1-gang Consolidation Apparatus

Description

The NL5044X/001 is a table‑top single‑gang consolidation frame used to determine the long‑term consolidation characteristics of clays and other compressible soils under loads imposed by foundations and above‑ground structures. Settlement may occur even when the applied pressure is within the safe bearing capacity of the soil. The apparatus uses lever‑arm loading and can apply pressures up to 81 tons per square foot (approx. 8,800 kPa) on 50mm diameter specimens. It is suitable for predicting foundation settlement under buildings, dams, bridges, and similar structures.

Test Standards

The apparatus complies with the following international standards:

• BS1377(British Standard methods of test for soils)
• ASTM D2435(Standard test methods for one‑dimensional consolidation properties of soils)
• ASTM D3877(Test methods for expansion, shrinkage, and consolidation characteristics of soils)
• ASTM D4546(One‑dimensional consolidation and expansion of soils)

Specification

Detail

• Loading mechanism: Rigid loading frame with integral beam support jack to avoid shock to the sample during load application.
• Lever ratio: Fixed 11:1 lever ratio, maximum stress up to 8.8 MPa.
• Consolidation cell: Front‑loading oedometer conforming to ASTM/BS standards.
• Measuring instruments: Standard mechanical dial gauge; optional vertical displacement dial gauge (10mm travel, accuracy 0.01mm).
• Optional accessories: Porous stones (Φ50mm×5mm), cutting ring, top cap, filter paper.
• Packing: Exterior plywood case.

Application

• Laboratory determination of consolidation settlement characteristics of clayey soils
• Prediction of long‑term settlement of foundations for buildings, dams, bridges, etc.
• High‑pressure compressibility studies of soils
• Teaching and research in geotechnical laboratories following international standards

Advantages

• Extremely high loading capacity: Maximum pressure up to 8,800 kPa (11:1 lever ratio) – ideal for deep stiff soils or high‑pressure consolidation research.
• Rigid construction: Ensures accuracy, repeatability, and reliability of test results.
• Shock protection: Integral beam support jack eliminates sample disturbance during loading.
• Rust‑resistant & durable: Cast aluminum and plated steel for long‑term laboratory use.
• Compact table‑top design: Saves lab space.
• Cost‑effective: Single‑gang design suitable for low‑volume or high‑pressure specialized tests at a lower cost than multi‑gang models.

What To Choose

Process Flow

• Specimen preparation: Cut a Φ50mm specimen using a cutting ring and place it into the consolidation cell (with upper/lower porous stones).
• Install the cell: Position the consolidation cell in the front‑loading frame and secure it.
• Install measuring device: Mount the dial gauge or displacement transducer and adjust to initial reading.
• Apply load: Using the 11:1 lever ratio, apply weights stepwise according to the test schedule.
• Record settlement: Take dial gauge readings at specified time intervals under each load increment until stabilization.
• Data processing: Plot time‑settlement curves and calculate consolidation coefficient, compression index, pre‑consolidation pressure, etc.
• Report generation: Produce test reports for engineering design or research analysis.