Unsaturated soils | Hydraulic conductivity | Shear strength | Consolidation and volume change | Waste rock | Field testing Our computer controlled direct shear and triaxial compression apparatuses allow the operator to program shearing rates or loading speeds. Loads and displacements are monitored using load-cells and LVDTs connected directly to the data acquisition system. The direct shear equipment is capable of controlled strain or controlled stress testing, with loading speeds ranging from 2.5x10-5 to 10 mm/min. Direct shear tests can be performed on 40 mm to 100 mm specimens and the triaxial loading equipment can accommodate specimens ranging from 37.5 to 100 mm in diameter. A computer controlled Hoek triaxial cell is also available for testing grout and rock specimens. The cell is suitable for use in the field, especially for materials that are difficult to preserve during transportation.