GDS Instruments recently installed a Quasi Dynamic Triaxial system, with sample ranges up to 150mm at the University of California Davis. The system was purchased with a Bender Elements upgrade and expanded data acquisition allowing for future instrumentation upgrades.
The system will be used for undergraduate projects, Masters projects and PhD level research. At present the use of the system is to be determined but with a system capable of the standard triaxial test methods, alongside upgraded capabilities for slow dynamic and bender elements, this system is sure to provide the university with a wide range of research options.
Alongside the Triaxial system the University brought a custom designed Ring Shear/Interface Shear Cell compatible with the GDS Ring Shear/Interface Shear Frame. This system is to be used for expanded PhD research already being produced at the University using a Shearbox setup. This design allows for the platen-soil interface to be tested at the upper interface (Conventional method) or the lower interface depending on the setup of the cell. Use of the lower interface means the sample is prepared on top of this interface aiming to improve the engagement at the platen-soil interface.
Last months installation was not our first visit to UC Davis. The University purchased a GDS EMDCSS system back in 2019. The first PhD student to use the system, is currently finalising their thesis. They are continuing further research using the device and will be publishing papers on their findings in the first part of 2022.
For more information about University California Davis, you can visit their website here.