The ShearTrac III large cyclic direct simple shear (LCDSS) system performs consolidation, static, and cyclic direct simple shear phases on large (12 in/ 305 mm) diameter samples under fully automatic control.
The LCDSS system is unique on the market and allows users to test coarse-grained materials requiring a larger diameter sample.
The cyclic direct simple shear test method measures cyclic strength, number of cycles to liquefaction or cyclic properties of soils such as Modulus and Damping. A specimen is placed in a membrane within a stack of Teflon coated rings preventing radial deformation while allowing vertical deformation during consolidation and shear deformation during simple shear. Constant volume conditions are maintained during shear by keeping the height of the specimen constant as the specimen is sheared back and forth in cyclic loading.
Common testing applications include earthquake engineering and ocean wave loading. Post-cyclic monotonic strength can be measured as well.
Features & Benefits
Advanced Motor Systems
Micro-stepper and servo-electronic motor systems offer high-speed and precise loading
Dynamic Waveform Control
User can apply sinusoidal or any user-defined waveforms
Comprehensive Shear Testing
Conduct static or cyclic tests in drained (constant load) and undrained (constant volume) condition with or without shear bias
Built-in Safety Features
Over-load and over-travel protections to prevent system damage
Sensor Configuration Flexibility
Software configurable excitation voltage for sensors to easily and conveniently match the excitation to the sensor
Customizable Data Logging
Select number of data points logged per cycle form 10 to 500 readings per second
Rapid Report Generation
Immediate, quality report including tables and plots saves considerable time from data entry and calculations in spreadsheets or third-party software
Data Export
For those that wish to upload the data to a LIMS software, perform their own calculations, or use the data in specifically formatted reports, results can be exported in ASCII spreadsheet format (raw counts or engineering units)
Micro-stepper (V) and servo-electric, zero backlash actuation system (H)
Control
Stress (load)
Strain (displacement)
Cyclic Rate
Up to 5 Hz; Typical test range 0.033 to 2 Hz
Vertical Travel
90 mm (3.5 in) resolved to 0.002 mm (0.00008 in)
Horizontal Travel
Cyclic peak to peak strain of up to 10%; Monotonic strain of up to 25% in either direction
Dimensions
610 x 1346 x 1168 mm (24 x 53 x 46 in)
Weight
358 kg (790 lbs)
Power
120/208 V, 3 phase
Included
GeoNet-U USB 2.0 network adapter and cable to link to PC
CDSS software module to automatically run and report tests
Accessories
Top and bottom caps with installed sintered bronze porous stones (pinned)
Teflon® coated stack of aluminum rings for lateral confinement
Test preparation items
Size:
305 mm (12 in)
Optional Upgrades
Gripping plates optional for GCL testing
DSS software module to automatically run and report static tests
DS software module to automatically run and report direct & residual shear test
Shear box