Civil Engineering Testing Laboratory ¡¤ SANAS T1018
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Public test guide

Particle-size distribution by sieve

Separates a soil or gravel sample into size ranges to show how much coarse and fine material it contains.

Plain-language explanation

What the test tells you.

The project specification controls the exact method and acceptance requirement.

01

What it is

A prepared dry or washed sample is passed through a series of standard sieves with progressively smaller openings.

02

What is used

Representative sample, drying oven, balance, sieve stack and mechanical sieve shaker.

03

What it determines

The percentage retained and passing each sieve, producing a grading curve for the material.

04

Why it matters

Used to classify soil and gravel, assess suitability for road layers, filters or fills, and check compliance with grading limits.

Typical test sequence

From sample
to result.

  1. 01

    Prepare and weigh the representative sample

  2. 02

    Separate the material through the specified sieves

  3. 03

    Weigh each size fraction and calculate the grading

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Send the project, sample quantity, location and required completion date.
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