Soil-Water Characteristic Curve

GCTS offers two solutions for determining the soil-water characteristic curve (SWCC): the SWC-050 and SWC-150.

The SWC-050 is a cost-effective system that tests up to three samples simultaneously. It uses three cells connected to a single pressure application system, applying suctions up to 500 kPa. Each cell allows water to escape as suction increases, so gravimetric water content is measured by weighing the cell. Optional deformation sensors can measure axial deformation during tests. Measurements are automatically recorded via the GCTS DataCube Wireless Data Acquisition Box, which connects to Android or Apple devices via Bluetooth. The SWCC is plotted in the app, and data can be emailed in a spreadsheet format.

The Fredlund SWCC Device (SWC-150) is a versatile apparatus for measuring the SWCC under various stress states. It controls matric suctions from near zero to 1,500 kPa and applies one-dimensional loading to specimens up to 75 mm in diameter. Made of stainless steel, it includes plumbing for air diffusion measurement and interchangeable high air-entry-value ceramic stones. Dead weights or an optional pneumatic load frame loader apply normal stresses, enabling comprehensive SWCC data collection from a single soil specimen.