5.1 This test method is used primarily as a field test to determine the readiness of the CLSM to accept loads prior to adding a temporary or permanent wearing surface.

5.2 This test method is not meant to predict the load bearing strength of a CLSM mixture.

5.3 This test is one of a series of quality control tests that can be performed on CLSM during construction to monitor compliance with specification requirements. The other tests that can be used during construction control are Test Methods D4832/D4832M, D6023, and D6103/D6103M.

Note 1: The quality of the result produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it and the suitability of the equipment and facility used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing/sampling/inspection. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some, but not all, of those factors.

1.1 This test method explains the determination of the ability of Controlled Low Strength Material (CLSM) to withstand loading by repeatedly dropping a metal weight onto the in-place material.

1.1.1 CLSM is also known as flowable fill, controlled density fill, soil-cement slurry, soil-cement grout, unshrinkable fill, and other similar names.

1.2 Units—The values stated in either inch-pound units or SI units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard.

1.2.1 The gravitational system of inch-pound units is used when dealing with inch-pound units. In the system, the pound (lbf) represents a unit of force (weight), while the units for mass is slugs. The slug unit is not given, unless dynamic (F = ma) calculations are involved.

1.2.2 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026.

1.2.3 The procedures used to specify how data are collected/recorded and calculated in the standard are regarded as the industry standard. In addition, they are representative of the significant digits that generally should be retained. The procedures used do not consider material variation, purpose for obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any considerations for the user’s objectives; and it is common practice to increase or reduce significant digits of reported data to be commensurate with these considerations. It is beyond the scope of these test methods to consider significant digits used in analysis methods for engineering design.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.