This practice outlines the procedure for calibrating linear displacement transducers (LDTs) and their readout systems for geotechnical purposes.

Formerly under the jurisdiction of Committee D18 on Soil and Rock, this practice was withdrawn in February 2013 in accordance with section 10.5.3.1 of the Regulations Governing ASTM Technical Committees, which requires that standards shall be updated by the end of the eighth year since the last approval date.

The LDTs play an important role in geotechnical applications to measure change in dimensions of specimens.

The LDTs must be calibrated for use in the laboratory to ensure reliable conversions of the sensor’electrical output to engineering units.

The LDTs should be calibrated before initial use, at least annually thereafter, after any change in the electronic configuration that employs the sensor, after any significant change in test conditions using the transducer that differ from conditions during the last calibration, and after any physical action on the transducer that might affect its response.

LDTs generally have a working range within which voltage output is linearly proportional to displacement of the transducer. This procedure is applicable to the linear range of the transducer. Recommended practice is to use the LDT only within its linear working range.

1.1 This test method outlines the procedure for calibrating linear displacement transducers (LDTs) and their readout systems for geotechnical purposes. It covers any transducer used to measure displacement which gives an electrical output that is linearly proportional to displacement. This includes linear variable displacement transducers (LVDT's), linear displacement transducers (LDTs) and linear strain transducers (LST's).

1.2 This calibration procedure is used to determine the relationship between output of the transducer and its readout system and change in length. This relationship is used to convert readings from the transducer readout system into engineering units.

1.3 This calibration procedure also is used to determine the accuracy of the transducer and its readout system over the range of its use to compare with the manufacturer's specifications for the instrument and the suitability of the instrument for a specific application.

1.4 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.