Point load tester - ASTM D5731 Reservoir geomechanics Instruments

The point load tester accurately determines the uncorrected point load strength index Is, which is then converted to a point load index having a standard equivalent diameter (De) of 50 mm. The corrected Is(50) index enables rock strength classification and can also be used to estimate the uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) and the rock anisotropy Ia(50).

The device consists of a hydraulic ram, a manual hydraulic pump with a pressure gauge and a rigid two-column crosshead frame. Pressure applied by the pump displaces a piston carrying the lower conical platen. Pressure is directly read from the digital pressure gauge. The upper platen is fastened to the crosshead and a fixed graduated scale measures the sample diameter. The apparatus is supplied with front and rear protective shields. A carrying case is also provided to allow safe and efficient transportation. This instrument follows ASTM D5731 procedures.

Standard :

• ASTM D5731

Load capacity :

• 100 kN

Maximum sample size :

• 4 inches (101.6 mm)

Pump pressure :

• 70 MPa

Pressure accuracy :

• 0.2% FS

Weight :

• 25 kg

Dimensions :

• 50 × 30 × 25 cm

• Simple test procedure
• Direct reading of specimen diameter
• Extreme rigidity
• Inexpensive instrument
• Portable and easy to carry on-site
• Attractive alternative to the UCS test because it provides similar data at a lower cost