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 BRITISH STANDARD BS 812-124:
1989

Testing aggregates —
Part 124: Method for determination of
frost-heave
Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI

UDC [625.07 + 691.22]:[620.168.2 + 625.042.2]

BS 812-124:1989

Committees responsible for this

British Standard

The preparation of this British Standard was entrusted by the Cement,

Gypsum, Aggregates and Quarry Products Standards Committee (CAB/-) to
Technical Committee CAB/2, upon which the following bodies were
represented:

Aggregate Concrete Block Association County Surveyor’s Society

Association of Consulting Engineers Department of the Environment (Building
Association of Consulting Scientists Research Establishment)

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI

Association of Lightweight Aggregate
Manufacturers
Brick Development Association
British Aggregate Construction Materials
Industries
British Ceramic Research Ltd.
British Civil Engineering Test Equipment
Manufacturers’ Association
British Geological Sciences
British Precast Concrete Federation Ltd.
British Ready Mixed Concrete Association
British Steel Industry
Building Employers’ Confederation
Calcium Silicate Brick Association Limited
Cement and Concrete Association
Cement Makers’ Federation
Chartered Institute of Building
Concrete Society
Department of the Environment (Property
Services Agency)
Department of Transport (Highways)
Department of Transport (Transport and Road
Research Laboratory)
Electricity Supply Industry in England and
Wales
Federation of Civil Engineering Contractors
Institute of Concrete Technology
Institution of Civil Engineers
Institution of Highways and Transportation
Institution of Structural Engineers
Institution of Water and Environmental
Management (IWEM)
Mortar Producers Association Limited
Sand and Gravel Association Limited
Society of Chemical Industry

This British Standard, having

been prepared under the
direction of the Cement, Gypsum,
Aggregates and Quarry Products
Standards Committee, was
published under the authority of
the Board of BSI and comes
into effect on Amendments issued since publication
31 August 1989
Amd. No. Date of issue Comments
© BSI 02-1999

The following BSI references

relate to the work on this
standard:
Committee reference CAB/2
Draft for comment 86/10382 DC

ISBN 0 580 16835 2

 BS 812-124:1989

Contents

Page
Committees responsible Inside front cover
Foreword ii
1 Scope 1
2 Definitions 1
3 Principle 1
4 Sampling 1
5 Apparatus 1
6 Setting-up of the self-refrigerated unit 5
7 Operating temperatures and self-refrigerated unit tuning procedures 13
Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI

8 Preliminary testing procedure 14

9 Preparation of test specimens 15
10 Procedure for determination of the frost-heave 17
11 Calculation and expression of results 18
12 Precision 19
13 Test report 20
Appendix A Example of temperature parameter calculations 21
Figure 1 — Main features and dimensions of test chamber 2
Figure 2 — Specimen cradle showing specimen position numbers 3
Figure 3 — Principle of a constant level device to control water supply to
frost-heave specimens 4
Figure 4 — Specimen carrier 6
Figure 5 — Mould and end plugs for the preparation of frost-heave
test specimens 7
Figure 6 — Hand-held tamper 8
Figure 7 — 100 mm tamping foot for vibrating hammer 9
Figure 8 — Specimen extruder 10
Figure 9 — Extrusion cylinder 11
Figure 10 — Extrusion process 12
Table 1 — Minimum mass of test portion for sieve analysis 1
Table 2 — Precision estimates, frost-heave (mm) 19
Table 3 — SRU tuning, temperature recording chart 21
Table 4 — SRU tuning, temperature parameter summary chart 22
Publications referred to Inside back cover

© BSI 02-1999 i
BS 812-124:1989

Foreword

This Part of BS 812, prepared under the direction of the Cement, Gypsum,
Aggregates and Quarry Products Standards Committee, forms part of a general
revision that is being made of the 1975 edition of BS 812. As each of the tests or
collection of related tests, is prepared, it is intended to issue it as a separate
Part of BS 812.
This Part contains the test procedure for the determination of the frost-heave of
aggregates which have been compacted at a pre-determined moisture content and
density. The test was not included in previous editions of BS 812 but has now
been included because there is a need for a test to identify frost-susceptible
aggregates which could otherwise be used in an unbound form in road bases and

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI

sub-bases at depths likely to experience frost penetration during the life of the
road. The procedure for preparing the test specimens and determining the
frost-heave of an aggregate is substantially the same as that given in TRRL
Supplementary Report 829. However, the consideration of the circumstances in
which a material of a given frost-heave may be used in practice, which is
discussed at length in SR 829, is not dealt with here because it is outside the scope
of BS 812. Guidance on the interpretation of the results should therefore be
sought from the specifying authority.
It is intended that other British Standards should call up BS 812 test methods as
the basis for compliance. Nevertheless, it is not intended that all aggregates will
be subjected regularly to all the listed tests. Other British Standards will call up
only the relevant test methods.
Some of the tests in other Parts of BS 812 are of limited application, and advice
on the use of simple tests is given, for example, when they can be used for a
preliminary sorting of aggregates to see whether more expensive testing is
justified.
Reference should be made to BS 812-101 for general guidance on testing
aggregates, precision of test methods and variance arising from sampling errors.
A British Standard does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a
contract. Users of British Standards are responsible for their correct application.
Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself confer immunity
from legal obligations.

Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, pages i and ii,
pages 1 to 22, an inside back cover and a back cover.
This standard has been updated (see copyright date) and may have had
amendments incorporated. This will be indicated in the amendment table on
the inside front cover

ii © BSI 02-1999
 BS 812-124:1989

1 Scope Table 1 — Minimum mass of test portion for

sieve analysis
This Part of BS 812 describes a method for
determining the frost-heave of an aggregate Nominal size of material Minimum mass of test
portion
compacted into cylindrical specimens at a
pre-determined moisture content and density. mm kg
NOTE The titles of the publications referred to in this standard 63 50
are listed on the inside back cover.
50 35
2 Definitions 40 15
For the purposes of this Part of BS 812 the 28 5
Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI

definitions in BS 812-101 and BS 812-102 apply.

3 Principle
Cylindrical specimens of aggregate compacted at a
predetermined moisture content and density are
placed in a self-refrigerated unit (SRU). This unit is
designed so that the upper surfaces of the specimens
are subjected to freezing air at – 17 °C whilst their
lower ends are allowed access to water maintained
at + 4 °C. This temperature gradient created
through the specimens causes water to be drawn
into the freezing zone and may lead to the formation
of ice lenses. These lead to an increase in height of
the specimens which is measured at intervals over a
period of 96 hours. The maximum increase in height
recorded is defined as the frost-heave of the
aggregate.
4 Sampling
4.1 The sample used for the test (the laboratory
sample) shall be taken in accordance with clause 5
of BS 812-102:1984. Reduce the sample by the
procedures described in clause 6 of BS 812-102:1984
to produce the following test portions (see note).
a) A minimum of 36 kg, for the preparation of the
frost-heave test specimens.
b) A minimum mass as given in Table 1 for the
determination of the accompanying particle-size
distribution.
c) A minimum mass of 50 kg, for the
determination of the moisture content and dry
density at which to prepare the frost-heave test
specimens.
NOTE In many instances additional test portions will be
required for use in other preliminary tests that are often specified
e.g. plasticity of the fines fraction, ten percent fines value etc.
4.2 Dry each test portion at a temperature
of 105 ± 5 °C prior to testing.
NOTE If there is any reason to suspect that oven-drying
changes the properties of the material it should be air-dried and
its air-dry moisture content determined as described in clause 7
of BS 812-2:1975. It is essential that the amount of water in the
material be allowed for when calculating the amounts of the
material and water required to prepare the portions for test.
20 2
14 1
10 0.5
6 0.2
5 0.2
3 0.2
<3 0.1
5 Apparatus
NOTE Except where otherwise specified, the tolerances on
dimensions given to two places of decimals is ± 0.1 mm, to one
decimal place ± 0.5 mm and to the nearest whole
number ± 1 mm.
5.1 Particle size apparatus. The apparatus for
determining the particle size distribution shall be as
described in clause 5 of BS 812-103:1985.
5.2 Dry density and moisture content relation
apparatus. The apparatus for determining the dry
density/moisture content relation shall be either as
described in BS 5835-1 or in Test 14 of
BS 1377:1975 (see note to 8.2.1).
5.3 A self-refrigerated unit (SRU)
5.3.1 General description. The frost-heave test SRU
shall be a self-contained unit comprising a test
chamber and associated refrigeration and control
equipment. For convenience of use, none of the
major dimensions shall exceed 2 m, the unit shall be
fitted with castors, and adjustable legs shall be
provided so that the equipment can be levelled.
5.3.2 The test chamber
5.3.2.1 The principal features and dimensions, all of
which shall be maintained, of the test chamber are
shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2. It shall consist of a
chilled tank with smooth stainless-steel sides, into
the floor of which is let a stainless-steel water-bath.
The sides of the water-bath shall be connected to the
sides of the tank by a thermally insulating medium
which does not absorb water. A wooden cradle
capable of holding nine test specimens shall locate
centrally over the water-bath. The cooling system
applied to the tank sides shall be above the
specimen cradle.

© BSI 02-1999 1
BS 812-124:1989

Figure 1 — Main features and dimensions of test chamber Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI

5.3.2.2 The test chamber shall be provided with a NOTE The device shown in Figure 3 has been found to be a
hinged lid having a stainless-steel lower surface. simple and convenient method of maintaining a constant level of
water in the apparatus but it is permissible for other means of
The lid shall have nine holes at the same centres as keeping the water level constant to be used if preferred.
the holes in the specimen cradle to allow push-rods 5.3.3.2 A device for gently circulating the water in
(see 5.3.4.1) to be located. These holes shall be not the water-bath to maintain an even temperature
less than 10 mm and not more than 15 mm in distribution (see 7.2.1).
diameter. The water-bath shall be provided with an
overflow tube (see 5.3.3.1) and shall also be fitted
with a separate drain-cock. An interior light shall be
fitted to the underside of the lid.
5.3.3 The refrigeration and control equipment
5.3.3.1 A means of maintaining the water in the
water-bath at a constant level between 8 mm
and 11 mm from the underside of the specimen
cradle (i.e. as close as possible to the tops of the
porous discs). The principle of a suitable device is
illustrated in Figure 3 (see note).

2 © BSI 02-1999
Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI BS 812-124:1989

Figure 2 — Specimen cradle showing specimen position numbers

© BSI 02-1999 3
BS 812-124:1989

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI

Figure 3 — Principle of a constant level device to control water supply to
frost-heave specimens
5.3.3.3 An air cooling system, to provide a means of
cooling the sides of the tank above the specimen
cradle such that the operating temperatures for the
air defined in clause 7 can be achieved and
maintained. The system shall be capable of reducing
the air temperature at the centre of the tank
to – 20 ± 2 °C with the normal arrangement of
specimens (Figure 2) in place (see 7.2.2). It shall be
possible to achieve these temperatures between 4 h
and 14 h from the time the system is switched on.
The system shall be capable of operating at ambient
temperatures of 15 °C to 25 °C.
5.3.3.4 A water-cooling system, to provide a means of
cooling the water in the water-bath such that the
operating temperatures for the water defined in
clause 7 can be achieved and maintained. It shall be
possible to achieve these temperatures between 4 h
and 14 h from the time the system is switched on.
The system shall be capable of operating at ambient
temperatures of 15 °C to 25 °C.
NOTE It is not essential to have a separate cooling system for
the water-bath. A system utilizing heat-loss through the
specimens and additional cooling from the system cooling the air
above the specimen cradle, together with a heater mat to limit
the minimum temperature, is acceptable provided that the
operating temperature requirements are met.
5.3.3.5 Temperature indicators. At least five
thermocouples complying with the requirements of
BS 4937-5 in the water-bath and five in the air
(see note 1) above the specimen cradle together with
a compatible electronic thermometer with a
resolution of at least 0.1 °C.
A selector switch shall be provided to allow
thermocouples to be tested in quick succession
(see note 2).
NOTE 1 One of these five thermocouples will eventually be
attached to the Tufnol disc covering the specimen in position 5
(see 10.1.2).
NOTE 2 If the electronic thermometer is mounted integrally
within the console of the cabinet, it is essential that care be taken
to prevent interference from electrical/magnetic components in
the cabinet.

4 © BSI 02-1999

5.3.3.6 A rigid detachable metal datum frame, to
support the push-rods (Figure 1) which can be
positively located above the lid of the test chamber
having horizontal bars with holes 6.5 mm diameter
at the same centres as the holes in the specimen
cradle and the test chamber lid. The upper surface
of the datum frame shall be not less than 125 mm
and not more than 175 mm above the top of the lid.
5.3.4 Additional equipment for use with the SRU
5.3.4.1 Nine brass rods, 750 mm long and 6.0 mm in
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diameter. These are illustrated in their positions
during the test in Figure 1.
5.3.4.2 A supply of clean and dry single-sized silica
sand from either the 5 mm to 2.36 mm or
the 2.36 mm to 1.18 mm fractions.
NOTE About 30 kg is sufficient for one SRU.
5.3.4.3 A steel rule complying with the requirements
of BS 4035 or other suitable means of measuring the
displacement of the push-rods above the datum
frame, readable and accurate to 0.5 mm.
5.3.4.4 A two-pen chart recorder, to record
continuously the air and water temperatures during
the test. It is recommended that the recorder be
built into the SRU, although it is not essential that
it should be, provided that access is provided for the
sensors.
5.3.4.5 A supply of surgery wool or similar absorbent
material.
5.3.4.6 Waxed paper sheets,
approximately 350 mm × 200 mm in size and
suitable adhesive tape. The thickness of the tape
should be between 0.1 mm and 0.25 mm and that of
the waxed paper between 0.2 mm and 0.4 mm.
5.3.4.7 Discs, at least nine, 95.0 mm in
diameter, 5.0 mm thick with a central
recess 10.0 mm diameter and 2.0 mm deep in one
side.
NOTE Suitable discs (Carp Brand) can be obtained from Tufnol
Limited, P.O. Box 376, Perry Barr, Birmingham, B42 2TB or 3
James Watt Place, College Milton North, East Kilbride, Scotland.
5.3.4.8 Porous ceramic discs, at least nine, 13.0 mm
thick and 101.6 mm in diameter of maximum pore
size 110 µm.
NOTE Grade P5 discs supplied by Fairey Industrial Ceramics
Ltd., Fillybrooks, Stone, Staffs, are suitable.
5.3.4.9 Copper specimen carriers, at least nine, as
shown in Figure 4.
5.4 Balances of suitable capacity readable to 0.1 %
of the mass of the test portion. They shall be
regularly calibrated according to the requirements
of BS 5781.
NOTE In general two balances will be enough; one of 50 kg
capacity accurate to 25 g and one of 5 kg capacity accurate to 5 g.
© BSI 02-1999
BS 812-124:1989
5.5 Tared glass flask, at least one of each of the
following capacities:
250 mL, 500 mL, 1 000 mL.
5.6 A mechanical mixer, with a capacity of at
least 20 kg. The mixer shall not cause any
significant degradation of the particles.
5.7 Containers, at least nine, which can be made
airtight, capable of holding 15 kg samples of mixed
material.
5.8 A steel mould and end-plugs as shown in
Figure 5.
5.9 A hand-held steel tamper, weighing 1 100 g
to 1 200 g. A suitable design is shown in Figure 6.
5.10 An electric vibrating hammer, having a power
consumption not less than 600 W and operating at a
frequency between 25 Hz and 45 Hz. The hammer
shall be checked at regular intervals using the
procedure given in note 2 to Test 14 of
BS 1377:1975.
NOTE The power consumption and frequency requirements are
given as a guide to the type of hammer required.
5.11 A steel tamper for the vibrating hammer with a
circular foot of 100 mm diameter. A suitable design
is shown in Figure 7, the shank is a force-fit into the
disc.
5.12 A depth gauge, capable of reading depths up
to 250 mm, readable and accurate to 1 mm.
5.13 A jacking device or other suitable means of
ejecting the compacted specimen from the mould,
e.g. a compression testing machine with suitable
means of extension extruders, as illustrated in
Figure 8, Figure 9 and Figure 10.
5.14 Thermometers, complying with the
requirements of BS 593.
5.15 A ventilated oven thermostatically controlled to
maintain a temperature of 105 ± 5 °C.
6 Setting up of the self-refrigerated
unit
NOTE The following operations should be carried out before the
test specimens are prepared.
6.1 If necessary, adjust the SRU so that it is level
and ensure that the test chamber, including the
water-bath and constant-level device are clean, dry
and at room temperature.
6.2 Check that the coarse sand for filling the space
around the test specimens is clean, dry and at room
temperature, and if necessary wash, re-sieve to the
correct grading, and dry.
NOTE Because the sand can become contaminated with use it
should periodically be washed and re-sieved to maintain the
correct grading.
5
BS 812-124:1989

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI

Figure 4 — Specimen carrier

6.3 Check the operation of all the thermocouples NOTE It is permissible for tap water to be used in place of
and repair or replace any that are broken. distilled or demineralized water but it may in the long run give
rise to problems with the “furring up” of equipment.
NOTE The electronic thermometer should be periodically Approximately 30 L are enough for a complete test.
checked and if necessary calibrated against a calibrated
thermometer (see 5.14).
6.4 Locate the wooden specimen cradle in its
position within the test chamber.
NOTE It is useful at this stage to select the thermocouples from
the water-bath which are to be used at the bottom of the porous
discs, feed them through the respective holes in the cradle and
temporarily secure them to it. This is much easier to do at this
stage than when the bath is full and specimens are in the cradle.
6.5 Fill the constant-level device (CLD) and
water-bath with distilled or demineralized water
at 20 ± 5 °C.

6 © BSI 02-1999
Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI BS 812-124:1989

Figure 5 — Mould and end plugs for the preparation of frost-heave test specimens

© BSI 02-1999 7
 Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI

© BSI 02-1999
Figure 6 — Hand-held tamper
BS 812-124:1989

8
Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI BS 812-124:1989

Figure 7 — 100 mm tamping foot for vibrating hammer

© BSI 02-1999 9
 Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI

© BSI 02-1999
Figure 8 — Specimen extruder
BS 812-124:1989

10
 Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI

© BSI 02-1999
Figure 9 — Extrusion cylinder

11
BS 812-124:1989
BS 812-124:1989

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI

Figure 10 — Extrusion process
6.6 Check the water-level setting by the following NOTE It should not be necessary to adjust the level of the
procedure. capillary once it has been set up correctly. The actual method
of adjustment will depend on the design of a particular vessel,
a) Open taps F, V and O (Figure 3) of the CLD and but generally either means moving the capillary up or down
close the drain-cock of the water-bath. Place a within the vessel or, if it has a fixed capillary, moving the
vessel itself.
suitable receiver below the overflow-pipe outlet.
e) Close tap O and fill the CLD through the filler
b) Place a specimen carrier in one of the holes in tube. Air will be expelled through the vent pipe.
the wooden cradle.
f) Close taps F and V. Place a second specimen
c) Pour water into the water-bath until the
carrier with a porous disc in place in one of the
bottom lip of the specimen carrier is just covered.
other holes in the cradle.
Check that there is no airlock or blockage in the
pipe connecting the CLD to the water-bath.
d) Adjust the level of the capillary in the CLD if
necessary so that it is about 5 mm above the
present water-level (see note).

12 © BSI 02-1999

g) Open tap O. Air should bubble through the
capillary tube as water flows into the water-bath.
When the bubbling stops adjust the water level in
the bath (see note) so that it is about 1 mm from
the top of the porous disc, i.e. the surface of the
disc appears wet but is not covered. If the level is
too low, close tap O and raise the level of the
capillary slightly. Re-open tap O and allow the
water to find its new level (see note). Repeat this
process until the required setting has been
achieved.
Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI
NOTE If the porous disc is covered or water overflows before
the bubbling stops the capillary is set too high. In this case
close tap O and drain the water out of the bath to its original
level covering the lip of the specimen carrier before adjusting
the capillary.
h) When the level has been set, close tap O. Drain
off water from the bath until the water again just
covers the lip of the specimen carrier.
i) Remove the specimen carriers and disc and dry
them. Top up the CLD (taps V and F open,
O closed) if necessary.
j) Check that all the taps are closed.
6.7 Check the water circulating system to ensure
that it is operating satisfactorily.
6.8 Set the SRU controls to the positions which give
the correct operating temperatures when the unit is
eventually switched on (see clause 7).
7 Operating temperatures and
self-refrigerated unit tuning
procedures
NOTE Because the temperature at a given point in the test
chamber clearly depends on the location, the operating
temperatures within the test chamber cannot be specified in
terms of a single point and temperature. Also, the temperature
within the chamber will vary continuously as a result of cycling
of the refrigeration system and, possibly, changing ambient
conditions. Subclause 7.1 gives details of how the temperatures
are to be measured and the SRU tuned to give the required
values. Subclause 7.2 and 7.3 give the actual values which are to
be achieved. Subclause 10.3 gives details of the measurements
normally made during a routine frost-heave test.
7.1 Tuning procedure
NOTE This subclause describes the procedure to be followed to
check whether the test chamber is correctly tuned. It should not
be necessary to follow this procedure before every test, but the
procedure should be carried out periodically or after any major
adjustments to the control system.
7.1.1 Setting up the tuning test. Prepare the SRU
and load as described in 10.1. Use any typical
well-graded granular material for the specimens,
except for cement-bound specimens (see note 1).
Ensure that all the thermocouples are properly
located and working correctly. When the SRU has
been prepared and loaded leave it for at least 20 h to
allow the initial temperature conditions to become
steady.
© BSI 02-1999
BS 812-124:1989
After 20 h have elapsed switch on the SRU and
leave it for a further 20 h before any internal
temperature measurements are made. Determine
the length of the initial cooling period (see note 2).
The air and water should reach their operating
temperatures between 4 h and 14 h from starting
the SRU.
NOTE 1 Although cement-bound specimens cannot be used in
tuning tests because they affect the heat transfer characteristics,
they may be used for convenience in any preliminary trials to
adjust thermostats.
NOTE 2 The initial cooling period can be estimated from the
chart recorder, or a special timing device may be fitted to the SRU
for the purpose.
7.1.2 Determination of mean temperatures
7.1.2.1 Observe the control system of the SRU until
the thermostat controlling the air temperature
causes the refrigeration to be switched OFF. At this
point record in turn the temperatures indicated by
each of the ten thermocouples; all ten should be
recorded in not more than 50 s. Continue to record
the temperatures of the ten thermocouples at equal
intervals until at least 20 sets of readings and three
complete refrigeration cycles (i.e. OFF–ON–OFF–
ON–OFF–ON–OFF) have been observed (see note).
NOTE If the refrigeration system completes three cycles in less
than 1 h, continue taking measurements until the first occasion
that the refrigeration switches OFF after the hour has elapsed.
7.1.2.2 When the measurements for a sampling
period have been completed calculate the following
values. An example of the calculations is given in
the Appendix A.
a) Calculate for each set of readings the
instantaneous water temperature (IWT), i.e. the
mean of the five thermocouples below the porous
discs.
b) Note the instantaneous water temperature
range (IWR) for each set of readings.
c) Calculate the mean water temperature (MWT).
This is the mean of the IWTs from a). Also
calculate the standard deviation.
d) Calculate for each of the set of readings the
instantaneous air temperature (IAT), i.e. the
mean of the four thermocouples in the air above
the specimens.
e) Note the instantaneous air range (IAR) for
each set of readings.
f) Calculate the mean air temperature (MAT).
This is the mean of the IATs from d). Also
calculate the standard deviation.
g) Calculate the water temperature mean range
(WMR). This is the mean of the IWRs found in b).
h) Calculate the air temperature mean range
(AMR). This is the mean of the IARs found in e).
13
BS 812-124:1989
i) Calculate the mean value of the temperature
below the central Tufnol disc for the sampling
period.
7.1.3 Measurement of variations in mean
temperature. If the first determinations of mean
temperatures show that the equipment is set to
operate within the temperature ranges given in 7.2
and 7.3, make repeat measurements following the
procedure given in 7.1.2 until six consecutive
determinations of MAT and MWT have been made.
Allow at least 3 h and not more than 20 h to elapse
between successive determinations. If any mean
temperature is outside its specified range, adjust
the control system accordingly and allow at
least 20 h to elapse before starting again from 7.1.2.
NOTE Allow at least 20 h to elapse after any alteration to the
controls before attempting a sequence of six determinations of
mean temperatures. If several adjustments are needed it may be
necessary to set up a new tuning test. In any case it is essential
that the tuning test be completed within 250 h of switching on
the SRU.
7.2 Required temperature values and
tolerances
7.2.1 Mean water temperature. Any mean water
temperature shall be in the range 3.0 °C to 4.5 °C.
The range of the six successive determinations with
at least 3 h and not more than 20 h between each
determination shall not exceed 0.5 °C. It is essential
that the standard deviation of any individual
determination of MWT does not exceed 0.3 °C.
7.2.2 Mean air temperature. Any mean air
temperature shall be in the range – 18.0 °C
to – 16.0 °C. The range of the six successive
determinations with at least 3 h and not more
than 20 h between each determination shall not
exceed 0.5 °C. The standard deviation of any
individual determination shall not exceed 0.8 °C.
7.2.3 Temperature mean ranges
7.2.3.1 Any water temperature mean range shall
not exceed 0.5 °C.
7.2.3.2 Any air temperature mean range shall not
exceed 2.7 °C.
7.3 Temperature below central Tufnol disc
The mean temperature below the central Tufnol
disc during any sampling period shall be in the
range – 2 °C to – 8 °C (see note).
NOTE In the case of coarse-grained materials poor contact
between the disc and the specimen may result in the temperature
failing below – 8 °C. This can be avoided by using fine sand to
even out any roughness in the surface of the specimens.
14
8 Preliminary testing procedure
8.1 Particle-size distribution of laboratory
sample
Produce a test sample by the procedures described
in clause 6 of BS 812-102:1984, of mass not less
than 17 kg from the test portion described in 4.1 a).
Determine the particle-size distribution of the test
sample by the method given in 7.2 of
BS 812-103:1985.
Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI
NOTE 1 Before proceeding with further testing, check that the
results do not differ markedly from any other particle-size
distribution results that may be available from tests carried out
on other portions of the original bulk sample (see note 2 ). If there
is a discrepancy a proper representative sample should be
obtained before continuing.
NOTE 2 Confirmation of the grading will normally involve
reference back to the client. It is sometimes the case that the
laboratory doing the frost-test was also responsible for obtaining
the bulk sample and preparing laboratory samples. If this is the
case a grading corresponding to that obtained for the bulk sample
may be assumed for the laboratory sample without carrying out
a duplicate grading test.
8.2 Selection of moisture content and density
for the test specimens
8.2.1 Stage 1. The moisture content and density at
which test specimens are to be prepared may have
been nominated in advance on the basis of earlier
tests. When this information is not available
determine the optimum moisture content and
maximum vibrated bulk density by the method
given in BS 5835-1 and use these values for the
preparation of the test specimens described in 8.2.2
(see note).
NOTE For most materials the vibrating hammer compaction
test described in Test 14 of BS 1377:1985 gives the same values
of optimum moisture content and maximum dry density as those
obtained with the test described in BS 5835-1. This test may
therefore be used as an alternative if it is known that the type of
material under test gives comparable results for the two test
methods. The primary requirement in choosing a moisture
content and density at which to prepare the specimens is that the
specimens should be stable. The results of the compaction tests
may therefore have to be adjusted (see 8.2.2.6).
8.2.2 Stage 2
8.2.2.1 When the moisture content (w %) and the
dry density (Ôd kg/m3 ) have been determined as
described in 8.2.1, prepare a test frost-heave test
specimen as described in 8.2.2.2 to 8.2.2.7.
8.2.2.2 Obtain a test sample (having been sieved to
remove material coarser than 37.5 mm) of mass
equal to 1.360 ρd (g) from the test portion set aside
in 4.1 b) and place it in the mixer.
8.2.2.3 Place a flask on the balance. Tare the flask
and weigh out a mass of water equal
to 0.0136 wρd (g) (see note to 6.5).
8.2.2.4 Add the water to the dry material already in
the mixer and thoroughly mix.
© BSI 02-1999

8.2.2.5 Use the mixed material to prepare and
extrude a trial specimen using the procedure
in 9.3.1 and 9.3.2.
8.2.2.6 If immediately after extrusion the specimen
is unstable, i.e. cannot stand on the extruder
without collapsing, some adjustment to the dry
density and/or the moisture content may be
necessary to achieve a specimen which is
sufficiently stable but at the same time has not been
subjected to such a degree of compaction that undue
Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI
crushing of the individual particles has occurred.
This has to be achieved systematically by trial and
error until a stable specimen has been made.
8.2.2.7 When a stable specimen has been prepared
transfer the specimen to a suitable container, break
it up and dry. Determine the particle-size
distribution of the material in the specimen using
the procedure described in 7.2 of BS 812-103:1985.
NOTE The degree to which crushing of the particles has
occurred during the preparation of the specimen may then be
assessed. The moisture content value and dry density used to
prepare the stable specimens will be the values to be substituted
for w and rd in clause 9 when mixing and preparing the actual
test specimens.
9 Preparation of test specimens
NOTE The frost-heave test is normally carried out on three
specimens and because the SRU can accommodate nine, three
different materials are normally tested at a time. The test
procedure as described is based on measuring the frost-heave of
three specimens. Some other specifications may call for more
specimens in which case suitable adjustments should be made to
the test procedure.
9.1 Test portions
9.1.1 Sub-divide the test portion, obtained as
described in 4.1 a), by riffling until a representative
test sample of mass about 15 kg is obtained. Set
aside the remainder of the test portion in case it is
needed for repeat tests and use the 15 kg test
sample to prepare a set of three specimens for
testing as described in 9.3 (see note 3 to 9.2.2).
9.1.2 Repeat the procedure given in 9.1.1 with the
test portions of the other aggregates to be included
in this test run.
9.2 Mixing
9.2.1 Sieve the test sample prepared as described
in 9.1 to remove material coarser than 37.5 mm.
9.2.2 Select a representative mass equal
to 4.08 ρd (g) (where ρd is the dry density in kg/m3
determined for this material as described in 8.2)
from the sieved material and place it in the mixer.
NOTE 1 The mass includes excess material to allow for
handling losses.
© BSI 02-1999
BS 812-124:1989
NOTE 2 The procedure given in this clause provides for mixing
all the material for three specimens at once and this is the
preferred method. However, if a small mixer is being used it may
be necessary to mix the material for each specimen separately. In
this case use a representative mass of 1.360 ρd (g) of material
with 0.0136 wρd (g) of water, and the procedure repeated three
times for each batch of three specimens.
NOTE 3 The method given assumes that in sub-dividing the
material to prepare the individual test specimens no segregation
occurs and that the particle size distribution of the material in
the individual test specimens remains the same as that of the test
portion. In materials subject to segregation it may be preferable
at this stage to sieve the dried test portion on
the 37.5 mm, 20 mm, 10 mm and 5 mm test sieves. These size
fractions (after rejecting the material retained on the 37.5 mm
sieve) can then be re-combined in the proportions represented by
the grading of the original test portion to produce three
individual test samples each having a mass of 1.360 ρd (g). These
test samples are mixed with 0.0136 wρd (g) of water as described
and each used to prepare one frost-heave specimen as described
in 9.3.1.1.
9.2.3 Place a tared flask on the balance and weigh
out a mass of water (see note to 6.5) equal
to 0.0408 wρd (g) (where w is the percentage
moisture content for the stable trial specimen
in 8.2).
9.2.4 Add the water to the dry material already in
the mixer and thoroughly mix. Store the mixed
material in a sealed container for a minimum period
of 16 h before proceeding with the test.
NOTE Because inadequate mixing can give rise to variable test
results it is important that the water is thoroughly and
adequately mixed with the material. The procedure given
ensures that this will be so and although it may be unnecessarily
stringent for granular materials of low-absorbency it is
recommended that all materials should be stored before
proceeding with the test.
9.2.5 Repeat the procedure described in 9.2.1
to 9.2.4 inclusive until three batches of mixed
material have been prepared.
9.3 Method for preparing a single test
specimen
NOTE The following method is used when preparing a single
specimen of mixed material prepared as described in 9.2.
9.3.1 Compaction into the mould
9.3.1.1 Transfer the mixed material prepared as
described in 9.2 to the balance until the balance
holds a mass, M, equal to 1/3 of the mass required
for one frost-heave specimen, to the nearest 2 g. M is
calculated from the equation:
M = 0.00412 ρd (100 + w) (g)
where ρd is the stable-specimen dry density and w is
the stable-specimen moisture content determined as
described in 8.2.
15
BS 812-124:1989
9.3.1.2 Carefully transfer the weighed material into
the mould, which must be placed over its bottom
(smaller) end plug. Level the material in the mould
with a suitable spatula. Hold the tamper
(see Figure 5) inside the mould with the upper
surface of its base level with the top of the mould
then allow it to drop freely under its own weight,
taking care that the foot is level when it strikes the
material. Repeat this process until 25 drops have
been completed.
Then compact the material using the vibrating
hammer, fitted with the special 100 mm diameter
foot, until a depth-gauge reading in the
range 183 mm to 189 mm is obtained (see note).
NOTE It is advisable to check the level before applying the
vibrating hammer to gain an indication of the amount of
compaction needed. Ear defenders should be worn at all times
when the hammer is in use. It is important to hold the hammer
in an upright position when compacting material. Use the
depth-gauge to measure the level at the CENTRE of the material
surface.
9.3.1.3 Weigh out a second portion of material of
mass M and transfer to the mould, level and
tamp 25 times as before. Use the vibrating hammer
to compact the material in the mould until a
depth-gauge reading in the range 133 mm
to 139 mm is obtained.
9.3.1.4 Weigh out a third portion of material mass
M, transfer to the mould, level and tamp 25 times.
Carefully wipe clean the inside of the mould above
the tamped material and insert the top plug. Fit
the 145 mm (standard) diameter tamping foot to the
vibrating hammer and apply the vibrating hammer
to the top plug until the specimen is fully compacted
(see note). The specimen may be regarded as fully
compacted if the overall gap between the mould and
the end plugs does not exceed 4 mm.
NOTE With some granular materials the last layer may not be
fully compacted after about 1 min application of the hammer. In
such cases it may help to invert the mould assembly and apply
the hammer to the bottom plug. Do not apply the hammer to
either end for more than 1 min at a time. With very coarse
materials it may be necessary to remove one of the plugs and
apply the vibrating hammer directly onto the material surface
during this stage.
9.3.2 Extrusion from the mould
9.3.2.1 Remove both plugs.
NOTE 1 Normally one or two clockwise and anticlockwise
rotations will loosen the top plug in the mould and allow it to be
lifted off the mould directly. In a similar manner the mould itself
can be lifted from the bottom plug.
16
NOTE 2 If the end plugs cannot be removed by hand, the mould
assembly should be left to stand for 5 min to 10 min before a
further attempt is made. This allows excess moisture which may
form a seal around the plugs to drain away. It is important not to
strike the mould or plugs with a heavy object since this is likely
to damage them. If, however, after 10 min standing the plugs still
cannot be removed, gentle tapping with a suitable light (and
preferably non-metallic) object may be employed e.g. a
rubber-faced mallet. If plugs become persistently difficult to
remove, the mould and plugs should be checked for damage and
their dimensions checked. A mould can become distorted even
during normal use.
9.3.2.2 Extrude the specimen from the
Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI
mould; 9.3.2.3 describes an acceptable method
using a compression machine. Other methods
utilizing compression machines or hydraulic-jack
extruders can be used if proved effective, provided
that their operation is smooth and attention is paid
to the rate of strain which should not be excessive.
9.3.2.3 If a compression machine is used, place the
narrow end of the mould over the short extruder and
then place both the mould and the extruder on the
platen of the compression machine. Start the
extrusion process on the machine and remove the
mould and extruder from the machine when the
extrusion can proceed no further. Complete the final
extrusion by hand using the long extruder.
NOTE If hand-extrusion proves impossible the following
procedure is recommended when the compression machine has
space of at least 720 mm between the platens. The sample is
extruded using a specially designed cylinder which is fitted over
the top of the mould. The mould and cylinder are then placed on
the long extruder of the compression machine and extrusion
completed on the machine. Where the machine has a space
of 780 mm between the platens the extrusion may be effected
using the long extruder only. This extruder process is illustrated
in Figure 10.
9.3.3 Completion
9.3.3.1 Immediately after extrusion, wrap a
waxed-paper sheet around the curved face of the
specimen and secure with adhesive tape (do not
encircle the specimen with the adhesive tape) so
that the lower edge of the paper is in line with the
bottom of the specimen (leaving an upstand of
about 50 mm at the upper face). Place one of the
Tufnol discs, with the recess uppermost, on top of
the specimen.
Carefully place the specimen on a porous disc and
position the specimen and porous disc in a copper
specimen carrier (see note). The completed
specimen assembly is then ready to be placed into
the test chamber (see 10.1.2).
NOTE Positioning of the copper specimen carrier can be made
easier if the carrier is placed over a cylinder slightly taller than
the carrier and of slightly smaller diameter than the hole in the
bottom of the carrier. The porous disc can then be placed on top
of the cylinder and the carrier lifted gently into place. Thus the
difficult operation of inverting the specimen is avoided.
9.3.3.2 Remove the mould from the extruder and
before re-use clean and dry the mould, both plugs
and extruder.
© BSI 02-1999

10 Procedure for determination of the
frost-heave
10.1 Loading test specimens into the
self-refrigerated unit
10.1.1 Using mixed material from one of the batches
previously prepared (9.2) prepare a frost test
specimen using the method described in 9.3.
10.1.2 Place the prepared specimen in one of the
holes in the wooden cradle in the test chamber. If
Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI
the specimen is to be placed in any of the
positions 1, 3, 5, 7 or 9 (Figure 2) locate a
thermocouple between the bottom of the porous disc
and the copper specimen carrier before inserting the
specimen into the cradle. If the specimen is to be
located in position 5 (Figure 2) also fix a
thermocouple to the underside of the Tufnol disc so
that the junction is exposed at the centre of the disc
and in contact with the upper surface of the test
specimen.
10.1.3 Repeat the procedure in 10.1.1 and 10.1.2
until three specimens for each of the materials or six
specimens for one material and three of another
material have been prepared and located in the
cradle. Fill all nine positions.
10.1.4 When nine specimens have been positioned,
position four thermocouples so that there is one
above each of the spots marked x on the floor of the
cradle in Figure 2, at a level 250 mm above the
plane containing the lower faces of the specimens.
An acceptable method of achieving this is to attach
each thermocouple to a 6 mm diameter wooden
dowel about 300 mm long so that the junction is
exposed 205 ± 2 mm from the lower end of the
dowel. The four dowels may then be positioned on
the floor of the cradle (see note). Place the coarse
sand carefully in the space around the specimens
(and around the vertical dowels if these are used)
until the sand is level with the tops of the
specimens. This should leave the waxed paper
standing approximately 50 mm above the level of
the sand. Take care to remove any sand particles
accidentally split on the Tufnol discs, particularly in
the recesses.
NOTE It is not usually necessary to provide support for the
dowels, they will be held in position by the coarse sand. However,
if problems arise rubber tubing can be placed on the dowel ends
which are then pushed onto preset studs on the floor of the cradle.
Care should be taken to ensure that particles of sand do not get
under the dowels thus raising the thermocouples.
© BSI 02-1999
BS 812-124:1989
10.1.5 When the coarse sand has been placed check
the positions of the thermocouples and any control
sensors and then close the lid of the test chamber.
Locate the datum frames on the SRU, pass the
push-rods through the holes in the frame and
chamber lid and locate in the central recesses of the
corresponding Tufnol discs. Start the constant-level
device by opening the outlet tap, O (Figure 3), to
allow water to flow into the water-bath and restore
the correct level. The water level is controlled
automatically for the remainder of the test.
10.1.6 Complete the loading of the SRU within one
working day. Leave the loaded SRU undisturbed
for 115 ± 5 h from the time that the last specimen
was inserted in the cradle before proceeding. Use
the chart recorder to monitor the temperatures in
the test chamber during this period.
NOTE The temperatures in both the water-bath and the air
above the specimens should be close to room temperature by the
end of the period.
10.2 Freezing the specimens and measuring
frost-heave
10.2.1 When 115 ± 5 h have elapsed from the time
that the last specimen was inserted in the cradle,
check the push-rods to make sure that they are
correctly located. Use surgery wool or similar
absorbent material to plug the gaps between each
push-rod, and the hole in the test-chamber lid
through which it passes. This prevents
condensation, which may form on the rods when the
SRU is cool, from running into the test chamber.
Take care to avoid dislocating any of the push-rods.
Do not pack the surgery wool too tightly into the
holes.
10.2.2 Record the distance between the top of the
rod and the top of the datum for each push-rod to the
nearest 0.5 mm.
10.2.3 Record the temperature of each
thermocouple.
10.2.4 Switch on the controls of the SRU to start the
freezing process and note the time. The operating
temperatures defined in clause 7 should be reached
between 4 h and 14 h from switching on and
maintained for the duration of the test.
10.2.5 Measure the frost-heave after a period
of 24 ± 2 h from the time of switching on the
refrigeration by the following procedure.
a) Rotate the push-rods to ensure that they have
not stuck. Check the surgery wool and replace if
necessary.
b) Record the distance between the top of the rod
and the top of the datum frame for each of the
nine push-rods to the nearest 0.5 mm. Any heave
that has occurred may be obtained by
subtraction.
17
BS 812-124:1989
10.2.6 Continue to record the frost-heave as
described in 10.2.5 at intervals of 24 ± 2 h until at
least 96 h have elapsed from the time of switching
on the refrigeration.
10.3 Monitoring the temperature conditions
10.3.1 Employ the procedure described in 10.3.2
to 10.3.4 during every test.
NOTE Although it is not necessary to carry out a detailed
tuning check of the SRU before or during every test, it is
important to ensure that the equipment continues to operate
correctly.
10.3.2 Record at least daily the temperature at each
thermocouple sequentially at intervals not
exceeding 5 s. Calculate the instantaneous water
temperature [defined in 7.1.2.2 a)] and
instantaneous air temperature [defined
in 7.1.2.2 d)].
10.3.3 If the instantaneous water temperature is
outside the range 3.0 °C to 4.5 °C, or if the
instantaneous air temperature is outside the
range – 18 °C to – 16 °C, then determine the mean
temperatures in the air and the water by the
method given in 7.2.2 (see note). If the mean water
temperature is outside the range 3.0 °C to 4.5 °C, or
the mean air temperature is outside the
range – 18 °C to – 16 °C, abandon the test and
retune the SRU.
NOTE If this procedure has to be followed more than once
during a test, even though the results are within the required
range, this means that the SRU is operating close to the limits
allowed and it should therefore be re-tuned before the next test.
In any event the mean temperature should be determined at
least once during every test.
10.3.4 Inspect the chart recorder at least daily to
check whether any sudden changes in temperature
have occurred while the equipment has been
unattended (e.g. resulting from a power cut). If this
indicates that a sudden change of more than 0.5 °C
in the water or 1 °C in the air of more than an hour’s
duration has occurred, abandon the test.
10.4 Unloading the self-refrigerated unit
10.4.1 When the freezing of the specimens has been
completed, or it has been decided to abandon the
test, unload the SRU as described in the
procedure 10.4.2 to 10.4.8 inclusive.
10.4.2 Switch off the refrigeration system.
NOTE It is advisable to keep the water-bath
circulation/heating system running at this stage to prevent the
water temperature falling too far while it is exposed to the very
cold air in the test chamber.
10.4.3 Remove and discard the surgery wool
stopping the holes in the test-chamber lid. Remove
push-rods and allow to return to room temperature.
Remove the datum frame and open the
test-chamber lid.
18
10.4.4 Carefully remove the thermocouples in the
air above the specimens from above the cradle and
put on one side.
10.4.5 Remove the coarse sand (a vacuum cleaner
may be used) and dry and remove any material to
allow re-use of the sand (see note to 6.2). Do not
re-use the sand until it has returned to room
temperature.
10.4.6 Remove the specimens from the cradle,
taking care not to damage any thermocouples as
Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI
they are detached. Discard the test specimens and
waxed paper. Clean and dry the Tufnol discs, porous
discs and copper specimen carriers. It is important
to check that the porous discs have not become
blocked, particularly when fine-grained materials
are being tested. If any are found to be inadequately
permeable replace for future tests.
10.4.7 Remove the wooden cradle, allow to return to
room temperature and then clean and dry.
10.4.8 Leave the SRU with the lid open until the air
in the test chamber has warmed to above 0 °C.
Switch off the water-bath controls and completely
drain both the bath and the constant-level device.
Discard the waste water. Defrost the SRU and the
test chamber (including the water-bath) and
thoroughly clean and dry. Do not use the SRU for
another test until it has returned to room
temperature. Any signs of condensation on the walls
of the chilled tank indicate that this condition has
not yet been reached.
NOTE Leaving overnight after defrosting and cleaning is
usually adequate.
11 Calculation and expression of
results
11.1 Calculate the frost-heave for each of the nine
specimens on each of the four occasions the push-rod
displacement was recorded during the 96 h freezing
period, to the nearest 0.5 mm, by subtracting the
respective initial rod displacements. If during the
freezing period the heaves of two or more specimens
(of the nine in the SRU) fall by more than 1 mm,
regard the test run as invalid. If the test run is
invalid do not report the result and re-test all the
materials involved.
© BSI 02-1999

11.2 For each material tested determine for each
specimen the maximum heave observed
within 96 h, and calculate the mean of the maxima
to the nearest 0.1 mm. Regard these mean values of
frost-heave as the frost-heave of the aggregate
under test, subject to the following conditions.
a) If all nine specimens of the material under test
have heaves of less than 2.0 mm the results are
suspiciously low. The test should therefore be
repeated unless previous experience of the
Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI
materials under test shows that the results are
consistent with what would be expected.
b) If the mean heave of the three specimens is less
than 18.0 mm, calculate the range
(i.e. highest- lowest) of the heaves of the three
specimens. If the range exceeds 6.0 mm repeat
the test before reporting any result.
c) If the mean heave of the three specimens
is 18.0 mm or greater no further testing is
required.
11.3 When any repeat testing has been completed
calculate the mean heave using the results from all
the specimens.
12 Precision
Table 2 — Precision estimates, frost-heave
(mm)
Level Average r1 R1 R2 √Vr1 √VL √VS
mm mm mm mm mm mm mm
Flint gravel 13.5 7.0 8.5 9.0 2.5 1.8 1.0
12.1 The precision data given in Table 2 were
determined from an experiment conducted
in 1984/5 involving 19 laboratories. The experiment
was designed, and the data analysed following the
principles set out in BS 5497-1:1979. The material
tested consisted of a 20 tonne lot of flint gravel,
complying with the grading requirements for a
Type 2 road sub-base. The laboratory samples were
taken according to BS 812-102:1984, all by one
sampler. Two randomly selected laboratory samples
were sent to each laboratory. The laboratories
produced two test portions (each sufficient for three
frost-heave specimens) from each laboratory sample
by following the procedure given in 6.4 of
BS 812-102:1984. All the frost-heave specimens
which were used to obtain the above precision data
were prepared at a moisture content and a density
which had been nominated in advance (see note).
© BSI 02-1999
BS 812-124:1989
NOTE If each laboratory had determined the moisture content
and density for its own tests it is probable that larger values of
R1, R2 and VL than given in Table 2 would have been obtained.
However, recent research at the Transport and Road Research
Laboratory with two sub-base materials (with mid-range
gradings) has shown that changes in the moisture content and
density of the frost-heave test specimens have little effect on the
values of heave recorded.
12.2 The tests for outliers given in BS 5497-1:1979
were applied to the data. All the results from one
laboratory were rejected (they had not used the
nominated moisture and density in some of their
tests). The results on one test portion from another
laboratory were rejected, because the range between
the frost-heave specimens from that test portion
was an outlier.
12.3 Definitions of r1, R1, and R2 are given in
clause 2 of BS 812-101:1984. The variabilities which
arise in the sampling and sample reduction
operations are apportioned to Vr1 and VS according
to the definitions of sampling error and sample
reduction error given in clause 2 of Part 101:1984.
The variances Vr1, VL and VS are defined by the
equations given in Table 1 of Part 101:1984. For the
frost-heave test, the variance Vr1 contains
contributions from three components:
VRuns = variation between runs of the
SRU,
VTest portions = variation between test portions of
a laboratory sample;
VSpecimens = variation between frost-heave
specimens, from the same test
portion, in the same run.
A “run” consists of the cycle of operations described
in clause 10.
When the frost-heave test is carried out as
suggested in 9.1, using three frost-heave specimens
prepared from one test-portion, the “test result” is
the average over three specimens, and
Vr1 = VRuns + VTest portions + (VSpecimens/3)
This equation was used to calculate Vr1 in Table 2
above. Consequently, the precision estimates r1, R1
and R2 may be compared with differences between
two test results when the two test results are
obtained from different test portions and from
different runs, and as averages over three
specimens. The following values were obtained in
the experiment:
VRuns = 1.8 mm
VTest Portions = 1.3 mm
VSpecimens = 1.9 mm
This last value was used to calculate the limit
of 6.0 mm given in 11.2 b).
19
BS 812-124:1989

12.4 Uses of precision data are described in clause 5

of BS 812-101:1984.

13 Test report
The test report shall affirm that the frost-heave was
determined in accordance with this Part of BS 812
and whether or not a certificate of sampling is
available. if available, a copy of the certificate of
sampling shall be provided. The test report shall
contain the following information.

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI

a) Sample identification.
b) The dry density at which the specimens were
prepared.
c) The moisture content used to prepare the
specimens.
d) The particle-size distribution of the test
portion (8.1).
e) The particle-size distribution of the stable test
specimen (8.2.2.7).
f) The maximum heave observed in 96 h for each
specimen tested including any re-test, to the
nearest 0.5 mm.
g) The mean of results reported under f) above
calculated to the nearest 0.1 mm.

20 © BSI 02-1999
 BS 812-124:1989

Appendix A Example of temperature Table 4 is a chart summarizing all the

parameter calculations determinations made during a complete turning
point. The data from Table 3 corresponds to
Evaluation of the various parameters is facilitated sampling period 3 on this chart.
by the use of specimen charts. Table 3 is a completed
chart for the determination of mean water and air
temperatures. In this example the temperatures
were recorded in sets of ten at 4 min intervals.
Columns are provided for recording instantaneous
temperatures and ranges; the mean temperatures
and standard deviation are recorded at the foot of
each column.
Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI

Table 3 — SRU tuning, temperature recording chart

Water-bath Air Central Tufnol
Disc
Thermocouples Thermocouples Thermocouples
IWT IWR IAT IAR
Set number W1 W2 W3 W4 W5 A1 A2 A3 A4
1 3.7 3.7 3.8 3.7 3.6 3.7 0.2 – 19.2 – 16.8 – 19.0 – 16.9 – 18.0 2.4 – 4.4
2 3.8 3.9 4.0 3.9 3.8 3.9 0.2 – 18.7 – 16.5 – 18.6 – 16.5 – 17.6 2.2 – 4.4
3 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.2 4.1 4.2 0.2 – 17.5 – 15.3 – 17.3 – 15.5 – 16.4 2.2 – 3.7
4 3.9 4.0 4.1 3.9 3.9 4.0 0.2 – 17.7 – 15.5 – 17.6 – 15.6 – 16.6 2.2 – 3.8
5 3.9 3.9 4.0 3.9 3.8 3.9 0.2 – 18.2 – 15.9 – 18.1 – 16.1 – 17.1 2.3 – 4.0
6 3.8 3.9 4.0 3.9 3.8 3.9 0.2 – 18.6 – 16.3 – 18.5 – 16.4 – 17.5 2.3 – 4.0
7 3.8 3.8 3.9 3.8 3.7 3.8 0.2 – 18.8 – 16.5 – 18.7 – 16.7 – 17.7 2.3 – 4.0
8 3.8 3.8 4.0 3.9 3.8 3.9 0.2 – 18.8 – 16.5 – 18.7 – 16.6 – 17.7 2.3 – 4.3
9 3.9 3.9 4.1 4.0 3.9 4.0 0.2 – 18.0 – 15.8 – 17.8 – 15.9 – 16.9 2.2 – 3.9
10 4.0 4.0 4.1 4.0 3.9 4.0 0.2 – 17.6 – 15.4 – 17.4 – 15.5 – 16.5 2.2 – 3.8
11 3.8 3.8 3.9 3.9 3.7 3.8 0.2 – 18.0 – 15.8 – 17.9 – 15.9 – 16.9 2.2 – 4.0
12 3.8 3.8 3.9 3.8 3.7 3.8 0.2 – 18.5 – 16.2 – 18.4 – 16.4 – 17.4 2.3 – 4.1
13 3.7 3.7 3.9 3.7 3.6 3.7 0.3 – 18.9 – 16.5 – 18.7 – 16.6 – 17.7 2.4 – 4.1
14 3.8 3.8 3.9 3.7 3.7 3.8 0.2 – 19.0 – 16.6 – 18.9 – 16.8 – 17.8 2.4 – 4.3
15 3.8 3.9 4.0 3.8 3.8 3.9 0.2 – 18.6 – 16.4 – 18.5 – 16.5 – 17.5 2.2 – 4.4
16 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.0 3.9 4.0 0.3 – 17.5 – 15.3 – 17.3 – 15.4 – 16.4 2.2 – 3.7
17 3.9 3.9 4.0 3.8 3.7 3.9 0.3 – 17.6 – 15.4 – 17.5 – 15.6 – 16.5 2.2 – 3.8
18 3.8 3.8 3.9 3.6 3.6 3.7 0.3 – 18.2 – 15.9 – 18.0 – 16.0 – 17.0 2.3 – 4.0
19 3.8 3.8 3.9 3.7 3.6 3.8 0.3 – 18.5 – 16.2 – 18.4 – 16.3 – 17.4 2.3 – 4.1
20 3.8 3.8 3.9 3.7 3.7 3.8 0.2 – 18.8 – 16.4 – 18.7 – 16.6 – 17.6 2.4 – 4.1
21 3.8 3.8 3.9 3.7 3.7 3.8 0.2 – 19.1 – 16.7 – 19.0 – 16.9 – 17.9 2.4 – 4.2
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30

MEAN 3.87 0.22 – 17.24 2.28 – 4.05

Standard deviation 0.12 0.53

Freezing Sampling Sampling Time interval Ambient Recorded by

Test started period started between each set temperature
number number of readings
at on at on
3 4 mins 22 °C

© BSI 02-1999 21
 BS 812-124:1989
Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI
Table 4 — SRU tuning, temperature parameter summary chart © BSI 02-1999
22
 BS 812-124:1989

Publications referred to

BS 593, Specification for laboratory thermometers.

BS 812, Testing aggregates.
BS 812-2, Methods for determination of physical properties.
BS 812-101, Guide to sampling and testing aggregates.
BS 812-102, Methods for sampling.
BS 812-103, Method for determination of particle size distribution.
BS 1377, Methods of test for soils for civil engineering purposes.
BS 4035, Specification for linear measuring instruments for use on building and civil engineering
constructional works. Steel measuring tapes, steel bands and retractable steel pocket rules.
Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, none, 17-Nov-00, Uncontrolled Copy. © BSI

BS 4937, International thermocouple reference tables.

BS 4937-5, Copper/copper-nickel thermocouples. Type T.
BS 5497, Precision of test methods.
BS 5497-1, Guide for the determination of repeatability and reproducibility for a standard test method by
inter-laboratory tests.
BS 5781, Measurement and calibration systems.
BS 5835, Recommendations for testing of aggregates.
BS 5835-1, Compactibility test for graded aggregates.
TRRL Supplementary Report 829: Specification for the TRRL frost-heave test (TRRL 1984)1).

1) Referred to in the foreword only.

© BSI 02-1999
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