Modified Ring Shear Apparatus for Unsaturated Soils Testing

This paper presents the design details of an automated modified ring shear apparatus for the testing of unsaturated soils using the axis-translation technique. The components of this automated system are described, as well as the types of tests that it can be used for. The key cell components include a flushing system and a precise volume gage system. The paper presents typical test results including the continuous monitoring of water as the test proceeds. A methodology to correct the water content measurements for the effect of air infiltration and evaporation or condensation of water is included.