Rock Testing, Soil Sampling, and More: New Test Methods Recently Added to AMRL Scope
By Greg Uherek, Program Supervisor (LAP)
To better serve our customers, AMRL is continuously reevaluating the scope of standards covered by the Laboratory Assessment Program (LAP) and the AASHTO Accreditation Program (AAP). As a result, we have added several new standards to these programs over the past year or so. This article provides a brief summary of the most recent additions.
Aggregates
- AASHTO T 2 / ASTM D75, Standard Method of Test for Sampling of Aggregates
This practice covers sampling of fine and coarse aggregates for control of the product at the source of supply, control of product at the site of preparation (such as batch plants or quarries), and investigation of potential supply sources.
Asphalt Binder
Soil
- ASTM D4643, Standard Test Method for Determination of Water (Moisture) Content of Soil by Microwave Oven Heating
This test method outlines procedures for determining the water (moisture) content of soils by incrementally drying soil in a microwave oven.
- ASTM D4644, Standard Test Method for Slake Durability of Shales and Similar Weak Rocks
This test is used to determine the Slake Durability Index (or SDI) of rocks by simulating the weathering process that leads to slaking. Rocks with a high SDI are prone to erosion and may not be suitable as a structural material.
- ASTM D5731, Standard Test Method for Determination of the Point Load Strength Index of Rock and Applications to Rock Strength Classifications
This test is primarily used to classify rock strength. It can be performed on rock cores, blocks, or irregular- sized rock pieces with a diameter from 30 to 85 mm. It is typically performed as a field test, but it can also be performed in the laboratory. The results of point load testing are sometimes used to approximate the uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) of a rock structure.
- ASTM D6913, Standard Test Methods for Particle-Size Distribution (Gradation) of Soils Using Sieve Analysis
The test covers the gradation of soil and is used for classification in accordance with ASTM D2487, Standard Practice for Classification of Soils for Engineering Purposes (Unified Soil Classification System). It is a comprehensive approach to + No. 200 particle size determination procedures currently covered in ASTM D422, Standard Test Method for Particle Size Analysis of Soils.
- ASTM D7012, Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength and Elastic Moduli of Intact Rock Core Specimens under Varying States of Stress and Temperatures (Method C , Uniaxial Compressive Strength of Intact Rock Core Specimens)
The uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) is by far the most commonly used rock property in geotechnical engineering, and is included in many design formulas. The data obtained from UCS testing is sometimes used to determine appropriate excavation techniques for certain rock materials. Please note that AMRL is only offering assessments and accreditation for Method C of ASTM D7012.
- Florida Procedure FM 5-515, Florida Method of Test for Limerock Bearing Ratio
The limerock bearing ratio, or LBR, is used for evaluating limerock or other soils that are used for base, stabilized subgrade, and embankment materials. The test procedure shares many similarities with AASHTO T 193, Standard Test Method for The California Bearing Ratio.
Metals
Hot Mix Asphalt
- Colorado Procedure CP-L5115, Preparing and Determining the Density of Bituminous Mixture Test Specimens Compacted by the Superpave Gyratory Compactor
Please note that participation in the AMRL Hveem proficiency sample program is a requirement for accreditation for this method. If your laboratory is not already enrolled in that sample program, please log in to www.amrl.net and request enrollment. Also note that if your laboratory also desires accreditation for AASHTO T 312 or ASTM D6925 for compaction using the Superpave gyratory compactor and the 6-in. diameter molds, participation in the AMRL hot mix asphalt gyratory proficiency sample program is still required.
- Colorado Procedure CP-L5106, Resistance to Deformation of Bituminous Mixtures by Means of Hveem Apparatus
Please note that participation in the AMRL Hveem proficiency sample program is a requirement for accreditation for this method. If your laboratory is not already enrolled in that sample program, please log in to www.amrl.net and request enrollment.
How to Request these Standards for Your Next On-Site Assessment
Laboratories can request these tests for their next on-site assessment by logging in to www.amrl.net and clicking “Request Assessment.” If you have already submitted an on-site assessment request form for the current tour (28th) and would like to add any of the new tests, it is not necessary to re-submit or edit your request form. Please inform the assessor of the tests you wish to add during the opening meeting of your scheduled on-site visit.
Other Changes to the LAP and AAP Scopes
- ASTM D244, Standard Test Methods and Practices for Emulsified Asphalts
The Particle Charge section of the standard has been replaced with ASTM D7402. The Saybolt Viscosity section of the standard has been replaced with ASTM D7496. Affected laboratories should request the new test methods for their next AMRL on-site assessment, and applicable quality management system documentation will be revised to reflect any changes. AMRL will make appropriate revisions to AASHTO accreditation listings after laboratories are assessed for the new standards and upon adequate resolution of applicable nonconformities noted in the on-site assessment report.
- AASHTO T 87, Dry Preparation of Disturbed Soil and Soil-Aggregate Samples for Test
This standard has been renumbered as AASHTO R 58. There have been no other significant changes to the standard. This change has already been made in the AAP Directory of Accredited Laboratories for all affected laboratories. Future AMRL on-site assessments will only include AASHTO R 58. The designation AASHTO T 87 will no longer be used.
- AASHTO T 170, Recovery of Asphalt Binder from Solution by Abson Method
This standard has been renumbered as AASHTO R 59. There have been no other significant changes to the standard. This change has already been made in the AAP Directory of Accredited Laboratories for all affected laboratories. Future AMRL on-site assessments will only include AASHTO R 59. The designation AASHTO T 170 will no longer be used.
We strive to continually improve our programs by expanding and improving upon the scope of standards that we offer. If you have any questions regarding any of the standards recently added to our scope, please contact us.
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