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LABORATORY MANUAL
(As per latest KTU Syllabus)
2018
CONTENTS
Sl. No. Experiments Page No.
1.1 Aim
Low aggregate crushing value indicates strong aggregates, as the crushed fraction
is low. Thus the test can be used to assess the suitability of aggregates to be used
for the surface course of pavements as they should be strong enough to withstand
high stresses due to wheel loads, including the steel tyres of loaded bullock carts.
However as the stresses at the base and sub-base courses are low aggregates with
lesser crushing strength may be used at the lower layers of the pavement. The
aggregate crushing test is simple, rapid and gives fairly consistent results.
1.3 Apparatus
The apparatus for the standard aggregate crushing test (Fig.1.1) as per IS 2386-
1963 (Part IV) consists of the following:
(i) The test mould is a 15.2 cm diameter open ended steel cylinder with base
plate; plunger having a piston of diameter 15cm with a hole provided across
1.6 cm
45 to 60 cm
Fig. 1.1 Aggregate Crushing Value Test Apparatus
1.4 Procedure
The Aggregate Sample: The material for the standard test consists of aggregates sized
10.0 mm and 12.5 mm. The aggregates may be dried by heating at 100o to 110o C for not
more than 4 hrs and cooled to room temperature before testing, if necessary.
If standard size aggregates are not available then the above procedure can be done with
aggregates passing through 25mm and retained on 20mm sieve can be used. In this case,
the IS sieve used for separating the fines is 4.75mm.
Note: The aggregate sample for conducting the aggregate crushing test for the first time
is to be taken by volume in the specified cylindrical measure by tamping in a specified
manner and the weight of the sample is determined. When the test is repeated using the
same aggregate, it is sufficient to directly weigh and take the same weight of sample. This
is because it is necessary to keep the volume and height of the sample same, so that the
test conditions remain unaltered. If the quantity of test sample to be taken is specified by
Precautions
a) The plunger should be placed centrally and it shall rest directly on the aggregate. Care
should be taken that it does not touch the walls of the cylinder so as to ensure that the
entire load is transferred to the aggregate.
b) In the operation of sieving the aggregates through 2.36 mm sieve care should be taken
to avoid loss of fines. The sum of weights of fraction retained and passing the sieve
should not differ from the original weights of the specimen by more than 1 g.
c) The tamping should be done properly by gently dropping the tamping rod and not by
hammering action. The tamping should be uniform over the surface of aggregate,
taking care that the tamping rod does not frequently strike against the walls of the
mould.
Sample 1 Sample 2
W2
Aggregate crushing value (%) = x100
W1
Mean value =
1.6 Result
Indian Roads Congress and Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) have specified that the
aggregate crushing value of the coarse aggregates used for cement concrete pavement at
surface should not exceed 30 percent. For aggregates used for concrete other than for
wearing surfaces, the aggregate crushing value shall not exceed 45 percent, according to
the ISS. However aggregate crushing values have not been specified by the IRC for
coarse aggregates to be used in bituminous pavement construction methods.
The suitability of aggregate is adjudged, depending upon its proposed use in pavement
layers. The table given below lays down specified limits of aggregate crushing value as
per Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), for different types of road construction.
2.1 Aim
ii) To assess their suitability in road construction on the basis of impact value.
2.3 Apparatus
The apparatus of the aggregate impact value test (Fig. 2.1) as per IS 2386 (Part IV)-1963
consists of:
(i) A testing machine weighing 45 to 60 kg and having a metal base with a plane
lower surface of not less than 30 cm in diameter. It is supported on level and
plane concrete floor of minimum 45 cm thickness. The machine should also
have provisions for fixing its base.
(ii) A cylindrical steel cup of internal diameter 102 mm, depth 50 mm and
minimum thickness 6.3 mm.
The test sample: It consists of aggregates sized 10 mm to 12.5 mm. The aggregates
should be dried by heating at 100 to 110o C for a period of 4 hours and cooled.
(i) Sieve the material through 12.5 mm and 10 mm IS sieves. The aggregates
passing through 12.5 mm sieve and retained on 10 mm sieve comprises the
test material.
(ii) Pour the aggregates to fill about just 1/3rd depth of measuring cylinder.
(iii) Tamp the material by giving 25 gentle blows with the rounded end of the
tamping rod.
(iv) Add two more layers in similar manner, so that the cylinder is full.
(v) Strike off the surplus aggregates
(vi) Determine the net weight of the aggregates to the nearest gram (W1).
(vii) Bring the impact machine to rest without wedging or packing upon the level
plate, block or floor, so that it is rigid and the hammer guide columns are
vertical.
(viii) Fix the cup firmly in position on the base of machine and place whole of the
test sample in it and tamp by giving 25 gentle strokes with tamping rod.
(ix) Raise the hammer until its lower face is 380 mm above the surface of the
aggregate sample in the cup and allow it to fall freely on the aggregate sample.
Give 15 such blows at an interval of not less than 1 sec between successive
falls.
(x) Remove the crushed aggregates from the cup and sieve it through 2.36 mm IS
sieve until no further significant amount passes in one minute. Weigh the
fraction passing through the sieve to an accuracy of 0.1 g (W2). Also weigh the
fraction retained in the sieve.
(xi) The fraction retained on the sieve is also weighed and if the total weight of the
fraction passing and retained on the sieve is added, it should not be less than
the original weight of the specimen by more than 1 g.
(xii) Note down the observations in the proforma and compute the aggregate
impact value. The mean of the two observations, rounded to the nearest whole
number is reported as the Aggregate Impact Value.
Precautions
a) The plunger should be placed centrally and rest directly on the aggregate. Care should
be taken that it does not touch the walls of the cylinder so at to ensure that the entire
lot is transferred to the aggregate.
b) In the operation of sieving the aggregates through 2.36 mm sieve care should be taken
to avoid loss of fines. The sum of weights of fraction retained and passing the sieve
should not differ from the original weights of the specimen by more than 1 g.
c) The tamping should be done properly by gently dropping the tamping rod and not by
hammering action. The tamping should be uniform over the surface of aggregate,
taking care that the tamping rod does not frequently strike against the walls of the
mould.
Sample 1 Sample 2
Total weight of dry sample taken, W1 g
Weight of portion passing 2.36mm sieve, W2 g
W2
Aggregate impact value = x100
W1
Aggregate Impact Value (%)
Mean value =
The mean of the two results is reported as the Aggregate Impact Value of specimen to the
nearest whole number.
The aggregate impact test is considered to be an important test to assess the suitability of
aggregates as regards the toughness for use in pavement construction. It has been found
that for majority of aggregates, the crushing and impact values are numerically similar
within close limits. But in the case of fine grained highly siliceous aggregate which are
less resistant to impact than to crushing the aggregate impact values and higher than
crushing values. Aggregate impact value is used to classify the stones in respect of their
toughness property as indicated below.
The Indian Roads Congress has recommended the following values for different types of
road construction.
3.1 Aim
The aggregate used in surface course of the highway pavements are subjected to wearing
due to movement of traffic. Resistance to wear or hardness is hence an essential property
for road aggregate especially when it is used in wearing course. When vehicles move on
the road, the soil particles present between the pneumatic tyres and road surface causes
abrasion of road aggregates. The steel rimmed wheels of animal driven vehicles also
cause considerable abrasion of road surface. Therefore the aggregate should be hard
enough to resist the abrasion. Resistance to abrasion of aggregate is determined in
laboratory by Los Angeles test machine. Hence in order to test the suitability of road
stones do resist the abrading action due to traffic, tests are carried out in the laboratory.
Abrasion test on aggregate are generally carried out by anyone of the following methods:
i) Los Angeles abrasion test
ii) Deval‘s abrasion test
iii) Dorry abrasion test
Of these test, Los Angeles abrasion test is more commonly adopted as the test values of
aggregates have been correlated with performance studies.
The principle of Los Angeles abrasion test is to produce the abrasive action by use of
standard steel balls which when mixed with the aggregates and rotated in a drum for
specific numbers of revolutions also cause impact on aggregates. The percentage wear of
the aggregates due to rubbing with steel balls is determined and is known as Los
Angeles Abrasion value.
(i) Los Angeles apparatus: It consists of a hollow steel cylinder, closed at both
the ends with an internal diameter of 700 mm and length 500 mm (Fig. 3.1)
and capable of rotating about its horizontal axis. A removable steel shaft
projecting radially 88 mm into cylinder and extending full length (i.e.500
mm) is mounted firmly on the interior of cylinder. The shelf is placed at a
distance 150 mm minimum from the opening in the direction of rotation.
(ii) Abrasive charge: Cast iron or steel balls, approximately 48mm in diameter
and each weighing between 390 to 445 g; six to twelve balls are required.
(iii) Sieve: 1.70 mm IS sieve.
(iv) Balance of Capacity 5 kg or 10 kg
(v) Drying oven
(vi) Miscellaneous items like tray etc.
Test sample: It consists of clean aggregates dried in the oven at 105oC-110oC coarser than
1.70 mm sieve. The sample should conform to any of the gradings shown in Table 3.1.
(i) Select the grading to be used in the test. It should be chosen such that it
conforms to the grading to be used in construction, to the maximum extent
possible.
(ii) Take 5 kg of sample for gradings A, B, C or D and 10 kg for gradings E, F
and G.
(iii) Choose the abrasive charge as per Table 3.1
(iv) Open the cover and feed the aggregates and steel balls in the cylinder.
Replace the cover tightly.
(v) Rotate the machine at a uniform speed of 30-33 Rev/min.
(vi) Allow the machine to run for 500 revolutions for grading A, B, C and D
1000 revolutions for grading E, F and G.
(vii) Stop the machine after the required number of revolutions and remove the
cover and take the material out.
(viii) Separate the steel balls and sieve the material on 1.7 mm IS sieve.
(ix) Weigh the material coarser than 1.7 mm size.
(x) Dry in the oven to a constant weight and weighed correct to an accuracy of
1 gm.
(xi) Calculate the percentage of fines from material.
Precautions
Number of spheres
Grading
3.6 Result
Los Angeles abrasion test is very commonly used to evaluate the quality of
aggregates for use in pavement construction, especially to decide the hardness of stone.
The allowable limits of Los Angeles abrasion values have been specified by different
agencies based on extensive performance studies in the field. The BIS has also suggested
that this test should be preferred wherever possible. However, this test may be considered
as one in which resistance to both abrasion and impact of aggregate may be obtained
simultaneously, due to the presence of abrasive charge. Also the test condition is
considered more representatives of field conditions. The results obtained on stone
aggregate are highly reproducible. The test has more acceptability because the resistance
to abrasion and impact is determined simultaneously. Depending upon the numerical
value, the suitability of aggregates for different road construction can be judged as per
Indian Roads Congress specifications given below.
Table 3.2 Maximum allowable Los Angeles abrasion value of aggregates in different
types of pavement layers as per IRC
Sl. No. Type of pavement layer Max. permissible abrasion value in %
1 Water bound macadam, sub base 60
course
2 WBM base course with 50
bituminous surfacing
3 Bituminous bound macadam 50
4 WBM surfacing course 40
5 Bituminous pénétration 40
6 macadam 35
Bituminous surface dressing,
7 cement concrete surface course 30
Bituminous concrete surface
course
4.1 Aim
To determine the combined flakiness and elongation indices of the given sample of
aggregates.
The particle shape of aggregate is determined by the percentages of flaky and elongated
particles contained in it. In the case of gravel it is determined by its angularity number.
For base course and construction of bituminous and cement concrete types, the presence
of flaky and elongated particles are considered undesirable as they may cause inherent
weakness with possibilities of breaking down under heavy loads. Rounded aggregates are
preferred in cement concrete road construction as the workability of concrete improves.
Angular shapes of particles are desirable for granular base course due to increased
stability derived from the better interlocking. Thus evaluation of shape of the particles,
particularly with reference to flakiness and elongation is necessary.
Flakiness index
The flakiness index of aggregates is the percentage by weight of particle whose least
dimension (thickness) is less than three-fifths (0.6 times) of their least dimension. This
test is not applicable to sizes smaller than 6.3 mm.
Elongation index
The elongation index of aggregates is the percentage by weight of particle whose greatest
dimension (length) is greater than one and four-fifths (1.8 times) their mean dimension.
The elongation test is not applicable for sizes smaller than 6.3 mm.
4.3 Apparatus
4.4 Procedure
(i) Sieve the sample through the IS sieves(as specified in the table)
(ii) Take a minimum of 200 pieces of each fraction to be tested and weigh them.
(iii) In order to separate the flaky materials, gauge each fraction for thickness on a
thickness gauge.
(iv) Weigh the flaky material passing the gauge to an accuracy of atleast 0.1 percent of the
test sample.
(v) The dimensions of thickness gauge and length gauge are given in Table 4.1
(vi) Separate the non flaky aggregates and find out the elongation index of these
aggregates.
(vii) In order to separate the elongated materials, gauge each fraction on the length gauge.
Weigh the elongated material retained on the gauge to an accuracy of at least 0.1
percent of the test sample.
Elongation index of non flaky aggregates = Total wt of non flaky material retained on
length gauge
Total wt of non flaky sample gauged
= ∑x x 100
(∑W - ∑w)- (W1-w1)
4.6 Result
Combined Flakiness and Elongation Indices of the given sample of aggregate =………%
The shape test gives only a rough idea of the relative shapes of the aggregates. Particular
care has to be taken while carrying out the test for angularity number. In pavement
construction flaky and elongated particles are to be avoided, particularly in surface
course. If flaky and elongated aggregates are present in appreciable proportions, the
strength of the pavement layer would be adversely affected due to the possibility of
breaking down under loads. In cement concrete the workability is also reduced. However,
the reduction in strength in cement concrete depends on the cement content and water
cement ratio.
The combined flakiness and elongation indices of aggregates must not be more than 30%
according to MoRTH specifications.
5.1 Aim
Based on the shape of the aggregate particle, stones may be classified as rounded,
angular, and flaky. Angular particles possess well-defined edges formed at the
intersection of roughly plane faces and are commonly found in aggregates prepared by
crushing of rocks. Since weaker aggregates may be crushed during compaction, the
angularity number does not apply to any aggregate, which breaks down during
compaction. Angularity or absence of the rounding of the particles of an aggregate is a
property, which is of importance because it affects the ease of handling a mixture of
aggregate and binder or the workability of the mix. The determination of angularity
number of an aggregate is essentially a laboratory method intended for comparing the
properties of different aggregates for mix design purposes and for deciding their gradation
requirements. The degree of packing of particles of single sized aggregate depends on the
shape and angularity of the aggregates. If a number of single sized spherical particles are
packed together in the densest form, the total volume of solids will be 67 percent and the
volume of voids 33 percent of the total volume. However if the shape of the particles of
the same size deviates from the spherical shape to irregular or angular shape, when they
are densely packed, the volume of solids decreases resulting in an increase in the volume
of voids. Hence, the angularity of the aggregate can be estimated from the properties of
voids in a sample of aggregates compacted in a particular manner. The angularity number
of an aggregate is the amount by which the percentage voids exceeds 33 after being
compacted in a prescribed manner. The angularity number is found from the expression:
67 minus the percent solid volume. Here the value 67 represents the percentage volume of
solids of most rounded gravel, which would have 33 percent voids.
(i) A metal cylinder closed at one end and of about 3 litre capacity, diameter
and height of this being approximately equal, i.e. about 15.64 cm diameter
x 15.64 cm respectively.
(ii) A metal tamping rod of circular cross section, 12 mm in diameter and 60
cm in length, rounded at one end.
(iii) A metal scoop of about 1 litre heaped capacity of size 20 x 10 x 5 cm, and
(iv) A balance of capacity 10 kg to weigh up to 1 g.
5.4 Procedure
(i) Calibrate the cylinder by determining the weight of water at 270C required to fill
it so that no meniscus is present above the rim of the container.
(ii) Test sample: The amount of aggregate available should be sufficient to provide,
after separation on the appropriate pair of sieves, at least 10 kg of predominant
size, as determined by the sieve analysis on the aggregate retained between the
appropriate pair of IS sieves from the following sets: 20 and 16 mm, 16 and 12.5
mm, 12.5 and 10 mm, 10 and 6.3 mm, 6.3 and 4.75 mm.
Note: In case of aggregate larger than 20 mm is used, the volume of the cylinder should
be greater than 3 litres. But when the aggregates smaller than 4.75 mm size is tested, a
smaller cylinder may be used. The procedure of the test is the same for each of these
except that the amount of compaction effort given by (weight of tamping rod x height of
fall x number of blows) should be proportional to the volume of the cylinder.
(iii) Select the sample of single – size aggregate retained between the specified pair of
sieves. Then dry it in an oven at a temperature of 1000 to 1100C for 24 hours and
cool it in an airtight container.
(iv) Fill the scoop and heap it to overflowing with the aggregate. Place the aggregate
in the cylinder by allowing it to slide gently off the scoop from the lowest
possible height.
(v) Compact the aggregate in the cylinder by 100 blows of the tamping rod at the rate
of about 2 blows per second. Apply each blow by holding the rod vertically with
its rounded end 5 cm above the surface of aggregate and releasing it so that it falls
5.6 Result
Angularity number of the given sample of aggregate =
6.1 Aim
6.3 Apparatus
(a) A balance of capacity about 3 kg, to weigh accurate to 0.5 g, and of such a type and
shape as to permit weighing of the sample container when suspended in water.
(b) A thermostatically controlled oven to maintain temperature of 1000 to 1000C.
(c) A wire basket of not more than 6.3 mm mesh or a perforated container of convenient
size with thin wire hangers for suspending it from the balance.
(d) A container for filling water and suspending the basket.
(e) An air tight container of capacity similar to that of the basket (referred to in ‗c‘
above)
(f) A shallow tray and two dry absorbent clothes, each not less than 75 x 45 cm.
6.6 Results
Specific gravity of the given sample of aggregate = ………..
Water absorption of the given sample of aggregate = …………%
The size of the aggregate and whether it has been artificially heated should be indicated.
BIS specifies three methods of testing for the determination of the specific gravity of
aggregates, according to the size of the aggregates. The three size ranges used are
aggregates larger than 10 mm, between 10 mm and 40 mm, and smaller than 10 mm. The
specific gravity of aggregates normally used in road construction ranges from about 2.5 to
3.0 with an average of about 2.68. Though high specific gravity is considered as an
indication of high strength, it is not possible to judge the suitability of a sample road
aggregate without finding the mechanical properties such as aggregate crushing, impact
and abrasion values. Water absorption of an aggregate is accepted as a measure of
porosity. Sometimes this value is even considered as a measure of its resistance to frost
action, though this has not yet been confirmed by adequate research. Water absorption
value ranges from 0.1 to 2.0 % for aggregate normally used in road surfacing. Generally a
7.1 Aim
(i) To determine the stripping value of aggregates used in road construction.
(ii) To ascertain the suitability of road aggregates for bituminous road
construction.
7.3 Apparatus
(i) Thermostatically controlled water bath.
(ii) Beakers of capacity 500 ml.
7.4 Procedure
(i) Obtain the material that passes through 25mm sieve and is retained on
12.5mm sieve.
(ii) Dry, clean and heat the binder and aggregates to 150 to 175o C and 120 to 150o
C respectively and mix with 5% binder by weight of aggregate.
(iii) After complete coating, allow the mixture to cool at room temperature in clean
dry beaker.
(iv) Add distilled water to immerse the coated aggregates.
Precaution
(i) The aggregates should be thoroughly dried before mixing with binder
(ii) Distilled water should be used for the test
(iii)Mix up of the two separate samples should be uniform
Stripping value = %
7.6 Result
Stripping value of the given sample of bitumen = …………..%
8.3 Apparatus
(i) Balance : A balance or scale accurate within 0.1 % of the test load at any point
within the range of use, graduated to at least 0.05 kg.
(ii) Tamping Rod : Round, straight steel rod, 16 mm in diameter and approximately 600
mm in length, having the tamping end, or both ends, rounded to a hemispherical tip, the
diameter of which is 16 mm.
(iii) Measure : Cylindrical metal measure, preferably provided with handles. The
measure shall have a height approximately equal to the diameter, but in no case shall the
height be less than 80 % nor more than 150 % of the diameter.
Table 8.1 Capacity of Measures
8.4 Procedure
Sampling
Obtain the sample in accordance with Practice D 75 (Practice for sampling of
aggregates), and reduce to test sample size in accordance with Practice C 702 (Practice
for Reducing Samples of Aggregate to Testing Size)
Test Sample
The size of the sample shall be approximately 125 to 200 % of the quantity required to
fill the measure, and shall be handled in a manner to avoid segregation. Dry the
aggregate sample to essentially constant mass, preferably in an oven.
Calibration of Measure
(i) Fill the measure with water at room temperature and cover with a piece of plate
glass in such a way as to eliminate bubbles and excess water.
(ii) Determine the mass of the water in the measure using the balance described in 5
(iii)Measure the temperature of the water and determine its density from Table 2,
interpolating if necessary.
(iv) Calculate the volume (V) of the measure by dividing the mass of the water
required to fill the measure by its density. Alternatively, calculate the factor for
the measure (1/V) by dividing the density of the water by the mass required to fill
the measure
Selection of Procedure
The shoveling procedure for loose bulk density shall be used only when
specifically stipulated. Otherwise, the compact bulk density shall be determined
by the rodding procedure for aggregates having a nominal maximum size of 37.5
mm or less, or by the jigging procedure for aggregates having a nominal
maximum size greater than 37.5 mm and not exceeding 125 mm.
Rodding Procedure
(i) Fill the measure one-third full and level the surface with the fingers. Rod the layer of
aggregate with 25 strokes of the tamping rod evenly distributed over the surface. Fill
the measure two-thirds full and again level and rod as above. Finally, fill the measure to
overflowing and rod again in the manner previously mentioned. Level the surface of the
aggregate with the a straightedge
(ii) Determine the mass of the measure plus its contents, and the mass of the measure
alone, and record the values to the nearest 0.05 kg.
Jigging Procedure
(i) Fill the measure in three approximately equal layers as described in 8, compacting
each layer by placing the measure on a firm base, such as a cement-concrete floor.
Compact each layer by dropping the measure 50 times in the manner described, 25
times on each side. Level the surface of the aggregate with the straightedge.
(ii) Determine the mass of the measure plus its contents, and the mass of the measure
alone, and record the values to the nearest 0.05 kg.
Bulk Density : Calculate the bulk density for the rod-ding, jigging, or shoveling
procedure as follows:
M=(G-T)/V
M = bulk density of the aggregate, kg/m3
G = mass of the aggregate plus the measure, kg
T = mass of the measure, kg,
V = volume of the measure, m3
The bulk density determined by this test method is for aggregate in an oven-dry
condition. If the bulk density in terms of saturated-surface-dry (SSD) condition is desired,
use the exact procedure in this test method, and then calculate the SSD bulk density using
the following formula:
Mssd=M (1+A/100)
where:
Mssd = bulk density in SSD condition, kg/m3
A = % absorption
Void content
Void Content—Calculate the void content in the aggregate using the bulk density
determined by either the rodding, jigging, or shoveling procedure, as follows:
8.6 Result
9.1 Aim
California bearing ratio (CBR) test was originally developed by California Division of
Highway (U.S.A.) as one of the commonly used methods to evaluate the strength of
subgrade soil for design of pavement thickness. The CBR is a measure of resistance of a
material to penetration of standard plunger under controlled density and moisture
condition. The CBR test may be conducted in remoulded or undisturbed specimen in the
laboratory. The test consists of causing a cylindrical plunger of 50mm diameter to
penetrate a pavement component material at 1.25 mm/minute. The loads for 2.5 mm and
5 mm are recorded. The load is expressed as a percentage of standard load value at a
respective deformation level to obtain the CBR value. The details of dynamic penetration
are given in Table 9.1.
9.3 Apparatus
The apparatus as per IS: 2720(Part XVI) – 1979 comprises of the following:
9.4 Procedure
Fit to the mould, the steel cutting edge of 150 mm internal diameter. Push the mould into
the ground as gently as possible till the mould is full of soil. Remove the soil from the
sides and bottom. Trim the excessive soil from top and bottom.
Remoulded samples are prepared such that the dry density obtained from proctor
compaction tests and the water content of remoulded samples is either optimum water
content or the field moisture as the case may be, the remoulded sample are compacted
either statically or dynamically.
(i) Calculate the amount of soil required such that it fills the mould (excluding
collar) at the desired density after compaction.
(ii) Calculate the amount of water to be added to give desired water content.
(iii) Mix the soil thoroughly with water.
(iv) Fix the extension collar to the mould and clamp it to the base plate.
(v) Fix the mould with soil, gently pressing it with hands so that it does not spill
out of the mould.
(vi) Place a coarse filter paper over the levelled soil surface and then insert the
spacer disc.
(vii) Place the assembly on the pedestal of compression machine and compact the
soil until the top of the spacer disc is flush with the top of the collar.
(i) Place the mould containing the specimen, with the base plate in position, on
the testing machine.
(ii) Place the annular weight of 2.5 kg on the top surface of soil.
(iii) Bring the penetration plunger in contact with soil surface and apply a load of
4 kg so that full contact between soil and plunger is established. This should
be taken as zero load.
(iv) Place the remainder surcharge weight so that the total surcharge weight equals
to 5 kg.
(v) Set the reading of dial gauges to zero.
(vi) Apply load so that penetration rate is 1.25 mm per minute. Record the load at
penetration of 0.05, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 4.0, 5.0, 7.5, 10 and 12.5 mm. The
maximum load has to be recorded if it occurs at less than 12.5mm.
(vii) Collect about 20 to 50 g of soil to determine the water content.
To perform CBR test on soaked specimen, the sample excluding base plate and spacer
disc is weighed. A filter paper is placed on the sample with a perforated plate on it. Over
it, a surcharge weight of 2.5 or 5 kg is placed and the sample is soaked in water tank for 4
days. The sample is then allowed to drain off water in a vertical position for about 15
minutes. The sample is then weighed again to calculate the percentage of water absorbed.
It is then tested following the normal procedure. CBR test on soaked specimen is done so
as to simulate the worst possible field condition.
(i) Plot the load penetration curve with load as ordinate and penetration as
abscissa. Sometimes the initial portion of the curve is concave upwards due to
(a) the bottom surface of the plunger or the top surface of the soil specimen
not being horizontal, with the result the plunger surface not being in full
contact with the top of the specimen initially (b) top layer of the specimen
being too soft or irregular. In such a case, a correction is to be applied. Draw
tangent at the point of greatest slope. The point where this tangent meets the
abscissa is the corrected zero reading of penetration.
(ii) From the curve, determine the load value corresponding to the penetration
value at which the CBR is desired.
(iii) Compute CBR value as follows:
Usually the CBR value is calculated for 2.5mm and 5mm penetration. Generally, the CBR
value at 2.5mm penetration will be greater than that at 5mm and in such a case; the
former is taken for design purposes. If the 5mm value is greater, the test is repeated and if
Precautions
(i) The holes of the base plate of the mould should not be blocked
(ii) The surcharge weight should be aligned with the plunger so that the plunger
penetrates freely into the soil
Surcharge weight =
9.10 Result
As per IRC: 37-2001 the subgrade soil should have a CBR of 2 percent. If the CBR value
of the subgrade is less than 2 percent then the design should be based on subgrade CBR
value of 2 percent and a capping layer of 150 mm thickness of material with a minimum
CBR of 10 percent shall be provided in addition to sub-base. The sub-base material
The Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (DCP) is a field test equipment widely used for
the evaluation of the properties of the materials at site, such as subgrade soil and the
materials below the pavement, without the need to cut open the pavement layers. The
basic principle of the test is based on the fact that the resistance to penetration of a
standard cone pushed into a layer depends on the strength characteristics of the materials
in the layer including its dry density and moisture content. A hammer of known load is
allowed to fall on a rod fitted with a metal cone of standard size and shape at the bottom.
The resistance to penetration of the standard cone into the layer is measured in terms of
the depth of penetration due to dropping the hammer of specified weight from a specified
height per blow of the hammer of the DCP. It is also possible to assess the boundaries
between the different layers with different strength and density and thus to estimate the
thickness of the layers.
The equipment may be generally used to evaluate the properties of the soil layers in the
field, up to a depth of 800 mm without an extension rod and up to 1200mm with an
extension rod.
10.3 Apparatus
10.4 Procedure
Before operation, the equipment is checked for any damage, especially the tips of the
cone. All the connections are tightened securely. The DCP assembly if held vertically
by the operator and the cone is seated such that the top of the widest part of the cone is
Table 10.1 shows the format for the recording of the data and some typical observations
taken during a DCP test for computation of the penetration rate or the DCP value. The
data of the no of blows and the penetration values are recorded. The cumulative number
of blows and the cumulative penetration values are also entered in the respective columns
of the table. A graph is plotted with the cumulative values of number of blows on the X-
axis and the depth of penetration in mm on the Y-axis. Fig. 10.2 shows the typical plot of
the results of the DCP test. The DCP value of a layer of material is the penetration value
in mm per blow at that depth. The penetration rate or slope of the plot represents the
strength characteristics of the material in the layer. The change in penetration rate or
change in slope of the curve indicates change in material type. The boundaries between
the layers and the depth of the layers may be identified by the change in the rate of
penetration.
10.6 Result
For CH Soils,
11.3 Apparatus
11.4 Procedure
(i) Preparation of test specimen: Soften the material to a pouring consistency
at a temperature 75o C to 100o C and stir it thoroughly until it is
homogeneous and is free from air bubbles and water. Pour the melt into
the container to a depth at least 10mm in excess of the expected
penetration. Protect the sample from dust and allow it to cool in an
atmosphere at a temperature between 15o to 30o C for one hour. Then place
it along with the transfer dish in the water bath at 25o ± 0.1o C, unless
otherwise stated.
(ii) Fill the transfer dish with water from the water bath to depth sufficient to
cover the container completely. Place the sample in it and put it upon the
stand of the penetration apparatus.
(iii) Clean the needle with benzene, dry it and load with the weight. The total
moving load required is 100± 0.25gms, including the weight of the needle,
carrier and super-imposed weights.
(iv) Adjust the needle to make contact with the surface of the sample. This may
be done by placing the needle point in contact with its image reflected by
the surface of the bituminous material
(v) Make the pointer of the dial to read zero or note the initial dial reading.
(vi) Release the needle for exactly five seconds
(vii) Adjust the penetration machine to measure the distance penetrated.
Bitumen
(viii) Repeat the test till concordant results are arrived at. The points should be
so selected such that they are on the surface of the sample not less than
10mm apart and not less than 10mm from the side of the dish. After each
test return the sample and transfer dish to the water bath and wash the
needle clean with benzene and dry it. In case the material is of penetration
greater than 225 three determinations on each of the two identical test
specimens using a separate needle for each determination should be made,
leaving the needle in the sample on completion of each determination to
avoid disturbance of the specimen.
o
Actual Test Temperature = C
Penetration value =
11.6 Result
Penetration value of the given sample of bitumen =
Penetration
20 to 30 30 to 40 40 to 50 60 to 70 80 to 100 175 to 225
value
Penetration test is a commonly adopted test on bitumen to grade the material in terms of
its hardness. A80/100 grade bitumen indicates that its penetration value lies between 80
and 100. The grading of bitumen helps to assess its suitability for use in different climatic
The softening point of bitumen or tar is the temperature at which the substance
attains a particular degree of softening. As per IS: 334 – 1982, it is the temperature (in oC)
at which a standard ball passes through a sample of bitumen in a mould and falls through
a height of 2.5 cm, when heated under water or glycerine at specified conditions of test.
The binder should have sufficient fluidity before its applications in road uses. The
determination of softening point helps to know the temperature upto which a bituminous
binder should be heated for various road use applications, softening point is determined
by ring and ball apparatus.
12.3 Apparatus
(i) The ring and ball apparatus consists of the following
(a) Steel balls-two numbers each of 9.5mm dia. And weighing 3.5±0.05g.
(b) Brass rings-two numbers each having depth of 6.4 mm. The inside
diameter at bottom and top is 15.9mm and 17.5mm respectively.
(c) Ball guides to guide the movement of steel balls centrally.
(d) Support-that can hold rings in position and also allows for suspension
of a thermometer. The distance between the bottom of the rings and the
top surface of the bottom plate of the support is 25mm.
(ii) Thermometer that can read upto 100o C with an accuracy of 0.2oC.
(iii) Bath – A heat resistant glass beaker not less than 85mm in diameter and
1220mm in depth.
(iv) Stirrer
Bitumen
Start End
12.4 Procedure
(i) Preparation of test sample: Heat the material to a temperature between 75o
-100o C above its softening point; stir until, it is completely fluid and free
from air bubbles and water. If necessary filter it through IS sieve 30. Place
the ring, previously which has been coated with a mixture of equal parts of
glycerine and dextrine. After cooling for 30 minutes in air, level the
material in the rings by removing the excess with a warmed, sharp knife.
(ii) Assemble the apparatus with the rings, thermometer and ball guides in
position
(iii) Fill the bath with distilled water to a height of 50mm above the upper
surface of the rings. The starting temperature should be 5oC. Note: Use
glycerine in place of water if the softening point is expected to be above
80o C; the starting temperature may be kept 35o C.
(iv) Apply heat to the bath and stir the liquid so that the temperature rises at a
uniform rate of 5±0.5o C per minute.
(v) As the temperature increases the bituminous material softens and the ball
sinks through the ring, carrying a portion of the material with it.
(vi) Note down the temperature when any of the steel ball with bituminous
coating touches the bottom place.
(vii) Record the temperature when the second ball also touches the bottom
plate. The average of the two readings to the nearest 0.5o C is reported as
the softening point.
Precautions
(i) Distilled water should be used as the heating medium
(ii) During the conduct of test the apparatus should not be subjected to vibrations
12.6 Result
IS: 1208-1978
13.1 Aim
The ‗Ductility test‘ gives a measure of adhesive property of bitumen and its ability to
stretch. In a flexible pavement design, it is necessary that binder should form a thin
ductile film around the aggregates so that the physical interlocking of the aggregates is
improved. Binder material having insufficient ductility gets cracked when subjected to
repeated traffic loads and it provides pervious pavement surface. Ductility of bituminous
material is measured by the distance in centimeter to which it will elongate before
breaking when two ends of standard briquette specimen of the material are pulled apart at
a specified speed and at specified temperature.
13.3 Apparatus
The apparatus for the standard ductility test as per IS: 1208-1978 consists of the
following:
(i) Briquette mould: The mould when properly assembled form a briquette specimen of
the following dimensions:
(i) Melt the bituminous test material completely at a temperature of 75oC to 100oC
above the approximate softening point until it becomes thoroughly fluid.
(ii) Strain the fluid through IS sieve 30.
(iii) After stirring the fluid, pour it in the mould assembly and place it in a brass plate.
(iv) In order to prevent the material under test from sticking coat the surface of the plate
and interior surface of the plate and interior surfaces of the sides of the mould with
mercury or by a mixture of equal parts of glycerin and dextrin.
(v) After about 30-40 minutes, keep the plate assembly along with the sample in the
water bath. Maintain the temperature of the water bath at 27oC for an hour.
(vi) Remove the sample and mould assembly from the water bath and trim the specimen
by leveling the surface using a hot knife.
(vii) Replace the mould assembly in water bath maintained at 27oc for 80-90 minutes.
(viii) Remove the sides of the mould.
(ix) Hook the clips carefully on the machine without causing any initial stain.
(x) Adjust the pointer to read zero.
(xi) Start the machine and pull two clips horizontally at a speed of 50mm per minute.
(xii) Note the distance at which the bitumen thread of specimen breaks.
(xiii) Record the observations in the proforma and compute the ductility value. Report the
mean of two observations, rounded to nearest whole number as the ‗ductility value‘.
Precautions
(i) The plate assembly upon which the mould is placed shall be perfectly flat and
level so that the bottom surface of the mould touches it throughout
(ii) In filling the mould, care should be taken not to disarrange the parts and thus
distort the briquette and to see that no air pocket shall be within the moulded
sample
Briquette No.
1 2 3
Initial reading
Final reading
Ductility =b-a(cm)
13.6 Result
It is to be noted that as per the current specifications for paving bitumen, the ductility
requirement s are to be conducted on samples obtained after thin film oven test and not on
bitumen samples obtained from the refinery directly
The suitability of bitumen is judged, depending upon its type and proposed use. Bitumen
with low ductility value may get cracked especially in cold weather. BIS has specified
following values of minimum ductility for various grades of bitumen as given in Table
13.1.
A certain minimum ductility is necessary for a bitumen binder. This is because of the
temperature changes in the bituminous mixes and repeated deformations that occur in
flexible pavements due to traffic loads. If the bitumen has low ductility value, the
bituminous pavement may crack, especially in cold weather.
IS: 1209-1978
14.1 Aim
The flash point of a material is the lowest temperature at which the application of test
flame causes the vapours from the material momentarily catches fire in the form of a flash
under specified conditions of test.
The fire point is the lowest temperature at which the application of test flame causes the
material to ignite and burn atleast for 5 seconds under specified conditions of test.
14.3 Apparatus
(i) Pensky- Martens closed tester consisting of the following major parts:
(a) Cup: It is made of brass, the inside of the cup may be turned to a slightly larger
diameter above the filling mark and the outside may be tapered above the flange. The
flange is about 12mm in width and approximately 3mm in thickness. It is equipped with
device for locating the position of the lid on the cup and the cup itself in the stove. A
handle is attached to the flange of the cup.
(i) Clean and dry all parts of the cup and its accessories thoroughly.
(ii) Fill the cup with the material to be tested upto the level indicated by filling mark.
(iii) Place the lid on the cup and set latter in the stove.
(iv) Insert the thermometer.
(v) The bitumen sample is then coated.
(vi) Turn the stirrer at a rate approximately 60 revolutions per minute.
Apply the test flame by operating the device controlling the shutter and test flame
burner so that the flame is lowered in 0.5 seconds, left in its position for one second,
and quickly raised to its position discontinue stirrer during the application of test flame.
(vii) Apply the test flame initially at a temperature 17oC below the expected flash
point. Thereafter apply the test flame at an interval of 1oC for the range above
104oC. For the temperature range above 104oC increase this interval by 2oC.
(viii) Note down the flash point as the temperature at which the flame application
causes a distinct flash in the interior of the cup.
The duplicate test results should not differ by more than the following:
Precautions
(i) The test flame should neither be larger than stipulated nor be applied more
frequently than specified as the surface layer may get superheated.
(ii) The bluish halo that sometimes surrounds the test flame should not be confused
with the true flash.
Grade of bitumen =
14.6 Results
The determination of flash point is helpful in assessing the safe limits of heating the
bitumen. The heating temperature of bitumen should be limited well below the flash
point. It is specified that in closed cup system the test results should not differ from the
mean by more than 3oC for materials flashing above 104oC and not more than 1oC from
the mean for materials flashing below 104oC. The minimum value of flash point by
Pensky Marten‘s closed type apparatus specified by BIS is 175 oC for all grades of
bitumens (for both Assam petroleum and those from other sources). The minimum
specified flash point for rapid curing bitumen of all grades is 26oC and that for medium
curing type is 38o C for grades 0 and 1 and 65o C for grades 2 to 5. Slow curing cutbacks
have minimum values ranging from 65o C to 121o C.
15.1 Aim
15.2 Apparatus
i. Brookfield Viscometer
ii. Spindle(usually S21)
iii. Thermostat
iv. Extracting tools
v. Temperature controller
15.3 Procedure
Sample 1 Sample 2
Viscosity(centi Poise)
Mean value
15.6 Result
Note:
The viscosity value with torque value below 10% is discarded and value with
torque above 40% is accurate.
If the viscometer displays error, repeat the experiment by changing the RPM
value or the spindle.
This test method covers the determination of the theoretical maximum specific gravity
and density of uncompacted bituminous paving mixtures at 25˚c. The theoretical
maximum specific gravity (Gtm) is used to a) calculate air voids in compacted bituminous
mixtures b) calculate the amount of bitumen absorbed by the aggregate and c) provide
target values of air voids and density for the compaction of paving mixtures in the field.
While designing dense bituminous mixes in the laboratory attempt is made to achieve
4.0% air voids in the compacted mix. However during field compaction of the same dense
bituminous mix, initial compaction of the pavement layer is limited to a lower density and
higher air voids content (in the order of 6 to 8% air voids) so as to minimise bleeding
when the pavement layer gets densified due to traffic movement.
A sample of loose paving mixture is placed in a vacuum vessel of known weight.
Water at 24˚ C is added to completely submerge the sample. A specified amount of
vacuum is gradually applied to remove the air bubbles entrapped between bituminous mix
particles. After the vacuum is released, the volume of the sample of the voidless paving
mixture is obtained by either immersing the vacuum container with the sample in a water
bath and weighing or by filling the calibrated vacuum container level full of water and
weighing in air.
16.3 Apparatus
A container, a vacuum bowl (made of metal or plastic) with diameter of 180 to 260 mm
and height of at least 160 mm. The bowl shall be equipped with a stiff, transparent cover
fitted with a rubber gasket and a connection to a vacuum line. The hose connection shall
be covered with a small piece of fine wire mesh to minimise loss of any fine material
from the mix. Alternately a vacuum flask for weighing in air, consisting of thick walled
volumetric glass flask with a capacity of about 4000 ml, fitted with a rubber stopper with
The sample of bituminous mix to be compacted in the field is collected and the
particles of the loose paving mixture (while it is warmed) are separated out by hand so
that the particles are not larger than about 6 mm. The aggregates should not be fractured.
A minimum sample size of 1500 g is needed for mixes with nominal maximum aggregate
size of 12.5 mm and 2500 g for mixes with nominal maximum aggregate sizes 19 to 25
mm. Sufficient water is added at 25 ˚C to cover the sample completely. The mix sample
is placed directly into the bowl or flask of known weight. The container is weighed and
net weight of the sample only is determined (A). The cover or stopper is placed on the
containers. The container with the sample and water is placed on a mechanical agitator
and vibrated. Alternately the container is agitated manually for 2 to 3 minutes. The
The maximum specific gravity of the sample of loose paving mixture is calculated as
follows:
Determination with bowl under water:
where,
Gtm = theoretical maximum specific gravity of the mixture.
A = weight of the dry sample in air, g.
B = weight of the bowl in water, g.
C = weight of bowl and sample under water, g.
Determination with bowl in air :
where,
Gtm = theoretical maximum specific gravity of the mixture.
A = weight of the dry sample in air, g.
where,
Gtm = maximum theoretical specific gravity of the mixture.
A = weight of the dry sample in air, g.
D = weight of cover plate and flask filled with water at 25˚C, g.
E = weight of flask, cover plate, sample and water at 25˚C, g.
16.6 Results
Theoretical maximum specific gravity =
17. 1 Aim
To determine the bulk density of specimen of compacted bituminous mix
17.2 Apparatus
(i) Compaction mould assembly : Consists of (a) compaction mould of cylindrical shape
of diameter 101.6 mm and height 75mm with a collar extension and a base plate Both the
ends of the cylindrical mould are interchangeable and may be placed on the base plate (b)
Compaction hammer with a flat circular plate of diameter 98.4mm and a hammer of
weight 4.5kg which can be lifted and released to obtain 457mm drop (c) Compaction
pedestal and mould holder, consisting of a wooden block capped with a steel plate to
hold the mould assembly in position during compaction, a mould holder with spring
tension device to hold compaction mould in place on the compaction pedestal.
(ii) Specimen Extractor : A specimen extractor suitably fitted with a jack or compression
machine, for extruding the compacted specimen from the mould
(iii) Testing Head : It consists of upper and lower cylindrical segments of test head with
an inside radius of curvature 51mm. The lower segment is mounted on a base having two
vertical guide rods which facilitate insertion in the holes of upper test head.
(v) Deformation measuring dial gauge : A dial gauge with a least count of 0.01mm or
0.025mm fixed to the guide rods of the testing machine to measure the vertical
deformation of the specimen placed inside the test head due to the load applied.
(vi) Other accessories: These include thermostatically controlled oven, hot plate, mixing
device, thermostatically controlled water bath and thermometers of suitable range and
sensitivity to be used in the oven and water bath.
After mixing thoroughly such that the surface of the aggregates are uniformly and fully
coated with the binder the bituminous mix may be allowed to slightly cool down to
recommended compacting temperature. It is suggested that the compacting temperature
should be such that the kinematic viscosity of the bituminous binder in the mix is 280 ±30
centistokes. The recommended compacting temperature is about 138°C for VG 10 grade
bitumen (80/100 penetration grade bitumen) and about 149°C tor VG 30 grade (60/70
penetration grade) bitumen.
The mix is placed in the pre-heated mould and is compacted by the rammer at the
specified temperature by applying 75 blows on either side. Alter the compaction the
specimen with the mould is allowed to cool down the room temperature. During the
cooling period additional test specimen may be prepared using pre-heated spare moulds.
The compacted specimen should have a thickness of 63.5 ±1.27 mm. If the
average thickness of the specimen in the first trial does not fulfil this requirement, the
weight of the aggregate taken my be suitably altered in the next trial to obtain a thickness
of 63.5 mm. At least three test specimens should be prepared for each mix of aggregates
and bitumen content.
Each specimen prepared as above is weighed in air and the average diameter and
thickness of the cylindrical specimen is obtained by taking measurements at three or four
locations of the specimen. The volume of the each specimen is calculated from the
average diameter and thickness values. The volume of the specimens may also be
determined by finding the weights of the specimen in air and its apparent weight by
suspending it in water. The main objective is to determine the density or specific gravity
of the each compacted bituminous mix specimen.
Let the weight of the compacted specimen of bituminous mix (weight in air) be =W g
Let the volume of the compacted specimen (determined either by measuring the mean
dimension or by weighing it in air and in water and thus finding the volume of water
displaced) be= V cm3
The bulk density of the compacted specimen of bituminous mix = W/V( g/cm3 )
17.5 Result
Bulk density of Marshall specimen =
18.1 Aim
To determine the tensile strength of compacted bituminous specimens
The durability and good performance of bituminous paving mixes depends on the
materials used and their compatibility. The long term adhesion property between the
bitumen binder and the aggregates is quite complex. The loss of bond or stripping due to
the presence of moisture between the aggregates and bitumen binder depends on several
factors such as (a) characteristics of aggregates, binder and anti-stripping additives used,
if any (b) properties of the compacted bituminous mix, (c) construction practice, (d)
drainage, (e) environment and (f) traffic.
Several laboratory test procedures have been developed and are in use to assess
the moisture susceptibility of compacted bituminous paving mixtures. The principle
followed in these methods are : (a) determination of strength property of the control
specimens prepared as per the mix design (b) conditioning another set of identical test
specimens by subjecting them to weathering action and then determination of the strength
property, same as (a) above (c) finding the strength ratio between the conditioned
specimens and the control or unconditioned specimens and (d) comparing with the
minimum acceptable strength ratio or the maximum permissible loss in strength.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MORTH), Government of India
in the ‗Specifications for Road and Bridge Works‘ has suggested ‗Water Sensitivity Test‘
to determine the ‗Retained Tensile Strength‘ of compacted specimens of bituminous mix
as per AASHTO T-283. The outline of this method has been briefly given in this chapter.
18.4 Procedure
18.5 Calculations
TSR = S2/S1
18.6 Application
The minimum specified value of retained tensile strength is 80 %(TSR(.8) ) as per
MORTH specification.It is also suggested in the above specification that the water
sensitivity test may be conducted if the aggregates fail to satisfy minimum retained
coating of 95% in the ‗Stripping Value Test‘ .
18.7 Discussion
Water sensitivity may also be assessed by conducting Marshall Stability tests on control
specimens in the conventional manner and again after immersion in water maintained at
60 degree Celsius for 24 hours of conditioning. The ratio of the stability values after
immersion to that without immersion indicates the retained Marshall Stability value or
water sensitivity by this method. This test is adopted at times for routine testing as the
procedure is easy and simple to be carried out in small laboratories near the construction
site.
The water sensitivity test evaluates one of the requirements of the coarse
aggregates used in the bituminous mix and does not exactly access the property of the
design bituminous mix.
19.1 Aim
19.3 Apparatus
MERLIN has two feet which are spaced at 1.8m and a probe that rest on the wheel
track. The probe lies mid-way between the two feet. The equipment is fitted with a
bicycle tyre for ease of operation in the front leg. A rigid metal road is fitted in the rear
leg. A stabilizer leg is fitted at the rear to prevent the equipment from falling. The probe
is attached with a moving arm with a pointer at one end, which moves over a prepared
data sheet. The arm has a mechanical amplification of ten, so that a movement of the
probe of 1 mm will produce a movement of the pointer of 10mm.The chart consists of
columns; each 5mm wide and divided into boxes .Fig shows Merlin equipment.
The wheel path along which the readings are to be taken are marked. The
MERLIN is moved and kept at the starting point. The location of the pointer on the chart
is recorded with a cross at the appropriate column to keep a record of the total number of
observations, a cross mark is also made in a ‗tally box‘ in the chart. The handle of the
MERLIN is raised, so that only the wheel is in contact with the road surface and moved
forward to the next measuring point and the process is repeated. The next point is located
after each revolution of the wheel of the MERLIN. A mark is painted on the rim of the
wheel and the measurement is taken every time, the wheel rotates and the mark comes to
the road surface. It is desirable to have at least 200 readings at regular intervals or for 200
wheel revolutions. When 200 observations are made, the chart is removed from
MERLIN. The number of cross-marks is counted from either end. The position mid-way
between the tenth and eleventh cross marks from either end are marked on the chart. If
needed, the position may be interpolated between tenth and eleventh readings. The
spacing between the two marks; D is measured in millimeter and taken as the roughness
on the ‗MERLIN scale‘. A typical figure showing the computations of the distance ‗D‘ is
showed in Fig.19.2.
19.5 Calculation
The relationship between the MERLIN scale and International Roughness Index
(IRI) by Bump Integrator are given below.
For all roads surfaces:
IRI = 0.593 +0.0471 D
42 < D > 312 (2.4 < IRI > 15.9)
IRI is the roughness in terms of the International Roughness Index and measured
in meters per kilometer length of road and D is the roughness in terms of the MERLIN
scale and is measured in mm.
BI = -983 +47.5 D
Where, BI is the Roughness as measured by a fifth wheel Bump Integrator towed at
32kmph and is measured in millimeter per kilometer.