ASTM D1586

Definition

ASTM D1586 is a standard test method used to determine the density of soil and the resistance of soil to penetration by a standard split-barrel sampler during a boring operation. This test is crucial for site investigations as it helps in understanding soil conditions and the potential settlement behavior of shallow foundations, allowing engineers to make informed decisions during construction projects.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. ASTM D1586 involves dropping a hammer from a specific height onto the split-barrel sampler, measuring how many blows it takes to drive the sampler into the soil by a set distance.
2. The results from ASTM D1586 can be used to calculate the N-value, which helps classify the soil and assess its compactness or strength.
3. This testing method is commonly used for both cohesive and non-cohesive soils, making it versatile for various types of site investigations.
4. Data obtained from ASTM D1586 plays a significant role in evaluating potential settlement issues in shallow foundations, allowing for better foundation design and construction practices.
5. The standard provides guidelines on how to perform the test and interpret the results to ensure consistency and reliability across different site investigations.

Review Questions

• How does ASTM D1586 contribute to understanding soil properties during site investigations?
  • ASTM D1586 provides valuable insights into soil properties by measuring how resistant the soil is to penetration through a split-barrel sampler. The test generates N-values, which indicate soil density and strength. This information is crucial for engineers to evaluate the suitability of the site for construction, as it helps identify any potential challenges related to soil behavior.
• Discuss the importance of N-values obtained from ASTM D1586 in relation to shallow foundation settlement analysis.
  • N-values derived from ASTM D1586 are pivotal in assessing the settlement characteristics of shallow foundations. Higher N-values generally indicate denser, more stable soil that can support heavier loads without excessive settlement. Conversely, low N-values might signal weaker soil conditions that could lead to significant settlement issues, influencing foundation design decisions.
• Evaluate the advantages and limitations of using ASTM D1586 compared to other site investigation techniques like CPT for determining soil properties.
  • ASTM D1586 has several advantages, such as providing direct samples of disturbed soil and yielding immediate results regarding penetration resistance. However, it may not be as effective in very soft or loose soils where sample disturbance can occur. In contrast, methods like CPT offer continuous profiling of soil strength without sample disturbance, which can lead to more accurate interpretations in certain contexts. The choice between these methods depends on site-specific conditions and project requirements.

Related terms

Split-Barrel Sampler: A device used in soil sampling that consists of a split barrel, which collects soil samples while being driven into the ground, primarily used in conjunction with ASTM D1586.

N-Value: The number of blows required to drive the sampler a specific distance into the soil, which is an essential output from ASTM D1586 and indicates soil density and strength.

Cone Penetration Test (CPT): An in-situ test method used to determine the geotechnical properties of soils by measuring the resistance of a cone pushed into the ground, often compared with results from ASTM D1586.