Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
All test requests must be accompanied by in the form of a slip. The request slip will be
received by the Resident Engineer (RE) / Materials Engineer (ME) of the respective
Contract, who will pass the Request Form to the Laboratory.
A specimen copy of such a Request Form is described in Form No.51 and shall be duly
filled in before submission.
Testing will only be carried out for the contractor after written consent made by RE or ME
of the Consultants.
Test requests from Sub-Contractors will be received by RE or ME only when the request
comes from Sub-Contractor’s nominated Representative. The request should include:
2. Samples / Sampling
2.1 Introduction
Proper sampling is essential to obtain test results representative of the whole mass under
investigation. Great care will be taken in obtaining a sample from varying conditions, e.g.
stockpiles, conveyor belts, etc.
2.2 Safety
The practice of using safety boot and helmet will be implemented as a general precaution
against danger. Furthermore, to prevent back injuries, the size of bagged sample will be
limited and the mode of lifting bags by bending knees instead of back will be followed in
the Laboratory.
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2.3 Labeling Samples
All samples shall be labeled at the time of sampling. The label shall include at least the
unique Lab. Ref. No. for that sample.
In order to reduce the size of the sample taken, generally larger than that of test size, two
recognized methods of subdivision are followed.
Splitting by use of Riffle Boxes available in the Laboratory can be satisfactorily made in
accordance with the procedure described in AASHTO T 248 (89): Method A. Otherwise the
same can be done by quartering in accordance with AASHTO T 248 (89): Method B.
2.5 Sampling
The sampler engaged in sampling soil in embankment will bear in his mind the following:
Sampling soil from borrow area or cut will be made in the field over the area under
consideration, and to the depth required. This will be accomplished by:
a) Digging sufficient holes, at least five, four near the corners and one near the
centre, over the area and upto the depth requred.
b) the holes will be logged to describe the material with depth
c) Representative samples will be taken at different depths with the change of
stratum.
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2.5.2 Sampling of Subbase / Base
The sampling of Subbase / Base materials will be done in accordance with the methods
described in AASHTO T 2-84 (1990):
The sampling of aggregates will be made in accordance with the methods described in
AASHTO: T 2-84 (1990)
The sampling of fresh concrete will be made in accordance with the methods described in
AASHTO: T 141-84 (1990)
The binder course or wearing course asphalt concrete will be sampled according to the
methods described in AASHTO: T 168-82 (1990)
The size of the sample will be such that it will cover the full range of tests described in the
Technical Specification.
Sampling of cement for each new delivery will be made in accordance with the method
described in AASHTO: T 127-90
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2.5.7 Sampling of Bitumen (Asphalt)
Sampling of bitumen for each new delivery will be made in accordance with the method
described in AASHTO: T 40-78(1990)
ii) A sample will be registered in one of the registers appropriate for the type of
material
iii Each sample or a group of sub samples will be given a unique Lab Ref. No.
iv) The Lab Ref. No. will be written on the sample label attached to each sample
bag.
The sample preparation proforma will then be handed to the Laboratory Assistants who will
prepare the samples.
After preparing each portion the Assistants will place the card-board ‘chit’ in the portion
identifying:
At the same time the worksheet for each test method for every sample will be prepared,
noting necessary information including Lab Ref. No. and Sample Identification. The
worksheets will then be placed on the chipboards kept in the area where the particular test is
done.
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2.7.1 Preparation of Soil / Subbase / Bases
Samples of soils, subbase, or bases will normally be prepared for testing in accordance with
the methods described in AASHTO: T 87-86 (1990), or alternatively, in AASHTO: T 146-
88.
The preparation of Asphalt concrete samples for testing is described in the relevant test
method. Use of those methods will be brought into practice.
The AASHTO Test Methods will be used for the majority of the tests required by the
Technical Specification for the Project. However some BS and ASTM Test Methods are
referred to. In those cases relevant Test Methods will be followed.
The Laboratory will hold a copy of the relevant Test Methods and Specifications.
Samples will be tested in order of Lab Ref. No. (earlier Lab Ref. No. first), unless the
Materials Engineer determines a different order.
3.2.2 Worksheets
Worksheets for recording data prepared at the time of sample preparation and held on
clipboards in the area of testing will be used by Materials Technicians to indicate what tests
are being performed.
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The worksheets will be signed and dated by the person conducting the test. The worksheet
will be checked for the purpose of auditing internally. A worksheet may have to be modified
in course of time. In the event of making a change, the information thereof will be properly
recorded describing the reason of such a modification.
A test report will be prepared by using the appropriate Test Report proforma against a
sample belonging to a particular Lab Ref. No. which in turn relates the type of material, e.g.
ordinary fill, improved subgrade, subbase, bases, etc.
The test report will be signed and dated by the Materials Engineer who is undertaking
responsibility for the results, that the tests have been performed in accordance with the
relevant standard test methods.
Each Test Report will be attached to the appropriate worksheets for filing and the individual
test results will be entered in the database storage for subsequent handling.
Aggregates will be sampled in accordance with the methods described in AASHTO: T 2-84
(1990).
3.3.1.1 Preparation
Aggregates will be prepared for testing in accordance with the methods described in
AASHTO: T 248-89
The bulk specific gravities will be determined in accordance with the methods described in:
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The specific gravity of filler will be determined in accordance with the method described in
AASHTO: T 100-90.
The combined aggregate specific gravity will be calculated by using the formula given in
Article 4.05 of Asphalt Institute Manual Series No.2, Sixth Edition.
Sampling of bitumen will be made in accordance with the procedure described in AASHTO:
T 40-78 (1990)
Preparation of bitumen to use for the test will be made in accordance with the procedure
described in Clause 7.1 of AASHTO: T 228-90.
The specific gravity of bitumen will be determined in accordance with the procedure
described in AASHTO: T 228-90
Sampling of Asphalt concrete will be made in accordance with the methods described in
AASHTO: T 168-82 (1990) and in Clause 2.5.5 of this test.
Asphalt concrete (AC) samples will be prepared according to requirements of the relevant
test method.
Bitumen will be extracted from AC sample in accordance with the procedure described in
AASHTO: T 164-90
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3.3.3.2.2 Sieve Analysis of Extracted Aggregate
Test on particle size distribution of extracted aggregate will be performed according to the
procedure described in AASHTO: T 30-87
The maximum specific gravity of AC will be determined in accordance with the procedure
described in AASHTO: T 209-90
The stability and flow values will be determined in standard conditions as described in
AASHTO: T 245-90
Two compacted Marshal specimens will be prepared and placed in water bath at 60 1 0C,
one for a period of 30 minutes and the other for 24 hours. Stability test will be performed,
after completion of immersion period, on both of the specimens. The loss of stability
between the two specimens will then be calculated by using the following formula:
Before conducting stability test, the bulk specific gravity of saturated surface dry Marshall
specimens will be determined in accordance with AASHTO: T 166-88.
For binder course the specific gravity value will be corrected by using the following
formula given in Asphalt Institute’s Technical Bulletin TB-5 (‘Large Aggregate Asphalt
Mixes’):
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100
Adjusted Bulk Specific Gravity = A B x 0.995
+
C D
Where,
A = dry plus 25mm material expressed as % of total batch weight. (Total batch weight
includes aggregate plus bitumen)
B = portion of total batch weight remaining after removal of dry plus 25 mm material
(100-A)%
C = bulk specific gravity of plus 25mm aggregate
D = bulk specific gravity of compacted specimens of minus 25 mm material
The volume percentage of air voids in a compacted bituminous paving mixture will be
calculated by using the formula given in Art 4.11 of the Asphalt Institute’s Manual series
No.2, Sixth Edition.
The volume percentage of voids filled with asphalt (VFA) in a compacted bituminous
paving mixture will be calculated by using the formula given in Art. 4.12 of the Asphalt
Institute’s manual Series No.2, Sixth Edition.
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4 Storage of Samples
After registration of the samples received by the Laboratory, they may need to be stored
prior to preparation. The following points will be followed:
i) Samples will be neatly stacked in the designated area, so that they occupy a
minimum floor space and do not restrict movement in the Laboratory
ii) Samples will be stored for a limited period of time before preparation.
After preparation the residue will be kept in the sample store till:
The Laboratory will establish and maintain a library of samples, small samples stored in
small transparent plastic bottles, for reference purposes. The small samples will include:
All the samples will be registered in the sample Library Register. A typical form of the
register is shown is shown below:
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4.4 Weather Record
The Laboratory will record the details of rainfall, maximum and minimum
temperatures, location of rain gauge and thermometer as set out below:
LOCATION OF THERMOMETER/RAINGAUGE:
Date Weather Rainfall, Temparature, °C Remarks
Condition mm Maximum Minimum
5 Field Testing
Laboratory staff will undertake the following duties for field tests:
i) Field Density / Compaction Testing for embankment soils, subbase and road
bases
ii) Field Concrete Testing
iii) Field Density / Compaction Testing of asphalt concrete
The field density will be determined by the sand replacement method described in
AASHTO: T 191-86 (1990)
The section presented by the Contractor for testing will be sufficiently well investigated by
the Testing Staff to determine if the section contains areas of lower relative compaction. The
sand replacement density hole/s will be located in the areas of lower relative compaction.
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5.1.1.3 Depth of Density Holes
B) Embankment
The layer / lift presented by the Contractor will be tested in full depth. The depth of
the density holes will be 150 mm, unless a greater lift thickness requires 2 holes 100
mm or 150 mm deep, each.
The Sand used in the field to fill the density holes will be calibrated in the Laboratory, on a
routine basis, in accordance with the method described in AASHTO: T 191-86 (1990). The
height of the calibration cylinder will be the same as the depth of the test hole.
The method of measuring moisture content by using an oven will be followed in accordance
with AASHTO: T 265-86. If 20g Speedy Moisture Meter is used the procedure described in
AASHTO: T 217-87 will be followed for the determination of moisture content.
The Speedy Moisture Meter will be used only after calibration. The calibration graphs of
‘speedy moisture content’ versus ‘oven dry moisture content’ will be made on a routine
basis for the major soil types and placed in the speedy box.
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5.1.1.6 Maximum Dry Density / Optimum Moisture Content
A. For ordinary fill below 300 mm of subgrade, the maximum dry density
(MDD) and the optimum moisture content (OMC) will be determined in
accordance with AASHTO: T 99-90 Method A.
B. For Improved subgrade and the material upto 300m below top of subgrade,
the MDD and OMC will be determined in accordance with AASHTO: T 180-
90 Method A.
The percentage compaction will be determined by the field dry density value (determined
by AASHTO: T 191-86 (1990) as a percentage of MDD (determined either by AASHTO: T
99-90 Method A for Ordinary Fill or by AASHTO: T 180-90 Method A for Improved
Subgrade).
The Field Density Test will be performed in accordance with the procedure described in
AASHTO: T 191-86- (1990).
The proportion of + 4.75 material collected from the density hole will be determined and
reported.
The moisture content test of the field density sample will be determined on a portion
representative of full grading either:
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i) by using gas burners, or
ii) by using an oven as described in AASHTO: T 255-90
The diameter of the test hole will be 200 mm or 150 mm to make the test
hole of about 2850 ml.
The cone calibration will be checked at least once per month. If the cone is
damaged in any way its calibration will be checked before reuse.
Two containers, adjustable with the density cones, will be used to calibrate the density sand.
One of the containers will be 150 deep and the other 200 mm
The container of depth close to that of the field density hole will be used in the field.
The bulk specific gravity and water absorption will be determined in accordance with the
procedure described in AASHTO: T 85-88.
5.1.2.7 CBR
The CBR values (3 specimens soaked) will be determined in accordance with the method
described in AASHTO: T 193-81 (1990).
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5.2 Asphalt Concrete Density and Compaction Testing
Two Nos. of Marshall cakes will be compacted every day. The average bulk specific gravity
of those compacted specimens will be used to determine the maximum AC density for each
day’s production.
Cores will be taken at the rate of 1 test per 800 m 2 (five successive determinations) for the
determination of both bulk density and the thickness. The cores will be taken starting from
the morning after each day’s AC paving and those will be located in the areas of lower
compaction.
5.2.3 Compaction
The test result for compaction should be reported to the nearest 0.5%
Sampling of fresh concrete will be made in accordance with AASHTO: T 141-84 (1990)
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The slump of fresh concrete will be determined in accordance with the method described in
AASHTO: T 119-82 (1990).
Concrete cylinders, 150 mm in diameter and 300 mm high, will be made according to the
method described in AASHTO: T 23-90 ‘Making and Curing Concrete Test specimens in
the Field’.
The mould No. and the cylinder No. will be recorded on the ‘CONCRETE FIELD LOG’.
After the cylinder has been removed from the mould it will be marked with the appropriate
number from the CONCRETE FIELD LOG on the side and one end using an indelible
marker.
After demoulding and numbering, concrete cylinders will be transported to the Laboratory
in a manner, which ensures they will not become dry or damaged in transit.
An appropriate method is to lie the cylinders in a bed of wet sand in a box and cover with
wet hessian cloth.
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5.3.3.5 Registering Concrete Cylinders
Concrete cylinders on arrival at the Laboratory will immediately be placed in the correct
curing conditions, as described in AASHTO: T 23-90, before entering the cylinders in the
concrete Register.
The ME on behalf of consultants will check for compliance the results of steel
reinforcements supplied by the manufacturer in accordance with specification mentioned in
Technical Specification.
Samples of steel reinforcement will be taken against each consignment and the quantity
delivered at the site.
The following tests will be conducted, in accordance with the requirement set out in
AASHTO: M 131-89 or ASTM A 615 on the samples representative of the delivered
quantity:
i) Tensile strength
ii) Yield strength
iii) Elongation
iv) Bend test
All the test results will be checked for compliance with AASHTO: M 131-89 or ASTM: A
615 and registered in a laboratory database.
The Materials Engineer will check for compliance on the basis of AASHTO: M 203-90 or
ASTM A 416-85, the certificates form manufacturer and produced by the contractor for:
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i) Cross sectional area,
ii) Yield and ultimate strengths,
iii) Elongation at rupture, and
iv) Modulus of elasticity
Samples of Prestressing strand will be taken from each master roll representing a lot to
determine, well in advance of anticipated time of use, the strengths.
The test results obtained on the samples will be checked for compliance with ASTM: A 416-
85 or AASHTO: M 203-90 and registered in a laboratory database.
The equipment including major and minor instruments with all accessories will be procured
by the contractor as approved by the Engineer.
All consumables acceptable to the materials Engineer will be provided by the Contractor
subject to the approval of SPME.
All major items of equipment (i.e all equipment except minor items such as hammers,
chisels, spatulas, tongs, etc.) will be given a unique number, which will be inscribed on the
equipment. The Equipment Number (Eq. No.) will be registered and will serve to identify
the equipment.
The minor equipment will be grouped together and will be given a number.
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The number will be inscribed on a convenient place of the equipment using an electric
etching tool in a manner that will not damage the equipment.
The number should not be written on the equipment using a felt tipped pen or by using any
other tool which will not be permanent.
Some equipment has a serial number provided by the manufacturer. This number may be
used for registration and identification purposes.
All the testing equipment will be registered in the Laboratory. Each major item will be
individually numbered and registered. Minor equipment will be registered as a group. Item
which does not conform to the specification or is lost will be recorded in the REMARKS
column.
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SOUTHWEST ROAD NEWTWORK DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
SL. Description Quantity Manufac Test Conform Eq. Type Remark- Remark-
No. turer Method ity 1 2
or
Eq.
No.
For General Equipment (such as ovens, balances, seines) each page of the Register will be
set out as follows:
GENERAL EQUIPMENT
The Laboratory will operate and maintain equipment, which conforms to the requirements
of the Test Methods being performed.
The Laboratory staff, except for proving rings and compression test machines, will calibrate
the equipment. Experienced personnel who will visit the Laboratory when the calibration is
due will calibrate the latter using certified equipment.
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Equipment is to be calibrated at the following intervals:
Thermometers Mercury
Reference 2 years
Working 6 months
“Speedy” Moisture Meters 3 months depending upon
use
Ovens Aggregate Drying 5 years
Sieves Wire Mesh 6 months
Perforated Plate 12 months
Sand Cones 3 months
Moulds Proctor 6 months
Sand Calibration 12 months
CBR 6 months
Concrete cylinder 6 months
Slump cones 6 months
Rammers Proctor/CBR 3 months
Marshall 3 months
In order to calibrate an equipment the following three steps will be followed using an
Equipment Calibration Manual:
The methods for calibration are described in the subsequent sections of this manual
Use appropriate worksheet for calibration of a particular equipment. The worksheets for
calibration are prefixed by ‘C’.
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Enter in the worksheet a Calibration Ref. No. against each calibration.
After calibration of equipment using the appropriate worksheet, the worksheet will be
signed and checked and the necessary information will be registered in the appropriate
Register.
The due date for the next calibration will be determined on the basis of frequency of
calibration required for the equipment calibrated.
The Calibration Calendar should be consulted every week to ensure equipment calibrations
are performed as close as possible to the due date.
General:
Each working balance will be checked each month using one mass form the set provided (2
kg, 1 kg, 500 g, 200g, 100g). Use the mass that best fits within the working range of the
balance. If in doubt use more than one mass.
For dual or delta range balances the Monthly One-Point Check should be conducted for
both ranges, with individual or combined value of masses (e.g 100g or 50g + 20g + 20g +
10g).
The masses should be handled with care and stored in the box provided. The masses should
not be handled with dirty hands. If necessary use disposable gloves to keep the masses in a
clean condition.
Use Form No. C-1 to conduct the one monthly check for mechanical or electronic balances.
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i) Record the mass of calibrated mass, M.
ii) Zero the balance, i.e. adjust the balance so that the arm rests at the central (zero)
position. Record the reading: z1 = 0
iii) Place the calibrated mass on the pan
iv) Adjust the masses on the balance arm until the arm is in the central position.
Record the reading, m.
v) Remove the calibrated mass and return balance masses to the zero position and
allow the balance arm to stabilize. If the arm stops at the central (zero) position,
then record: z2 = 0. If z2 does not equal to zero, then adjust the masses on the arm
until the arm is in the central position. Record this mass as z2.
vi) Average the zero readings: z = ( z1 + z2 ) / 2
vii) Determine the correction
Correction = M – ( m – z )
N.B. For double beam and triple beam balances, conduct a one-point calibration check for the scales
of each beam.
v) Remove the calibrated mass and record the zero reading, (z2) but do not zero the
balance.
Correction = M - (m - z)
The Laboratory will conduct a repeatability check of its working balance in every six
months, using one of its calibrated masses: 2 kg, 1 kg, 500g, 200g, or 100g whichever best
fits the working range of the balance. For dual or delta range balances this check should be
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conducted in both ranges, with individual or combined value of masses (e.g. 100g or 50g +
20g + 20g + 10g).
i) Use Form No.C-2, for either Low Range, Half capacity, or Full capacity,
whichever mass best fits the working range.
ii) Adjust the balance until the arm rests at the central (zero) position. Record z1 = 0.
iii) Place the calibrated mass on the pan. Adjust the masses so that the balance arm
rests at the central position. Record the load, m1.
v) Remove the calibrated mass from the pan and return the balance masses to zero
position. If the balance arm rests at the central (zero) position, then record z 1 = 0.
If the arm does not rest at the central position then adjust the masses until it
does, then record the reading as z1.
vi) Repeat the steps above (iii) to (v) a further nine (9) times.
vii) Calculate the standard deviation (sigma) of the masses m 1 - z1 values using the
formula given in the form.
i) Use Form No.C-2, for either Low Range, Half capacity, or Full Capacity,
whichever best fits the working range.
iii) Place the calibrated mass on the pan. Record the reading, m 1. Record the
difference: m1 - z1.
iv) Remove the calibrated mass from the pan. Record the zero reading (z 1), but not
zero the balance.
v) Repeat the steps (ii) to (iv) for a further nine (9) times.
vi) Calculate the standard deviation (sigma) of the (m1 - z1) values using the formula
given in the Form.
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6.4.1.3 Annual Full Calibration of a Balance
iii) Adjust the balance so that the balance arm, when at rest is in the central (zero)
position. Record z1 = 0.
iv) Place the smallest calibrated mass (0.1g for a 0.1g accuracy balance, or 1g for a
1g accuracy balance, etc.) on the pan. Record the reading, m.
v) Remove the mass from the pan. If the balance arm comes to rest at the central
(zero) position, record the zero, z2 = 0. If the balance arm does not rest on the
zero position, adjust the masses until it does, then record the reading, z2.
vii) Record the mass of the next smallest calibrated mass. Place this mass on the pan.
Record the reading, m.
viii) Repeat steps (v) to (vii) for the full range of calibrated masses until the
maximum capacity of the balance has been reached. It is not necessary to check
the departure from nominal value for every gram between the limit of accuracy
of the balance and the maximum capacity. However it is necessary to adequately
cover this range.
Correction = M - (m - z)
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6.4.1.3.1.2 Procedure for Electronic Balances
Use the procedure described in 6.4.1.2.1 except that this repeatability check should be done
for the three ranges noted below:
i) Low Range,
ii) Half Capacity, and
iii) Full Capacity
Use the procedure described in 6.4.1.2.2 except that this repeatability check should be done
for the three ranges noted above in 6.4.1.3.2.1 and on Form No.C-2.
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6.4.1.3.3.1 Procedure for Mechanical Balances
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6.4.2 Calibration of Dial Gauges
Use thickness gauges and the frame provided to calibrate dial gauge readings.
The liquid limit bowl and grooving tool will be measured using a vernier caliper to check
they conform to the requirements of AASHTO: T 89
The fall of the cup to base of 10mm is set by adjustment of the cup screw. The rectangular
portion of the grooving tool can be used for calibration of the fall. This rectangular portion
has dimensions of 10mm x 10mm which can be checked by measuring with a vernier
caliper.
Additionally each working thermometer will be calibrated 6 monthly is its working range.
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6.4.4.1 Ice Point Calibration Method
ii) Place some ice made from distilled water in a small quantity of distilled water in
a clean glass beaker. Allow the temperature of this water reduce to near 0°C. Use
a magnetic stirrer for a sufficient period to obtain a uniform temperature
throughout the mass. An alternative way to obtain water near 0°C is by placing
the beaker of water and ice in a freezer but not allowing it to freeze.
iii) Withdraw the stirrer and place the calibrated thermometer and one or a number
of working thermometers in the beaker such that the stems of the thermometers
remain under water, not touching the base, and lie in one plane and preferably
near the centre. There should be sufficient water in the beaker to cover the bulbs
of the thermometers.
iv) Allow the temperature of the thermometers to stabilize. Then record the reading
of the calibrated and working thermometers.
v) Record a further 6 readings at 10 minutes interval for the calibrated and working
thermometers.
vi) Plot in a graph the temperatures recorded on the working thermometer against
the temperatures recorded on the calibrated thermometer for ice point
determination.
ii) Fill a glass beaker of about 250 ml capacity with fine sand. Press this sand
firmly into the beaker. It may be necessary to cover the end of the beaker to
prevent the sand from falling out, when the beaker is placed on its side in the
oven.
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iii) Insert the calibrated and working thermometers into the beaker of dry sand
so that the bulbs of the thermometers are embedded in the sand, but not
touching the base of the beaker.
iv) Place the beaker with thermometers in the oven. This may require temporary
removal of one or more shelves of the oven. Allow the temperature to
stabilise before taking the first reading.
ii) Hang the calibrated and working thermometers side by side in the bath or
tank, taking care to ensure that the thermometer bulbs are in the water, but
not touching the bottom of tank or bath. Allow the thermometers to stabilise
before taking the first reading.
iii) Take a further 6 readings at 10 minute intervals, taking care to maintain the
water temperature in the bath or tank.
iii) Take representative portion of each of the samples to determine the moisture
content using “Speedy” moisture meter by the method described by the
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manufacturer or by AASHTO: T 217-87 method. Record the moisture
content so obtained.
iv) Determine the moisture contents of each of the remainders of the samples
using electric oven by the method described in AASHTO: T 265-86.
N.B. The ambient air temperature has an effect of moisture content obtained by speedy
moisture tester. The higher the temperature the higher is the moisture content.
vii) Plot a graph of oven dry moisture content vs. speedy moisture content.
Ovens will be calibrated using calibrated thermometers placed in beakers of fine dry sand in
the four corners of the oven. Care should be taken so that the bulb of the thermometers do
not touch the base of the beaker. This equipment will be left undisturbed, in position in the
oven for 4 hours. Then the oven will be opened and the 4 readings will be taken as quickly
as possible.
Test sieves are provided with a calibration certificate when purchased. These certificates
will be filed.
These sieves will be examined visually, if necessary with the aid of a magnifying glass.
Unless a flaw is observed in the sieve, it will be accepted as being satisfactory to use.
The calibration of Sand Cone will be made in accordance with the method described in
AASHTO: T 191-86 (1990).
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6.4.9 Calibration of Moulds
Mould dimensions will be measured using a 150mm vernier caliper (a Mitutoyo type has
been found suitable). This caliper will be suitable for all mould measurements except the
height of the concrete cylinder mould, which will need to be measured by a suitable 300mm
vernier caliper.
Mould volumes shall be determined by filling the mould with deaired distilled water then
placing a glass plate on top to ensure the mould is full and all air is removed. Distilled water
should be used and the volume of mould is corrected for temperature according to Table 2
of AASHTO: T 191-86(1990).
ii) Fall: use a suitable 300mm vernier caliper for 300mm fall or use a reliable
scale for 457mm fall
Compression test machines are calibrated by using high precision proving column or
proving ring calibrated by a certified laboratory. Only experienced personals are
allowed to calibrate a machine. It is anticipated that the supplier of the Laboratory
equipment will organize the calibration on a regular basis.
All proving rings come with certificates of calibration made by the manufacturer.
The originals will be filed and preserved. Only the copies will be used by the staff.
When required the calibration will be made by an independent reliable laboratory.
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6.5 Storage of Equipment
The equipment will be stored in a manner that is suitable for that item of equipment, to
ensure it remains undamaged and in a condition such that it is ready to use when required.
When more than one storeroom is available, the equipment register will include the
identification of such storeroom against each item of equipment.
The Laboratory has been provided with all the necessary testing equipment.
The Laboratory staff must take all necessary and reasonable care of their equipment. This
care of equipment will include:
ii) ensuring all equipment is transported in the boxes provided (e.g. balances
and Speedy Moisture Meters), and
7. Sample Registers
A column for Lab Ref. No. with a prefix is included in each Register for identifying the type
of material. This number will, in general, be in order of the date of receiving samples by the
Laboratory and is unique for a particular contract.
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A column for ‘Material Type’ is included in Registers. A prefixed format to describe a
material is helpful for database work.
All the Registers will be carefully handled and properly preserved in the Laboratory. A
volume label will be attached to each Register for archival.
7.1 Registers for Ordinary Fill / Improved Subgrade / Concrete Aggregates / Subbase /
Bases.
These Registers will record all samples of ordinary fill, improved subgrade, aggregates,
subbase, and bases received in the Laboratory for testing.
The Register will be set up as shown below with a two-page format. The Lab Ref. No. given
to a sample will be prefixed by S, ISG, A, SB, or B required to denote the type of sample.
Page 1
Lab Ref. No. Date Received Sample Idn. Location Source Material Type
Page 2
Sampling Date Sampled by Tests Required Date Completed Remarks
The Register will record all concrete cylinders received by the Laboratory for testing. The
Lab Ref. No. will be prefixed by C against a sample of cylinders to be tested for a single
age.
The Lab Ref. No. should be given in order of the mixing time of concrete.
The ‘due date and time’ will be checked regularly to ensure that the cylinders are tested on
due date and time.
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Page 1
Lab Ref. No. Date Contractor’s Date of Sampled by Location of
Received Pouring No. Pouring structure
Page 2
Cylinder Nos. Moulded by Due date for Due time for Date Remarks
Testing Testing completed
This Register will record all samples of asphalt concrete received by the Laboratory for
testing.
The prefix AC will be used with each of the lab Ref. No.
Page 1
Lab Date Sample Idn. Location Source Material Type Sampled by
Ref. Received
No.
Page 2
Date of Contractors Tests Required Date Remarks
Sampling Request No. Completed
This Register will record all samples of Portland cement sampled or received by the
Laboratory for testing.
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The prefix PC or BIT will be used with each of the Lab Ref. No. according to the type of
material.
The Register will be set up with a two-page format as shown below. The ‘Date completed’
column in the Register will be used for samples tested in the Laboratory. The ‘ Date
Forwarded’ column will be used only when the samples will be tested in another laboratory.
Page 1
Lab Ref. Date Sample Location Source Material Quantity
No. Received Idn. Type Represen
ted
Page 2
Date of Sampled Quantity Tests Date Date Remarks
Sampling by Sampled Required completed Forwarded
This Register will record all samples of reinforcing steel sampled or received by the
Laboratory.
The prefix RS will be used with each of the Lab Ref. No.
The ‘Date Completed’ column will be used for samples tested in the Laboratory. The ‘Date
Forwarded’ column will be used for samples tested in another laboratory.
Page 1
Lab Ref. Date Sample Location Source Material Nominal Qty
No. Received Idn. Type Diameter Represen
ted
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Page 2
Date of Sampled Quantity Tests Date Date Remarks
Sampling by Required Completed Forwarded
This Register will record all samples of water sampled or received by the Laboratory.
The ‘Date Completed’ column will be used for samples tested in the Laboratory. The ‘Date
Forwarded’ column will be used for samples tested in another laboratory.
Page 1
Lab Ref. Date Sample Idn. Location Source Material Type Date of
No. Received Sampling
Page 2
Sampled by Quantity Tests Required Date completed Tests Forwarded Remarks
8.1 Register for Field Density Tests for Ordinary Fill, Improved Subgrade, Subbase, and
Bases.
This Register will record all information relevant to every Field Density Tests.
The Field Test No. will be a consecutive number used by the Laboratory to register Field
Density Tests. The prefix F will be used for these numbers.
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The Register will be set up with a two-page format as shown below:
Page 1
Field Date Contractor Area Stati Date of Moisture Density Relationship
Test No. Request ’s Request Repres on of Testing MDD OMC Lab Ref.
ed No. ented Test No.
Page 2
Field Density Results Relative Compaction % Results Date Remarks
Dry Moisture Specified Obtained (Pass/ Fail) Reported
Density Content Min.
This Register will record all information relevant to every Field Density Test in asphalt
concrete. The Field Test No. will be a consecutive number used by the Laboratory to
register these Field Density Tests, beginning with the prefix CA.
Page 1
Field Test No. Date Contractor’s Area Station of Date of Testing
Requested Request No. Represented Test
Page 2
Core Marshall Percentage Thickness Results Date Remarks
Specific Specimen Compaction , mm (Pass/Fail) Reported
Gravity Sp. Lab. Specified Obtained
Gr. Ref. Min
No.
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8.3 Register for Field Tests on Concrete
This Register will record all information relevant to field testing on concrete in a two-page
format set out as shown below. The Field Test No. will be a consecutive number used by the
Laboratory to register Field Concrete tests, beginning with the prefix CN.
Page 1
Field Date Contract Concrete Structure Structur Date of Sampled Batch
Test No. Requeste or’s Class Location e No. Testing From No.
d Request
No.
Page 2
Time Temperature 0C Slump, Result 7 days 28 days Other Remarks
Ambient Concrete mm (Pass/Fail Cylinder cylinder Ages
) No. No.
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A.1 Amendment Status / Record of Forms
Amendment Table
Amendment Discard Insert
No. Date Contract Description Issue Rev. Contract Description Issue Rev.
No. No. No. No.
1) Each new or revised entry should be inserted in its proper sequence in the
manual.
Fume Extraction
2) Asphalt Extraction
As the fumes produced by the solvent and the bitumen can be injurious to the
health of Laboratory Staff, these fumes will be exhausted by a fan in the
fume cabinet.
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Curing and Testing of Concrete Cylinders
The curing water tank will be placed not far away from the location of compression
test machine. The facility for measuring dimensions of the test cylinders and for
determination of densities will be provided near to the location of compression test
machine.
Sampling
In the Laboratory there will have some places for subdividing samples for testing.
During the process of subdivision dust particles will be mixed in air that may impair
life of some important laboratory tool like balances. So the place for subdivision of
samples will be selected such that important laboratory tools will not be impaired.
As stated in Clause 6.1.1, the procurement of all major and minor equipment as
approved by the Engineer will be made by the Contractor.
A.4 Surveillance/Audit
A.4.1 Surveillance
Internal Checks
All calculations in the Laboratory will be checked. A person other than the person
who made the original calculations will conduct the checking. All worksheets will
be signed/initialed by the person who made the original calculations and the person
who checked the calculations.
The checking of test results may be carried out by retesting representative samples.
No definite guidelines are established for retesting.
External Checks
The Laboratory will be frequently visited by SMPE, SRE, and the Team Leader.
They will offer advice, help to solve problems, and carry out surveillance of the
Laboratory’s Operation to check that the Laboratory Quality Manual is being
followed correctly.
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The Materials Engineer will give a copy of the completed proforma against his
surveillance to RE.
A.4.2 Audits
Diagnostic Action
Where necessary action will be taken to diagnose the causes of unusual or ‘wrong’
test results, complaints, and other problems.
Corrective Action
Where necessary corrective action will be taken to remedy problems. This corrective
action may take various forms and may require modification or addition to this
Laboratory Quality Manual.
i) surveillance,
ii) audits,
iii) observation, and
iv) notification made by complaint.
Laboratory staff will be trained where necessary, to instruct them how to carry out
particular operations in a safe manner.
Staff will be instructed that they must use the facilities provided to ensure they are
working in a safe and healthy environment.
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Some specific health and safety issues are noted below:
Fumes
Staff will use fume cabinets in the Laboratory to exhaust sulphur fumes from the
concrete cylinder capping operation and solvent/bitumen fumes from bitumen
extraction.
Staff should exercise caution when heating the sulphur capping mix. Only enough
heat sufficient to melt the mix should be used. Excessive heat is dangerous to health
and should be avoided. It will cause the sulphur to split and the vapour may lead to
skin and eye injuries.
Back Injuries
To minimise back injuries Laboratory staff are to be instructed the mode of safe
lifting practices, and the sample size will be limited to a maximum of 20 kg.
Safety Helmet
The safety helmets are provided to use in areas where mechanical equipment like
cranes are working. This will prevent the Laboratory staff from head injuries.
Safety Boots
Safety boots are provided to use in most of the construction areas of uneven ground
to prevent injuries to legs, toes, and hills.
Safety Spectacles
This is provided to use for carrying out any operation that could cause injury to eyes.
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