ASTM D6913-04(2009)e1

Standard Test Methods for Particle-Size Distribution (Gradation) of Soils Using Sieve Analysis

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The gradation of the soil is used for classification in accordance with Practice D2487.  
5.2 The gradation (particle-size distribution) curve is used to calculate the coefficient of uniformity and the coefficient of curvature.  
5.3 Selection and acceptance of fill materials are often based on gradation. For example, highway embankments, backfills, and earthen dams may have gradation requirements.  
5.4 The gradation of the soil often controls the design and quality control of drainage filters, and groundwater drainage.  
5.5 Selection of options for dynamic compaction and grouting is related to gradation of the soil.  
5.6 The gradation of a soil is an indicator of engineering properties. Hydraulic conductivity, compressibility, and shear strength are related to the gradation of the soil. However, engineering behavior is dependent upon many factors (such as effective stress, stress history, mineral type, structure, plasticity, and geologic origins) and cannot be based solely upon gradation.
Note 1: The quality of the result produced by these test methods is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of these test methods are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
SCOPE
1.1 Soils consist of particles with various shapes and sizes. This test method is used to separate particles into size ranges and to determine quantitatively the mass of particles in each range. These data are combined to determine the particle-size distribution (gradation). This test method uses a square opening sieve criterion in determining the gradation of soil between the 3-in. (75-mm) and No. 200 (75-µm) sieves.  
1.2 The terms, soils and material, are used interchangeably throughout the standard.  
1.3 In cases where the gradation of particles larger than 3 in. (75 mm) sieve is required, Test Method D5519 may be used.  
1.4 In cases where the gradation of particles smaller than No. 200 (75-µm) sieve is required, Test Method D4222 may be used.  
1.5 Typically, if the maximum particle size is equal to or less than 4.75 mm (No. 4 sieve), then single-set sieving is applicable. Furthermore, if the maximum particle size is greater than 4.75 mm (No. 4 sieve) and equal to or less than 9.5 mm (3/8-in sieve), then either single-set sieving or composite sieving is applicable. Finally, if the maximum particle size is equal to or greater than 19.0 mm (3/4-in sieve), composite sieving is applicable. For special conditions see 10.3.  
1.6 Two test methods are provided in this standard. The methods differ in the significant digits recorded and the size of the specimen (mass) required. The method to be used may be specified by the requesting authority; otherwise Method A shall be performed.  
1.6.1 Method A—The percentage (by mass) passing each sieve size is recorded to the nearest 1 %. This method must be used when performing composite sieving. For cases of disputes, Method A is the referee method.  
1.6.2 Method B—The percentage (by mass) passing each sieve size is recorded to the nearest 0.1 %. This method is only applicable for single sieve-set sieving and when the maximum particle size is equal to or less than the No. 4 (4.75-mm) sieve.  
1.7 This test method does not cover, in any detail, procurement of the sample. It is assumed that the sample is obtained using appropriate methods and is representative.  
1.8 Sample Processing—Three procedures (moist, air dry, and oven dry) are provided to process the sample to obtain a specimen. The procedure selected will depend on the type of sample, the maximum particle-size in the sample, the...

General Information

• Status: Historical
• Publication Date: 30-Jun-2009
• ICS: 13.080.20 - Physical properties of soils
• Technical Committee: D18 - Soil and Rock
• Drafting Committee: D18.03 - Texture, Plasticity and Density Characteristics of Soils

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM D6913-04(2009) - Standard Test Methods for Particle-Size Distribution (Gradation) of Soils Using Sieve Analysis
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2009
• Referred By: ASTM D6467-21e1 - Standard Test Method for Torsional Ring Shear Test to Determine Drained Residual Shear Strength of Fine-Grained Soils
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2009
• Referred By: ASTM D3276-21 - Standard Guide for Painting Inspectors (Metal Substrates)
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2009
• Referred By: ASTM D8151-19e1 - Standard Practice for Obtaining Rainfall Runoff from Unvegetated Rolled and Hydraulic Erosion Control Products (RECPs and HECPs) for Acute Ecotoxicity Testing
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2009
• Referred By: ASTM E2060-22 - Standard Guide for Use of Coal Combustion Products for Solidification/Stabilization of Inorganic Wastes
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2009
• Referred By: ASTM D3282-15 - Standard Practice for Classification of Soils and Soil-Aggregate Mixtures for Highway Construction Purposes
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2009
• Referred By: ASTM D2487-17e1 - Standard Practice for Classification of Soils for Engineering Purposes (Unified Soil Classification System)
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2009
• Referred By: ASTM D1140-17 - Standard Test Methods for Determining the Amount of Material Finer than 75-μm (No. 200) Sieve in Soils by Washing
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2009
• Referred By: ASTM E3282-22 - Standard Guide for NAPL Mobility and Migration in Sediments – Evaluation Metrics
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2009
• Referred By: ASTM D1997-20 - Standard Test Method for Laboratory Determination of the Fiber Content of Peat and Organic Soils by Dry Mass
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2009
• Referred By: ASTM D2166/D2166M-16 - Standard Test Method for Unconfined Compressive Strength of Cohesive Soil
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2009
• Referred By: ASTM D8106-17 - Standard Test Methods for Determining the Oil Sorption Capacity of Organophilic Clay
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2009
• Referred By: ASTM D7382-20 - Standard Test Methods for Determination of Maximum Dry Unit Weight of Granular Soils Using a Vibrating Hammer
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2009
• Referred By: ASTM D4972-19 - Standard Test Methods for pH of Soils
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2009
• Referred By: ASTM D6528-17 - Standard Test Method for Consolidated Undrained Direct Simple Shear Testing of Fine Grain Soils
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2009

Standards Content (Sample)

NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or withdrawn.
Contact ASTM International (www.astm.org) for the latest information
´1
Designation:D6913 −04 (Reapproved 2009)
Standard Test Methods for
Particle-Size Distribution (Gradation) of Soils Using Sieve
Analysis
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D6913; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
ε NOTE—Editorially corrected Eq 1 in July 2014.
INTRODUCTION
Although this test method has been used for many years, there are vast testing variations required
due to soil types and conditions. The test is more complicated and complex than would be expected.
Multiple procedures are being presented along with new terminology.Although these procedures are
not new, they will now be defined and explained. Some examples of these new terms are composite
sieving, designated separating sieve and subspecimen. This test method outlines the majority of
conditions and procedures but does not cover every conceivable variation or contingency. The table
of contents in the Scope section is added to enable the user to easily find a specific topic or
requirement.Onlysections/subsectionswithtitlesarepresented.Therefore,numberedsubsectionswill
not be continuous in some cases, as indicated in the Scope section.
1. Scope greaterthan4.75mm(No.4sieve)andequaltoorlessthan9.5
mm ( ⁄8-in sieve), then either single-set sieving or composite
1.1 Soils consist of particles with various shapes and sizes.
sieving is applicable. Finally, if the maximum particle size is
This test method is used to separate particles into size ranges
equal to or greater than 19.0 mm ( ⁄4-in sieve), composite
and to determine quantitatively the mass of particles in each
sieving is applicable. For special conditions see 10.3.
range. These data are combined to determine the particle-size
1.6 Two test methods are provided in this standard. The
distribution (gradation). This test method uses a square open-
methods differ in the significant digits recorded and the size of
ingsievecriterionindeterminingthegradationofsoilbetween
the specimen (mass) required. The method to be used may be
the 3-in. (75-mm) and No. 200 (75-µm) sieves.
specifiedbytherequestingauthority;otherwiseMethodAshall
1.2 The terms, soils and material, are used interchangeably
be performed.
throughout the standard.
1.6.1 Method A—The percentage (by mass) passing each
1.3 Incaseswherethegradationofparticleslargerthan3in.
sieve size is recorded to the nearest 1%. This method must be
(75 mm) sieve is required, Test Method D5519 may be used.
used when performing composite sieving. For cases of
disputes, Method A is the referee method.
1.4 In cases where the gradation of particles smaller than
1.6.2 Method B—The percentage (by mass) passing each
No. 200 (75-µm) sieve is required,Test Method D422 may be
sievesizeisrecordedtothenearest0.1%.Thismethodisonly
used.
applicable for single sieve-set sieving and when the maximum
1.5 Typically, if the maximum particle size is equal to or
particle size is equal to or less than the No. 4 (4.75-mm) sieve.
less than 4.75 mm (No. 4 sieve), then single-set sieving is
1.7 This test method does not cover, in any detail, procure-
applicable. Furthermore, if the maximum particle size is
ment of the sample. It is assumed that the sample is obtained
using appropriate methods and is representative.
ThistestmethodisunderthejurisdictionofASTMCommitteeD18onSoiland
1.8 Sample Processing—Three procedures (moist, air dry,
Rock andisthedirectresponsibilityofSubcommitteeD18.03onTexture, Plasticity
and oven dry) are provided to process the sample to obtain a
and Density Characteristics of Soils.
Current edition approved July 1, 2009. Published August 2009. Originally
specimen. The procedure selected will depend on the type of
ε2
approved in 2004. Last previous edition approved in 2004 as D6913–04 . DOI:
sample, the maximum particle-size in the sample, the range of
10.1520/D6913-04R09E01.
2 particle sizes, the initial conditions of the material, the plastic-
Currently Subcommittee D18.03 is preparing a new test method (Hydrometer
Analysis or Combined Sieve and Hydrometer Analysis) to replace D422.
ity of the material, the efficiency, and the need for other testing
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
´1
D6913−04 (2009)
on the sample. The procedure may be specified by the determinations, calculations, and reported results. However,
requesting authority; otherwise the guidance given in Section the use of balances or scales recording pounds of mass (lbm)
10 shall be followed. shall not be regarded as nonconformance with this standard.
1.9 This test method typically requires two or three days to 1.15 Asummary of the symbols used in this test method is
given in Annex A1.
complete, depending on the type and size of the sample and
soil type.
1.16 This standard does not purport to address all of the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
1.10 This test method is not applicable for the following
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
soils:
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
1.10.1 Soils containing fibrous peat that will change in
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use.
particle size during the drying, washing, or sieving procedure.
1.17 Table of Contents—All tables and figures appear at the
1.10.2 Soils containing extraneous matter, such as organic
end of this standard.
solvents, oil, asphalt, wood fragments, or similar items. Such
extraneous matter can affect the washing and sieving proce- Section
Scope 1
dures.
Method A 1.6.1
1.10.3 Materials that contain cementitious components,
Method B 1.6.2
Sample Processing 1.8
suchascement,flyash,lime,orotherstabilizationadmixtures.
Units 1.14
Referenced Documents 2
1.11 This test method may not produce consistent test
ASTM Standards 2.1
results within and between laboratories for the following soils
Terminology 3
and the precision statement does not apply to them.
General 3.1
Definitions 3.2
1.11.1 Friable soils in which the sieving processes change
Definitions of Terms Specific to This 3.3
the gradation of the soil. Typical examples of these soils are
Standard
some residual soils, most weathered shales and some weakly
Summary of Test Method 4
Significance and Use 5
cemented soils such as hardpan, caliche or coquina.
Apparatus 6
1.11.2 Soilsthatwillnotreadilydispersesuchasglauconitic
Sieves 6.1
clays or some dried plastic clays. Standard Sieve Set 6.1.1
Washing Sieve, No. 200 (75-µm) 6.1.2
1.11.3 To test these soils, this test method must be adapted,
Designated Separating Sieve 6.1.3
oraltered,andthesealterationsdocumented.Dependingonthe
Washing Sink with Spray Nozzle 6.2
design considerations, a specialized gradation-testing program Mechanical Sieve Shaker 6.3
Balances 6.4
could be performed. The alterations could require the washing
Drying Oven 6.5
and sieving procedures to be standardized such that each
Sieving Containers 6.6
Specimen Containers 6.6.1
specimen would be processed in a similar manner.
Collection/Transfer Device 6.6.2
1.12 Some materials that are not soils, but are made up of Cumulative Mass Container 6.6.3
Sieve Brushes 6.7
particles may be tested using this method. However, the
Miscellaneous Items 6.8
applicable sections above should be used in applying this
Splitter or Riffle Box (optional) 6.9
standard. Quartering Accessories (optional) 6.10
Mortar and Rubber-Covered Pestle 6.11
1.13 Allobservedandcalculatedvaluesshallconformtothe
(optional)
Low Temperature Drying Oven 6.12
guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in
(optional)
Practice D6026, unless superseded by this test method.
Ultrasonic Water Bath (optional) 6.13
1.13.1 The procedures used to specify how data are Dispersion Shaker (optional) 6.14
Reagents 7
collected/recorded and calculated in this standard are regarded
Dispersant 7.1
as the industry standard. In addition, they are representative of
Dry Addition 7.1.1.1
the significant digits that generally should be retained. The Solution 7.1.1.2
Preparation of Apparatus 8
proceduresuseddonotconsidermaterialvariation,purposefor
Verification of Sieves 8.1
obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any consider-
Verification Interval 8.1.1
ations for the user’s objectives; and it is common practice to Verification of Mechanical Sieve Shaker 8.2
and
increase or reduce significant digits of reported data to be
Standard Shaking Period
commensuratewiththeseconsiderations.Itisbeyondthescope
Large Mechanical Sieve Shaker 8.2.1
Verification Interval 8.2.2
of these test methods to consider significant digits used in
Hand Sieve Shaking Procedure 8.2.3
analysis methods for engineering design.
Sampling 9
General 9.1
1.14 Units—ThedimensionalvaluesstatedineitherSIunits
Sample Sources 9.2
or inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard, such as
Bulk Samples 9.2.1
200-mmor8-in.diametersieve.Except,thesievedesignations Jar and Small Bag Samples 9.2.2
Undisturbed Tube Samples 9.2.3
are typically identified using the “alternative” system in
Samples from Prior Testing 9.2.4
accordance with Practice E11, such as 3 in. and No. 200,
Specimen 10
General 10.1
instead of the “standard” system of 75 mm and 75 µm,
Minimum Mass Requirement 10.2
respectively. Only the SI units are used for mass
´1
D6913−04 (2009)
Selection of Sieving Procedure 10.3 Composite Sieving, Subspecimen 12.5.2
Single Sieve-Set Sieving 10.3.1 (finer
Composite Sieving 10.3.2 portion)
Specimen Procurement 10.4 Percent Passing, Specimen 12.5.2.1
(combined
Moist Procedure 10.4.1
Air-Dried Procedure 10.4.2 coarser and finer portions)
Subspecimen, Acceptable 12.5.2.2
Oven-Dried Procedure 10.4.3
Discussion on Segregating Soils 10.4.4 Fractional
Percent Retained
Specimen Procurement and Processing 10.5
Requirements Percent Passing, Acceptance 12.5.2.3
Criterion
Moist Procedure, Single Sieve-Set 10.5.1
Sieving Finer Portion, Percent Passing 12.5.3
(optional)
Moist Procedure, Composite Sieving 10.5.2
Coarse Portion Acceptable Loss 10.5.2.3 Composite Sieving, Double Separation 12.6
st
(CP ) 1 Coarser Portion 12.6.1
L
st
1 Subspecimen 12.6.2
Air-Dried Procedure, General 10.5.3
nd
Air-Dried Procedure, Single Sieve- 10.5.4 Percent Passing, 2 Coarser 12.6.2.1
Portion
Set Sieving
nd
Air-Dried Procedure, Composite 10.5.5 2 Coarser Portion, Composite 12.6.2.2
Sieving
Sieving
nd
Oven-Dried Procedure, General 10.5.6 Correction Factor (2 CSCF)
nd
2 Coarser Portion, Acceptable 12.6.2.3
Oven-Dried Procedure, Single Sieve- 10.5.7
Set Sieving Loss on
Sieving and Washing
Oven-Dried Procedure, Composite 10.5.8
nd
Sieving 2 Coarser Portion, Acceptable 12.6.2.4
Fractional
Procedure (Sieving) 11
General 11.1 Percent Retained
Percent Passing, Acceptance 12.6.2.5
Mass Measurements 11.2
Sieve Overloading 11.3 Criterion
nd
2 Subspecimen 12.6.3
Single Sieve-Set Sieving 11.4
nd
Percent Passing, 2 Subspecimen 12.6.3.1
Specimen Mass 11.4.1
nd
2 Subspecimen, Acceptable 12.6.3.2
Specimen Dispersion 11.4.2
Fractional
Soaking without a Dispersant 11.4.2.1
Percent Retained
Soaking with a Dispersant 11.4.2.2
Percent Passing, Acceptance 12.6.3.3
Using an Ultrasonic Water Bath 11.4.2.3
Criterion
Washing Specimen 11.4.3
st
1 Finer Portion, Percent Passing 12.6.4
General Precautions 11.4.3.1
(optional)
Transfer Specimen 11.4.3.2
nd
2 Finer Portion, Composite 12.6.4.1
Washing 11.4.3.3
Sieving
Transfer Washed Specimen 11.4.3.4
Correction Factor (optional)
Dry Sieving 11.4.4
nd
2 Finer Portion, Percent Passing 12.6.4.2
Sieve Set 11.4.4.1
for
Mechanical Shaking 11.4.4.2
nd
2 Subspecimen (optional)
Cumulative Material/Mass Retained 11.4.5
Report: Test Data Sheet(s)/Form(s) 13
First Sieve 11.4.5.1
Precision and Bias 14
Remaining Sieves 11.4.5.2
Precision 14.1
Composite Sieving, Single Separation 11.5
Precision Data Analysis 14.1.1
Coarser Portion 11.5.1
Calculation of Precision 14.1.2
Dispersing and Washing 11.5.1.1
Acceptance Criterion 14.1.2.4
Dry Sieving Coarser Portion 11.5.1.3
Triplicate Test Precision Data (TTPD) 14.1.3
Subspecimen from Finer Portion 11.5.2
TTPD Method A Repeatability 14.1.3.1
Dispersing and Washing 11.5.2.1
TTPD -Method A Reproducibility 14.1.3.2
Subspecimen
TTPD -Method B Repeatability 14.1.3.3
Dry Sieving Subspecimen 11.5.2.2
TTPD -Method B Reproducibility 14.1.3.4
Composite Sieving, Double Separation 11.6
st
Single Test Precision Data (STPD) 14.1.4
Separating 1 Subspecimen 11.6.1
nd
STPD -Method A Reproducibility 14.1.4.1
Dispersing and Washing 2 Coarser 11.6.2
STPD -Method B Reproducibility 14.1.4.2
Portion
nd
Soils Type 14.1.5
Dry Sieving 2 Coarser Portion 11.6.3
nd
Discussion on Precision 14.1.6
2 Subspecimen 11.6.4
nd
Bias 14.2
Dispersing and Washing 2 11.6.4.1
Keywords 15
Subspecimen
nd
ANNEXES
Dry Sieving 2 Subspecimen 11.6.4.2
Symbols Annex A1
Calculations 12
Sample to Specimen Splitting/Reduction Annex A2
General 12.1
Methods
Sieve Overloading 12.2
General A2.1
Single Sieve-Set Sieving, Percent 12.3
Mechanical Splitting A2.1.1
Passing
Quartering A2.1.2
Composite Sieving, Mass of Specimen 12.4
Miniature Stockpile Sampling A2.1.3
Composite Sieving, Single Separation 12.5
Sample Processing Recommendation A2.2
Composite Sieving, Coarser Portion 12.5.1
Based
(CP)
on Soil Type
CP, Percent Passing 12.5.1.1
Clean Gravel (GW, GP) and Clean A2.2.1
CP, Composite Sieving Correction 12.5.1.2
Sand
Factor (CSCF)
(SW, SP)
CP, Acceptable Loss During 12.5.1.3
Gravel with Fines (GM, GC, GC-GM, A2.2.2
Washing
GW-GM, GP-GM, GP-GC)
and Sieving
´1
D6913−04 (2009)
E691Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to
Sand with Silt Fines (SW-SM, SP- A2.2.3
SM,
Determine the Precision of a Test Method
SM)
Sand with Clay and Silt Fines or Clay A2.2.4
Fines (SW-SC, SP-SC, SC, SC- 3. Terminology
SM)
3.1 General:
Silts with Sand or Gravel, or Both A2.2.5
(ML,
3.1.1 An overview of terms used in the sieving processes is
MH)
presented in Fig. 1(a) using a tabular format and in Fig. 1(b)
Organic Soils with Sand or Gravel, or A2.2.6
Both (OL, OH)
using a flowchart format. In addition, Fig. 1(a) includes
APPENDIXES
symbols used in the sieving processes.
Example Test Data Sheets/Forms Appendix X1
3.1.2 There are two types of definitions in the following
General X1.1
Precision: Example Calculations Appendix X2
sections. There are definitions that are general (see 3.2) and
General X2.1
others that are specific to this standard (see 3.3). To locate a
TABLES and FIGURES
definition, it may be necessary to review both sections. The
definitions are in alp
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
´1
Designation: D6913 − 04 (Reapproved 2009) D6913 − 04 (Reapproved 2009)
Standard Test Methods for
Particle-Size Distribution (Gradation) of Soils Using Sieve
Analysis
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D6913; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
ε NOTE—Editorially corrected Eq 1 in July 2014.
INTRODUCTION
Although this test method has been used for many years, there are vast testing variations required
due to soil types and conditions. The test is more complicated and complex than would be expected.
Multiple procedures are being presented along with new terminology. Although these procedures are
not new, they will now be defined and explained. Some examples of these new terms are composite
sieving, designated separating sieve and subspecimen. This test method outlines the majority of
conditions and procedures but does not cover every conceivable variation or contingency. The table
of contents in the Scope section is added to enable the user to easily find a specific topic or
requirement. Only sections/subsections with titles are presented. Therefore, numbered subsections will
not be continuous in some cases, as indicated in the Scope section.
1. Scope
1.1 Soils consist of particles with various shapes and sizes. This test method is used to separate particles into size ranges and
to determine quantitatively the mass of particles in each range. These data are combined to determine the particle-size distribution
(gradation). This test method uses a square opening sieve criterion in determining the gradation of soil between the 3-in. (75-mm)
and No. 200 (75-μm) sieves.
1.2 The terms, soils and material, are used interchangeably throughout the standard.
1.3 In cases where the gradation of particles larger than 3 in. (75 mm) sieve is required, Test Method D5519 may be used.
1.4 In cases where the gradation of particles smaller than No. 200 (75-μm) sieve is required, Test Method D422 may be used.
1.5 Typically, if the maximum particle size is equal to or less than 4.75 mm (No. 4 sieve), then single-set sieving is applicable.
Furthermore, if the maximum particle size is greater than 4.75 mm (No. 4 sieve) and equal to or less than 9.5 mm ( ⁄8-in sieve),
then either single-set sieving or composite sieving is applicable. Finally, if the maximum particle size is equal to or greater than
19.0 mm ( ⁄4-in sieve), composite sieving is applicable. For special conditions see 10.3.
1.6 Two test methods are provided in this standard. The methods differ in the significant digits recorded and the size of the
specimen (mass) required. The method to be used may be specified by the requesting authority; otherwise Method A shall be
performed.
1.6.1 Method A—The percentage (by mass) passing each sieve size is recorded to the nearest 1 %. This method must be used
when performing composite sieving. For cases of disputes, Method A is the referee method.
1.6.2 Method B—The percentage (by mass) passing each sieve size is recorded to the nearest 0.1 %. This method is only
applicable for single sieve-set sieving and when the maximum particle size is equal to or less than the No. 4 (4.75-mm) sieve.
1.7 This test method does not cover, in any detail, procurement of the sample. It is assumed that the sample is obtained using
appropriate methods and is representative.
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.03 on Texture, Plasticity
and Density Characteristics of Soils.
ε2
Current edition approved July 1, 2009. Published August 2009. Originally approved in 2004. Last previous edition approved in 2004 as D6913 – 04 . DOI:
10.1520/D6913-04R09.10.1520/D6913-04R09E01.
Currently Subcommittee D18.03 is preparing a new test method (Hydrometer Analysis or Combined Sieve and Hydrometer Analysis) to replace D422.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
´1
D6913 − 04 (2009)
1.8 Sample Processing—Three procedures (moist, air dry, and oven dry) are provided to process the sample to obtain a
specimen. The procedure selected will depend on the type of sample, the maximum particle-size in the sample, the range of particle
sizes, the initial conditions of the material, the plasticity of the material, the efficiency, and the need for other testing on the sample.
The procedure may be specified by the requesting authority; otherwise the guidance given in Section 10 shall be followed.
1.9 This test method typically requires two or three days to complete, depending on the type and size of the sample and soil
type.
1.10 This test method is not applicable for the following soils:
1.10.1 Soils containing fibrous peat that will change in particle size during the drying, washing, or sieving procedure.
1.10.2 Soils containing extraneous matter, such as organic solvents, oil, asphalt, wood fragments, or similar items. Such
extraneous matter can affect the washing and sieving procedures.
1.10.3 Materials that contain cementitious components, such as cement, fly ash, lime, or other stabilization admixtures.
1.11 This test method may not produce consistent test results within and between laboratories for the following soils and the
precision statement does not apply to them.
1.11.1 Friable soils in which the sieving processes change the gradation of the soil. Typical examples of these soils are some
residual soils, most weathered shales and some weakly cemented soils such as hardpan, caliche or coquina.
1.11.2 Soils that will not readily disperse such as glauconitic clays or some dried plastic clays.
1.11.3 To test these soils, this test method must be adapted, or altered, and these alterations documented. Depending on the
design considerations, a specialized gradation-testing program could be performed. The alterations could require the washing and
sieving procedures to be standardized such that each specimen would be processed in a similar manner.
1.12 Some materials that are not soils, but are made up of particles may be tested using this method. However, the applicable
sections above should be used in applying this standard.
1.13 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in
Practice D6026, unless superseded by this test method.
1.13.1 The procedures used to specify how data are collected/recorded and calculated in this standard are regarded as the
industry standard. In addition, they are representative of the significant digits that generally should be retained. The procedures
used do not consider material variation, purpose for obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any considerations for the user’s
objectives; and it is common practice to increase or reduce significant digits of reported data to be commensurate with these
considerations. It is beyond the scope of these test methods to consider significant digits used in analysis methods for engineering
design.
1.14 Units—The dimensional values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard, such as 200-mm
or 8-in. diameter sieve. Except, the sieve designations are typically identified using the “alternative” system in accordance with
Practice E11, such as 3 in. and No. 200, instead of the “standard” system of 75 mm and 75 μm, respectively. Only the SI units
are used for mass determinations, calculations, and reported results. However, the use of balances or scales recording pounds of
mass (lbm) shall not be regarded as nonconformance with this standard.
1.15 A summary of the symbols used in this test method is given in Annex A1.
1.16 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory
limitations prior to use.
1.17 Table of Contents—All tables and figures appear at the end of this standard.
Section
Scope 1
Method A 1.6.1
Method B 1.6.2
Sample Processing 1.8
Units 1.14
Referenced Documents 2
ASTM Standards 2.1
Terminology 3
General 3.1
Definitions 3.2
Definitions of Terms Specific to This 3.3
Standard
Summary of Test Method 4
Significance and Use 5
Apparatus 6
Sieves 6.1
Standard Sieve Set 6.1.1
Washing Sieve, No. 200 (75-μm) 6.1.2
Designated Separating Sieve 6.1.3
Washing Sink with Spray Nozzle 6.2
Mechanical Sieve Shaker 6.3
´1
D6913 − 04 (2009)
Balances 6.4
Drying Oven 6.5
Sieving Containers 6.6
Specimen Containers 6.6.1
Collection/Transfer Device 6.6.2
Cumulative Mass Container 6.6.3
Sieve Brushes 6.7
Miscellaneous Items 6.8
Splitter or Riffle Box (optional) 6.9
Quartering Accessories (optional) 6.10
Mortar and Rubber-Covered Pestle 6.11
(optional)
Low Temperature Drying Oven 6.12
(optional)
Ultrasonic Water Bath (optional) 6.13
Dispersion Shaker (optional) 6.14
Reagents 7
Dispersant 7.1
Dry Addition 7.1.1.1
Solution 7.1.1.2
Preparation of Apparatus 8
Verification of Sieves 8.1
Verification Interval 8.1.1
Verification of Mechanical Sieve Shaker 8.2
and
Standard Shaking Period
Large Mechanical Sieve Shaker 8.2.1
Verification Interval 8.2.2
Hand Sieve Shaking Procedure 8.2.3
Sampling 9
General 9.1
Sample Sources 9.2
Bulk Samples 9.2.1
Jar and Small Bag Samples 9.2.2
Undisturbed Tube Samples 9.2.3
Samples from Prior Testing 9.2.4
Specimen 10
General 10.1
Minimum Mass Requirement 10.2
Selection of Sieving Procedure 10.3
Single Sieve-Set Sieving 10.3.1
Composite Sieving 10.3.2
Specimen Procurement 10.4
Moist Procedure 10.4.1
Air-Dried Procedure 10.4.2
Oven-Dried Procedure 10.4.3
Discussion on Segregating Soils 10.4.4
Specimen Procurement and Processing 10.5
Requirements
Moist Procedure, Single Sieve-Set 10.5.1
Sieving
Moist Procedure, Composite Sieving 10.5.2
Coarse Portion Acceptable Loss 10.5.2.3
(CP )
L
Air-Dried Procedure, General 10.5.3
Air-Dried Procedure, Single Sieve- 10.5.4
Set Sieving
Air-Dried Procedure, Composite 10.5.5
Sieving
Oven-Dried Procedure, General 10.5.6
Oven-Dried Procedure, Single Sieve- 10.5.7
Set Sieving
Oven-Dried Procedure, Composite 10.5.8
Sieving
Procedure (Sieving) 11
General 11.1
Mass Measurements 11.2
Sieve Overloading 11.3
Single Sieve-Set Sieving 11.4
Specimen Mass 11.4.1
Specimen Dispersion 11.4.2
Soaking without a Dispersant 11.4.2.1
Soaking with a Dispersant 11.4.2.2
Using an Ultrasonic Water Bath 11.4.2.3
Washing Specimen 11.4.3
General Precautions 11.4.3.1
Transfer Specimen 11.4.3.2
Washing 11.4.3.3
´1
D6913 − 04 (2009)
Transfer Washed Specimen 11.4.3.4
Dry Sieving 11.4.4
Sieve Set 11.4.4.1
Mechanical Shaking 11.4.4.2
Cumulative Material/Mass Retained 11.4.5
First Sieve 11.4.5.1
Remaining Sieves 11.4.5.2
Composite Sieving, Single Separation 11.5
Coarser Portion 11.5.1
Dispersing and Washing 11.5.1.1
Dry Sieving Coarser Portion 11.5.1.3
Subspecimen from Finer Portion 11.5.2
Dispersing and Washing 11.5.2.1
Subspecimen
Dry Sieving Subspecimen 11.5.2.2
Composite Sieving, Double Separation 11.6
st
Separating 1 Subspecimen 11.6.1
nd
Dispersing and Washing 2 Coarser 11.6.2
Portion
nd
Dry Sieving 2 Coarser Portion 11.6.3
nd
2 Subspecimen 11.6.4
nd
Dispersing and Washing 2 11.6.4.1
Subspecimen
nd
Dry Sieving 2 Subspecimen 11.6.4.2
Calculations 12
General 12.1
Sieve Overloading 12.2
Single Sieve-Set Sieving, Percent 12.3
Passing
Composite Sieving, Mass of Specimen 12.4
Composite Sieving, Single Separation 12.5
Composite Sieving, Coarser Portion 12.5.1
(CP)
CP, Percent Passing 12.5.1.1
CP, Composite Sieving Correction 12.5.1.2
Factor (CSCF)
CP, Acceptable Loss During 12.5.1.3
Washing
and Sieving
Composite Sieving, Subspecimen 12.5.2
(finer
portion)
Percent Passing, Specimen 12.5.2.1
(combined
coarser and finer portions)
Subspecimen, Acceptable 12.5.2.2
Fractional
Percent Retained
Percent Passing, Acceptance 12.5.2.3
Criterion
Finer Portion, Percent Passing 12.5.3
(optional)
Composite Sieving, Double Separation 12.6
st
1 Coarser Portion 12.6.1
st
1 Subspecimen 12.6.2
nd
Percent Passing, 2 Coarser 12.6.2.1
Portion
nd
2 Coarser Portion, Composite 12.6.2.2
Sieving
nd
Correction Factor (2 CSCF)
nd
2 Coarser Portion, Acceptable 12.6.2.3
Loss on
Sieving and Washing
nd
2 Coarser Portion, Acceptable 12.6.2.4
Fractional
Percent Retained
Percent Passing, Acceptance 12.6.2.5
Criterion
nd
2 Subspecimen 12.6.3
nd
Percent Passing, 2 Subspecimen 12.6.3.1
nd
2 Subspecimen, Acceptable 12.6.3.2
Fractional
Percent Retained
Percent Passing, Acceptance 12.6.3.3
Criterion
st
1 Finer Portion, Percent Passing 12.6.4
(optional)
´1
D6913 − 04 (2009)
nd
2 Finer Portion, Composite 12.6.4.1
Sieving
Correction Factor (optional)
nd
2 Finer Portion, Percent Passing 12.6.4.2
for
nd
2 Subspecimen (optional)
Report: Test Data Sheet(s)/Form(s) 13
Precision and Bias 14
Precision 14.1
Precision Data Analysis 14.1.1
Calculation of Precision 14.1.2
Acceptance Criterion 14.1.2.4
Triplicate Test Precision Data (TTPD) 14.1.3
TTPD Method A Repeatability 14.1.3.1
TTPD -Method A Reproducibility 14.1.3.2
TTPD -Method B Repeatability 14.1.3.3
TTPD -Method B Reproducibility 14.1.3.4
Single Test Precision Data (STPD) 14.1.4
STPD -Method A Reproducibility 14.1.4.1
STPD -Method B Reproducibility 14.1.4.2
Soils Type 14.1.5
Discussion on Precision 14.1.6
Bias 14.2
Keywords 15
ANNEXES
Symbols Annex A1
Sample to Specimen Splitting/Reduction Annex A2
Methods
General A2.1
Mechanical Splitting A2.1.1
Quartering A2.1.2
Miniature Stockpile Sampling A2.1.3
Sample Processing Recommendation A2.2
Based
on Soil Type
Clean Gravel (GW, GP) and Clean A2.2.1
Sand
(SW, SP)
Gravel with Fines (GM, GC, GC-GM, A2.2.2
GW-GM, GP-GM, GP-GC)
Sand with Silt Fines (SW-SM, SP- A2.2.3
SM,
SM)
Sand with Clay and Silt Fines or Clay A2.2.4
Fines (SW-SC, SP-SC, SC, SC-
SM)
Silts with Sand or Gravel, or Both A2.2.5
(ML,
MH)
Organic Soils with Sand or Gravel, or A2.2.6
Both (OL, OH)
APPENDIXES
Example Test Data Sheets/Forms Appendix X1
General X1.1
Precision: Example Calculations Appendix X2
General X2.1
TABLES and FIGURES
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C1
...