Geocomp Lab Systems: Case Studies

University of Rhode Island Acquires Geocomp Lab Systems Equipment: Cites Ease-of-Use and Flexibility in Running Various Geotechnical Tests.

Profile:
Academic institution with both undergraduate and graduate degree programs

Challenge:
Instruct students in how to perform advanced triaxial tests and cyclic triaxial tests for various research projects and classroom laboratory exercises.

Solution:
The University acquired Geocomp’s fully automated stress-path triaxial apparatus in March 2003 and is using the equipment to perform Ko consolidated undrained triaxial tests on undisturbed samples of inorganic and organic silts.

Benefits:
According to Professor Baxter, Assistant Professor in both the Department of Ocean Engineering and the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, “Geocomp offers equipment with excellent features and capabilities as well as tremendous service.” He says, “It allows us to perform sophisticated triaxial tests that are virtually impossible with traditional testing equipment. “ For example, Baxter explained, “We just performed a Ko consolidated, axial extension test. And because the equipment and software are so user-friendly,” he said, “it doesn’t take graduate students months just to learn how to run a test; it gives us more time to interpret the results. Service and training have been outstanding, and Dr. Hankour is readily available to answer questions and provide suggestions on improving our procedures. We are planning to purchase the cyclic ‘add-on’ to perform liquefaction studies, and I have already recommended Geocomp to several of my colleagues.”