Frost Heave Test Chamber

Frost heave is a natural phenomenon whereby, in freezing conditions, soil or material swells due to the formation of ice crystals within it. Water penetrates through capillary action, freezes, and forms ice lenses that lift the material upward. This process can seriously damage roads, buildings, and infrastructure. Our FHU812PRO chamber accurately simulates this phenomenon in the laboratory according to the BS812:PT124:1989 standard.

The test involves two temperature-controlled environments: a lower container with water at +3/+4.5°C and an upper container with air at -22/-16°C. The nine specimens are placed in an intermediate cradle. The water rises by capillary action in the specimens and freezes, lifting the brass rods inserted into the specimens. The revoFACE+ controller automatically manages the temperatures and advises when to take lift measurements.

The duration varies depending on the type of material tested and the research objectives, but a complete cycle can typically last from 24 hours to several days. The automated system allows the chamber to be left running without constant supervision, alerting the operator only when measurements need to be taken.

Each specimen has a brass rod inserted vertically. As the material rises due to freezing, the rod rises with it. The operator simply measures how much each rod has risen relative to the datum reference frame. The 12 integrated probes simultaneously record temperature data at multiple locations.

The FHU812PRO chamber is designed to test 9 specimens simultaneously, with a dedicated holder, 9 brass rods, and independent monitoring for each. This allows you to compare different materials or conditions in the same test session.

No, the chamber is designed for low maintenance. It's important to keep the water supply system clean and check the level periodically. The automatic constant level system minimizes manual intervention. The 12 integrated probes ensure reliable monitoring without the need for frequent calibration.

Yes, the chamber has a remote connection available. You can monitor test parameters, download recorded data, and check test status remotely. The revoFACE+ controller also allows you to export all data to a USB stick in a format usable on a PC.

The FHU812PRO chamber is specifically designed to comply with British Standard BS812:PT124:1989, the primary reference for frost heave testing. However, it can be customized to meet other international test protocols after consulting with our engineers.

You can test concrete, compacted materials, granular layers, road pavements, aggregates, stabilized soils, and any other construction material subject to freezing conditions. The chamber is particularly suitable for materials destined for regions with harsh winters.

Absolutely. FDM specializes in custom chamber design. If you have specific requirements regarding the number of specimens, dimensions, different test protocols, or specific integrations, contact us to discuss a customized solution.