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D3550 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
The ASTM D3550/D3550M-17 standard provides a comprehensive practice for thick wall, ring-lined, split barrel drive sampling of soils. This method is specifically designed to procure representative soil samples for classification and laboratory testing. The sampler incorporates a thick wall design with a sharpened cutting shoe and a ball check vent, while the middle barrel section is split to accommodate ring liners. Sampling can be achieved by driving or pushing in softer deposits, and penetration resistance data may be recorded for additional characterization.
📐 Sampler Design and Specifications
The sampler used in this practice consists of several key components. The cutting shoe is sharpened to facilitate soil penetration, and the ball check vent allows for the release of air or water during the sampling process. The middle barrel is split longitudinally and contains ring liners that hold the soil sample, enabling easy retrieval and preservation of the soil structure.
The following table outlines the typical specifications and components of the sampler as compared to the standard split barrel sampler used in Test Method D1586.
| 🟦 Parameter | 📏 D3550/D3550M | 📐 D1586 |
|---|---|---|
| Sampler Type | Thick wall, ring-lined, split barrel | Split barrel |
| Cutting Shoe | Sharpened, with ball check vent | Standard split barrel shoe |
| Drive Method | Driven or pushed in soft deposits | Driven |
| Hammer Weight | Differs from D1586 | 140 lb (63.5 kg) |
| Drop Height | Differs from D1586 | 30 in (760 mm) |
| Penetration Data | May be recorded | Recorded and normalized |
Tip: For guidance on selecting appropriate soil samplers for intact samples, refer to Table 2 of Guide D6169 on Soil and Rock Sampling. The degree of sample disturbance should be assessed by the user to determine suitability for laboratory tests.
⚙️ Sampling Procedure and Equipment
The sampling procedure involves driving or pushing the thick wall sampler into the soil. Rotary drilling equipment, as described in Guide D5783 and Practice D6151, is typically used. The practice emphasizes that penetration resistance data may be recorded, but it should not be reported as conforming to Test Method D1586 due to differences in hammer weights, drop heights, and sampler sizes. Other sampling methods may be more suitable depending on site conditions and project requirements.
All observed and calculated values must adhere to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026. Values are expressed in either inch-pound units or SI units, and each system shall be used independently without combining.
Warning: This practice does not conform to Test Method D1586, and penetration data must not be used for normalization per Practice D6066. Ensure appropriate methods are used for specific site conditions.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the purpose of the ball check vent in the sampler?
The ball check vent allows air or water to escape during sampling, preventing pressure buildup and facilitating easier penetration.
💡 How does this practice differ from Test Method D1586?
D3550 uses different hammer weights, drop heights, and sampler sizes, so penetration resistance data cannot be reported as conforming to D1586.
⚡ Can the penetration resistance data from this practice be used for normalization?
No, this data cannot be used to determine Normalized penetration resistance data for sands in accordance with Practice D6066.
📌 What are the key components of the sampler?
The key components include the thick wall sampler, sharpened cutting shoe, ball check vent, split barrel middle section, and ring liners.