1.1 This test method covers the field vane test in saturatedclay and silt soils for determination of undrained shear strength.Knowledge of the nature of the soil in which each vane test is tobe made is necessary for assessment of the applicability andinterpretation of the test. The test is not applicable for sandysoils which may allow drainage during the test.
1.2 This test method addresses testing on land and for testingin drill holes or by self drilling or continuous push methods fromthe ground surface. This method does not address marine testingwhere special test requirements or variations in equipment may berequired. The user is referred to ASTM STP 1014 for additionalinformation on in-place vane shear testing.
1.3 This method is often used in conjunction with fluid rotarydrilling (D 5783) or hollow-stem augers (D 6151). Some apparatuseshave the vane retracted in protective shoe for advancement andincremental testing. Sampling, such as with thin wall tubes (D1587) is often combined with vane testing. Subsurface geotechnicalexplorations are reported in accordance with practice (D 5434).
1.4 Undrained shear strength and sensitivity of cohesive soilscan also be measured in Unconfined Compression D 2166 andLaboratory Vane Test (D 4648).
1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as thestandard. English (Imperial) units are given in parentheses.
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of thesafety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is theresponsibility of the user of this standard to establishappropriate safety and health practices and determine theapplicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.