checked by Approved by


Signature of person responsible for testing

Page 20 of 24
THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

Certificate No.
CERTIFICATE OF ONE-DIMENSIONAL
CONSOLIDATION TEST
Date of Test Testing Organisation Name of Project

Sample Identification Sample Type Sketch of specimen location in


Undisturbed/Compacted * original sample
Sample Description

Comments

Name of Tester
Signature of Tester

The tester certifies that the test was carried out in accordance with BS 1377-5:1990

Name of person responsible for testing Checked by Approved by


Signature of person responsible for testing

Page 21 of 24
THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION SPECIMEN DATA


Date of Test Testing Organisation Name of Project

Sample Identification Sample Type Cell Number


Undisturbed/Compacted *
Sample Description Ring Number

Comments Particle Density (s)


Mg/m3
Measured/Assumed *
Method of preparation

Dimensions Initial Overall Final


Diameter D mm _
Area A mm2 _
Height H mm
Volume V cm3

Weighings Initial Final


(a) (b) (c)
Wet soil + ring + tray g -
Dry soil + ring + tray g - -
Ring + tray g -
Wet soil g mo mo
Dry soil g - md md
Water g -
Moisture content (measured) % -
Moisture content from trimmings % wo - -
Bulk density Mg/m3
Dry density Mg/m3
Voids ratio eo
Degree of saturation % So
Height of solids Hs mm

Name of Tester
Signature of Tester
Name of person responsible for testing Checked by Approved by
Signature of person responsible for testing

Page 22 of 24
THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION SETTLEMENT READINGS


Date of Test Testing Organisation Name of Project

Sample Identification Sample Type Cell Number


Undisturbed/Compacted *
Sample Description Ring Number

Comments Lever ratio :1


1 kg = pressure kPa
2
Diameter D mm Area A mm Height H mm Loading/Unloading *
Increment Number Load (kg)/Pressure (kPa)
Date started Mean daily temperature oC

Elapsed Time Clock time Compression Cumulative compression (mm)


h m s t min t reading H

Cumulative correction y
Nett cumulative correction (H y)

Name of Tester
Signature of Tester
Name of person responsible for testing Checked by Approved by
Signature of person responsible for testing

Page 23 of 24
THE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION TEST

ONE-DIMENSIONAL CONSOLIDATION - CALCULATIONS


Date of Test Testing Organisation Name of Project

Sample Identification Sample Type Cell Number


Undisturbed/Compacted *
Sample Description Ring Number

Comments Initial voids ratio eo

Diameter D mm Area A mm2 Height Ho mm Height of solids Hs mm

Voids ratio Compressibility Coefficient of consolidation


Stage P H y H = Ho - e= Incremental mv = H/H1 t50 H= cv =
(H y) H Hs/Hs H p *1000/ p H1+H2 / 2 _ _
0,026H 2/t50 0,111H 2/t90
2 2 2
kPa mm mm mm mm m /MN min mm m /year m /year

Name of Tester
Signature of Tester
Name of person responsible for testing Checked by Approved by
Signature of person responsible for testing

Page 24 of 24

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