Managing geotechnical laboratory tests shouldn’t be a “logistical nightmare”. GAEA Technologies’ Geotechnical Data Management System (GDMS) is a powerful module within the GaeaSynergy suite designed to simplify and standardize the entire testing lifecycle. By integrating laboratory information management (LIMS) with geotechnical analysis, GDMS allows engineers to capture, store, and report complex test results with clinical precision.
Performing a Sieve Analysis in GDMS is a structured process that transforms raw laboratory data into professional grain size distribution reports.
Step 1: Create a New Test for a Sample
Within your project, open the relevant sample and create a new Sieve Analysis test by going to the Geotechnical Tests tab and selecting the test type as Sieve Analysis. The name and laboratory for the the analysis can also be specified. Then click on the Add button.
Step 2: Select the Template
The geotechnical template determines the format and layout for the test results.
Step 3. Enter the Test Information
Enter critical metadata, including the test personnel, verifier, and links to photos of the test specimens if available.
Step 4: Enter Laboratory Data
GDMS allows for flexible data entry to match your lab’s workflow.
- Direct Entry: Record the mass of soil retained on each sieve directly into the system.
- Excel Integration: For large datasets, you can simply copy and paste test data directly from Excel.
The sieve data form will have a tab for Washed Sieve Data if the Sample Split for Washing is checked and a tab for Hydrometer Data if the Hydrometer is checked on the Sieve Data tab.
Step 5: Generate the Final Report
The final step is producing a professional report.
- The program will automatically calculate and display values like dry density, coefficient of uniformity (
), and plasticity index.
- Enter any required information in the Title Block by going to Edit> Title Block.
- Export your completed analysis to PDF or print it for seamless sharing.
Summary
Performing a sieve analysis in GDMS streamlines the transition from laboratory weighing to final engineering reports. By utilizing predefined specifications, Excel integration, and automated graphing, the system ensures your geotechnical data is both accurate and standardized across all projects.
Important Note on Standards: While many legacy projects still reference ASTM D422-63, it was officially withdrawn in 2016. For modern projects, it has been replaced by ASTM D6913 for sieve analysis and ASTM D7928 for hydrometer analysis. GDMS allows you to select the appropriate specification for your project’s requirements.
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