A simple axial displacement gauge for use in the triaxial apparatus

Abstract

The use of electrolytic liquid levels as horizontal inclinometers is described for the measurement of local displacements and strains on laboratory soil samples. The simplicity, accuracy and low-cost of electrolytic levels are said to make such units useful in transducer applications. The liquid level consists of an electrolyte sealed in a glass capsule with three co-planar electrodes partially immersed in the electrolyte. Resistance between the electrodes vary as the capsule is tilted. Inclinometer apparatus described uses an electrolevel for measurement of local torsional strains in soil and it is shown how such a vertical deflection gauge can be used in a triaxial test apparatus for application in routine soil testing. (Author/TRRL)