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Sieve Analysis

Sieve analysis is a method used to determine the grain size distribution of soil particles larger than 0.075 mm, primarily for sand and gravel. The results are essential for classifying soil, predicting its behavior, and ensuring compliance with specifications for aggregate products. The process involves using a stack of sieves to separate soil particles by size, with specific equipment and methods outlined in the document.

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9 views5 pages

Sieve Analysis

Sieve analysis is a method used to determine the grain size distribution of soil particles larger than 0.075 mm, primarily for sand and gravel. The results are essential for classifying soil, predicting its behavior, and ensuring compliance with specifications for aggregate products. The process involves using a stack of sieves to separate soil particles by size, with specific equipment and methods outlined in the document.

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rynl6493
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We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Sieve Analysis:

NTRODUCTION

The grain size analysis test is performed to determine the percentage of each size of grain that is
contained within a soil sample, and the results of the test can be used to produce the grain size
distribution curve. This information is used to classify the soil and to predict its behavior. The
two methods generally used to find the grain size distribution are:

 Sieve analysis which is used for particle sizes larger than 0.075 mm in diameter and
 Hydrometer analysis which is used for particle sizes smaller than 0.075 mm in diameter

Sieve analysis is a method that is used to determine the grain size distribution of soils that are
greater than 0.075 mm in diameter. It is usually performed for sand and gravel but cannot be
used as the sole method for determining the grain size distribution of finer soil. The sieves used
in this method are made of woven wires with square openings. The list of the U.S. standard sieve
numbers with their corresponding opening sizes are provided in Table

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

 This test method is used primarily to grade aggregates. The results are used to determine the
compliance of the particle size distribution with applicable specification requirements and to
provide necessary data for controlling the production of various aggregate products and mixtures
containing aggregates.
 The data may also be useful in developing relationships concerning porosity and packing.
Information obtained from the particle size analysis (uniformity coefficient C u, coefficient of
curvature, Cc, and effective size, D10, etc.) is used to classify the soil.
 Particle size is one of the criteria used to ascertain whether the soil is suitable for building roads,
embankments, dams, etc.
 Information obtained from particle size analysis can be used to predict the soil-water movement
if the permeability test is not available.

OBJECTIVE

 To obtain the grain size distribution curve for a given soil sample.

EQUIPMENT

 Stack of sieves with a cover,


 Mortar and pestle or a mechanical soil pulverized
 Balance, sensitive to 0.1 g
 Oven
 Mechanical sieve shaker
 Brush

STANDARD REFERENCE

 ASTM D6913: Standard Test Methods for Particle-Size Distribution (Gradation) of Soils Using
Sieve Analysis.

METHOD

1. Obtain a representative oven-dried soil sample

Pulverize the soil sample as finely as possible, using a mortar and pestle or a mechanical soil
pulverizer.

Obtain a soil sample of about 500 g and determine its mass W0 (g).

Stack the sieves so that those with larger openings (lower numbers) are placed above those with
smaller openings (higher numbers). Place a pan under the last sieve (#200) to collect the portion
of soil passing through it. The #4 and #200 sieves should always be included in the stack.

Make sure the sieves are clean, If soil particles are stuck in the openings, use a brush
to poke them out.
Weigh the pan and all of the sieves separately.

Pour the soil from above into the stack of sieves and place the cover on it. Put the
stack in the sieve shaker, affix the clamps, set a timer for 10 to 15 minutes, and start
the shaker.

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