Navigating Troxler’s Range of Nuclear Density Gauges

A nuclear density gauge is an instrument that uses radioactive sources to measure the density and moisture content of materials. It works by emitting gamma rays or neutrons from a radioactive source into the material being tested. The gauge then measures the amount of radiation that is either absorbed or scattered by the material, which correlates to its density and moisture content.

These gauges are widely used in road construction, foundation laying, and other construction projects to ensure that the materials used meet the required compaction standards. The data provided by nuclear density gauges is critical for determining whether a material has been properly compacted and meets the design specifications. From soil testing to asphalt and concrete assessments, nuclear density gauges are essential tools in the construction industry. In this guide, we'll explain some of the top Troxler models, each engineered to meet distinct testing demands, and help you find the perfect fit for your project. 

Soil Testing: To ensure the soil is compacted to the correct level, preventing future settling or shifting.

Asphalt Testing: To verify that asphalt layers are compacted to the required density, ensuring durability and longevity of the pavement.

Concrete Testing: To measure the density of concrete layers, ensuring they meet the structural requirements of the project.

The Troxler 4640-B Surface Thin Layer Density Gauge is designed specifically for measuring the density of thin asphalt and concrete layers, ranging from 2.5 to 10 cm (1 to 4 inches). This gauge is particularly useful for projects where the overlay density needs to be measured accurately without being influenced by the underlying material. One of its key advantages is that it does not require nomographs or manual corrections, making it easier to obtain accurate results on-site in as little as one minute.

Key Features:

• Precision: ±1 standard deviation at 2240 kg/m³ (140 pcf).

• Measurement Depth: 25-100 mm (1-4 inches).

• Data Storage: Can store up to 750 records for later viewing, printing, or downloading.

• Calibration: Complies with ASTM D2950 and AASHTO T 355 standards.

• Radiological Safety: Uses a Cesium-137 gamma source with robust shielding.

The 4640-B is ideal for thin layer asphalt and concrete projects where precision and speed are crucial. It provides accurate density measurements without the need for complex calculations, making it a highly efficient tool for on-site testing.

The Troxler RoadReader 3450 is a versatile gauge that combines the ability to measure both thin layers and full-depth density in one device. It is designed to handle a wider range of applications, including thin layer asphalt, full-depth asphalt, soil, and aggregates. This makes it the go-to choice for projects that require comprehensive testing across different material types and depths.

Key Features:

• Versatility: Measures density and moisture for thin layer asphalt, full depth asphalt, soil, and aggregates.

• Data Storage: Can store up to 1,000 test readings under multiple projects.

• Backlit Display: Allows for nighttime use, making it versatile for various testing conditions.

• Battery Life: Features quick-charge NiCad batteries or alkaline batteries with a sleep mode to conserve power.

• Calibration: Meets ASTM Standard Test Methods D6938, D2950, C1040, and AASHTO T 310 and T 355 standards.

The RoadReader 3450 is ideal for projects that require a single device to handle multiple testing needs, including both thin and full-depth measurements. Its versatility and comprehensive feature set make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from road construction to foundation testing.

The Troxler RoadReader Models 3430/3440 Moisture Density Gauges are essential tools for precise compaction testing of soil, aggregate, concrete, and asphalt. These gauges offer density measurement in backscatter or direct transmission modes and moisture measurement in backscatter mode.

• Model 3430: A cost-effective, reliable gauge with an enlarged backlit display, NiMH batteries, and optional data storage.

• Model 3440: Adds advanced features like automatic depth function, GPS location tracking, and storage for up to 1000 readings.

Both models are durable, easy to use, and equipped with USB ports for data transfer, making them ideal for construction and engineering projects. They are particularly well-suited for routine soil and asphalt compaction testing in applications like road construction, parking lots, and other infrastructure projects where consistent and reliable measurements are crucial. These models are designed for straightforward, day-to-day use, making them ideal for contractors, engineers, and highway departments that require efficient compaction control.

The Model 3430 offers a cost-effective option with essential features for basic testing needs, while the Model 3440 provides additional user-friendly capabilities, such as automatic depth measurement and expanded data storage, making it a better choice for projects that demand more comprehensive data collection and analysis. Their versatility and ease of use in both soil and asphalt applications make them a practical choice for many construction environments.

Click here to discover more about the differences between Troxler 3430 and 3440.