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Soil compaction is an operation common to most construction projects and increases the strength and stability of soils to support earthworks, structures, and pavements. Techniques to achieve maximum soil density are well known, and the outcomes can be tested and quantified using standard methods. Soil material is placed in layers, or lifts, in depths from a few inches to a foot or more, and compaction equipment rolls, kneads, vibrates, or sometimes uses dead-weight to consolidate the soil.

The Right Kind of Compaction Test
Specifications for soil compaction are established during the design phase of the project and depend on both total loads anticipated and whether those loads will be static or dynamic. Judging the adequacy of compaction efforts using qualitative measurements like penetration resistance or observation of wheel traffic is not sufficient to determine if the specifications have been met. Standard Proctor specifications (ASTM D698 / AASHTO T 99) work well to control compaction operations for installations like earth embankments and building pads. Modified Proctor specs (ASTM D1557 / AASHTO T 180) are better suited for control of soil compaction in areas like pavements and airfield runways where heavy wheel loads create dynamic forces. Typical compaction requirements for a project may range from 90% to 95% of standard Proctor for non-structural areas to 98% or more of modified Proctor for heavily loaded pavements.


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