ASTM International

Standard Test Methods for Density and Unit Weight of Soil and Rock in Place by the Sand Replacement Method in a Test Pit
 N D4914

Annotation

These test methods cover the determination of the in-place density and unit weight of soil and rock using a pouring device and calibrated sand to determine the volume of a test pit. The word "rock'' in these test methods is used to imply that the material being tested will typically contain particles larger than 3 in. (75 mm).

These test methods are best suited for test pits with a volume from 0.03 to 0.17 m3(1 to 6 ft3). In general, the materials tested would have a maximum particle size of 75 to 125 mm (3 to 5 in.).

These test methods may be used for larger sized excavations if desirable. However, for larger sized excavations, Test Method D 5030 is preferred.

Test Method D 1556 or D 2167 are usually used to determine the volume of test holes smaller than 0.03 m3(1 ft3). While the equipment illustrated in these test methods is used for volumes less than 0.03 m3(1 ft3), the test methods allow larger versions of the equipment to be used when necessary.

Two test methods are provided as follows:

Test Method A—In-Place Density and Unit Weight of Total Material (Section 9).

Test Method B—In-Place Density and Unit Weight of Control Fraction (Section 10).

Selection of Test Methods:

Test Method A is used when the in-place unit weight of total material is to be determined. Test Method A can also be used to determine percent compaction or percent relative density when the maximum particle size present in the in-place material being tested does not exceed the maximum particle size allowed in the laboratory compaction test (refer to Test Methods D 698, D 1557, D 4253, and D 4254). For Test Methods D 698 and D 1557 only, the unit weight determined in the laboratory compaction test may be corrected for larger particle sizes in accordance with, and subject to the limitations of Practice D 4718.