ASTM International

Standard Test Methods for Density of Soil and Rock in Place by the Sand Replacement Method in a Test Pit
 N D4914/D4914M

Annotation

These test methods cover the determination of the in-place density 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.].

For larger sized excavations and soil containing larger particles, Test Method D5030 is preferred.

Test Method D1556 or D2167 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 of Total Material (Section 10).

Test Method B—In-Place Density of Control Fraction (Section 11).

Selection of Test Methods:

Test Method A is used when the in-place density 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 D698, D1557, D4253, D4254, and D7382). For Test Methods D698 and D1557 only, the dry density determined in the laboratory compaction test may be corrected for larger particle sizes in accordance with, and subject to the limitations of Practice D4718.