A computer-controlled Cyclic Simple Shear Apparatus that allows the investigation of soil behavior in a manner closest to reality by simulating many different loading conditions.

Application Areas

Application of both components of strong ground motion to the specimen in the form of Cyclic Stress Ratio (CSR) or strain rate–time histories.

Simulation of three-dimensional cyclic loadings and displacements for soils.

Evaluation of liquefaction triggering and susceptibility by considering three-dimensional loads and displacements.

Technical Specifications

Main frame,  floor-mounted steel box frame incorporating three horizontal and one vertical electric linear actuators; the top cover is fixed, and the base is mounted on roller bearings.

Maximum Load: 6 kN vertical and horizontal

Sample Dimensions: 50 mm diameter – 20 mm height

Sample Size Constraint: Aluminum Teflon-coated ring stack

Operating Frequency: Up to 2 Hz (customizable)

Overall Dimensions: 1000 × 1000 × 1700 m³

Electrical Specifications: 240 or 110 V – 50–60 Hz, single-phase

Approximate Weight: 450 kg

Details:

Sensors
Three 5 kN load cells
Three 25 mm LVDTs
Pore water pressure transducer

Control
Stress- and strain-controlled tests can be performed using the GeoAnts Controller.

Data Acquisition
An 8-channel FastDAQ data logger with SD card backup, featuring free GeoGram data acquisition software.

Safety Features

Upper and lower limit switches to stop actuator overtravel.
Left and right limit switch mechanism to stop actuator overtravel.
Internal software safety shutdown when sensors reach maximum limits.
External emergency stop, overcurrent, and overtemperature shutdown protection.