Public test guide

Hydrometer particle-size analysis

Measures the very fine silt and clay particles that are too small to separate accurately with normal sieves.

Plain-language explanation

What the test tells you.

The project specification controls the exact method and acceptance requirement.

The fine soil is dispersed in water and its settlement rate is measured over time with a hydrometer.

Fine soil sample, dispersing solution, sedimentation cylinder, hydrometer, thermometer and timing equipment.

The distribution of fine particle sizes based on how quickly particles settle through the liquid.

Helps classify fine-grained soils and understand drainage, plasticity and likely engineering behaviour.

Typical test sequence

Request this service

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