This apparatus is mainly used for determination of in situ dry density of natural or compacted fine grained soil, free from aggregates. Cutter apparatus is suitable for samples of size upto 150mm diameter. Generally, a cylindrical cutter is used to extract a sample of the soil with the help of a dolley and rammer. From the weight, density and the moisture, and dry density of the soil is readily calculated.

Core cutters are usually made up of steel and are galvanised to avoid corrosion.

Features of Core Cutter Apparatus

Core cutter has following important features :

• It consists of one cylindrical core cutter made of steel, 127.3 mm long and have 100mm internal diameter.
• Steel Dolley, 25 mm high with a lip to enable it to be located on top of the core cutter.
• Rammer with detachable steel rod.

Specification

• The apparatus has firm base with pillar support provided with rack and pinion for adjusting height and penetration assembly.
• There are leveling screws at the base. Wheels are also attached at the base frame for easy transportation.
• To have a better grip in damp soils, the machine is provided with suitable grip.
• A standard make suitable electric motor is fitted to the apparatus along with water cooling arrangement.
• The apparatus has cylindrical cores of standard volume. They are 13 cm long and has a diameter of 10 cm.
• Core cutters have a sharpened edge at one end to improve penetration of the soil surface.

Working Principle of Core Cutter Apparatus

The cores of the apparatus are automated fully into the surface to be tested. They are removed from the ground without disturbing the core contents. In the laboratory, these contents are cut plane at the top and bottom and then weighed. Bulk density of the soil can be calculated easily. By determining the moisture content of the soil, dry density of the fill and void percentage can be calculated. A high percentage of void indicates poor compaction.

Application

This apparatus is mainly used to determine the dry density of natural or fine grained soil. Some of the areas where the apparatus can be used are :

• Soil Analysis
• Cement & Concrete Industry
• Construction Industry