EXPERIMENT NO.
REDUCING AGGREGATES FIELD SAMPLES TO TEST SAMPLES
Referenced Standard
ASTM C702-87
AASHTO T248-89
Introduction
Investigation of a large quantity of aggregates may sometimes become
impractical, thus, only a representative sample is obtained for specific tests. This
sample when obtained and prepared properly is expected to possess the average
characteristics of the entire quantity of field sample.
Sampling methods introduced in this experiment can be used to reduce a
large mass of field sample into representative sample for succeeding aggregate tests.
The Splitting Method is recommended for samples smaller than 45mm (1 ¾”).
Sampler splitter with 25mm openings are for aggregates having a maximum size of
19mm (3/4”) and the sampler splitter with 50mm (2”) opening are for aggregates
up to 45mm (1 ¾”). The Quartering Method is used for coarse aggregates larger
than 45mm (1 ¾”).
Objectives:
1. To be able to learn how to obtain and prepare test samples from field
samples.
2. To understand the significance of aggregate sampling in civil engineering
projects.
Apparatus/Materials:
Spade Containers Sieves (25mm, 45mm, 50mm)
Sample Splitter Trowel or Scoop Aggregates Field Samples
Procedure:
1. Take a representative sample of aggregates from the field. Refer to Table 1
for the minimum requirements for field samples. The sample must be dry
and free from roots and debris. Wash the field sample as needed then dry
allow to thoroughly dry before reducing them to test size.
2. Mix the clean and dry field samples thoroughly until it appears to be
homogenous.
3. Use the following methods (Splitting and Quartering) for reducing the field
samples to testing size:
A. Splitting Method
1. Place the two catch pans under the splitter.
2. Part by part pours the sample into the splitter uniformly allowing the
aggregates to pass through the splitter opening to the catch pans.
3. When full, empty the catch pans unto a container. Two separate
containers must be used to store the two fractions of aggregates that
passed the splitter.
4. Complete the pouring of the entire quantity of field sample into the
splitter. Use a brush to collect the samples from the splitter. Refer to
Table 2 for the minimum requirements for test samples.
5. Label the containers with which the test samples are placed.
B. Quartering Method
1. Place the field sample on a clear, smooth and hard surface.
2. Mix the samples thoroughly until it appears homogenous then form it into
a mound.
3. Flatten the mound by pressing it down carefully at its apex by a shovel
until a uniform thickness and diameter are obtained.
4. Using the shovel, divide the flattened mass into quarter. Include the fine
particles in the surface.
5. Collect in one container the aggregates in two diagonally opposite
quarters and in another container the two other quarters. Take note of
the minimum requirements shown in Table 2. Label containers with
samples appropriately for further tests.
Table 1
Recommended Size/ Quantity of Field Samples
Nominal Maximum Size of Approximate Minimum Mass of
Aggregates Field Sample
Fine Aggregates
3.36mm (#8) 10 kg (25 Lbs)
4.75mm (#4) 10 kg (25 Lbs)
Coarse Aggregates
9.5 (3/8”) 10 kg (25Lbs)
12.5 (1/2”) 15 kg (35 Lbs)
19.0 (3/4”) 25 kg (55 Lbs)
25.0 (1”) 50 kg (110 Lbs)
1 75 kg (165 Lbs)
37.5 (1 ”)
2
50 (2”) 100 kg (220 Lbs)
1 125 kg (275 Lbs)
63 (2 ”)
2
75 (3”) 150 kg (330 Lbs)
1 175 kg (385 Lbs)
90 (3 ”)
2
Source: Marotta & Herubin (1997)
TABLE 2
Minimum Requirements for Test Samples
Nominal Maximum Sized of Minimum Mass of Test Samples
Aggregates
9.5 (3/8”) 1 kg
12.5 (1/2”) 2 kg
19.0 (3/4”) 5 kg
25.0 (1”) 10 kg
1 15 kg
37.5 (1 ”)
2
50 (2”) 20 kg
1 35 kg
63 (2 ”)
2
75 (3”) 60 kg
1 100 kg
90 (3 ”)
2
Source: Marotta & Herubin (1997)
Drawing:
Observations:
Discussion of Results:
Conclusion:
Post-lab Exercises:
1. Explain the differences between: a) natural and manufactured aggregates, b)
fine and coarse aggregates.
2. Weigh each of the test samples from the catch pans. Do their weights differ?
By what percentage?
3. Weigh the samples obtained by the quartering method. Does each of the two
fractions represent 50% of the total mass of the field sample? Why or why
not? Explain briefly.
