February 2020 Geotechnical Training Course
February 19-21, 2020 - Frederick, MD
Course Summary
This 3-day course is a unique opportunity to receive hands-on training from experts in geotechnical testing. To maintain personalized instruction and small-group laboratory testing activities, class size is limited to 16 students.
Instructors will provide detailed and practical guidance while using a variety of soil types to enhance the learning experience. Students will perform the test methods following procedures in accordance with the standards, including preparing specimens for testing, and will operate consolidation, direct shear and triaxial and permeability testing equipment. Equipment calibration and verification requirements will also be discussed during the course.
Field sampling methods and specimen preparation procedures will be covered to learn techniques for handling and trimming of specimens. The training will also cover basic geotechnical engineering concepts and theory to aid students in their overall comprehension of the procedures, results, and significance of these laboratory tests.
Scope of Training
Soil Test Methods Covered
- AASHTO T 216/ASTM D2435: One Dimensional Consolidation
- AASHTO T 236/ASTM D3080: Direct Shear
- AASHTO T 296/ASTM D2850: UU Triaxial Compression
- AASHTO T 297/ASTM 4767: CU Triaxial Compression
- ASTM D5084: Permeability (Clayey Soils)
Sampling Methods
- AASHTO T 207/ASTM D1587: Thin-Walled Tube Sampling of Soils
- ASTM D3550: Thick Wall, Ring Lined, Split Barrel, Drive Sampling of Soil
- ASTM D4220: Practices for Preserving and Transporting Soil Samples
Course Learning Objectives
Students completing the course will possess knowledge and skills necessary to understand soil strength and shear testing fundamentals and to operate equipment used to perform these tests in the laboratory.
Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:
- Demonstrate proper use of testing equipment and key procedures used to perform consolidation, direct shear, triaxial shear strength and permeability testing.
- Describe the importance of geotechnical engineering and related testing applications used in engineering design.
- Discuss the principles of soil strength testing and common methods used to evaluate strength and compressibility of soil.
- Explain proper procedures used to collect, handle and prepare samples used for geotechnical testing.
Students unfamiliar with these tests will leave with a clear understanding of the testing principles, apparatus, and testing procedures used in the laboratory.
Students experienced in these test methods will fine-tune existing skills and ensure current laboratory practices are in conformance with AASHTO and ASTM test methods.