To Determine In-Situ Dry Density by Sand Replacement Method

A hole of specified dimensions is excavated in the ground. The mass of the excavated soil is determined.

The volume of the hole is determined by filling it with clean, uniform sand whose dry density
(clip_image002) is determined separately by calibration. The volume of the hole is equal to the mass of
the sand filled in the hole divided by its dry density.

The dry density of the excavated soil is determined as

clip_image004

Where M= mass of the excavated soil, V= volume of the hole and w= water content.

Equipment for Dry Density Test

Sand – pouring cylinder

Calibrating container, 100mm diameter and 150mm height

Soil cutting and excavating tools, such as scrapper tool, bent spoon

Glass plate, 450mm square, 9mm thick

Metal container to collect excavated soil

Metal tray, 300mm square and 40mm deep with a hole of 100mm in diameter at the centre

Weighing balance

Moisture content cans

Oven

Desiccator