A Computer Controlled Hydraulic Triaxial Testing System
ABSTRACT: A computer controlled hydraulic triaxial testing system is introduced. A desktop computer is linked to a hydraulic triaxial cell via three microprocessor controlled hydraulic actuators and two subsystems, one for the measurement of axial deformation and the other for the measurement of pore pressure.
The separate system elements and subsystems are described in detail. The operation of the system is described, and control algorithms are explained with particular reference to Ko consolidation and swelling and automatic testing rate by controlled hydraulic gradient. System performance is illustrated by reference to published data describing Ko, stress path, cyclic loading, and triaxial extension tests. The advantages of the system are summarized.