IS 2720 Part 191992AI Search Enabled✦ AI Generated

Methods of test for soils, Part 19: Determination of centrifuge moisture equivalent

IS 2720 Part 19:1992 specifies the standardized laboratory procedure for determining the centrifuge moisture equivalent (CME) of soils. This test measures the moisture retained by a saturated soil sample after centrifugation at 1000 times gravity, expressed as a percentage of oven-dried soil mass. The standard is essential for geotechnical engineers and soil scientists to evaluate soil permeability and moisture characteristics accurately.

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Alternative search terms: IS 2720 Part 19 PDF, IS 2720 Part 19 pdf free download, IS 2720 Part 19 free download pdf, IS2720Part19 PDF, IS-2720-Part-19 PDF, IS 2720 Part 19 1992 PDF, IS 2720 Part 19:1992 PDF, IS 2720 Part 19-1992 PDF, IS 2720 Part 19 (1992) PDF, IS 2720 Part 19 1992 edition PDF, IS 2720 Part 19 edition 1992 PDF

What This Standard Covers

IS 2720 Part 19:1992 specifies the standardized laboratory procedure for determining the centrifuge moisture equivalent (CME) of soils. This test measures the moisture retained by a saturated soil sample after centrifugation at 1000 times gravity, expressed as a percentage of oven-dried soil mass. The standard is essential for geotechnical engineers and soil scientists to evaluate soil permeability and moisture characteristics accurately.

Who Uses This Standard

  • Geotechnical Engineers
  • Soil Scientists
  • Civil Engineers
  • Laboratory Technicians
  • Foundation Engineers
  • Construction Material Testing Professionals
  • Research Scholars in Soil Mechanics

Key Topics Covered

Definition of Centrifuge Moisture Equivalent (CME)
Apparatus specifications including Gooch crucible and Babcock trunnion cup
Preparation and saturation of soil specimens
Centrifugation procedure and conditions
Weighing and moisture calculation methods
Temperature control during testing
Sample size and sieve specifications
Reproducibility and duplicate testing requirements
Calculation formula for CME
Reporting format and rounding rules
Handling of waterlogged samples
Quality control and standard compliance

Table of Contents

1Scope

IS 2720 Part 19: Scope Summary

  • Scope: This part of IS 2720 specifies methods for testing soil properties related to beam scales and related apparatus used in geotechnical investigations.
  • Purpose: To ensure uniformity in test procedures and accuracy in measurement of soil parameters.
  • Rounding Off: Final test values must be rounded as per IS 2:1960 rules, maintaining the same number of significant digits as specified.

Key Points:

  • Applies to beam scales used in soil testing.
  • Ensures compliance by standardizing test result reporting.
  • Requires referencing related Indian Standards for complete procedures.

No direct formulas or tables in the scope clause; these appear in subsequent clauses detailing test methods.


IS 2:1960 Rounding Rules Summary:

RuleExample
If digit after last retained is <53.14159 → 3.14
If digit after last retained is >53.146 → 3.15
If digit after last retained is 5 and followed by non-zero digit3.1451 → 3.15
If digit after last retained is 5 and followed by zero or no digit3.1450 → 3.14 (round to even)

flowchart LR
    A[Scope: IS 2720 Part 19] --> B[Beam scales for soil testing]
    B --> C[Standardized test procedures]
    C --> D[Result rounding per IS 2:1960]
    D --> E[Compliance verification]

For detailed formulas and tables, refer to specific test method clauses within IS 2720 Part 19.

2References

IS 2720 Part 19 - References Summary

  • Key Adjunct Standard:

    • IS 1433:1965 — Specification for beam scales (used for weighing in tests).
  • Rounding Off Values:

    • Follow IS 2:1960 rules for rounding numerical test results.
    • Retain the same number of significant figures as specified in the standard.
  • Test Report Format (Clause 9.1.1):

ParameterUnitSample 1Sample 2
Mass of crucible + dry filter paper (M1)g
Mass after centrifuging (M2)g
Mass after oven drying (M3)g
Centrifuge moisture equivalent%
Average & Remarks
  • BIS Guidelines:
    • Standard Mark ensures compliance and quality control.
    • Periodic review and amendments issued; users should confirm latest editions.
    • Copyright protected; permission needed for reproduction.

Contact & Support

  • Headquarters: Manak Bhavan, New Delhi
  • Regional Offices: Calcutta, Chandigarh, Madras, Bombay, etc.
  • Enquiries: Director (Publications), BIS

This summary aids in understanding references and reporting requirements per IS 2720 Part 19. For detailed test procedures and calculations, refer to the full standard and IS 1433 for weighing equipment.

3Definitions

IS 2720 Part 19 - Definitions (Clause 3.0)

  • This clause provides standardized definitions specifically for soil testing procedures covered in this part.
  • Definitions clarify terms such as "soil sample," "dry density," "water content," and other fundamental concepts used throughout the standard.
  • The standard refers to IS 2:1960 for rounding off numerical values to maintain consistency in reporting test results.
  • Adjunct standards like IS 1433:1965 (Specification for beam scales) are essential for equipment calibration and accuracy.

Key Notes:

  • Always round off test results as per IS 2:1960 rules.
  • Use definitions to ensure uniform understanding of terms like:
    • Dry Density (ρd)
    • Water Content (w)
    • Bulk Density (ρ)
    • Void Ratio (e)

Example formula (commonly used in soil testing):

[ \rho_d = \frac{\text{Mass of solids}}{\text{Volume of soil sample}} = \frac{M_s}{V} ]

Where:

  • ( \rho_d ) = Dry density
  • ( M_s ) = Mass of solids (oven-dried soil)
  • ( V ) = Volume of soil sample

If you need specific definitions or formulas for particular tests in IS 2720 Part 19, please specify!

4Apparatus

IS 2720 Part 19 (1992) - Apparatus Key Points

Apparatus Specifications:

  • Crucible with dry filter paper: Used for moisture determination.
  • Centrifuge: To separate moisture from soil samples.
  • Oven: For drying samples to constant mass.
  • Beam scales: As per IS 1433:1965, for precise mass measurement.

Key Measurement Parameters (Clause 9.1.1 Table 9):

ParameterSymbolUnit
Mass of crucible + dry filter paperM1g
Mass after centrifugingM2g
Mass after oven dryingM3g
Centrifuge moisture equivalent% (calculated)

Moisture Equivalent Calculation:

[ \text{Moisture Equivalent} = \frac{(M2 - M3)}{(M3 - M1)} \times 100 ]

Where:

  • (M1) = Mass of crucible + dry filter paper
  • (M2) = Mass after centrifuging
  • (M3) = Mass after oven drying

Notes:

  • Use beam scales conforming to IS 1433 for accuracy.
  • Follow IS 2:1960 for rounding off numerical values.
  • Ensure apparatus calibration and quality control as per BIS guidelines.
flowchart LR
    A[Soil Sample + Filter Paper in Crucible (M1)] --> B[Centrifuge] --> C[Mass after centrifuging (M2)]
    C --> D[Oven Drying] --> E[Mass after oven drying (M3)]
    E --> F[Calculate Moisture Equivalent]

This setup ensures accurate determination of moisture content using centrifuge method as per IS 2720 Part 19.

5Soil Specimen

IS 2720 Part 19 focuses on the Determination of Centrifuge Moisture Equivalent (CME), a measure of soil moisture content under centrifugal force.

Key Specifications for Soil Specimen:

  • Sample size: Typically, a disturbed soil sample of about 100 g is used.
  • Specimen preparation: Soil is placed in a porous cup or filter paper to allow water flow.
  • Test conditions: Centrifugation is done at a specified speed (e.g., 2000 rpm) for a set duration (e.g., 15 minutes).

Key Formula:

The Centrifuge Moisture Equivalent (CME) is calculated as:

[ \text{CME} = \frac{W_w}{W_d} \times 100 ]

Where:

  • ( W_w ) = weight of water extracted by centrifuge (g)
  • ( W_d ) = dry weight of soil specimen (g)

Typical Procedure Summary:

  1. Weigh moist soil sample.
  2. Centrifuge to extract moisture.
  3. Measure extracted water.
  4. Oven-dry soil to get dry weight.
  5. Calculate CME.

Additional Notes:

  • CME approximates field capacity in fine-grained soils.
  • Useful for soil-water retention characteristics.
flowchart LR
    A[Collect Soil Sample] --> B[Weigh Moist Soil]
    B --> C[Centrifuge Sample]
    C --> D[Collect Extracted Water]
    D --> E[Weigh Extracted Water]
    B --> F[Oven Dry Soil]
    F --> G[Weigh Dry Soil]
    E & G --> H[Calculate CME]

For detailed procedural steps and apparatus, refer to the full IS 2720 Part 19 document.

6Procedure

IS 2720 Part 19 - Procedure Key Points

  • Rounding Off (IS 2:1960): Final test values must be rounded off to the same number of significant figures as specified in the standard.

  • Test Reporting Format (Clause 9.1.1):

ParameterDetermination 1Determination 2
Mass of crucible + dry filter paper (M1), g
Mass of crucible + contents after centrifuging (M2), g
Mass of crucible + contents after oven drying (M3), g
Centrifuge moisture equivalent
Average
Remarks
  • Moisture Equivalent Calculation:

[ \text{Moisture Equivalent} = \frac{M_2 - M_3}{M_3 - M_1} \times 100 ]

Where:

  • (M_1) = Mass of crucible + dry filter paper

  • (M_2) = Mass after centrifuging

  • (M_3) = Mass after oven drying

  • Specifications: Use beam scales as per IS 1433:1965 for mass measurements.


flowchart TD
    A[Start] --> B[Weigh crucible + dry filter paper (M1)]
    B --> C[Add sample and centrifuge]
    C --> D[Weigh crucible + contents after centrifuging (M2)]
    D --> E[Oven dry sample]
    E --> F[Weigh crucible + contents after drying (M3)]
    F --> G[Calculate moisture equivalent]
    G --> H[Report results with rounding as per IS 2:1960]

This procedure ensures consistent and accurate moisture content determination in soils.

7Calculation

IS 2720 Part 19: Key Calculation Guidelines

  • Rounding off: Final test or analysis results must be rounded as per IS 2:1960. The number of significant digits retained should match the specified value in the standard.

  • Reporting format (Clause 9.1.1): For moisture content by centrifuge method, record:

    • Mass of crucible + dry filter paper (M1)
    • Mass of crucible + contents after centrifuging (M2)
    • Mass of crucible + contents after oven drying (M3)
    • Calculate centrifuge moisture equivalent (CME) as:

[ \text{CME} = \frac{M_2 - M_3}{M_3 - M_1} \times 100 ]

  • General: Use beam scales complying with IS 1433:1965 for mass measurements.

Summary Table for Moisture Content Calculation

ParameterSymbolUnit
Mass crucible + dry filter paperM1g
Mass crucible + centrifuged sampleM2g
Mass crucible + oven-dried sampleM3g
Centrifuge Moisture EquivalentCME%

Notes:

  • Ensure all masses are measured accurately.
  • Follow IS 2 rounding rules for final values.
  • Use calibrated beam scales as per IS 1433.
flowchart TD
    A[Start] --> B[Weigh crucible + dry filter paper (M1)]
    B --> C[Add sample and centrifuge, weigh (M2)]
    C --> D[Oven dry sample and weigh (M3)]
    D --> E[Calculate CME = ((M2 - M3)/(M3 - M1)) * 100]
    E --> F[Report results with proper rounding]

This ensures compliance with IS 2720 Part 19 for moisture content by centrifuge method.

8Reproducibility of Results

Reproducibility of Results (IS 2720 Part 19)

  • Test Duplication: Tests must be performed in duplicate.
  • Acceptable Variation:
    • For CME ≤ 15%, variation between duplicates ≤ 1%
    • For CME > 15%, variation between duplicates ≤ 2%
  • Action on Disagreement: If variation exceeds above limits, tests must be repeated.

Key Formula for Centrifuge Moisture Equivalent (CME):

[ \text{CME} = \frac{(M_2 - M_1 - 0.02) - (M_3 - M_1)}{M_3 - M_1} \times 100 ]

Where:

  • (M_1) = Mass of crucible + dry filter paper (g)
  • (M_2) = Mass after centrifuging (g)
  • (M_3) = Mass after oven drying (g)
  • 0.02 g = moisture allowance in filter paper

Reporting Table Format (Clause 9.1.1):

Determination No.Mass of crucible + dry filter paper (M1), gMass after centrifuging (M2), gMass after oven drying (M3), gCME (%)Remarks
1
2
Average

This ensures precision and reliability in moisture content determination by centrifuge method per IS 2720 Part 19.

9Reporting of Results

IS 2720 Part 19: Reporting of Results - Key Points

  • Rounding Off (IS 2:1960):
    Final test values must be rounded off to the same number of significant figures as the specified values in the standard.

  • Reporting Format (Clause 9.1.1):
    Test results for Centrifuge Moisture Equivalent (CME) should be tabulated as below:

Determination No.Mass of crucible + dry filter paper (M1), gMass after centrifuging (M2), gMass after oven drying (M3), gCentrifuge Moisture Equivalent (%)
1
2
Average
  • Calculation of Centrifuge Moisture Equivalent (CME):
    [ \text{CME} = \frac{(M2 - M3)}{(M3 - M1)} \times 100 ]

  • Final Reporting (Clause 9.1):
    Report the average of two determinations as the final CME value.


Summary:

  • Use precise rounding per IS 2:1960.
  • Report two test results and their average.
  • Use the formula above for CME.
  • Include remarks if necessary.
flowchart TD
    A[Start Test] --> B[Measure M1]
    B --> C[Measure M2 after centrifuging]
    C --> D[Measure M3 after oven drying]
    D --> E[Calculate CME = ((M2 - M3) / (M3 - M1)) * 100]
    E --> F[Repeat for 2 determinations]
    F --> G[Calculate average CME]
    G --> H[Report results with rounding as per IS 2:1960]

This ensures clarity and consistency in reporting moisture content by centrifuge method as per IS 2720 Part 19.

10Precision and Accuracy

IS 2720 Part 19: Precision and Accuracy - Key Points

The code emphasizes proper rounding and reporting for test results to ensure precision and accuracy:

Rounding Off (IS 2:1960)

  • Final test values must be rounded according to IS 2:1960.
  • Number of significant digits retained should match the specified value in the standard.

Reporting Format (Clause 9.1.1 Example)

ParameterDescriptionUnit
M1Mass of crucible with dry filter paperg
M2Mass of crucible and contents after centrifugingg
M3Mass of crucible and contents after oven dryingg
Centrifuge moisture equivalentCalculated moisture content%

Precision & Accuracy Control

  • Use calibrated beam scales complying with IS 1433:1965.
  • Repeat determinations to calculate average and assess repeatability.
  • Report remarks on observations for quality control.

General Formula for Moisture Content (Example)

[ \text{Moisture Content} = \frac{M2 - M3}{M3 - M1} \times 100 ]

Where:

  • (M1) = Mass of crucible + dry filter paper
  • (M2) = Mass after centrifuging
  • (M3) = Mass after oven drying

flowchart TD
    A[Sample Preparation] --> B[Weigh Crucible + Filter Paper (M1)]
    B --> C[Centrifuge Sample]
    C --> D[Weigh Crucible + Contents (M2)]
    D --> E[Oven Dry Sample]
    E --> F[Weigh Crucible + Contents (M3)]
    F --> G[Calculate Moisture Content]

Summary:

  • Follow IS 2 for rounding.
  • Use IS 1433 beam scales for weighing.
  • Report results with clear mass measurements and calculated moisture equivalents.
  • Repeat tests for accuracy and precision verification.

Popular Questions About IS 2720 Part 19

?What is the centrifuge moisture equivalent and why is it important?

Centrifuge Moisture Equivalent (CME) as per IS 2720 Part 19 is:

  • The percentage of moisture retained by a saturated soil sample after centrifuging at 1000 g for 1 hour.
  • Expressed as a % of oven-dried soil mass.

Importance:

  • CME indicates the water retained against a high centrifugal force, reflecting soil's capillary water retention.
  • It correlates with soil permeability and helps assess relative permeability — critical for foundation design, drainage, and soil stability.

Calculation formula:

[ \text{CME} = \frac{(M_2 - M_1 - 0.02) - (M_3 - M_1)}{M_3 - M_1} \times 100 ]

Where:

  • (M_1) = mass of crucible + dry filter paper (g)
  • (M_2) = mass after centrifuging (g)
  • (M_3) = mass after oven drying (g)
  • 0.02 g = moisture in filter paper allowance

Summary of test setup:

  • Soil sample saturated, placed in Gooch crucible.
  • Centrifuged at 1000 g for 1 hour.
  • Weighed before and after oven drying at 105-110°C.

Loading diagram...

CME is a key parameter for understanding soil water retention and permeability characteristics.

?What size and type of soil sample is required for the test?

Soil Sample Size and Type for IS 2720 Part 19 (Centrifuge Moisture Equivalent Test):

  • Sample size: 5 g of soil
  • Soil type: Soil passing through a 425-micron IS sieve (i.e., fine fraction)
  • Preparation: Thoroughly mixed portion of the soil

Key Points:

  • The soil must be saturated with water before testing.
  • Use a Gooch crucible (porcelain, ~40 mm height, 25 mm top diameter, 20 mm bottom diameter) lined with filter paper.
  • The test involves centrifuging the saturated soil at 1000g for 1 hour.

Summary Table:

ParameterSpecification
Soil sample mass5 g
Sieve size for soil425 micron IS sieve
Crucible sizeHeight ~40 mm; Diameter 25 mm (top), 20 mm (bottom)
Filter paperWhatman No. 42 or equivalent
Centrifugal force1000 × gravity
Centrifuge duration1 hour
Test temperature27 ± 2 °C

This ensures uniformity and reproducibility in determining the centrifuge moisture equivalent (CME) of soil.

?What apparatus is necessary to perform the CME test as per IS 2720 Part 19?

As per IS 2720 Part 19 (1992), the apparatus necessary for the Centrifuge Moisture Equivalent (CME) test includes:

  • Gooch Crucible: Porcelain, perforated bottom, ~40 mm height, 25 mm top diameter, 20 mm bottom diameter.
  • Filter Paper: Circular piece (e.g., Whatman No. 42) to cover crucible bottom.
  • Babcock Trunnion Cup: Fitted with brass cap and support device to hold the Gooch crucible 12 mm above cup bottom, allowing free air circulation and preventing contact with ejected water.
  • Centrifuge: Capable of exerting 1000 times gravity at soil sample’s center of gravity.
  • Balance: Sensitive to 0.001 g (per IS 1433:1965).
  • Oven: Thermostatically controlled, non-corroding interior, temperature maintained between 105°C and 110°C.

These ensure accurate measurement of moisture retained after centrifuging saturated soil.

Loading diagram...

This setup is essential for determining CME accurately.

?How is the centrifugation force and duration specified in this standard?

IS 2720 Part 19 specifies the centrifugation force and duration as follows:

  • Centrifugal Force: 1000 times the force of gravity (1000g) applied at the center of gravity of the soil sample.
  • Duration: 1 hour.

Key Details:

  • Soil is saturated, then placed in a Gooch crucible.
  • Centrifugation is done in a Babcock trunnion cup setup.
  • Test temperature: (27 ± 2) °C.
  • After centrifuging, the mass is recorded before oven drying (105°C to 110°C).

Formula for Centrifuge Moisture Equivalent (CME):

[ \text{CME} = \frac{(M_2 - M_1 - 0.02) - (M_3 - M_1)}{(M_3 - M_1)} \times 100 ]

Where:

SymbolDescription
M1Mass of crucible + dry filter paper (g)
M2Mass after centrifuging (g)
M3Mass after oven drying (g)
0.02Moisture allowance for filter paper (g)

Summary Diagram of Setup:

Loading diagram...

This ensures moisture retained under 1000g centrifugal force is accurately measured per IS 2720 Part 19.

?How should results be reported and what are the acceptable variations between duplicate tests?

Reporting Results (IS 2720 Part 19):

  • Report the average of two duplicate tests as the Centrifuge Moisture Equivalent (CME) (Clause 9.1).

  • Use the format given in Clause 9.1.1, including:

    • Mass of crucible + dry filter paper (M1)
    • Mass after centrifuging (M2)
    • Mass after oven drying (M3)
    • Calculated CME for each test and average CME
    • Remarks if any
  • Round off final values according to IS 2:1960 rules, keeping the same significant figures as specified in the standard.


Acceptable Variation Between Duplicate Tests (Clause 8):

CME Value RangeMaximum Allowed Variation Between Duplicates
Up to 15%1%
Above 15%2%
  • If variation exceeds these limits, repeat the tests.

CME Calculation Formula:

[ \text{CME} = \frac{(M_2 - M_1 - 0.02) - (M_3 - M_1)}{M_3 - M_1} \times 100 ]

Where:

  • (M_1) = Mass of crucible + dry filter paper (g)
  • (M_2) = Mass after centrifuging (g)
  • (M_3) = Mass after oven drying (g)
  • 0.02 g = moisture allowance in filter paper

Loading diagram...

This ensures reliable, standardized reporting and quality control of soil moisture content by centrifuge method.

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