Precision Vane Shear Testers for Geotechnical Assessment
Delivering accurate, on-site soil shear strength measurements with trusted tools, systems, and integrations across North America.
Reliable Vane Shear Testing Systems for Accurate Soil Strength Assessment
Vane shear testers are specialized instruments used to determine the undrained shear strength of cohesive soils, especially in soft clays and silts. These devices play a critical role in geotechnical investigations, site characterization, and foundation design by enabling quick, in-situ or lab-based shear testing with minimal soil disturbance. Designed for both manual and automated operations, vane shear testers help geotechnical engineers ensure the structural safety and performance of foundations, embankments, levees, and other critical infrastructure.
Civil Structure Test Tech, a trusted B2B provider based in Vancouver, BC, delivers industry-grade vane shear testing solutions throughout North America.
Our comprehensive suite of equipment is engineered for accuracy, durability, and field efficiency—empowering civil engineers, researchers, and construction firms to make informed, data-driven decisions with confidence.
Core Components
In addition to offering products and systems developed by our team and trusted partners for Vane Shear Testers, we are proud to carry top-tier technologies from Global Advanced Operations Tek Inc. (GAO Tek Inc.) and Global Advanced Operations RFID Inc. (GAO RFID Inc.). These reliable, high-quality products and systems enhance our ability to deliver comprehensive technologies, integrations, and services you can trust. Where relevant, we have provided direct links to select products and systems from GAO Tek Inc. and GAO RFID Inc.
Hardware Components
- Stainless Steel Vane Blades
Industrial & Asset Monitoring Sensors ensure accurate soil condition assessment to evaluate structural risks for insurance underwriting.
- Torsion Rods and Extension Rods
Zigbee End Devices enable wireless torque data transmission for real-time field monitoring of soil testing operations.
- Torque Measurement Device
BLE Gateways, Beacons & Accessories – BLE Gateways, Beacons & Accessories facilitate precise torque measurement data collection for asset integrity verification.
- Tripods and Anchoring Systems
Wi-Fi HaLow Accessories provide reliable connectivity support for stable sensor deployment during field tests.
- Motorized Drive Unit (optional)
Cellular IoT Devices allow remote operation and monitoring, improving automation and risk management in insured infrastructure projects.
Software Solutions
- Data Logging & Visualization Software – Real-time data acquisition, analysis, and report generation
- Calibration Management Tools – Ensure testing accuracy and compliance over time
Cloud Services
- Cloud-Integrated Portals – Optional data syncing for centralized storage and team access
Why Choose Us?
Precision Systems for Structural Performance Evaluation
Key Features
Accurate undrained shear strength measurement for in-situ and lab testing, with modular designs for shallow and deep soil conditions.
Motorized automation options ensure repeatability, supported by advanced DAQ systems for high-resolution recording.
Lightweight, portable systems enable quick setup and transport for remote or field-based applications.
Integrations
Integrates with GPS and depth logging systems for geo-referenced testing
Data interoperability with cloud analytics tools and construction project management software
Compatibility
Compatible with geotechnical software suites for soil parameter modeling
Supports communication protocols like USB, RS232, or Bluetooth (model-
dependent)
Benefits
Faster, more cost-efficient alternative to traditional lab-based shear strength tests.
Enhanced accuracy and repeatability reduce risk by detecting weak soil zones early.
Compliance-ready systems with robust calibration and data logging for QA/QC assurance.
Applications
Foundation and stability assessments for buildings, bridges, dams, embankments, and slopes.
Subgrade evaluations for roads, railways, and marine/soft ground projects.
Research, academic, and geotechnical investigations requiring detailed soil profiling.
Industries
Civil & Structural Engineering, Construction, and Transportation Authorities.
Oil & Gas, Marine Infrastructure, and Environmental/Geological Survey Agencies.
Academic and Research Institutions specializing in soil mechanics.
Relevant U.S. & Canadian Standards
ASTM D2573
Standard Test Method for Field Vane Shear Test in Cohesive Soil
ASTM D4648
Standard Test Method for Laboratory Miniature Vane Shear Test
AASHTO T223
Field Vane Shear Test
CSA A23.1
Concrete Materials and Methods of Concrete Construction
CGSB 147-GP-50M
Soil Testing Standard (Canada)
Case Studies
Case Study 1 (U.S.): Flood Embankment Stability in Louisiana
A major engineering consultancy used our field vane shear testers to evaluate the shear strength of flood levees in a post-hurricane zone. The project resulted in reliable geotechnical parameters that guided emergency reinforcement plans, averting potential collapse during the subsequent rainy season.
Case Study 2 (U.S.): Bridge Foundation Assessment in Ohio
In Ohio, a transportation department employed our vane shear systems to validate subgrade strength for a bridge retrofit. The real-time data collection reduced turnaround time by 40%, enabling quicker re-engineering and reduced project delays.
Case Study 3 (Canada): Residential Development in Southern Alberta
A Canadian engineering firm deployed our manual vane testers across multiple boreholes on a development site with clayey soils. The resulting soil strength profiles ensured compliant and safe foundation designs, with full documentation meeting CSA standards.
Contact Us
For expert guidance, product inquiries, or to request a quote, please contact us.
Let Civil Structure Test Tech help you implement reliable, standards-compliant vane shear testing technologies tailored to your project’s needs.