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Troxler Procedure 3430

A nuclear density gauge, commonly called a Troxler, is a tool used to test the density and compaction of materials like asphalt and soil in construction projects. It works by emitting gamma radiation from a source into the material and measuring the return signal to calculate density. Encorus uses Troxler gauges operated by certified personnel to ensure materials like asphalt and soil are properly compacted, which is important for structural integrity. The document provides steps for preparing a test site for using a Troxler gauge, including smoothing the surface, drilling a hole, and properly positioning the gauge.

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232 views

Troxler Procedure 3430

A nuclear density gauge, commonly called a Troxler, is a tool used to test the density and compaction of materials like asphalt and soil in construction projects. It works by emitting gamma radiation from a source into the material and measuring the return signal to calculate density. Encorus uses Troxler gauges operated by certified personnel to ensure materials like asphalt and soil are properly compacted, which is important for structural integrity. The document provides steps for preparing a test site for using a Troxler gauge, including smoothing the surface, drilling a hole, and properly positioning the gauge.

Uploaded by

joao
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Procedimento para o teste de compactação usando Troxler 3430

What is a “Troxler” and why is it


important?
A nuclear density gauge is a tool used to test the density of construction materials in
the commercial construction industry.  It is used on road/highway, wind, and solar
projects, among others.  The tool is comprised of a gamma radiation source (such as
Cesium-137) about the size of a pebble at the end of a source rod, and Geiger Mueller
tubes embedded in the base at the other end of the gauge.  The source rod is lowered
into the ground and, once released from its shielded housing, gives off just enough
radiation to measure density.  The Geiger Mueller tubes detect the gamma radiation
that is emitted from the radiation source and passes through the material under the
gauge.
By calculating the percentage of particles that return to the sensor, the gauge can be
calibrated to measure the density and inner structure of the test material.  The
machine is often called a “Troxler”, as Troxler Electronic Laboratories is a major
manufacturer of the device.
Encorus personnel use nuclear density gauges primarily to determine the density of
asphalt and soil.  This test data is compared to design requirements and tells the
contractor if the asphalt or soil is compacted properly.  Insufficient compaction can
ultimately result in asphalt or soil failure and is especially important when preparing
surfaces which will support structures, roadways, parking lots, and bridges.
Encorus currently has over ten Troxler Certified Nuclear Density Gauge Operators on
staff.  We work with contractors, construction companies, municipalities, and more to
help ensure the safe and successful completion of their projects.  For more information
or to schedule a field test, call Jim Handzlik, Director of Civil Materials Testing, at
716.592.3980, ext. 148 or email [email protected].
SOIL AND BASE COURSE PREPARATION

Surface conditions for the test are critical to gauge performance and test results. The
scraper plate can be used to prepare surfaces that are not smooth. Any small valleys,
holes, or voids in surfaces can be filled with sand or fine material from areas near the
test site. Filling of large areas on test surfaces should be avoided.
Placing the scraper plate on the surface to be tested, move the plate back and forth in
a small area to smooth the test site. Lift the plate to fill any small depressions or voids
present. Place scraper plate on the surface again and press down slightly to level the
surface.
Put the drill rod through the extraction tool and then through one of the
guides on the scraper plate (see Figure 3–1). Wearing safety glasses, step on the
scraper plate to hold it firmly and hammer the drill rod at least, but not limited to, 2 in.
(50mm) deeper than the desired test depth. The drill rod increment markings include
the additional 2-inch depth needed for rod clearance. Before removing the drill rod
from the scraper plate, mark the test area as shown in Figure x to make it easier to
position the gauge over the site.
Note; Wear safety glasses while hammering drill rod through scraper plate

Figure 3–1. Drill Rod and Extraction Tool with Scraper Plate
3. SITE PREPARATION
Figure 3–2. Marking the Test Area

Remove the drill rod by pulling straight up and twisting the extraction tool. Do not
loosen the drill rod by tapping from side to side with the hammer.
This will distort the hole or cause loose material to fill the 2-inch gap from the bottom
of the hole. Carefully pick up the scraper plate and set it aside. Place the gauge on the
surface prepared by the scraper plate so the source rod can enter the hole without
disturbing any loose material around it.
Using the handle and trigger mechanism, lower the source rod into the hole. Release
the trigger at the desired depth and listen for the “click,” indicating that the source rod
is properly locked into position on the index rod. Lightly press the top of the handle to
confirm positive source rod locking. Gently pull the gauge to the right until the source
rod is firmly in contact with the side of the hole.

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