As per IS 2720 (PART XV)
Consolidation test is un-dimentional test considered extremely important in soil mechanics. Sample taken from adjacent areas of a single site show differential settlement even when tested using same techniques. Soil of similar strength may show varying consolidation. Samples are very carefully prepared and vertical settlement of the specimen in saturated or drained conditions carefully recorded when known load is applied.
The standard outfit comprises of the following items. Loading unit, maximum capacity 20kg/cm2. Having a loading yoke connected to a lever arm with a counter balancing adjustment and having a lever ratio of 1:1 the whole assembly being mounted on a sturdy steel frame stand. The loading unit is so designed that it can be used for consolidation cells of different diameters as well as different dia floating ring type consolidation cells. Fixed ring type Consolidometer (Odeometer) cell assembly for testing 60mm dia x 20mm thick specimen comprising: Fixed ring for specimens 60mm dia x 20mm thick with guide ring. Top and bottom porous stones for 60mm dia specimen. Perforated pressure pad, channeled base with water inlet and gasket Flanged water jacket, water reservoir with plastic tube and pinch cock. Set
of weights to give a pressure of 10kg/cm.sq. On 60mm dia specimen, comprising: 7 nos. 0.05 kg/cm2, 5nos. 0.1 kg/cm2, 6nos. 0.5kg/cm2, and 5 nos. 1.0 kg/cm2.
Supplied complete as above but without dial gauge.