lOMoARcPSD|18243390

ASTM D 1557 - norma tecnica

Físico-Química (Universidad Nacional de Piura)

StuDocu is not sponsored or endorsed by any college or university

Downloaded by Ali Nouri ([email protected])
 lOMoARcPSD|18243390

Designation: D 1557 – 02e1

Standard Test Methods for

Laboratory Compaction Characteristics of Soil Using
Modified Effort (56,000 ft-lbf/ft3 (2,700 kN-m/m3))1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D 1557; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (e) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

e1 NOTE—Paragraph 10.4.3 was corrected editorially in November 2003.

1. Scope* 1.3.1.6 Other Use—If this method is not specified, materials

1.1 These test methods cover laboratory compaction meth- that meet these gradation requirements may be tested using
ods used to determine the relationship between water content Methods B or C.
and dry unit weight of soils (compaction curve) compacted in 1.3.2 Method B:
a 4- or 6-in. (101.6 or 152.4 mm) diameter mold with a 10-lbf. 1.3.2.1 Mold—4-in. (101.6-mm) diameter.
(44.5-N) rammer dropped from a height of 18 in. (457 mm) 1.3.2.2 Material—Passing 3⁄8-in. (9.5-mm) sieve.
producing a compactive effort of 56,000 ft-lbf/ft3 (2,700 1.3.2.3 Layers—Five.
kN-m/m3). 1.3.2.4 Blows per layer—25.
1.3.2.5 Use—Shall be used if more than 20 % by mass of
NOTE 1—Soils and soil-aggregate mixtures should be regarded as the material is retained on the No. 4 (4.75-mm) sieve and 20 %
natural occurring fine- or coarse-grained soils or composites or mixtures
of natural soils, or mixtures of natural and processed soils or aggregates
or less by mass of the material is retained on the 3⁄8-in.
such as silt, gravel, or crushed rock. (9.5-mm) sieve.
NOTE 2—The equipment and procedures are the same as proposed by 1.3.2.6 Other Use—If this method is not specified, materials
the U.S. Corps of Engineers in 1945. The modified effort test (see 3.2.2) that meet these gradation requirements may be tested using
is sometimes referred to as the Modified Proctor Compaction Test. Method C.
1.2 These test methods apply only to soils (materials) that 1.3.3 Method C:
have 30 % or less by mass of their particles retained on the 1.3.3.1 Mold—6-in. (152.4-mm) diameter.
3⁄4-in. (19.0-mm) sieve. 1.3.3.2 Material—Passing 3⁄4-in. (19.0-mm) sieve.
1.3.3.3 Layers—Five.
NOTE 3—For relationships between unit weights and water contents of 1.3.3.4 Blows per layer—56.
soils with 30 % or less by weight of material retained on the 3⁄4-in.
(19.0-mm) sieve to unit weights and water contents of the fraction passing
1.3.3.5 Use—Shall be used if more than 20 % by mass of
the 3⁄4-in. (19.0-mm) sieve, see Practice D 4718. the material is retained on the 3⁄8-in. (9.53-mm) sieve and less
than 30 % by mass of the material is retained on the 3⁄4-in.
1.3 Three alternative methods are provided. The method
(19.0-mm) sieve.
used shall be as indicated in the specification for the material
1.3.4 The 6-in. (152.4-mm) diameter mold shall not be used
being tested. If no method is specified, the choice should be
with Method A or B.
based on the material gradation.
1.3.1 Method A: NOTE 4—Results have been found to vary slightly when a material is
1.3.1.1 Mold—4-in. (101.6-mm) diameter. tested at the same compactive effort in different size molds.
1.3.1.2 Material—Passing No. 4 (4.75-mm) sieve. 1.4 If the test specimen contains more than 5 % by mass of
1.3.1.3 Layers—Five. oversize fraction (coarse fraction) and the material will not be
1.3.1.4 Blows per layer—25. included in the test, corrections must be made to the unit
1.3.1.5 Use—May be used if 20 % or less by mass of the weight and water content of the test specimen or to the
material is retained on the No. 4 (4.75-mm) sieve. appropriate field in place density test specimen using Practice
D 4718.
1
1.5 This test method will generally produce well defined
This standard is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and
maximum dry unit weight for non-free draining soils. If this
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.03 on Texture, Plasticity
and Density Characteristics of Soils. test method is used for free draining soils the maximum unit
Current edition approved Nov. 10, 2002. Published January 2003. Originally
published as D 1557 – 58. Last previous edition D 1557 – 00.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard.

--`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, United States.

Copyright ASTM International 1

Provided by IHS under license with ASTM
No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale
Downloaded by Ali Nouri ([email protected])
 lOMoARcPSD|18243390

D 1557 – 02e1
weight may not be well defined, and can be less than obtained Content for Soils Containing Oversize Particles3
using Test Methods D 4253. D 4753 Specification for Evaluating, Selecting and Speci-
1.6 The values in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the fying Balances and Scales For Use in Soil, Rock, and
standard. The values stated in SI units are provided for Construction MaterialsTesting3
information only. D 4914 Test Methods for Density of Soil and Rock in Place
1.6.1 In the engineering profession it is customary practice by the Sand Replacement Method in a Test Pit3
to use, interchangeably, units representing both mass and force, D 5030 Test Method for Density of Soil and Rock in Place
unless dynamic calculations (F = Ma) are involved. This by the Water Replacement Method in a Test Pit4
implicitly combines two separate systems of units, that is, the E 1 Specification for ASTM Thermometers5
absolute system and the gravimetric system. It is scientifically E 11 Specification for Wire-Cloth Sieves for Testing Pur-
undesirable to combine the use of two separate systems within poses5
a single standard. This test method has been written using E 319 Practice for the Evaluation of Single-Pan Mechanical
inch-pound units (gravimetric system) where the pound (lbf) Balances5
represents a unit of force. The use of mass (lbm) is for IEEE/ASTM SI 10 Standard for Use of the International
convenience of units and is not intended to convey the use is System of Units (SI): The Modern Metric System
scientifically correct. Conversions are given in the SI system in
accordance with IEEE/ASTM SI 10. The use of balances or 3. Terminology
scales recording pounds of mass (lbm), or the recording of 3.1 Definitions—See Terminology D 653 for general defini-
density in lbm/ft3 should not be regarded as nonconformance tions.
with this standard. 3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the 3.2.1 modified effort—the term for the 56 000 ft-lbf/ft3
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the (2700 kN-m/m3) compactive effort applied by the equipment
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- and methods of this test.
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica- 3.2.2 modified maximum dry unit weight, gdmax (lbf/ft3(kN/
3
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. m ))—the maximum value defined by the compaction curve
for a compaction test using modified effort.
2. Referenced Documents 3.2.3 modified optimum water content, wo (%)—the water
2.1 ASTM Standards: content at which the soil can be compacted to the maximum
C 127 Test Method for Specific Gravity and Absorption of dry unit weight using modified compactive effort.
Coarse Aggregate2 3.2.4 oversize fraction (coarse fraction), Pc (%)—the por-
C 136 Test Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse tion of total sample not used in performing the compaction test;
Aggregates2 it may be the portion of total sample retained on the No. 4
D 422 Test Method for Particle-Size Analysis of Soils3 (4.75-mm), 3⁄8-in. (9.5-mm), or 3⁄4-in. (19.0-mm) sieve.
D 653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained 3.2.5 test fraction (finer fraction), PF (%)—the portion of
Fluids3 the total sample used in performing the compaction test; it may
D 698 Test Method for Laboratory Compaction Character- be fraction passing the No. 4 (4.75-mm) sieve in Method A,
istics of Soil Using Standard Effort [12,400 ft-lbf/ft3 (600 minus 3⁄8-in. (9.5-mm) sieve in Method B, or minus 3⁄4-in.
kN-mJ/m3)]3 (19.0-mm) sieve in Method C.
D 854 Test Method for Specific Gravity of Soils3 4. Summary of Test Method
D 2168 Test Methods for Calibration of Laboratory
Mechanical-Rammer Soil Compactors3 4.1 A soil at a selected water content is placed in five layers
D 2216 Test Method for Laboratory Determination of Water into a mold of given dimensions, with each layer compacted by
(Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass3 25 or 56 blows of a 10-lbf (44.5-N) rammer dropped from a
D 2487 Practice for Classification of Soils for Engineering distance of 18-in. (457-mm), subjecting the soil to a total
Purposes (Unified Soil Classification System)3 compactive effort of about 56 000 ft—lbf/ft3 (2700 kN-m/m3).
D 2488 Practice for Description and Identification of Soils The resulting dry unit weight is determined. The procedure is
(Visual-Manual Procedure)3 repeated for a sufficient number of water contents to establish
D 3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies a relationship between the dry unit weight and the water
--`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Engaged in the Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock content for the soil. This data, when plotted, represent a
as Used in Engineering Design and Construction3 curvilinear relationship known as the compaction curve. The
D 4220 Practices for Preserving and Transporting Soil values of optimum water content and modified maximum dry
Samples3 unit weight are determined from the compaction curve.
D 4253 Test Methods for Maximum Index Density of Soils 5. Significance and Use
Using a Vibratory Table3
5.1 Soil placed as engineering fill (embankments, founda-
D 4718 Practice for Correction of Unit Weight and Water
tion pads, road bases) is compacted to a dense state to obtain

2 4
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 04.02. Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 04.09.
3 5
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 04.08. Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 14.02.

Copyright ASTM International 2

Provided by IHS under license with ASTM
No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale
Downloaded by Ali Nouri ([email protected])
 lOMoARcPSD|18243390

D 1557 – 02e1
satisfactory engineering properties such as, shear strength, mation uses D ratio (or D – VALUE), while the U.S. Corps of
compressibility, or permeability. Also, foundation soils are Engineers uses Density Interference Coefficient (Ic).
often compacted to improve their engineering properties. 5.3.1.3 The use of the replacement technique (Test Method
Laboratory compaction tests provide the basis for determining D 1557–78, Method D), in which the oversize fraction is
the percent compaction and water content needed to achieve replaced with a finer fraction, is inappropriate to determine the
the required engineering properties, and for controlling con- maximum dry unit weight, gdmax, of soils containing oversize
struction to assure that the required compaction and water fractions (3).
contents are achieved. 5.3.2 Degradation—Soils containing particles that degrade
5.2 During design of an engineered fill, shear, consolidation, during compaction are a problem, especially when more
permeability, or other tests require preparation of test speci- degradation occurs during laboratory compaction than field
mens by compacting at some water content to some unit compaction, the typical case. Degradation typically occurs
weight. It is common practice to first determine the optimum during the compaction of a granular-residual soil or aggregate.
water content (wo) and maximum dry unit weight (gdmax) by When degradation occurs, the maximum dry-unit weight in-
means of a compaction test. Test specimens are compacted at creases (4) so that the resulting laboratory maximum value is
a selected water content (w), either wet or dry of optimum (wo) not representative of field conditions. Often, in these cases, the
or at optimum (wo), and at a selected dry unit weight related to maximum dry unit weight is impossible to achieve in the field.
a percentage of maximum dry unit weight (gdmax). The
5.3.2.1 Again for soils subject to degradation, the use of test
selection of water content (w), either wet or dry of optimum
fills and method specifications may help. Use of replacement
(wo) or at optimum (wo) and the dry unit weight (gdmax) may be
techniques is not correct.
based on past experience, or a range of values may be
investigated to determine the necessary percent of compaction. 5.3.3 Gap Graded—Gap-graded soils (soils containing
5.3 Experience indicates that the methods outlined in 5.2 or many large particles with limited small particles) are a problem
the construction control aspects discussed in 5.1 are extremely because the compacted soil will have larger voids than usual.
difficult to implement or yield erroneous results when dealing To handle these large voids, standard test methods (laboratory
with some soils. The following subsections describe typical or field) typically have to be modified using engineering
judgement.

--`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
problem soils, the problems encountered when dealing with
such soils and possible solutions for these problems. NOTE 6—The quality of the result produced by this standard is
5.3.1 Oversize Fraction—Soils containing more than 30 % dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the
oversize fraction (material retained on the 3⁄4-in. (19-mm) suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the
sieve) are a problem. For such soils, there is no ASTM test criteria of Practice D 3740 are generally considered capable of competent
method to control their compaction and very few laboratories and objective testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are
are equipped to determine the laboratory maximum unit weight cautioned that compliance with Practice D 3740 does not in itself assure
reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D 3740
(density) of such soils (USDI Bureau of Reclamation, Denver, provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
CO and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg, MS).
Although Test Methods D 4914 and D 5030 determine the 6. Apparatus
“field” dry unit weight of such soils, they are difficult and
expensive to perform. 6.1 Mold Assembly—The molds shall be cylindrical in
5.3.1.1 One method to design and control the compaction of shape, made of rigid metal and be within the capacity and
such soils is to use a test fill to determine the required degree dimensions indicated in 6.1.1 or 6.1.2 and Fig. 1 and Fig. 2.
of compaction and the method to obtain that compaction. Then The walls of the mold may be solid, split, or tapered. The
use a method specification to control the compaction. Compo- “split” type, may consist of two half-round sections, or a
nents of a method specification typically contain the type and section of pipe split along one element, which can be securely
size of compaction equipment to use, the lift thickness, and locked together to form a cylinder meeting the requirements of
number of passes. this section. The “tapered” type shall an internal diameter taper
that is uniform and not more than 0.200 in./ft (16.7 mm/m) of
NOTE 5—Success in executing the compaction control of an earthwork mold height. Each mold shall have a base plate and an
project, especially when a method specification is used, is highly extension collar assembly, both made of rigid metal and
dependent upon the quality and experience of the “contractor” and
“inspector”.
constructed so they can be securely attached and easily
detached from the mold. The extension collar assembly shall
5.3.1.2 Another method is to apply the use of density have a height extending above the top of the mold of at least
correction factors developed by the USDI Bureau of Reclama- 2.0 in. (50.8 mm) which may include an upper section that
tion (1,2)6 and U.S. Corps of Engineers (3). These correction flares out to form a funnel provided there is at least a 0.75-in.
factors may be applied for soils containing up to about 50 to (19.0-mm) straight cylindrical section beneath it. The exten-
70 % oversize fraction. Both agencies use a different term for sion collar shall align with the inside of the mold. The bottom
these density correction factors. The USDI Bureau of Recla- of the base plate and bottom of the centrally recessed area that
accepts the cylindrical mold shall be planar.
6.1.1 Mold, 4 in.—A mold having a 4.000 6 0.016-in.
6
The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to the list of references at the end of (101.6 6 0.4-mm) average inside diameter, a height of 4.584 6
this standard. 0.018 in. (116.4 6 0.5 mm) and a volume of 0.0333 6 0.0005

Copyright ASTM International 3

Provided by IHS under license with ASTM
No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale
Downloaded by Ali Nouri ([email protected])
 lOMoARcPSD|18243390

D 1557 – 02e1

NOTE 1—See Table 2 for metric equivalents.

FIG. 1 Cylindrical Mold, 4.0-in.

--`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
NOTE 1—See Table 2 for metric equivalents.
FIG. 2 Cylindrical Mold, 6.0-in.

ft3 (944 6 14 cm3). A mold assembly having the minimum fall of the rammer shaft and head is not restricted. The guide
required features is shown in Fig. 1. sleeve shall have at least four vent holes at each end (eight
6.1.2 Mold, 6 in.—A mold having a 6.000 6 0.026 in. holes total) located with centers 3⁄4 6 1⁄16 in. (19.0 6 1.6 mm)
(152.4 6 0.7 mm) average inside diameter, a height of 4.584 6 from each end and spaced 90° apart. The minimum diameter of
0.018 in. (116.4 6 0.5 mm), and a volume of 0.075 6 0.0009 the vent holes shall be 3⁄8 in. (9.5 mm). Additional holes or slots
ft3 (2124 6 25 cm3). A mold assembly having the minimum may be incorporated in the guide sleeve.
required features is shown in Fig. 2. 6.2.2 Mechanical Rammer-Circular Face—The rammer
6.2 Rammer—A rammer, either manually operated as de- shall operate mechanically in such a manner as to provide
scribed further in 6.2.1 or mechanically operated as described uniform and complete coverage of the specimen surface. There
in 6.2.2. The rammer shall fall freely through a distance of 18 shall be 0.10 6 0.03-in. (2.5 6 0.8-mm) clearance between the
6 0.05 in. (457.2 6 1.3 mm) from the surface of the specimen. rammer and the inside surface of the mold at its smallest
The mass of the rammer shall be 10 6 0.02 lbm (4.54 6 0.01 diameter. The mechanical rammer shall meet the calibration
kg), except that the mass of the mechanical rammers may be requirements of Test Methods D 2168. The mechanical rammer
adjusted as described in Test Methods D 2168 (see Note 7). shall be equipped with a positive mechanical means to support
The striking face of the rammer shall be planar and circular, the rammer when not in operation.
except as noted in 6.2.2.1, with a diameter when new of 2.000 6.2.2.1 Mechanical Rammer-Sector Face—When used with
6 0.005 in. (50.80 6 0.13 mm). The rammer shall be replaced the 6.0-in. (152.4-mm) mold, a sector face rammer may be
if the striking face becomes worn or bellied to the extent that used in place of the circular face rammer. The specimen contact
the diameter exceeds 2.000 6 0.01 in. (50.80 6 0.25 mm). face shall have the shape of a sector of a circle of radius equal
NOTE 7—It is a common and acceptable practice in the inch-pound to 2.90 6 0.02 in. (73.7 6 0.5 mm). The rammer shall operate
system to assume that the mass of the rammer is equal to its mass in such a manner that the vertex of the sector is positioned at
determined using either a kilogram or pound balance and 1 lbf is equal to the center of the specimen.
1 lbm or 0.4536 kg or 1 N is equal to 0.2248 lbm or 0.1020 kg. 6.3 Sample Extruder (optional)—A jack, frame or other
6.2.1 Manual Rammer—The rammer shall be equipped device adapted for the purpose of extruding compacted speci-
with a guide sleeve that has sufficient clearance that the free mens from the mold.

Copyright ASTM International 4

Provided by IHS under license with ASTM
No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale
Downloaded by Ali Nouri ([email protected])
 lOMoARcPSD|18243390

D 1557 – 02e1
6.4 Balance—A class GP5 balance meeting the require- necessary adjustments or repairs. If adjustments or repairs are
ments of Specification D 4753 for a balance of 1-g readability. made, the rammer must be recalibrated.
6.5 Drying Oven—Thermostatically controlled, preferably
of a forced-draft type and capable of maintaining a uniform 10. Procedure
temperature of 230 6 9°F (110 6 5°C) throughout the drying 10.1 Soils:
chamber. 10.1.1 Do not reuse soil that has been previously compacted
6.6 Straightedge—A stiff metal straightedge of any conve- in the laboratory.
nient length but not less than 10 in. (254 mm). The total length 10.1.2 When using this test method for soils containing
of the straightedge shall be machined straight to a tolerance of hydrated halloysite, or where past experience with a particular
60.005 in. (60.1 mm). The scraping edge shall be beveled if soil indicates that results will be altered by air drying, use the
it is thicker than 1⁄8 in. (3 mm). moist preparation method (see 10.2).
6.7 Sieves—3⁄4 in. (19.0 mm), 3⁄8 in. (9.5 mm), and No. 4 10.1.3 Prepare the soil specimens for testing in accordance
(4.75 mm), conforming to the requirements of Specification with 10.2 (preferred) or with 10.3.
E 11. 10.2 Moist Preparation Method (preferred)—Without pre-
6.8 Mixing Tools—Miscellaneous tools such as mixing pan, viously drying the sample, pass it through a No. 4 (4.75-mm),
spoon, trowel, spatula, spray bottle, etc., or a suitable mechani- 3⁄8-in. (9.5-mm), or 3⁄4-in. (19.0-mm) sieve, depending on the

cal device for thoroughly mixing the sample of soil with Method (A, B, or C) being used. Determine the water content
increments of water. of the processed soil.
10.2.1 Prepare at least four (preferably five) specimens
7. Calibration having water contents such that they bracket the estimated
7.1 Perform calibrations before initial use, after repairs or optimum water content. A specimen having a water content
other occurrences that might affect the test results, at intervals close to optimum should be prepared first by trial additions of
not exceeding 1000 test specimens, or annually, whichever water and mixing (see Note 8). Select water contents for the
occurs first, for the following apparatus: rest of the specimens to provide at least two specimens wet and
7.1.1 Balance—Evaluate in accordance with Specification two specimens dry of optimum, and water contents varying by
D 4753. about 2 %. At least two water contents are necessary on the wet
7.1.2 Molds—Determine the volume as described in Annex and dry side of optimum to accurately define the dry unit
A1. weight compaction curve (see 10.5). Some soils with very high
7.1.3 Manual Rammer—Verify the free fall distance, ram- optimum water content or a relatively flat compaction curve
mer mass, and rammer face in accordance with 6.2. Verify the may require larger water content increments to obtain a well
guide sleeve requirements in accordance with 6.2.1. defined maximum dry unit weight. Water content increments
7.1.4 Mechanical Rammer—Calibrate and adjust the me- should not exceed 4 %.
chanical rammer in accordance with Test Methods D 2168. In
NOTE 8—With practice it is usually possible to visually judge a point
addition, the clearance between the rammer and the inside near optimum water content. Typically, soil at optimum water content can
surface of the mold shall be verified in accordance with 6.2.2. be squeezed into a lump that sticks together when hand pressure is
released, but will break cleanly into two sections when “bent”. At water
8. Test Sample contents dry of optimum soils tend to crumble; wet of optimum soils tend
8.1 The required sample mass for Methods A and B is to stick together in a sticky cohesive mass. Optimum water content is
approximately 35 lbm (16 kg), and for Method C is approxi- typically slightly less than the plastic limit.
mately 65 lbm (29 kg) of dry soil. Therefore, the field sample 10.2.2 Use approximately 5 lbm (2.3 kg) of the sieved soil
should have a moist mass of at least 50 lbm (23 kg) and 100 for each specimen to be compacted using Method A or B, or 13
lbm (45 kg), respectively. lbm (5.9 kg) using Method C. To obtain the specimen water
8.2 Determine the percentage of material (by mass) retained contents selected in 10.2.1, add or remove the required
--`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

on the No. 4 (4.75-mm), 3⁄8-in. (9.5-mm), or 3⁄4-in. (19.0-mm) amounts of water as follows: to add water, spray it into the soil
sieve as appropriate for choosing Method A, B, or C. Make this during mixing; to remove water, allow the soil to dry in air at
determination by separating out a representative portion from ambient temperature or in a drying apparatus such that the
the total sample and determining the percentages passing the temperature of the sample does not exceed 140°F (60°C). Mix
sieves of interest by Test Methods D 422 or C 136. It is only the soil frequently during drying to maintain even water
necessary to calculate percentages for the sieve or sieves for content distribution. Thoroughly mix each specimen to ensure
which information is desired. even distribution of water throughout and then place in a
separate covered container and allow to stand in accordance
9. Preparation of Apparatus with Table 1 prior to compaction. For the purpose of selecting
9.1 Select the proper compaction mold in accordance with
the Method (A, B, or C) being used. Determine and record its
TABLE 1 Required Standing Times of Moisturized Specimens
mass to the nearest gram. Assemble the mold, base and
Classification Minimum Standing Time, h
extension collar. Check the alignment of the inner wall of the
mold and mold extension collar. Adjust if necessary. GW, GP, SW, SP no requirement
GM, SM 3
9.2 Check that the rammer assembly is in good working All other soils 16
condition and that parts are not loose or worn. Make any

Copyright ASTM International 5

Provided by IHS under license with ASTM
No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale
Downloaded by Ali Nouri ([email protected])
 lOMoARcPSD|18243390

D 1557 – 02e1
a standing time, the soil may be classified by Test Method Prior to compaction, place the loose soil into the mold and
D 2487, Practice D 2488 or data on other samples from the spread into a layer of uniform thickness. Lightly tamp the soil
same material source. For referee testing, classification shall be prior to compaction until it is not in a fluffy or loose state, using
by Test Method D 2487. either the manual compaction rammer or a 2 in. (50.8-mm)
10.3 Dry Preparation Method—If the sample is too damp to diameter cylinder. Following compaction of each of the first
be friable, reduce the water content by air drying until the four layers, any soil adjacent to the mold walls that has not
material is friable. Drying may be in air or by the use of drying been compacted or extends above the compacted surface shall
apparatus such that the temperature of the sample does not be trimmed. The trimmed soil may be included with the
exceed 140°F (60°C). Thoroughly break up the aggregations in additional soil for the next layer. A knife or other suitable
such a manner as to avoid breaking individual particles. Pass device may be used. The total amount of soil used shall be such
the material through the appropriate sieve: No. 4 (4.75 mm), 3⁄8 that the fifth compacted layer slightly extends into the collar,
in. (9.5 mm), or 3⁄4 in. (19.0–mm). When preparing the material but does not exceed 1⁄4 in. (6 mm) above the top of the mold.
by passing over the 3⁄4-in. sieve for compaction in the 6 in.- If the fifth layer does extend above the top of the mold by more
mold, break up aggregations sufficiently to at least pass the 3⁄8 than 1⁄4 in. (6 mm), the specimen shall be discarded. The
in. sieve in order to facilitate the distribution of water through- specimen shall be discarded when the last blow on the rammer
out the soil in later mixing. for the fifth layer results in the bottom of the rammer extending
10.3.1 Prepare at least four (preferably five) specimens in below the top of the compaction mold.
accordance with 10.2.1. 10.4.4 Compact each layer with 25 blows for the 4 in.
10.3.2 Use approximately 5 lbm (2.3 kg) of the sieved soil (101.6 mm) mold or with 56 blows for the 6 in. (152.4 mm)
for each specimen to be compacted using Procedure A or B, or mold.
13 lbm (5.9 kg) using Method C. Add the required amounts of
NOTE 9—When compacting specimens wetter than optimum water
water to bring the water contents of the specimens to the values content, uneven compacted surfaces can occur and operator judgment is
selected in 10.3.1. Follow the specimen preparation procedure required as to the average height of the specimen.
specified in 10.2.2 for drying the soil or adding water into the
soil and curing each test specimen. 10.4.5 In operating the manual rammer, take care to avoid
10.4 Compaction—After curing, if required, each specimen lifting the guide sleeve during the rammer upstroke. Hold the
shall be compacted as follows: guide sleeve steady and within 5° of vertical. Apply the blows
at a uniform rate of approximately 25 blows/min and in such a

--`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
10.4.1 Determine and record the mass of the mold or mold
and base plate. manner as to provide complete, uniform coverage of the
10.4.2 Assemble and secure the mold and collar to the base specimen surface.
plate. The mold shall rest on a uniform rigid foundation, such 10.4.6 Following compaction of the last layer, remove the
as provided by a cylinder or cube of concrete with a mass of collar and base plate from the mold, except as noted in 10.4.7.
not less than 200 lbm (91 kg). Secure the base plate to the rigid A knife may be used to trim the soil adjacent to the collar to
foundation. The method of attachment to the rigid foundation loosen the soil from the collar before removal to avoid
shall allow easy removal of the assembled mold, collar and disrupting the soil below the top of the mold.
base plate after compaction is completed. 10.4.7 Carefully trim the compacted specimen even with the
10.4.3 Compact the specimen in five layers. After compac- top and bottom of the mold by means of the straightedge
tion, each layer should be approximately equal in thickness. scraped across the top and bottom of the mold to form a plane
surface even with the top and bottom of the mold. Initial
TABLE 2 Metric Equivalents for Figs. 1 and 2 trimming of the specimen above the top of the mold with a
knife may prevent tearing out soil below the top of the mold.
in. mm
Fill any holes in either surface with unused or trimmed soil
0.016 0.41
0.026 0.66
from the specimen, press in with the fingers, and again scrape
0.032 0.81 the straightedge across the top and bottom of the mold. Repeat
0.028 0.71 the appropriate preceding operations on the bottom of the
1⁄2 12.70
21⁄2 63.50
specimen when the mold volume was determined without the
25⁄8 66.70 base plate. For very wet or dry soils, soil or water may be lost
4 101.60 if the base plate is removed. For these situations, leave the base
41⁄2 114.30
4.584 116.43
plate attached to the mold. When the base plate is left attached,
43⁄4 120.60 the volume of the mold must be calibrated with the base plate
6 152.40 attached to the mold rather than a plastic or glass plate as noted
61⁄2 165.10
65⁄8 168.30
in Annex A1 (A1.4.1).
63⁄4 171.40 10.4.8 Determine and record the mass of the specimen and
81⁄4 208.60 mold to the nearest gram. When the base plate is left attached,
ft3 cm3 determine and record the mass of the specimen, mold and base
⁄ (0.0333)
1 30 943 plate to the nearest gram.
0.0005 14 10.4.9 Remove the material from the mold. Obtain a speci-
1⁄13.333 (0.0750) 2,124
0.0011 31 men for water content by using either the whole specimen
(preferred method) or a representative portion. When the entire

Copyright ASTM International 6

Provided by IHS under license with ASTM
No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale
Downloaded by Ali Nouri ([email protected])
 lOMoARcPSD|18243390

D 1557 – 02e1
specimen is used, break it up to facilitate drying. Otherwise, 11.2 Plot the 100 % saturation curve. Values of water
obtain a portion by slicing the compacted specimen axially content for the condition of 100 % saturation can be calculated
through the center and removing about 500 g of material from as explained in 11.5 (see example, Fig. 3).
the cut faces. Obtain the water content in accordance with Test
NOTE 10—The 100 % saturation curve is an aid in drawing the
Method D 2216.
compaction curve. For soils containing more than approximately 10 %
10.5 Following compaction of the last specimen, compare fines at water contents well above optimum, the two curves generally
the wet unit weights to ensure that a desired pattern of become roughly parallel with the wet side of the compaction curve
obtaining data on each side of the optimum water content will between 92 % to 95 % saturation. Theoretically, the compaction curve
be attained for the dry unit weight compaction curve. Plotting cannot plot to the right of the 100 % saturation curve. If it does, there is
an error in specific gravity, in measurements, in calculations, in testing, or
the wet unit weight and water content of each compacted in plotting.
specimen can be an aid in making the above evaluation. If the NOTE 11—The 100 % saturation curve is sometimes referred to as the
desired pattern is not obtained, additional compacted speci- zero air voids curve or the complete saturation curve.
mens will be required. Generally, one water content value wet
of the water content defining the maximum wet unit weight is 11.3 Water Content, w—Calculate in accordance with Test
sufficient to ensure data on the wet side of optimum water Method D 2216.
--`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

content for the maximum dry unit weight. 11.4 Dry Unit Weights—Calculate the moist density (Eq 1),
the dry density (Eq 2), and then the dry unit weight (Eq 3) as
11. Calculation follows:
11.1 Calculate the dry unit weight and water content of each ~Mt 2 Mmd!
rm 5 1000 V (1)
compacted specimen as explained in 11.3 and 11.4. Plot the
values and draw the compaction curve as a smooth curve where:
through the points (see example, Fig. 3). Plot dry unit weight rm = moist density of compacted specimen, Mg/m3,
to the nearest 0.1 lbf/ft3 (0.2 kN/m3) and water content to the Mt = mass of moist specimen and mold, kg,
nearest 0.1 %. From the compaction curve, determine the Mmd = mass of compaction mold, kg, and
optimum water content and maximum dry unit weight. If more V = volume of compaction mold, m3(see Annex A1).
than 5 % by weight of oversize material was removed from the rm
sample, calculate the corrected optimum water content and rd 5 w (2)
corrected maximum dry unit weight of the total material using 1 1 100
Practice D 4718. This correction may be made to the appro-
priate field in place density test specimen rather than to the where:
rd = dry density of compacted specimen, Mg/m3, and
laboratory test specimen.

FIG. 3 Example Compaction Curve Plotting

Copyright ASTM International 7

Provided by IHS under license with ASTM
No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale
Downloaded by Ali Nouri ([email protected])
 lOMoARcPSD|18243390

D 1557 – 02e1

w = water content,% . 12.1.4 Modified optimum water content, to the nearest

0.5 %.
gd 5 62.43 rd in lbf/ft3 (3)
12.1.5 Modified maximum (optimum) dry unit weight, to
or the nearest 0.5 lbf/ft3.
gd 5 9.807 rd in kN/m3 12.1.6 Description of rammer (manual or mechanical).
12.1.7 Soil sieve data when applicable for determination of
where: Method (A, B, or C) used.
gd = dry unit weight of compacted specimen. 12.1.8 Description of material used in test, by Practice
11.5 To calculate points for plotting the 100 % saturation D 2488, or classification by Test Method D 2487.
curve or zero air voids curve select values of dry unit weight, 12.1.9 Specific gravity and method of determination.
calculate corresponding values of water content corresponding 12.1.10 Origin of material used in test, for example, project,
to the condition of 100 % saturation as follows: location, depth, and the like.
~gw!Gs – gd 12.1.11 Compaction curve plot showing compaction points
wsat 5 3 100 (4) used to establish compaction curve, and 100 % saturation
~gd!~Gs!
curve, point of maximum dry unit weight and optimum water
where: content.
wsat = water content for complete saturation, %, 12.1.12 Oversize correction data if used, including the
gw = unit weight of water, 62.32 lbf/ft3(9.789 kN/m3) at oversize fraction (coarse fraction), Pc in %.
20°C,
gd = dry unit weight of soil, lbf/ft (kN/m3), and 13. Precision and Bias
Gs = specific gravity of soil. 13.1 Precision—Data are being evaluated to determine the
precision of this test method. In addition, pertinent data is
NOTE 12—Specific gravity may be estimated for the test specimen on
the basis of test data from other samples of the same soil classification and being solicited from users of the test method.
source. Otherwise, a specific gravity test (Test Method D 854) is neces- 13.2 Bias—It is not possible to obtain information on bias
sary. because there is no other method of determining the values of
modified maximum dry unit weight and optimum water con-
12. Report tent.
12.1 Report the following information: 14. Keywords
12.1.1 Method used (A, B, or C). 14.1 compaction characteristics; density; impact compac-
12.1.2 Preparation method used (moist or dry). tion using modified effort; laboratory tests; modified proctor
12.1.3 As-received water content, if determined. test; moisture-density curves; soil compaction

ANNEX

(Mandatory Information)

A1. VOLUME OF COMPACTION MOLD

A1.1 Scope A1.2.1.5 Stopcock Grease or similar sealant.

A1.1.1 This annex describes the method for determining the A1.2.1.6 Miscellaneous equipment—Bulb syringe, towels,
volume of a compaction mold. etc.
A1.1.2 The volume is determined by a water-filled method
A1.3 Precautions
and checked by a linear-measurement method.
A1.3.1 Perform this method in an area isolated from drafts
A1.2 Apparatus or extreme temperature fluctuations.
A1.2.1 In addition to the apparatus listed in Section 6, the
following items are required: A1.4 Procedure
A1.2.1.1 Vernier or Dial Caliper, having a measuring range A1.4.1 Water-Filling Method:
of at least 0 to 6 in. (0 to 150 mm) and readable to at least 0.001 A1.4.1.1 Lightly grease the bottom of the compaction mold
in. (0.02 mm). and place it on one of the plastic or glass plates. Lightly grease
A1.2.1.2 Inside Micrometer, having a measuring range of at the top of the mold. Be careful not to get grease on the inside
least 2 to 12 in. (50 to 300 mm) and readable to at least 0.001 of the mold. If it is necessary to use the base plate, as noted in
in. (0.02 mm). 10.4.7, place the greased mold onto the base plate and secure
A1.2.1.3 Plastic or Glass Plates—Two plastic or glass with the locking studs.
plates about 8 in.2 by 1⁄4 in. thick (200 mm2 by 6 mm). A1.4.1.2 Determine the mass of the greased mold and both
A1.2.1.4 Thermometer—0 to 50°C range, 0.5°C gradua- plastic or glass plates to the nearest 0.01 lbm (1 g) and record.
tions, conforming to the requirements of Specification E 1. When the base plate is being used in lieu of the bottom plastic
--`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Copyright ASTM International 8

Provided by IHS under license with ASTM
No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale
Downloaded by Ali Nouri ([email protected])
 lOMoARcPSD|18243390

D 1557 – 02e1
or glass plate determine the mass of the mold, base plate and a top of the mold and six times at the bottom of the mold spacing
single plastic or glass plate to be used on top of the mold to the each of the six top and bottom measurements equally around
nearest 0.01 lbm (1 g) and record. the circumference of the mold. Record the values to the nearest
A1.4.1.3 Place the mold and the bottom plate on a firm, 0.001 in. (0.02 mm).
level surface and fill the mold with water to slightly above its A1.4.2.2 Using the vernier caliper, measure the inside
rim. height of the mold by making three measurements equally
A1.4.1.4 Slide the second plate over the top surface of the spaced around the circumference of the mold. Record values to
mold so that the mold remains completely filled with water and the nearest 0.001 in. (0.02 mm).
air bubbles are not entrapped. Add or remove water as A1.4.2.3 Calculate the average top diameter, average bot-
necessary with a bulb syringe. tom diameter and average height.
A1.4.1.5 Completely dry any excess water from the outside A1.4.2.4 Calculate the volume of the mold and record to the
of the mold and plates. nearest 0.0001 ft3 (1 cm3) using Eq A1.1 (for inch-pound) or
A1.4.1.6 Determine the mass of the mold, plates and water Eq A1.2 (for SI):
and record to the nearest 0.01 lbm (1 g).
~p!~h!~dt 1 db!2
A1.4.1.7 Determine the temperature of the water in the V5
~16!~1728!
(A1.1)
mold to the nearest 1°C and record. Determine and record the
absolute density of water from Table A1.1.
A1.4.1.8 Calculate the mass of water in the mold by ~p!~h!~dt 1 db!2
V5 (A1.2)
subtracting the mass determined in A1.4.1.2 from the mass ~16!~103!
determined in A1.4.1.6. where:
A1.4.1.9 Calculate the volume of water by dividing the V = volume of mold, ft3 (cm3),
mass of water by the density of water and record to the nearest h = average height, in. (mm),
0.0001 ft3(1 cm3). dt = average top diameter, in. (mm),
A1.4.1.10 When the base plate is used for the calibration of db = average bottom diameter, in. (mm),
the mold volume repeat steps A1.4.1.3-A1.4.1.9. 1⁄1728 = constant to convert in3 to ft3, and
A1.4.2 Linear Measurement Method: 1⁄1000 = constant to convert mm3 to cm3.
A1.4.2.1 Using either the vernier caliper or the inside
micrometer, measure the diameter of the mold six times at the A1.5 Comparison of Results
A1.5.1 The volume obtained by either method should be
within the volume tolerance requirements of 6.1.1 and 6.1.2.
TABLE A1.1 Density of WaterA A1.5.2 The difference between the two methods should not
Temperature, °C (°F) Density of Water, g/mL or g/cm3 exceed 0.5 % of the nominal volume of the mold.
18 (64.4) 0.99860 A1.5.3 Repeat the determination of volume if these criteria
19 (66.2) 0.99841
20 (68.0) 0.99821
are not met.
21 (69.8) 0.99799 A1.5.4 Failure to obtain satisfactory agreement between the
22 (71.6) 0.99777 two methods, even after several trials, is an indication that the
23 (73.4) 0.99754
24 (75.2) 0.99730
mold is badly deformed and should be replaced.
25 (77.0) 0.99705 A1.5.5 Use the volume of the mold determined using the
26 (78.8) 0.99679 water-filling method as the assigned volume value for calcu-
A
Values other than shown may be obtained (5). lating the moist and dry density (see 11.4).

--`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
REFERENCES

(1) Earth Manual, United States Bureau of Reclamation, Part 1, Third (4) Johnson, A.W., and Sallberg, J.R., Factors Influencing Compaction
Edition, 1998, pp. 255-260. Test Results, Highway Research Board, Bulletin 318, Publication 967,
(2) Earth Manual, United States Bureau of Reclamation, Part 2, Third National Academy of Sciences-National Research Council, Washing-
Edition, 1990. ton, DC, 1962, p. 73.
(3) Torrey, V.H., and Donaghe, R.T., “Compaction Control of Earth-Rock (5) CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics, David R. Lide, Editor-in-
Mixtures: A New Approach,” Geotechnical Testing Journal, GTJODJ,
Chief, 74th Edition, 1993–1994
Vol 17, No 3, September 1994, pp. 371-386.

Copyright ASTM International 9

Provided by IHS under license with ASTM
No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale
Downloaded by Ali Nouri ([email protected])
 lOMoARcPSD|18243390

D 1557 – 02e1
SUMMARY OF CHANGES

In accordance with Committee D18 policy, this section identifies the location of changes to this standard since
the last edition (2000) that may impact the use of this standard.

(1) Added Practice D 3740 to Referenced Documents. (3) Revised the numbering of existing notes.
(2) Added a new note on the use of Practice D 3740 to Section (4) In Section 6.2 changed the SI tolerance for the height of
5. drop of the rammer.

ASTM International takes no position respecting the validity of any patent rights asserted in connection with any item mentioned
in this standard. Users of this standard are expressly advised that determination of the validity of any such patent rights, and the risk
of infringement of such rights, are entirely their own responsibility.

This standard is subject to revision at any time by the responsible technical committee and must be reviewed every five years and
if not revised, either reapproved or withdrawn. Your comments are invited either for revision of this standard or for additional standards
and should be addressed to ASTM International Headquarters. Your comments will receive careful consideration at a meeting of the
responsible technical committee, which you may attend. If you feel that your comments have not received a fair hearing you should
make your views known to the ASTM Committee on Standards, at the address shown below.

This standard is copyrighted by ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959,
United States. Individual reprints (single or multiple copies) of this standard may be obtained by contacting ASTM at the above
address or at 610-832-9585 (phone), 610-832-9555 (fax), or [email protected] (e-mail); or through the ASTM website
(www.astm.org).
--`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Copyright ASTM International 10

Provided by IHS under license with ASTM
No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale
Downloaded by Ali Nouri ([email protected])