Consolidation Load Frames

Pneumatic Consolidation Load Frames have Karol-Warner’s exclusive CONBEL^™ design with pneumatic loading that meets the most rigorous demands of soil testing labs. All instantaneously apply and maintain loads for precision consolidation testing and feature low-load functionality for the precision application of small confining loads. Loads are applied pneumatically and maintained by a precision pressure regulator. A small cabinet footprint saves valuable bench space. These self-contained devices display applied loads through digital displays and use precision pressure regulators and pressure transducers with linearity of ±0.1%.

The 1in (25.4mm) thick aluminum platforms have adjustable centering pads and are designed to hold any consolidation ring up to 7.25in (184mm) diameter. Platform clearance is 8.25×7.75in (210x197mm), WxH. Stainless steel vertical rods support the cross-head and dial gauge. Sturdy, enamel-coated steel cabinets protect the unit. One HMA-81 Loading Ball is included with each load frame. Fixed or floating-ring consolidometers and a dial indicator are required and purchased separately. An air compressor is required for operation and must be supplied by the user. HMA-608 Consolidation Data Acquisition Software is purchased separately and can be used when the consolidation load frame is equipped with either an HM-739 Linear Variable Displacement Transducer (LVDT) or MA-363 Digital Dial Indicator. This unique software records specimens and real-time test data to calculate results and prepare reports following ASTM and AASHTO requirements.

• HM-356 has a load capacity to 16tsf and requires a minimum of 62psi (4.8bar) of compressed air.
• HM-356F has a load capacity of 1,532kPa and requires a minimum of 62psi (4.8bar) of compressed air.
• HM-354 model has a load capacity to 32tsf and requires a minimum of 123psi (8.5bar) of compressed air.
• HM-354F model has a load capacity of 3,064kPa and requires a minimum of 123psi (8.5bar) of compressed air.
• HM-355 model has a load capacity of 64tsf and requires a minimum of 188psi (13bar) of compressed air.
• HM-355F model has a load capacity of 6,128kPa and requires a minimum of 188psi (13bar) of compressed air.

Features:

• Rapid, accurate application and maintenance of pneumatic loads for precision consolidation testing
• The dead-weight mechanism allows the application of small confining loads
• Small footprint saves bench space

Included Items:

• Pneumatic Consolidation Load Frame 16tsf (1,532kPa), 32tsf (3,064kPa), or 64tsf (6,128kPa)
• Loading Ball
• 15ft air supply tubing

Accessories:

• HMA-608 Consolidation Data Acquisition Software can be used when the load frame is equipped with either a Displacement Transducer or Digital Dial Indicator. This unique software records specimen and real-time test data, then calculate results and prepares reports following ASTM and AASHTO requirements.
• HMA-81 Loading Ball comes with the system and helps assure loading is accurate; replacement loading balls are sold separately
• MA-333 Mechanical Dial Indicator (0.5 x 0.0001in) to ensure proper loading; a dial indicator is required for use, and either a mechanical or digital model must be selected
• MA-363 Digital Dial Indicator – 0.6 x 0.0001in (Range x Resolution)
• Data Readouts in two or four-channel models for instant, accurate readings
• Linear Variable Displacement Transducers for precise measurement of displacement or movement of soils during testing
• Calibration Discs for use in Consolidometer instead of a soil sample to verify performance and accuracy
• Porous Stones are placed at either end of the soil specimen to enable the easy flow of fluids in testing
• Cutting Sample Rings hold the sample for trimming in the consolidometer during testing
• Fixed or Floating Ring Consolidometers are required for testing with Load Frames; one type must be selected