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SV Technocrats India’s Proctor Compaction Apparatus is used to determine the Optimum Moisture Content (OMC) and Maximum Dry Density (MDD) of soil through the Proctor Compaction Test. This test helps in ensuring proper soil compaction for construction projects like roads, embankments, and foundations.

Types of Proctor Tests & Apparatus Used

  1. Standard Proctor Test (ASTM D698, IS 2720 Part 7)

    • Mould Size: 100mm diameter, 1000cc volume (for fine-grained soils)

    • Hammer Weight: 2.6 kg

    • Drop Height: 310 mm

    • Compaction Layers: 3

    • Blows per Layer: 25

  2. Modified Proctor Test (ASTM D1557, IS 2720 Part 8)

    • Mould Size: 150mm diameter, 2250cc volume (for coarse-grained soils)

    • Hammer Weight: 4.5 kg

    • Drop Height: 450 mm

    • Compaction Layers: 5

    • Blows per Layer: 25

Components of Proctor Compaction Apparatus

  1. Cylindrical Mould – Made of steel with a detachable base plate.

  2. Compaction Rammer (Hammer) – With a controlled weight and drop height.

  3. Collar – Attached on top of the mould to prevent soil loss.

  4. Straight Edge & Spatula – For leveling and trimming compacted soil.

  5. Weighing Balance – To measure soil sample weight accurately.

  6. Oven – Used for drying soil to determine moisture content.

Testing Procedure

  1. Prepare Soil Sample – Air-dry and sieve the soil through a 4.75mm sieve.

  2. Moisture Adjustment – Add water to soil and mix thoroughly.

  3. Compaction Process –

    • Fill the mould in layers (3 for Standard, 5 for Modified Proctor).

    • Compact using the hammer (25 blows per layer).

  4. Weigh the Compact Soil – Remove collar, trim excess soil, and weigh the mould with the soil.

  5. Moisture Content Determination – Take a small soil sample, oven-dry it, and determine moisture content.

  6. Graph Plotting –

    • Plot moisture content (%) vs. dry density (g/cc).

    • The peak point of the curve gives the Optimum Moisture Content (OMC) and Maximum Dry Density (MDD).

Applications of Proctor Test

✅ Road Construction – Ensures soil is compacted to prevent settlement.
✅ Earth Dams & Embankments – Controls void ratio & permeability.
✅ Building Foundations – Ensures stable subsoil before construction.