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Gilson Insights

Have questions about your materials testing equipment?  We have the answers to these questions and much more right here! Check back monthly for long-form blog posts, how-to guides and infographics. We’ll address industry insights, the operation and maintenance of specific equipment, and our product line recommendations, all designed to better serve you.

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Consolidation Test of Soil: A Comprehensive Guide

In this blog, we will highlight the range of equipment available to perform this fundamental test method. ASTM test method D2435, and its AASHTO equivalent T 216, are the most common one-dimensional soil consolidation tests carried out today.

Build the Optimal System for Your Geotechnical Applications with Load Frames

A basic load frame offers flexibility to become a multi-functional testing apparatus simply by adding or removing individual components designed for specific soil tests – and your testing needs. This blog post explores what to consider in determining the right type of load frame, as well as components and fixtures to select from that, can adapt it for different tests and ensure efficiency in the materials testing lab.

Construction Materials Testing Certifications: an Overall Compilation
 Overall Certification Compilation

Over the past several months, we have explored various materials testing technician certifications and what it takes to achieve them. This final summary blog in the series includes what’s new, schedules for 2018 programs and testing, and a downloadable PDF Resource List. As any additional information becomes available, we will update the blog series accordingly.

Soil Technician Certification for Materials Testing: Is it for you?
Soil Technician Certification

Ready to dig into what it takes to earn a soil technician certification? This blog post provides information on soil/geotechnical materials testing certifications and the resources that are available to help get you there.

Construction Material Testing: 7 Things to Know About Certification
Construction Materials Testing: 7 Things to Know About Certification

An ever-increasing number of regulations, project requirements and even individual test methods require that laboratory and field personnel undergo specific training and pass certification examinations before they can perform certain tests for the record. This, and the wide array of training and certification programs available from different organizations, underscore the importance that the engineering and construction communities place on expertise, competency and accuracy in all areas of construction materials testing.

Soil Classification: Foundation and Pavement Design Starts Here
Soil Classification: Foundation and Pavement Design Starts Here

In this blog, we explore the two primary forms of soil classification for geotechnical purposes. Visual and laboratory classifications of soils are two distinct procedures that are part of a complete soils investigation.

Proctor Compaction Test: A Basic Guide
Proctor Compaction Test: A Basic Guide

This blog post covers everything you need to know about the Proctor Compaction Test including history, importance, procedure, tips and more.

Atterberg Limits: A Quick Reference Guide
Atterberg Limits: A Quick Reference Guide

This blog post outlines the three main components that encompass Atterberg Limits, explains why these tests are important, and covers basic equipment used in these procedures.

How to Optimize Fines Content Determinations
HM-57R Infographic

Gilson Automatic Aggregate Washers efficiently wash fines out of aggregate and soil samples for sample preparation or determination of fines fractions.

How Simple Soils Inspection Equipment Promotes Trench Safety

Before workers are allowed to enter an excavation, it’s important to evaluate conditions and make decisions about safety. Proper soil classification and evaluation is an important component of keeping your workers safe. This post outlines three equipment solutions that can significantly reduce the number of trenching accidents occurring on the job.