Used to determine moisture content of sand, soil and fine aggregate. The procedure involves the reaction between water and calcium carbide which when mixed together a gas is given off. The gas is directly proportional to the amount of water present in the sample and results in percentage moisture range 0-25% & 0-50%.

This apparatus comprises a two-column fixed crosshead frame and a hand operated hydraulic jack. Pressure applied by the jack extends the piston carrying the lower conical point. The upper point is fixed to the crosshead with a scale mounted on the frame to provide specimen diameter information for use in point load strength index calculations.