ASTM D2937-17e2

4.1 This test method can be used to determine the in-place density of soils which do not contain significant amounts of particles larger than 4.75 mm (³/₁₆ in.), and which can be readily retained in the drive cylinder. This test method may also be used to determine the in-place density of compacted soils used in construction of structural fill, highway embankments, or earth dams. When the in-place density is to be used as a basis for acceptance, the drive cylinder volumes must be as large as practical and not less than 850 cm³ (0.030 ft³ ).

4.2 The general principles of this test method have been successfully used to obtain samples of various field compacted fine-grained soils having a maximum particle size of 4.75 mm (³/₁₆ in.) for purposes other than density determinations, such as testing for engineering properties.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of in-place density of soil by the drive-cylinder method. The test method involves obtaining an intact soil sample by driving a thin-walled cylinder into the soil and conducting specific measurements and calculations for the determination of in-place density. When sampling or in-place density is required at depth, Test Method D1587 should be used.

1.2 This test method is not recommended for sampling organic or friable soils which may compress during sampling. This test method may not be applicable for soft, organic, highly plastic, noncohesive, saturated or other soils which are easily deformed, compress during sampling, or which may not be retained in the drive cylinder sampler. This test may not be applicable with very hard natural soils or heavily compacted soils that may not be easily penetrated with the drive cylinder sampler. The use of this test method in soils containing an appreciable amount of particles larger than 4.75 mm (³/₁₆ in.) may result in damage to the drive cylinder equipment. Soils containing particles larger than 4.75 mm (³/₁₆ in.) may not yield valid results if voids are created along the wall of the cylinder during driving, or if particles are dislodged from the sample ends during trimming.

1.3 This test method is limited to the procedures necessary for obtaining specimens suitable for determining the in-place density and water content of certain soils. The procedures, precautions, and requirements necessary for selecting locations for obtaining intact samples, suitable for laboratory testing or otherwise determining engineering properties, is beyond the scope of this test method.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are mathematical conversions, which are provided for information purposes only and are not considered standard.

1.5 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026, unless superseded by this standard.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.