velgradert

Velgradert is a Norwegian term used in geotechnical and civil engineering contexts to describe granular materials with a well-distributed range of particle sizes. The word combines vel- meaning “well” with gradert, “graded” or “classified,” reflecting a characteristic of the material rather than a specific standard.

A velgradert material has a broad spectrum of particle sizes with no large gaps in the size distribution. This typically allows for dense packing and lower porosity compared to materials with a narrow size range. By contrast, poorly graded materials contain particles of similar sizes, which often leads to higher porosity and less dense packing. The gradation of a material is usually determined through grain-size analysis, such as sieve tests, and evaluated against local or international criteria to describe its suitability for particular applications.

In practice, velgradert granular materials are commonly used in construction and infrastructure projects. They may serve as subbase or base layers in roads and parking areas, drainage layers, ballast for railways, or as aggregates in concrete production, depending on the specific size distribution and engineering requirements. The term is descriptive and often appears in Norwegian technical literature, manuals, and specifications rather than as a standalone standard.

See also: poorly graded materials, grain-size distribution, sieve analysis.