Geotechnical Centrifuge

The geotechnical centrifuge comprises a beam that rotates around a central axis. It is used for the testing of scale models of predominantly geotechnical problems. It has a radius of 3m from the axis to the centre of the model. The model is placed at the one end of the beam and a counter weight at the other end to ensure that the centrifuge remains in balance during operation. The location of the counter weight is automatically adjusted to keep the centrifuge in balance. Instrumentation on the model is typically electrically powered. Electricity is supplied via slip rings in contact with the centrifuge axis. Pneumatic and hydraulic slip rings enable compressed air and water to be supplied to the model to suit various modelling applications. Observations in the model are made using the instrumentation which is logged using a purpose built data acquisition system. The data acquisition is accessed via a wireless network connection or a fibre optic slip ring connection during testing enabling conversations to be made in real time. In addition, videos and still cameras can be used to observe the model during testing.