What Does
Core Cutter Method Mean?
The core cutter method is a test used to determine the in-situ dry density of soil. It is only used in fine-grained cohesive soils without stones. The test requires cylindrical core cutters about 130 mm long and 100 mm in diameter.
The bulk density of soil can be easily calculated using this method. Once the moisture content of the soil is determined, the dry density and void percentage can be calculated.
Trenchlesspedia Explains Core Cutter Method
The apparatus for core cutter method consists of a:
- Cylindrical steel core cutter.
- Steel dolly 25 mm high and 100 mm in diameter.
- Steel rammer.
- Weighing balance.
- Knife.
- Steel ruler.
- Spade or pickaxe.
- Straightedge or steel strip.
- Apparatus to determine moisture content.
- Apparatus to extract core sample.
The area to be tested is first levelled and cleared of all debris and loose soil. The cylindrical mould is greased and fitted with the dolly, the cutting edge placed on the test surface. The mould is then driven into the soil using a rammer until about 10mm of the dolly remains above the soil surface.
The entire driven apparatus is then dug up using a spade without disturbing the soil in the mould. The dolly is removed and the edges of the mould are trimmed off using a straightedge or steel strip. The mould and soil are weighed after which the soil is removed. crumbled and samples taken for moisture content and other tests.