Gilson Aqua-Check Moisture Tester, MA-26X
4
1.0 UNPACKING & SET UP
NOTE:
Each Gilson Aqua-Check is carefully inspected prior to packaging and shipment. Upon
receipt of the shipment, immediately unpack and inspect the apparatus for signs of damage.
Report damage immediately to the shipping company. Retain all shipping records and packing
materials until proper operation is confirmed.
The complete MA-26 Aqua-Check Kit consists of the following components:
• Cast Aluminum Sample Chamber Vessel with integral 0—20% Pressure Gauge
• 200x0.1g Electronic Balance for weighing of test specimens
• Two 1.25in (32mm) Steel Pulverizing Balls
• Long-Handled Reagent Scoop
• Large, Coarse-Bristle Brush
• Small, Fine-Bristle Brush
• Sample Cup
• Heavy-Duty plastic Case
The MA-26X includes all of the components listed, except the Calcium Carbide Reagent*. Any components
or accessories are available individually from Gilson. Model numbers to order are listed separately in
this manual.
*Calcium Carbide Reagent is available separately from Gilson as MAA-44 in a 10lb can.
2.0 INTRODUCTION
The Gilson Aqua-Check Moisture Tester is designed to measure the water (moisture) content of soils,
aggregates, and other non-reactive materials. The Aqua-Check apparatus consists of an aluminum
sample chamber vessel with integral pressure gauge, electronic balance for sample weighing, two steel
pulverizing balls, and assorted brushes and containers as required for proper completion of the test.
Pulverized calcium carbide is used as a reagent, and reacts when combined with available water in the
sample material to form acetylene gas. The increase of gas pressure in the sealed sample chamber is
proportional to the water content, and is shown on the pressure gauge. The most accurate results are
obtained when pressure gauge readings are correlated with data from oven-dry methods. For example,
when testing soils for example, ASTM Standard Test Method D4944 provides a procedure to correlate
Aqua-Check results directly with laboratory oven drying methods.
MA-26X
