GDS Electro-Mechanical Dynamic Cyclic Simple Shear (EMDCSS)

The GDS Electromechanical Dynamic Cyclic Simple Shear Device (EMDCSS) is for simple shear testing only. It is capable of carrying out dynamic cyclic tests from small strain (0.005% shear strain amplitude) to large strain (10% shear strain amplitude), as well as extremely accurate quasi-static testing. This is the choice for a no-compromise simple shear machine with the greatest range of testing capability. The perfect choice for advanced commercial testing or academic research.


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  • A cylindrical soil specimen is laterally confined by Teflon coated low friction retaining rings, ensuring a constant cross sectional area (or K-zero conditions).
  • Vertical displacement can be prevented, therefore constant volume conditions are enforced (i.e Simple Shear). 
  • Linear encoder for high accuracy measurements over longer travels.
  • High quality, low friction linear guides used to ensure strength and alignment in normal and shear directions.
  • Static/monotonic tests with no minimum rate.
  • Complies to ASTM D6528 and in accordance with NGI testing procedures.
  • Electro-mechanical actuators that give superior performance when compared to pneumatic equivalents, meaning full amplitude tests (up to +/-1mm) can be carried out at 5Hz.
  • Mains power supply means no external noisy power pack is required. System draws only the power that is required.
  • Direct closed loop of axial force means accurate testing with no user tuning / intervention during a test.
  • Direct closed loop of Normal and Shear displacement allows accurate testing with no user tuning / intervention required during a test.
  • Independent control of axial axis and cell pressure axis allows tests such as out of phase loadings.
  • Pre-programmed sine, havesine, triangular and square waveforms provides ease of use for standard tests.
  • Axial linear guidance provided by super-stiff crossed-roller bearings. 200mm bearing length to provide stability. Ensures minimal rotation of the topcap during shearing.  Allowing testing to be simple shear rather than rotational motion.  
  • Shear linear guidance provided by super-stiff crossed-roller bearings. 200mm bearing length to provide stability. High load capacity with low friction and accurate linear guidance.
  • Stiff frame construction including 2 off 38mm anti-compliance bars to maintain system rigidity.
Data AquisitionIntegrated with control module with 8 (+/- 10V range) input channels, 16 bit A/D converters.
Dimensions1200mm (H) x 500mm (L) X 770mm
Displacement Rangeaxial = +/- 25mm, shear = +/- 15mm: Accuracy = <0.1% FSO (In practice, axial range is +/-50mm to aid sample placement, however measured stroke is +/- 25mm).
Displacement Resolution16 bit (i.e. +/- 20mm = 0.6μm, +/- 15mm = +/- 0.5μm, +/- 2.5mm = <0.1μm)
Load Range (kN)5, 10
Operating Frequency (Hz)0 to 5Hz
Power240V or 110V 50/60Hz 1 ph
Sample Sizesup to 100mm
Weight Approx (kg)160
P and S wave measurements with Bender Element system.


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