Description
Accurate and reliable soil shear strength measurements are crucial for geotechnical investigations and site analysis. The hand shear vane is a compact, yet vital tool for determining the undrained shear strength of cohesive soils directly in the field. At CAPCO, we specialise in the calibration and servicing of hand shear vane testers, ensuring your equipment remains precise, compliant, and ready for dependable on-site measurements.
What Is a Hand Shear Vane?
A hand shear vane, sometimes known as a field vane tester, is used to assess the shear strength of soft to medium-stiff clays. It consists of a set of vanes mounted to a rod, which is manually rotated into the soil. By measuring the torque required to cause soil failure, engineers and technicians can determine its undrained shear strength, which plays a key role in foundation design, slope stability analysis, and earthworks planning.
This portable testing device is widely used by civil engineers, geologists, and soil technicians for quick, in-situ soil strength evaluation—particularly in areas where machine-driven tests may not be feasible. However, to maintain data integrity and meet industry standards, regular calibration of the equipment is essential.
Professional Hand Vane Tester Calibration Services
At CAPCO, we offer expert hand vane tester calibration services, carried out by highly trained technicians using traceable calibration tools and protocols. Our calibration process is aligned with current British Standards and international norms, ensuring complete accuracy and consistency in your soil testing results.
During calibration, we inspect all mechanical parts, evaluate torque measurement accuracy, and verify alignment with calibration weights and rotational resistance standards. Upon completion, your equipment is returned with a full calibration certificate that can be included in project documentation or compliance reports.
We service a range of vane tester models, including those with various torque ranges and vane sizes, ensuring that our calibration service supports both traditional and modern equipment variations. Whether you’re an individual field technician or part of a large construction firm, our calibration services are tailored to meet your operational needs.
Why Calibration Matters for Soil Testing Equipment
Over time and with regular use, hand shear vane equipment can develop inconsistencies due to wear, dirt ingress, or environmental exposure. Even slight deviations in torque resistance can lead to misleading soil strength values, putting the integrity of your geotechnical projects at risk.
Routine calibration:
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Ensures accurate soil shear strength readings
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Complies with British and international testing standards
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Prevents costly rework or structural errors
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Increases confidence in engineering design decisions
Additionally, adhering to regular maintenance and calibration schedules enhances the lifespan of your hand vane tester and reduces the likelihood of downtime due to equipment failure.
