The Standard Proctor Compaction Test

The Standard Proctor Compaction test is a laboratory method of experiment on which the purpose of

the test is to find the optimum water content of the soil to the point where maximum density is

achieved and compaction produces the best possible result. This test was developed by Ralph Roscoe

Proctor in 1933.

These laboratory tests generally consist of compacting soil at known moisture content into a cylindrical

mold with a collar of standard dimensions of 4.6 inches height and 4 inches diameter using a standard

compacting hammer. The soil is usually compacted into the mold to a certain number of 3 equal layers,

each receiving a 25 number of blows from a 5.5 pounds weighted hammer at a specified height of 12

inches. This process is then repeated five to six times for various moisture contents and the dry densities

are determined for each. The graphical relationship of the dry density to moisture content is then

plotted to establish the compaction curve. The maximum dry density is finally obtained from the peak

point of the compaction curve and its corresponding moisture content, also known as the optimal

moisture content. The information gathered from the Standard Proctor Compaction test is then used as

reference points for field testing, generally before groundwork begins.

Furthermore, The Standard Proctor Compaction test is essential because of how much soil types vary by

the site and region. It is also an important process that helps in achieving various physical properties

required for proper soil behavior under loading.