This apparatus is utilized to ascertain the in-situ density of compacted soils. It employs a calibrated container filled with uniformly graded sand, a base plate with a central hole, and a weighing scale. The process involves excavating a small volume of compacted soil, weighing it, and then determining the volume of the excavated hole by measuring the amount of standard sand required to fill it. Knowing the weight and volume allows for the calculation of the soil’s density.
Accurate determination of soil density is paramount in construction and geotechnical engineering. This procedure ensures that compacted materials meet specified density requirements, contributing to the stability and load-bearing capacity of structures built upon them. Historically, this method has been a reliable and cost-effective means of quality control on construction sites, verifying the effectiveness of compaction efforts and preventing potential settlement issues.