1.1 This test method covers the field vane test in saturated clay and silt soils for determination of undrained shear strength. Knowledge of the nature of the soil in which each vane test is to be made is necessary for assessment of the applicability and interpretation of the test. The test is not applicable for sandy soils or non-plastic silts, which may allow drainage during the test.

1.2 This test method addresses testing on land and for testing in drill holes or by self-drilling or continuous push methods from the ground surface. This method does not address specifically marine testing where special test requirements or variations in equipment may be required. The user is referred to ASTM STP 1014 for additional information on in-place vane shear testing used in marine exploration.2

1.3 This method is often used in conjunction with fluid rotary drilling (D5783), hollow-stem augers (D6151), or cone penetration testing (D5778). Some apparatuses have the vane retracted in a protective shoe for advancement and incremental testing. Sampling, such as with thin wall tubes (D1587) is often combined with vane testing. Subsurface geotechnical explorations are reported in accordance with Practice (D5434).

1.4 Undrained shear strength and sensitivity of cohesive soils can also be measured in Laboratory Vane Test (D4648).

1.5 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units [presented in brackets] are to be regarded separately as standard. The values in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard. Reporting of test results in units other than SI shall not be regarded as nonconformance with this test method.

1.6 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026.

1.7 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.8 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.