Section 3

Test Methods for Equipment

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
3 Test Methods For Equipments ................................................................................................................ 3-1
3.1 General ............................................................................................................................................ 3-1
3.2 Standard Method of Test for Sieve for testing purposes Part I - Methods of “Testing Sieves” ..... 3-2
3.2.1 Scope........................................................................................................................................ 3-2
3.2.2 Definitions ................................................................................................................................. 3-2
3.2.3 Instruments ............................................................................................................................... 3-2
3.2.4 Methods of Testing and Calibration of Wire Cloth Sieves:-...................................................... 3-2
3.2.5 Methods of Testing and Calibration of Perforated Plate Sieves:-............................................. 3-3
3.2.6 References................................................................................................................................ 3-3
3.3 Part II - Wire Cloth Test Sieves........................................................................................................ 3-4
3.3.1 Scope........................................................................................................................................ 3-4
3.3.2 Definitions: ................................................................................................................................ 3-4
3.3.3 Requirements............................................................................................................................ 3-5
3.3.4 Marking ..................................................................................................................................... 3-6
3.3.5 Testing Methods ....................................................................................................................... 3-7
3.3.6 Packaging ................................................................................................................................. 3-7
3.3.7 References.............................................................................................................................. 3-12
3.4 Standard Method of Test for Weights and Balances Used in Testing of Highway Materials ........ 3-13
3.4.1 Scope...................................................................................................................................... 3-13
3.4.2 Definitions ............................................................................................................................... 3-13
3.4.3 Requirements.......................................................................................................................... 3-13
3.5 Standard Method of Test for Terms Relating to Density and Specific Gravity of Solids, Liquids and
Gases ....................................................................................................................................................... 3-16
3.5.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................................. 3-16
3.6 Standard Method for Load Verification of Tensile Testing Machines (SSA 211/1981) ................. 3-18
3.6.1 Scope...................................................................................................................................... 3-18
3.6.2 Definitions ............................................................................................................................... 3-18
3.6.3 Requirements.......................................................................................................................... 3-18
3.6.4 Verification Methods ............................................................................................................... 3-19
3.6.5 Calculations and Results: ....................................................................................................... 3-21
3.7 References..................................................................................................................................... 3-22

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FIGURES
Figure 3-1 Graduated Scale for Checking of Wire Cloth Test Sieve .............................................................. 3-4
Figure 3-2 Graduated Scale for Checking of Perforated Plate Test Sieves................................................... 3-4
Figure 3-3: Plain Weave ............................................................................................................................... 3-11
Figure 3-4: Twilled Weave ............................................................................................................................ 3-11
Figure 3-5: Measurement of Woven Wire Aperture Size.............................................................................. 3-11
Figure 3-6:Verification of a Tensile Testing machine Using a Proving Levers and Proving Ring ................ 3-23
Figure 3-7: Standardizing box....................................................................................................................... 3-24

TABLES
Table 3-1: List of Test Method for General Test............................................................................................. 3-1
Table 3-2: Materials for wire cloth................................................................................................................... 3-5
Table 3-3: Frame Dimensions ........................................................................................................................ 3-6
Table 3-4: Standard Test Sieves .................................................................................................................... 3-8
Table 3-5: Sieves Designation and Their Sizes............................................................................................ 3-12
Table 3-6: Tolerances of Analytical Weights ................................................................................................ 3-14
Table 3-7: Tolerances of General Purpose Weights .................................................................................... 3-14
Table 3-8: Requirements for Balances ......................................................................................................... 3-15

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3 TEST METHODS FOR EQUIPMENTS

3.1 General
Several items are required for good quality control testing. They include representative sampling, proper test
procedures and adequate test equipment. Sampling and test procedures are more directly related to the
training and abilities of the Engineers and Technician involved, however their efforts are wasted if the
equipment they are using are not in good condition and accurately calibrated in accordance with the test
procedure involved. This section presents several specifications and methods used to ensure that the testing
equipment described will provide consistent and accurate test results. In this connection list of Four General
Methods are given below:
The following list provides a summary of test methods by numerical order:
Table 3-1: List of Test Method for General Test
Test Name
Sieve for Testing Purpose
Weights and Balances Used in Testing of Highway Materials
Terms Relating to Density and Specific Gravity of Solids, Liquids and Gases
Verification of Testing Machine

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3.2 Standard Method of Test for Sieve for testing purposes

Part I - Methods of “Testing Sieves”
3.2.1 Scope
This standard is concerned with methods of testing and calibration of test sieves of metal wire cloth or
perforated plate sieving mediums.

3.2.2 Definitions
Particle - A discrete part of the material regardless of its size.
Sieving medium - A surface containing regularly arranged apertures of uniform shape and size.
Certified Test Sieve - A test sieve that has been examined and certified, by an authority accredited
for the purpose, as complying with agreed specifications.

3.2.3 Instruments
A suitable projector with magnification lenses.
A set of graduated scales specially made for test purposes.
Inside and outside vernier callipers (of an accuracy 0.02 mm)
Micrometer ( of an accuracy 0.02 mm)
Limited-tapered plate gauges (flat or round)
Graduated ruler – to 0.5 mm.

3.2.4 Methods of Testing and Calibration of Wire Cloth Sieves:-

(a) Visual examination of general condition of wire cloth.

(i) If an obvious defect in the screening medium or the construction of the sieve is visually apparent,
to include bends, creases, wrinkles, tears, punctures, plugged apertures, or other deficiencies
such as obvious deviation from specified measurement, the sieve shall be rejected.

(b) Examination of the regularity of the weaving of the wire cloth (apertures)

(i) Sieves with apertures greater than 9.5 mm shall be tested using venire callipers, micrometer or
flat or round limit-tapered plate gauges. Sieve with measurements nonconforming to the values
and tolerances mentioned in the table shall be rejected.

(ii) Sieves with apertures up to 9.5 mm shall be tested using a projector forming an illuminated
background on a screen to show a clear picture of the apertures of the wire cloth of the tested
sieve as follows:

The sieve to be tested shall be placed on the sieve holder and held rigidly in a position with its
bottom toward the light source. The beam of light shall be perpendicular on the screen. The
projected image shall be uniformly illuminated and of constant magnification at all points with in a
tolerance of + 0.1%.

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The linear magnification of the image on the screen shall be 100 times for fine sieves with apertures
up to 1.00 mm, and 50 times for medium sieves with apertures more than 1 mm up to 9.5 mm.
The aperture widths and wire diameters shall be checked by measuring the image projected on the
screen with the appropriate graduated scale (see fig-1). Any sieve which do not conform to the
dimensions and tolerances mentioned in the tolerance chart shall be rejected.

3.2.5 Methods of Testing and Calibration of Perforated Plate Sieves:-

(a) Visual examination of general condition of the perforated plate

(i) If obvious defects in the screening medium or the construction of the sieve is visually apparent, to
include creases, wrinkles, tears, punctures, bends, plugged apertures and obvious deviation from
specified measurements, the sieve shall be rejected.

(b) Examination of measurement of apertures size

(i) Dimensions of individual apertures shall be checked over any selected area of the sieve plate
along two straight lines of different directions, each of 100mm length at least and shall include
five apertures. In case of round apertures, the angle between the two selected straight lines shall
be 600. In case of square apertures the angle between the lines shall be 900. This test may be
carried out along a straight diametrical line not less than 150mm length which includes eight
apertures at least.

(ii) Apertures of 9.5 mm or greater shall be measured by using venire callipers, micrometer or flat or
round limit tapered plate gauges. Apertures less than 9.5 mm shall be measured by using the
projector method mentioned in 4.2.2. Any sieve which does not conform to the dimensions and
tolerances shall be rejected.

(c) Examination of perforated plate thickness

(i)
Venire callipers or any other instrument with a suitable venire shall be used to measure the
perforated plate thickness to ensure conformity of its dimensions to the values and tolerances.
Venire callipers or any other instrument with a suitable venire shall be used to measure the
perforated plate thickness to ensure conformity of its dimensions to the values and tolerances.

3.2.6 References

(a) Main references

(i) International Standard ISO 3310 “Test Sieve” Part 1/1975 “Metal Wire Cloth” PartII/1975 “Metal
Perforated Plate”.

(ii) American National Standards: ANI E 11/1977 “Wire Cloth Sieves for testing purposes”. ANSI E
323/1977 “Perforated Plate Sieve for Testing Purposes.”

(iii) British Standard BS 410/1976 “Specification for Test Sieve.”

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O W -Y + YZ
X
X 100
1.18 mm SSA. Sieve
1.34
Max. “X”
1.8 + 0.04
Average “+Y”
1.28
Intermediate “z”
0.63
Wire Diameter “W”

Figure 3-1 Graduated Scale for Checking of Wire Cloth Test Sieve

O (-) B (+) (-) A (+) P

4.00 mm. SSA. Sieve X 25

A(+) Normal size
B(+) Width of Bridge
P( ) Pitch

Figure 3-2 Graduated Scale for Checking of Perforated Plate Test Sieves

3.3 Part II - Wire Cloth Test Sieves

3.3.1 Scope
This standard is concerned with test sieves with metal wire cloth as sieving medium mounted in a frame.

3.3.2 Definitions:
Sieving Medium-A surface of wire containing regularly arranged square apertures of uniform shape
and size.
Wire Cloth - A Sieving medium made of metal wires interlaced with each other to form the apertures.
Sieve- An apparatus for the purpose of sieving, consisting of a sieving medium mounted in a frame.
Test Sieve- A sieve intended for the particle size analysis of the material to be sieved.
Certified Test Sieve- A test sieve that has been examined and certified by an authority accredited for
the purpose as complying with agreed specifications.

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Matched Test Sieve- A test sieve reproduces the results of a master test sieve within defined
tolerance limits of a given material.
Full set of Test Sieves- A set of test sieves of a given type of sieving medium contained in standard
Specification.
Regular set of Test Sieves – A number of sieves taken in regular order from a full set of test sieves,
for particle size analysis of the material.
Irregular Set of Test Sieves – A number of sieves taken in irregular order from a full set of test
sieves, for particle size analysis of the material.
Nest of Test Sieves – A set (regular or irregular) of test sieves assembled together with a cover and
receiver.
Frame – A rigid framework that supports the sieving medium and limits the spread of the material
being sieved.
Cover – A lid, which fits snugly over a sieve to prevent escape of the material being sieved.
Receiver – A pan, which fits snugly beneath a sieve to receive the whole of the passing fraction.
Aperture Size – Dimension defining the length of an opening side.
Percent of Sieving Area – Ratio of the area of the apertures to the total area of sieving medium as a
percentage.
Wire Diameter – Diameter of the wire in the woven cloth.
Wrap – All wires running length wise of the cloth as woven.
Weft – All wires running crosswise of the cloth as woven.
Type of Weave – The way in which warp and weft wires cross each other.
- Plain weave – A weave in which every warp wire crosses alternately above and below every
weft wire and vice versa (see fig.1).
- The willed Weave – A weave in which every warp wire crosses alternately above and below
every second weft wire and vice versa (see Fig.2)

3.3.3 Requirements
The following requirements shall be met in test sieves:
Sieving medium
- Wire cloth shall be woven from brass, phosphor bronze, and steel or from any other suitable
material according to the aperture size (see Tab.-1)
Table 3-2: Materials for wire cloth
Aperture Size Material
Less than 250 µm Phosphor bronze
250 µm to 850 µm Phosphor bronze or brass
1.00 to 3.5 mm Phosphor bronze, brass or steel
4.00 mm and above Brass or steel

- The wire cloth shall be plain woven to produce uniform square apertures.
- Wire cloth shall be plain woven except in the case of 63 µm and finer where it can be twilled.
- The full set of standard sieves shall be one of the sets mentioned in table 2.

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- The wires clothe shall be so mounted in the frame as to be held firmly and equally taut in all
directions.
- Both the wrap and weft wires shall be crimped before weaving so as to be rigid when in use.
- There shall be no punctures or other obvious defects in the wire cloth.
Aperture Size
- The measured aperture size before the sieve is used shall comply with the nominal size with in
the tolerances given in Table2. Aperture size is measured on the centre lines of the aperture
(Fig. 3). The tolerances shall apply both to the warp and weft directions separately.
- No aperture size shall exceed the nominal value by more than the tolerance “X.”
- The average size shall not be greater or smaller than the nominal value by more than the
tolerance “Y.”
- Not more than 6 percent of the measured apertures shall depart from nominal size by more than
the tolerance “Z”.
X+Y
Where Z =
2
Frame
The frame of a test sieve shall be made of brass, stainless steel or other suitable material. It shall be
cylindrical in shape and shall conform to dimensions given in Table-2
Table 3-3: Frame Dimensions
Nominal Depth from Top Depth from Bottom Minimum Effective
Diameter Edge to Sieving Edge to Sieving Diameter of Sieving Aperture size
D. (mm) Surface,C1(mm) Surface C2 (mm) Surface (mm)
100 40 15 62 Up to 125 µm
From 150 µm to
200 50 15 175
3.6 mm
More than
300 75 15 275
3.6 mm

Receiver
The receiver shall be constructed of the same metal and of the same thickness as that of the frame of the
corresponding test sieve.
Cover
- A fitting flat cover shall be provided with the test sieve upon the purchaser’s request.
- The cover shall be constructed of the same metal and thickness of the frame of the
corresponding test sieve.
- The cover may be fitted with a handle or knob.
Sieves, receivers and covers shall be smoothly finished. The seal between frame and sieving medium shall
be formed so as to prevent lodging of the material to be sieved. There shall be no lacquer on surfaces, which
come into contact with the sieve sample.

3.3.4 Marking
Each sieve shall bear a permanent metallic label attached to the frame, legibly marked with the following
information:-
The manufacturer’s name or trade mark.

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The material of the wire cloth.

The material of the sieve frame.
The nominal size of the aperture (in micrometres or mm).

3.3.5 Testing Methods

Wire cloth test sieves shall be tested according to “Method of Testing Sieve of Test Sieves”.
Tests
- Visual inspection to examine the general condition of wire cloth.
- Examination of the regularity of weaving of wire cloth.

3.3.6 Packaging
After testing, sieves shall be packed in polyethylene bags and then put in to carton boxes to ensure that they
have adequate protection before reaching the user.

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Table 3-4: Standard Test Sieves

Nominal Size of Aperture, W Aperture tolerances Wire Diameters
Maximum Tolerance Intermediat Preferre Permissible
Principal Supplement Supplement Tolerance for e Tolerance d Size Range of
sizes ary Sizes, ary sizes for Average Choice
R20 R40/3 anyone Aperture d d min.
R20/3
Aperture, Size +Z d max.
+X + Y
125 125 4.51 3.66 4.09 8 9.2 6.8
112 - 4.15 3.29 3.72 8 9.2 5.8
125
106 3.99 3.12 3.55 6.3 7.2 5.4
100 - 3.82 2.94 3.38 6.3 7.2 5.4
90.0 90.0 3.53 2.66 3.09 6.3 7.2 5.4
80.0 - 3.24 2.37 2.8 6.3 7.2 5.4
90.0
- 75.0 3.09 2.22 2.65 6.3 7.2 5.4
71.0 - 2.97 2.10 2.54 5.6 6.4 4.8
63.0 63.0 2.71 1.87 2.29 5.6 6.4 4.8
56.0 - 2.49 1.67 2.08 5 5.8 4.3
63.0
- 53.0 2.39 1.58 1.99 5 5.8 4.3
50.0 - 2.29 1.49 1.89 5 5.8 4.3
45.0 45.0 2.12 1.35 1.73 4.5 5.2 3.8
40.0 - 1.94 1.20 1.57 4.5 5.2 3.8
45.0
- 37.5 1.85 1.13 1.49 4.5 5.2 3.8
35.5 - 1.78 1.07 1.42 4 4.6 3.4
31.5 31.5 1.63 0.95 1.29 4 4.6 3.4
28.0 - 1.50 0.85 1.17 3.55 4.1 3
31.5
- 26.5 1.44 0.80 1.12 3.55 4.1 3
25.0 - 1.38 0.76 1.07 3.55 4.1 3
22.4 22.4 1.27 0.68 0.98 3.55 4.1 3
20.0 - 1.17 0.61 0.89 3.15 3.6 2.7
22.4
- 19.0 1.13 0.58 0.85 3.15 3.6 2.7
18.0 - 1.08 0.55 0.82 3.15 3.6 2.7
16.0 16.0 0.99 0.49 0.74 3.15 3.6 2.7
14.0 - 0.9 0.43 0.67 2.8 3.2 2.4
16.0
- 13.2 0.86 0.41 0.64 2.8 3.2 2.4
12.5 - 0.83 0.39 0.61 2.5 2.9 2.1
11.2 11.2 0.77 0.35 0.56 2.5 2.9 2.1
10.0 - 0.71 0.31 0.51 2.5 2.9 2.1
11.2
- 9.50 0.68 0.30 0.49 2.24 2.6 1.9
9.00 - 0.65 0.28 0.47 2.24 2.6 1.9
8.00 8.00 0.60 0.25 0.43 2 2.3 1.7
7.1 - 0.55 0.22 0.38 1.8 2.1 1.5
8.00
- 6.70 0.53 0.21 0.37 1.8 2.1 1.5
6.3 - 0.51 0.20 0.35 1.8 2.1 1.5
5.60 5.60 0.47 0.18 0.32 1.6 1.9 1.3
5.00 - 0.43 0.16 0.29 1.6 1.9 1.3
5.60
- 4.75 0.41 0.15 0.28 1.6 1.9 1.3
4.50 - 0.40 0.14 0.27 1.4 1.7 1.2

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Table 3.3 (contd.)

Nominal Size of Aperture, W Aperture tolerances Wire Diameters
Maximum Tolerance Intermediat Preferre Permissible
Suppleme Tolerance for Range of
Principal Suppleme e Tolerance d Size
ntary for Average Choice
sizes ntary sizes
Sizes, Any one Aperture d d min.
R20/3 R40/3
R20 Aperture, Size max.
+Z d
+X + Y
4.00 4.00 0.37 0.13 0.25 1.4 1.7 1.2
3.55 - 0.34 0.11 0.23 1.25 1.5 1.06
4.00
- 3.35 0.32 0.11 0.22 1.25 1.5 1.06
3.15 - 0.31 0.10 0.21 1.25 1.5 1.06
2.80 2.80 0.29 0.09 0.19 1.12 1.3 0.95
2.50 - 0.26 0.08 0.17 1 1.15 0.85
2.80
- 2.36 0.25 0.08 0.17 1 1.15 0.85
2.24 - 0.24 0.07 0.16 0.90 1.04 0.77
2.00 2.00 0.23 0.07 0.15 0.90 1.04 0.77
1.80 - 0.21 0.06 0.14 0.80 0.92 0.68
2.00
- 1.70 0.20 0.06 0.13 0.80 0.92 0.68
1.60 - 0.19 0.05 0.12 0.8 0.92 0.68
1.40 1.40 0.18 0.05 0.11 0.71 0.82 0.60
1.25 - 0.16 0.04 0.10 0.63 0.72 0.54
1.40
- 1.18 0.16 0.04 0.10 0.63 0.72 0.54
1.12 - 0.15 0.04 0.10 0.56 0.64 0.48
1.00 1.00 0.14 0.03 0.09 0.56 0.64 0.48
900 - 131 31 81 500 580 430
1.00
- 850 127 29 78 500 580 430
800 - 122 28 75 450 520 380
710 710 112 25 69 450 520 380
630 - 104 22 63 400 460 340
710
- 600 101 21 61 400 460 340
560 - 96 20 58 355 410 300
500 500 89 18 54 315 360 270
450 - 84 16 50 280 320 240
500
- 425 81 16 48 280 320 240
400 - 78 15 47 250 29 210
355 355 72 13 43 224 260 190
315 - 67 12 40 200 230 170
355
- 300 65 12 38 200 230 170
280 - 62 11 37 180 210 150
250 250 58 9.9 34 160 190 130
224 - 54 9.0 32 160 190 130
250
- 212 52 8.7 30 140 170 120
200 - 50 8.3 29 140 170 120
180 180 47 7.6 27 125 150 106
160 - 44 6.9 25 112 130 95
180
- 150 43 6.6 25 100 130 95
140 - 41 6.3 24 100 115 85

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Table 3.3 (contd.)

Nominal Size of Aperture, W Aperture tolerances Wire Diameters

Maximum Tolerance Intermediat Preferre Permissible

Suppleme Tolerance for e Tolerance d Size Range of
Principal Suppleme
ntary for Any Average Choice
sizes ntary sizes
Sizes, One Aperture
R20/3 R40/3 Aperture, Size d
R20 d min.
+X + Y max.
+Z d

125 125 38 5.8 22 90 104 77

112 - 36 5.4 21 80 92 68
125
- 106 35 5.2 20 71 82 60
100 - 34 5.0 19 71 82 60
90 90 32 4.6 18 63 72 54
80 - 30 4.3 17 56 64 48
90
- 75 29 4.1 17 50 58 43
71 - 28 4.0 16 50 58 43
63 63 26 3.7 15 45 52 38
56 - 25 3.5 14 40 46 34
63
- 53 24 3.4 14 36 41 31
50 - 23 3.3 13 36 41 31
45 45 22 3.1 13 32 37 27
40 - - - - 32 37 27
- 38 - - - 30 35 24
36 - - - - 30 35 24
32 32 - - - 28 33 23
45
28 - - - - 25 - -
- 26 - - - 25 - -
25 - - - - 25 - -
22 22 - - - 22 - -
20 - - - - 20 - -

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Figure 3-3: Plain Weave Figure 3-4: Twilled Weave

Figure 3-5: Measurement of Woven Wire Aperture Size

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Table 3-5: Sieves Designation and Their Sizes

ISO sieves BS sieves ASTM Sieves
Aperture
Designation Aperture (mm) Designation Aperture (mm) Designation
(mm)
50mm 50.0 2-in 50.80 2-in. 50.80
40mm 40.0 1 ½ -in. 38.11 1 ½ in. 38.10
20mm 20.0 ¾ -in. 19.05 ¾ in. 19.00
10mm 10.0 3/8 –in. 9.52 3/8 –in. 9.91
4.75mm 4.75 3/16 –in. 4.76 4 4.76
2.36mm 2.36 7 2.4 8 2.38
1.18mm 1.18 14 2.00 16 1.19
710-micron 0.710 22 0.710 25 0.707
600micron 25 0.600 25 30 0.595
425micron 0.425 36 0.425 40 0.420
300micron 0.300 52 0.300 50 0.297
250micron 0.250 60 0.250 60 0.250
150micron 0.150 100 0.150 100 0.149
75micron 0.075 200 0.075 200 0.074

3.3.7 References
Main references
- International Standard ISO 3310-1/1975 “Test Sieves – Technical Requirements and testing –
Part1: Metal Wire Cloth.”
- ISO 2395/1972 “Test Sieves and Test Sieving Vocabulary.”
Other references
- British Standard BS 410/1976, “Specifications for Test Sieves”.
- ANSI/ASTM E 11-70/1977 “Standard Specifications for Wire Cloth Sieves for Testing Purposes.”
- Deutsche Normen
- DIN 4188/1977 “Screening Surfaces; Wire Screens for Test Sieves; Dimensions.”
- DIN 4189/1968 “Screening Surfaces Woven Wire Cloth Made of Steel, Stainless Steel, and
Nonferrous Metals; Dimensions.”

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3.4 Standard Method of Test for Weights and Balances Used in

Testing of Highway Materials
3.4.1 Scope
This Specification covers requirements for weight and balances used in the testing of highway materials.

3.4.2 Definitions
Definitions applicable to weights are as follows:
Analytical Weights – Weights used for analytical work.
General Purpose Weights – Weights used for general laboratory weighing.
Definitions applicable to balances are as follows:
Readability – The smallest fraction of a division at which the index scale can be read with ease either
by estimation or by use of a vernier on a direct reading balance.
Sensitivity – Ability of a balance to respond to an applied load at any test point within the rated
capacity.
Accuracy – Conformance of the indications or deliveries of a balance within applicable tolerances as
determined by tests made with suitable standards.
Simple Balance – A balance designed primarily for use in conjunction with a set of weights. There
may or may not be a weigh beam.
Direct Reading Balance – A balance on which the weights of applied loads of various Magnitudes
are either automatically indicated throughout all or a portion of the weighing range of the balance
measured by means of a weigh beam.
Weigh beam – An element comprising one or more bars, equipped with movable poises or means
for applying counter poise weights or both.
Basis of Purchase
Weights – The purchaser should specify the type of weights desired.
Balances –The purchaser should specify the types and classes of balance desired.

3.4.3 Requirements

(a) Weigh shall conform to the following requirements:

(i) Analytical weights shall conform to Class S-1 requirements as described in the United States’
National Bureau of Standards Handbook 77, Part III, and the applicable tolerances shown in table
1 of this specification.

(ii) General-purpose weights shall conform to the requirements for metric weights as described in the
third edition of the United States’ National Bureau of Standards Hand book44 and the applicable
tolerances shown in Table2 of this specification.
Balances shall conform to the requirements of Table 3 for the type and class specified. Whenever
a particular class of balance is specified in a Test Method, any (alphabetically) higher class of
balance may be substituted, provided the balance has sufficient capacity for the weighing
normally required by the Test Method.

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Table 3-6: Tolerances of Analytical Weights Table 3-7: Tolerances of General Purpose
Weights
Tolerances of Weights
Weights Tolerances on Weights in
In Use, + mg Weights, g
Use, + mg
Grams
2000 0.40
100 1.0
1000 0.25
50 0.6
500 0.20
30 0.45 300 0.15
20 0.35
200 0.10
10 0.25
100 0.07
5 0.18 50 0.04
2 0.13
30 0.03
1 0.10
20 0.02
Milligrams 10 0.02
500 0.080
5 0.01
300 0.070
3 0.01
200 0.060 2 0.01
100 0.050
1 0.01
50 0.042 The permissible tolerances of new weights
30 0.038 shall be one half the permissible tolerances
on used weights.
20 0.035
10 0.030
Two thirds of the weights in a new set must
be within one half the individual tolerances

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Table 3-8: Requirements for Balances

Type 1 Type 1 Recommended
Simple Balances Direct Reading Balances Maximum
Class
Sensitivity, Accuracy, Readability, Sensitivity, Accuracy, Range of Use
g g g g g g

A 0.0001 0.0002 0.0001 0.0001 0.0002 200

B 0.001 0.002 0.001 0.001 0.002 200
C 0.01 0.02 0.1 0.01 0.02 1200
D 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.1 0.2 2000
E 0.5 1.0 1.0 0.5 1.0 5000
F 5.0 0.2% 5.0 5.0 0.2% -

0.2 percent of total sample mass or maximum range of use as recommended by manufacturer.

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3.5 Standard Method of Test for Terms Relating to Density and

Specific Gravity of Solids, Liquids and Gases
3.5.1 Introduction
In scientific terminology, mass is a measure of the quantity of material in a body, and is constant regardless
of geographical location, altitude or atmospheric conditions, so long as no material is added or taken away.
Weight is the force with which a body is attracted to the earth and varies from place to place with the
acceleration of gravity.
Density (of solids and liquids) is the mass of a unit volume of a material at a specified temperature. The units
shall be stated, such as grams per millilitre, grams per cubic centimetre, or other. If the material is a solid, the
volume shall be that of the impermeable portion. The form of expression shall be:
Density at x ….
Where:
x = the temperature of the material.
Density (of gases) is the mass of a unit volume of a gas at a stated temperature and pressure. The unit shall
be stated. The form of expression shall be:
Density at x, y ….
Where:
x = temperature of the gas, and
y = pressure of the gas.
Apparent density (of solids and liquids) is the mass in air of a unit volume of a material at a specified
temperature. The units shall be that of the impermeable portion. The form of expression shall be:
Apparent density at x ….
Where:
x = the temperature of the material.
Bulk density (of solids) is the mass in air of a unit volume of a permeable material (including both permeable
and impermeable voids normal to the material) at a stated temperature. The units shall be:
Bulk density at x ….
Where:
x = temperature of the material.
Specific gravity (of solids and liquids) is the ratio of the mass of a unit volume of a material at a stated
temperature to the same volume of gas free distilled water at a stated temperature. If the material is a solid,
the volume shall be that of the impermeable portion. The form of expression shall be:
Specific gravity x/y, C ….
Where:
x = temperature of the material, and
y = temperature of the water.
Specific gravity (of gases) is the ratio of the density of a gas, under the observed conditions of temperature
and pressure to the density of dry air of normal carbon dioxide content, at the same temperature and
pressure. The units shall be stated. The form of expression shall be:
Specific gravity at x, y ….

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Where:
x = the temperature of gas, and
y = pressure of the gas.
Apparent specific gravity, (of solids and liquids) is the ratio of the mass in air of a unit volume of a material at
a stated temperature to the mass in air of equal density of an equal volume of gas free distilled water at a
stated temperature. If the material is a solid, the volume shall be that of impermeable portion. The form of
expression shall be:
Apparent specific gravity x/y, C ….
Where:
x = temperature of the material, and
y = temperature of the water.
Bulk specific gravity, (of solids) is the ratio of the mass in air of a unit volume of a permeable material
(including both permeable and impermeable voids normal to the material) at a stated temperature to the
mass in air of equal density of an equal volume of gas free distilled water at a stated temperature. The form
of expression shall be:
Bulk specific gravity x/y, C ….
Where:
x = temperature of the material, and
y = temperature of the water.

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3.6 Standard Method for Load Verification of Tensile Testing Machines (SSA
211/1981)

3.6.1 Scope
This standard is concerned with the methods used for load verification of tensile testing machines by one of
the following means:
Standard weights.
Standardized proving levers.
Elastic proving devices.

3.6.2 Definitions
Verification – The process of testing an instrument for the purpose of assessing the indication
errors, to determine whether the instrument complies with a prescribed specification.
Indicated Value – The value read on the graduated scale of the testing machine for the measured
quantity.
True Value – The value obtained by the verification device for the measured quantity.
Error – The value obtained by subtracting the true value from the indicated value.
Percentage of Error – The ratio expressed as percentage of the error to the true value of the quantity
measured.
Correction – The value obtained by subtracting the indicated value from the true value of the quantity
measured, ( i, e correction has the same magnitude as the error, but with opposite sign).
Permissible Variation (Tolerance) – The allowable error in the value of the indicated quantity
expressed in terms of percentage of error.
Capacity Range – The load range or ranges that the testing machine is designed. (Some testing
machines have more than one capacity ranges).
Loading Range – The range of indicated for each capacity range for which the testing machine gives
results within the permissible variations specified.
Proving Levers – Devices with known mechanical properties, for applying axial loads to the testing
machine by means of standard weights.
Elastic Proving Device – A device used for load verification of testing machines. It consists of an
elastic member or members to which loads may be applied, combined with a mechanism or device
for indicating the magnitude of deformation under load.
Calibration Factor – The load per unit deflection of the elastic member of the elastic proving device.
It is determined from the curve (or Table ) attached to the device.

3.6.3 Requirements
The following shall be observed:
Before a tensile testing machine is verified, it shall be examined to ensure that:
- The least graduation value of the machine scale shall permit the indicated loads to be read with
the specified accuracy.
- The pointer indicates the load without lag, independent of the rate of loading specified, and
returns to zero when the machine is unloaded.

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- A free pointer is provided to indicate the maximum load.

- Provision is made for counter balancing the weight of grips, test pieces, elastic proving devices,
etc.
For each loading range, verify the testing machine at maximum and minimum loads and at three
other test loads, at least, approximately equally spaced on the graduated scale. The difference
between any two successive test loads shall not exceed one third of the difference between the
maximum and minimum test loads.
If it is required to verify the lower limit of a loading range when the lower limit is less than 10 percent
of the capacity range, apply five approximately equal test loads, none of which shall differ from the
smallest one by more than 5 percent.
All test loads shall be applied so that the resultant load is as nearly along the loading axis of the
testing machine as possible.
For hydraulic tensile testing machines, the position of the ram shall be changed for each series of
tests if practicable.
The machine to be verified shall be in its normal operating condition with all attachments and
recording mechanisms in operation.

3.6.4 Verification Methods

(a) Verification by Standard Weights

(i) Verification by standard weights is the most accurate method, but it is not usually used for loads
greater than 10kN ( 1 ton f), and it is not applicable to horizontal testing machines.

(ii) Standard Weights

Standard weights used for verification tests shall be masses of suitable design and finish which have
been adjusted and certified to ensure that they are correct to within + 0.02 percent of their nominal
value. Ten kg weights are usually convenient for use. Weights certified within less than five years
shall be used.

(iii) Procedure
Place standard weights equal to the lowest test load on a suitable support suspended from the
cross-head of the machine in place of the test piece, so that the centre of gravity of the resulting load
shall lie on the loading axis of the machine.
Add weights in increments to obtain the test loads required for verification, as in 3.1.3. For each test
load applied, record the applied load and the corresponding indicated load (reading of the graduated
scale of the machine)
Repeat the step in 4.1.3.2 by removing the weights in the same increments to obtain the testing
loads in a descending order.

(b) Verification by Proving Levers.

(i) This method involves the use of a pair of standardized proving levers together with standard
weights for the verification of mainly vertical testing machines up to 250 kN (25 ton f). (Note1).
Note1: The use of proving levers on horizontal testing machines involves the use of bell crank
levers. Such levers require special methods of determination of lever ratio.
Proving Levers – The common arrangement of proving levers is shown in Fig. 1 where the two
levers rest on supports on the platform of the testing machine. The supports shall move easily in a
horizontal direction, which ensures that the forces at each of the knife edges or other bearings, shall
be very nearly vertical. The inner knife edges in each lever shall bear against a suitable block in the
cross-head of the testing machine. A weight hanger is suspended from each of the outer knife
edges. Proving levers and their associated weights shall be periodically calibrated at intervals not

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exceeding two years or prior to any repair or adjustment. Standard weights used shall be corrected
to within + 0.02 percent of their nominal value.
The load applied on the testing machine by the standard weights is the load exerted by the standard
weights multiplied by the lever ratio m/n Fig.1 (Note 2).
Note 2: In testing machines having a hydraulic support where the load during a test is pressing
upward against the cross-head instead of downward to the platform, the lever ratio is (m-n)/n.

(ii) Procedure – Conduct the test by applying loads in increments, first in increasing order to the
maximum load, then in decreasing order from the maximum to the minimum load as follows:
Place the proving levers in the testing machine to be verified so that the resultant load line coincides
with the vertical line through the centre of the platform.
Balance the testing machine at zero reading with the levers in place and the weight hanger empty.
Apply standard weights in increments, half an increment on each tray. Place the weights
symmetrically on the trays with the centre of gravity of the whole weights (test load) as nearly over
the centre of the tray as possible.
Record the applied load, and the indicated load for each test load applied.
Before adding or subtracting weights to obtain subsequent test loads, reset levers as near to a
horizontal position as is feasible by means of the movable head of the testing machine.

(c) Verification by Elastic Proving Devices

This method of verification involves measurement of the elastic strain or deflection under test load
of an elastic proving device. Elastic proving devices shall be calibrated at intervals not exceeding
two years.
(i) Elastic Proving Devices – Proving devices shall be supported and loaded in the testing machine,
in accordance with the instructions for use of these devices, taking care that devices are not
subjected, in use, to loads in excess of their maximum rated capacity. The true loads can be
calculated from the product of the respective deflections and the calibration factor (2.11). Proving
devices shall be of such a design that they permit axial application of load, either in tension or in
compression, or both. The most generally used types of elastic proving devices are as follows:
“Steel proving bar” (solid or hollow) together with an attached strainometer is suitable
principally for use in tension for the verification of large capacity testing machines up to 2000
kN (200 ton f).
“Proving ring” is used either in tension or in compression, and is made to operate in either
vertical or horizon tal positions. It is used for the verification of large capacity testing
machines up to 2000 kN ( 200 ton f). Fig.2 shows a proving ring while it is used for the
vertical testing machine
In order to obtain the reading under load, the central reed is set vibrating. While the reed is
vibrating, the micrometer head is rotated slowly and carefully until a very faint buzzing is
produced as the micrometer tip just touches the weight at the end of the reed. The reed
should not be suddenly stopped by the contact, rather it should continue to vibrate for two or
three seconds after the buzzing starts then take the reading of the micrometer. Repeat this
operation several times to obtain the average of readings.
Standardizing Box – Standardizing boxes are used in compression for the verification of
testing machines of capacities up to 500kN ( 50 ton f). The general construction of the
standardizing box is shown in Fig.3.
If the hollow cylinder (which is filled with mercury) is subjected to a purely axial compression,
its volume shall decrease forcing an amount of mercury, equal to the decrease in volume,
into the capillary tube and then into the glass bulb.

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Before the test is carried out, the micrometer is adjusted at zero load to bring the mercury in
the capillary to a calibrated mark. After this is applied, the micrometer is turned to bring the
mercury back to the calibrated line.
Thus, the movement of the micrometer screw (i.e. the difference between the micrometer
reading under load and no load) is the measure of decrease in volume of the cylinder and
therefore, is proportional to the load. Each box shall be calibrated by the markers with dead-
weight loading.
(ii) Procedure
Allow the elastic proving device to remain on platform of the testing machine a sufficient length
of time before verification test, so that the device and the machine become very nearly of the
same temperature.
Immediately before test, preload the device to thee maximum test load, then unload the device.
Place the proving device in the machine so that its centreline coincides with the loading axis of
the machine. If proving devices are used in multiple, such as standardizing boxes, to provide a
convenient means of measuring greater loads, they shall be arranged so that thee resultant
applied load shall be along the loading axis of the machine.
Balance the machine with no load on the proving device and take a zero reading of the device.
Apply test loads in increasing order by adding suitable increments until the max. load is reached,
and record the indicated load of the testing machine and the applied load computed from the
readings of the elastic device.
Continue the test, applying test loads in diminishing order by subtracting suitable increments till
Zero load. Record the results as in previous.

3.6.5 Calculations and Results:

(a) Calculations

(i) Calculate the average values of the indicated loads for each test load, to obtain their indicated
load.

(ii) Calculate the load percentage error for each test loads as follows:
F1 − F
Percentage error = × 100
F
Where:
F = Test load
F1 = mean indicated load.

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(b) Basis of Verification

(i) The percentage error for loads within the loading range of the testing machine shall not exceed
+ 1%. (The loading range within which the testing machine can be used, shall be defined from the
permissible tolerance) .

(ii) In establishing the lower limit of a loading range, where the lower limit is less than 10 percent of
the capacity range (where five applications of load are as in 3.4), the algebraic difference
between the highest and lowest percentage of error shall not exceed 1. (This means that the
errors for these five readings shall not be only less than 1.0 percent, but also no two errors shall
differ by more than 1.0 percent. Thus if the minimum error in this series is – 1.0 percent, the
maximum error shall not exceed + 0.0 percent, and if the minimum error is -0.5 percent, etc.)

(iii) In no case shall the loading range be stated as including loads below the value which is 100
times smallest change of load which can be estimated on the load indicating device of the testing
machine. (This means that if estimations of load can be made to 1/10 graduation division, the
loading range could not extend downward to a load less than that corresponding to 10 graduation
divisions).

(iv) In no case shall the loading range be stated as including loads out side the range of the loads
applied during the verification test.

(c) Report

(i) The test report shall include the following data:

The verification method used.
Manufacturer’s name and serial numbers of all proving devices employed in carrying out the
verification.
Calibration method, name of calibrator and date of calibrating devices used in verification of
the testing machine.
The loading range of the proving device.
The loading range of the testing machine, based upon the verification test.

3.7 References
• International Standard ISO/R 147/1960 “Load Calibration of Testing Machines for Tensile Testing of
steel.”
• ASTM E4 -72/1978 “Standard Methods of Verification of Testing Machines”.
• British Standard BS 1610/1964 “Methods for the load Verification of Tensile testing Machines”

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Figure 3-6:Verification of a Tensile Testing machine Using a Proving Levers and Proving Ring

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Figure 3-7: Standardizing box

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