Expansion (Swell) Test Apparatus for Soil Swell Measurement

The Expansion (Swell) Test Apparatus is designed to measure the vertical expansion of compacted soil specimens during soaking as part of California Bearing Ratio (CBR) and soil swell testing. It is an essential instrument for evaluating the swelling behavior of expansive soils used in geotechnical and pavement engineering.

The apparatus consists of a rigid tripod frame, a swell plate, and a precision dial gauge that accurately monitors specimen expansion throughout the testing period. Its robust construction ensures reliable and repeatable measurements in laboratory environments.

Key Features

• Designed for soil expansion and swell testing
• Suitable for California Bearing Ratio (CBR) testing
• Measures vertical expansion of compacted soil specimens
• Equipped with a precision dial gauge
• Heavy-duty tripod construction for maximum stability
• High measurement accuracy and repeatability
• Easy specimen positioning
• Durable laboratory-grade design
• Reliable long-term performance
• Simple and user-friendly operation
• Ideal for geotechnical laboratories
• Long service life with minimal maintenance

Standards

• EN 13286-47
• ASTM D1883
• AASHTO T193
• BS 1377-4
• TS 1900-2

Technical Specifications

Available Models

Expansion (Swell) Test Procedure

The Expansion (Swell) Test Apparatus is used to determine the vertical expansion of compacted soil specimens after they are immersed in water. During the test, the precision dial gauge continuously records changes in specimen height, enabling engineers to evaluate the swelling characteristics of expansive soils.

The test results provide valuable information for assessing soil suitability in pavement design, highway construction, foundation engineering, and other geotechnical applications.

Precision Measurement System

The apparatus is equipped with a rigid tripod assembly and a high-precision dial gauge to ensure consistent and accurate measurements throughout the test.

Measurement Features

• Measuring Capacity: 10 mm
• Resolution: 0.01 mm
• High repeatability
• Accurate long-term monitoring of soil expansion
• Stable tripod construction for reliable measurements

Applications

The Expansion (Swell) Test Apparatus is widely used for:

• California Bearing Ratio (CBR) testing
• Soil expansion testing
• Swell measurement of expansive soils
• Geotechnical engineering
• Highway and pavement engineering
• Foundation investigations
• Soil mechanics laboratories
• Construction materials laboratories
• Universities
• Research institutes
• Quality control laboratories

Why Choose the BESMAK Expansion (Swell) Test Apparatus?

The BESMAK Expansion (Swell) Test Apparatus delivers precise and reliable monitoring of soil swelling behavior through its rigid tripod assembly and precision dial gauge. Designed for long-term laboratory use, it provides accurate and repeatable results while complying with internationally recognized testing standards.

Its durable construction, ease of operation, and high measurement accuracy make it an ideal solution for CBR testing, soil swell evaluation, and comprehensive geotechnical investigations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Expansion (Swell) Test Apparatus?

An Expansion (Swell) Test Apparatus is laboratory equipment used to measure the vertical swelling or expansion of compacted soil specimens during soaking. It is commonly used alongside California Bearing Ratio (CBR) testing to evaluate expansive soils.

What is the swell test used for?

The swell test determines the expansion characteristics of soils—particularly expansive clays—when exposed to water. The results help engineers assess soil suitability for foundations, highways, embankments, and pavement construction.

Which standards does the apparatus comply with?

The Expansion (Swell) Test Apparatus complies with the following international standards:

• EN 13286-47
• ASTM D1883
• AASHTO T193
• BS 1377-4
• TS 1900-2

What is the measurement accuracy?

The supplied precision dial gauge provides:

• Measuring Capacity: 10 mm
• Resolution: 0.01 mm

This enables highly accurate and repeatable measurements throughout the swelling test.

Which components are included?

The standard apparatus includes:

• Swell Tripod
• Swell Plate
• Precision Dial Gauge

Where is the Expansion (Swell) Test Apparatus commonly used?

The apparatus is widely used in:

• Geotechnical laboratories
• Highway engineering laboratories
• Construction materials laboratories
• Soil mechanics laboratories
• Universities
• Research institutes
• Quality control laboratories
• Foundation engineering projects