Description
The Direct Shear Test Apparatus is a soil testing instrument used to determine the shear strength parameters of soil, including cohesion (c) and angle of internal friction (ϕ). The apparatus applies a horizontal shear force to a soil specimen under a constant vertical load to measure shear resistance at failure. It is widely used in geotechnical engineering, foundation design, slope stability analysis, retaining wall design, and earthworks.
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Key Features
- Determines shear strength parameters (c and Ï•) under controlled normal stress.
- Rigid and stable frame ensures accurate load transmission.
- Interchangeable shear boxes for different soil types and specimen sizes.
- Available as manual or motorized movement apparatus.
- High precision dial gauges / digital measurement options for improved accuracy.
- Comes with water tank for saturated soil testing conditions.
- Suitable for both laboratory and educational use.
Applications
- Foundation Design
Helps determine soil bearing capacity and stability under load. - Slope Stability Analysis
Used to assess soil resistance against slope or embankment failure. - Retaining Wall and Earth Pressure Studies
Provides shear parameters required for structural earth retaining systems. - Pavement and Road Subgrade Evaluation
Used in selecting suitable soil types and compaction parameters. - Geotechnical Research and Quality Control
Common tool in soil testing laboratories and civil engineering institutes.