ASTM D 4914/D4914M : 2016

1.2.1For larger sized excavations and soil containing larger particles, Test Method D5030 is preferred.

1.2.2Test Method D1556 or D2167 are usually used to determine the volume of test holes smaller than 0.03 m³ [1 ft³]. While the equipment illustrated in these test methods is used for volumes less than 0.03 m³ [1 ft³], the test methods allow larger versions of the equipment to be used when necessary.

1.3.1Test Method A—In-Place Density of Total Material (Section 10).

1.3.2Test Method B—In-Place Density of Control Fraction (Section 11).

1.4.1Test Method A is used when the in-place density of total material is to be determined. Test Method A can also be used to determine percent compaction or percent relative density when the maximum particle size present in the in-place material being tested does not exceed the maximum particle size allowed in the laboratory compaction test (refer to Test Methods D698, D1557, D4253, D4254, and D7382). For Test Methods D698 and D1557 only, the dry density determined in the laboratory compaction test may be corrected for larger particle sizes in accordance with, and subject to the limitations of Practice D4718.

1.4.2Test Method B is used when percent compaction or percent relative density is to be determined and the in-place material contains particles larger than the maximum particle size allowed in the laboratory compaction test or when Practice D4718 is not applicable for the laboratory compaction test. Then the material is considered to consist of two fractions, or portions. The material from the in-place dry density test is physically divided into a control fraction and an oversize fraction based on a designated sieve size (see Section 3). The dry density of the control fraction is calculated and compared with the dry density(s) established by the laboratory compaction test(s).

1.8.1The procedures used to specify how data are collected, recorded or calculated in this standard are regarded as the industry standard. In addition they are representative of the significant digits that generally should be retained. The procedures used do not consider material variation, purpose for obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any considerations for the user’s objectives; it is common practice to increase or reduce significant digits of reported data to be commensurate with these considerations. It is beyond the scope of this standard to consider significant digits used in analytical methods for engineering design.