The high capacity direct shear machine measures the total horizontal shear resistance of large, 12″ square soil samples, geosynthetic materials, as well as soil/geosynthetic composites. A two-piece shear box assembly holds specimens up to 12″ x 12″ and split in half horizontally.
Additionally, the machine holds the shear box assembly securely in place while a vertical load consolidates the specimen. A horizontal force also pushes directly against he lower half of the box to shear the specimen.
A gearbox generates the horizontal shear forces through a stepper motor. The forces are measured by an electronic load cell. The unit’s digital readout displays measurements with a ±0.25% accuracy. The control panel’s rotary thumbwheel switch allows shear rates to be easily set from 0.0508 to 5.08mm per minute. The Linear Variable Displacement transducers (LVDTs) measure the horizontal displacement. Additionally, the limit switches restrict total horizontal travel to 102mm.
The high capacity direct shear machine applies maximum piston loads of either 10,000lbf and 20,000lbf. The machine features a rugged designed for harsh lab environments.  In addition, the casters on the machine and compaction table make for easy portability in the lab.
The unit comes complete with compaction table, top and bottom of the shear rings, software, and data cable. The direct shear machine requires a 120psi source of clean, dry compressed air required for operation.
Includes:Â
- Four channel digital readout
- (2) 1″ LVDT displacement transducers
- Compaction table
- Drainage plates
- Calibration chart
- Water chamber
- 10,000lbf large machine & 10,000lbf load cell
- 20,000lbf large machine & 20,000lbf load cell
