Cyclic Direct Simple Shear (Cyclic DSS) Load Frame / Test System

ShearTrac-II-DSS

The ShearTrac II-DSS system is a universal shear system capable of performing the consolidation, static and cyclic direct simple shear phases under full automatic control. This system is of the type developed at NGI in the mid 1960's. The DSS test generates a fairly homogeneous state of shear stress throughout the specimen, which provides initial stress condition, stress path, and deformation configuration that models numerous field loading conditions more closely than any other strength tests such as triaxial. The system consists of a computer-controlled unit that utilizes a micro-stepper motor to apply the vertical load and a servo-motor for the horizontal load to the soil specimen.

Applicable Test Standards

• ASTM D2435, D6528
• AASHTO T 216

Features

• Choose load capacity to fit user needs up to 4.5 kN (1,000 lbs.) horizontal and 11 kN (2,500 lbs.) vertical
• Total automation of data collection and reporting of test results
• Prepare tables and plots of report quality within minutes of completing a test
• Generate columns of data for easy reduction using your own spreadsheet software
• Ability to access and control the unit over a computer network using Geo-Net option
• Accurate displacement rate control from 0.00003 to 15 mm/min (0.000001 to 0.6 in/min)
• Cyclic stress / strain controlled sinusoidal and irregular user defined waveform loading (0.033-2 Hz)
• Select number of data points logged per cycle form 10 to 500 readings per second
• Stand alone through front keypad and LCD menu capability
• Versatile system